Weekend Wanderlust: West Hampstead, St Albans and Bedford

There’s a reason why property is expensive in West Hampstead: this neighbourhood is gorgeous. It’s also home to some top restaurants, cafés and bars, making it a perfect spot to start your weekend trip. Hop off the train here and treat yourself to a vegetarian feast at The Swing, which is well-loved for its flavourful and innovative approach to plant-based dining (corn ribs in sweet sesame soy dressing, anyone?). Next, stroll down to stylish cocktail bar Heads & Tails and order yourself a tipple made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Thankfully, your hotel for the night is only a few minutes away: Nox West Hampstead has recently been refurbished and is just the cosy bolthole you’ll need. 

Journey by Thameslink to St Albans City: 22 minutes 
You’re living the NW6 dream only for a short time, so why not live like the locals do and visit West Hampstead Farmers Market? Peruse a kaleidoscope of fresh produce and pick up breakfast at a hot food stall. From there, it’s a 35-minute walk to glorious Hampstead Heath. Grab a coffee on the way from Ginger & White, then spend a few hours wandering north London’s sprawling wild space (our tip: check out The Hill Garden and Pergola, a Georgian terrace with amazing views over the Heath). 

After heading back to the neighbourhood, it’s time to hop on the train to your second stop: St Albans. Steeped in Roman and medieval history, this cathedral city is most famous for – you guessed it! – its magnificent medieval cathedral, which happens to house the shrine of Britain’s first saint, St Alban. Go further back in time with a trip to nearby Verulamium Park, built on the site of one of the largest Roman cities in Britain (see if you can spot the old walls). And if all that exploring has made you hungry, then make your way to Sauté Restaurant for some top-notch Turkish fare. Ready for bed? Rest your head at the White Hart Hotel, a restored, timbered coaching inn that’s been around for more than 500 years.

Journey by Thameslink to Bedford: 40 minutes 
Last but not least, you’re heading to Bedford! This riverside market town offers perfect and peaceful Sunday vibes, particularly if you experience it from the water. The John Bunyan Boat hosts scenic cruises along the River Great Ouse, with all funds going to the development of a new waterway park which will link the river to the Grand Union Canal in Milton Keynes. Finally, celebrate your weekend away with a hearty Italian meal at Il Basilico.

Plan your journey via Thameslink today.