Things To Do
in Hendon
Hendon is a leafy north-west London suburb known for its green spaces and convenient rail links into central London. It sits on the edge of Finchley and Golders Green, offering a mix of residential streets and multicultural dining options. The area is home to the Royal Air Force Museum London and close to Hampstead Heath, providing a blend of history and outdoor space.
With easy access to parks, museums, and city attractions, Hendon makes a versatile base for urban exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk in Hendon Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful flowerbeds. Take time to appreciate the historic bandstand and the picturesque lake, perhaps even spotting some local wildlife. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Visit the nearby Hendon Central Library to explore its fascinating local history exhibits and enjoy the tranquil reading areas. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Hendon, stopping by local shops and boutiques for some unique finds. For lunch, indulge in a meal at one of the traditional British pubs in the area, sampling classic dishes.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor some of the region's best cuisine. After your meal, consider catching a performance at the nearby arts venue or checking local listings for live music events. Wind down your day with a quiet walk in the park, reflecting on your adventures.
Begin your day at the Royal Air Force Museum London, located just a short walk from Hendon. Marvel at the extensive collection of aircraft and engaging exhibits that highlight the history of aviation and the RAF. Don't miss the opportunity to watch a short film about the evolution of flight in the UK.
After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch at the museum café, which offers a variety of light meals and snacks. Once refueled, delve deeper into the museum's interactive displays and collections, including historic aircraft that have played pivotal roles in wartime. Spend some time in the museum's gift shop, where you can find memorabilia to take home.
For dinner, head to a nearby Italian restaurant, where you can enjoy a hearty pasta dish or a wood-fired pizza. After your meal, take a stroll along the local streets, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a cozy pub. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and chat with locals to end your day on a high note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way local transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| 🍷Ticket to event or night out (2 people) | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to central London and countryside; diverse dining options; strong transport links (Northern Line)
- Rich green spaces and cultural attractions near Hendon
- Can be crowded in peak times; some areas require travel to reach more nightlife; parking can be challenging in central areas
Places to Visit in Hendon
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural and aircraft exterior shots with historic planes on display; great angles from the surrounding lawns.
Waterfront walks and sunset reflections, ideal for wide landscape and bird photography.
Iconic city skyline views over London; capture sunrise or sunset over the skyline.
Formal gardens and a glasshouse for colorful macro and garden photography.
Food in Hendon
Hendon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast, widely served in local cafes.
Must-Try!
Golden battered fish with thick-cut chips; look for seaside-style chippies and pubs offering this classic.
A beloved North Indian curry that’s readily available in local Indian restaurants across the area.
Popular vegetarian option at Middle Eastern eateries in Golders Green and Cricklewood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks with Middle Eastern and South Asian influences.
Diverse stalls with fruit, vegetables, and street-food bites from around the world.
Casual stalls along the high street offering kebabs, falafel, and affordable meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Brits value orderly queues and polite conversation; say please and thank you.
Keep noise to a minimum on trains and buses; offer seats to those in need.
Smoking is restricted in enclosed public spaces and most venues.
Safety
Tipping in Hendon
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and pubs, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service isn’t included. Some places round up.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile wallets are common; service charges may be added.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming blossoms in parks like Hampstead Heath and Golders Hill Park; great for nature photography and walks.
Long days and pleasant outdoor events; be prepared for occasional showers and sun exposure; carry water.
Golden foliage in parks; comfortable temperatures for long strolls and city photography.
Shorter days and cooler temperatures; urban lighting and seasonal markets provide photography opportunities; carry a warm layer.
Hendon at Night
Hiking in Hendon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails with panoramic city views and ponds, ideal for day hikes.
Waterfront walking routes and woodlands with birdlife and quiet lanes.
Airports
How to reach Hendon by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-40 miles southwest; accessible by rail and car.
North of London, about 30-40 miles away; train services connect to central London.
South of London, about 40-60 miles away; accessible by rail and road.
Eastern London airport; shorter flight options; not far but typically longer transit to NW London.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with young children; good schooling options nearby.
A substantial Orthodox and non-Orthodox Jewish presence especially in Golders Green and surrounding areas.
Diverse cuisines and cultural stores; contributions to local dining and markets.
A cosmopolitan mix reflecting London's overall diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Premier and local leagues across London; community clubs and training facilities nearby.
Seasonal matches and clubs in parks and local grounds.
Public and private courts are available for casual playing and coaching.
Regional clubs and school teams in nearby areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hendon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Hendon offers many vegetarian options through Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean spots. Look for falafel, hummus, lentil dals, paneer dishes, and veggie curries; ask for no meat or ghee if needed.