Blossoming neighbourhood

London is well-known, among many things, for its beautiful neighbourhoods, and my preferred and favourites are those that still retain much of their old essence. I've mentioned in the past how much I love the Hampstead area, and even more so in the springtime. Immersing yourself in that part of the, otherwise busy capital surprisingly reveals charming little houses and cottages, endearing shops, local cafes, and of course, unmissable nature everywhere, as well as a mystical sense that transports you back in time, a feeling that's hard to explain. It's a rather sizeable district with many spots and aspects of interest, whether you're from around or a visitor.

For example, Hampstead Heath is one of London's largest parks. The park itself extends over an elevated area filled with vegetation, a semi-wild and natural area with groves of trees and several ponds. Some of the latter are open to the public for swimming , very popular in summer. There is one for men only, another for women only, and a third for mixed use. For the little ones, there is also a paddling pool, where children under 10 can cool off during the hottest times of the year.

In this area, you'll find Parliament Hill, from where the London views are breathtaking and also are protected by the law, which rules that high buildings cannot be built in front of it. Another addition to this beauty of subject is Kenwood House, a 17th-century manor house that is now a beautiful museum. Here you can see the family's impressive art collection, with works by Rembrandt, Turner, and Van Dyck, among others for the art lovers. Other historic houses worth visiting include Keats House, Fenton House, and Burgh House, each calling for different reasons.

I’ve already talked about the Pergola at The Hill Garden in my last summer’s post, but I can't help but mention it yet once again when Hamstead is the epicentre of this month! You'll remember these beautiful gardens, now public, which once were an extension of Lord Leverhulme's house, who hired a renowned landscape designer to build them.

https://tamangoblog.blogspot.com/2024/08/summer-sunset-in-gardens.html

Spring brings the colours and so does my outfit. I am displaying a horizontal stripy polo in blue and green with white collar along with an unusual second shirt layer in white and blue underneath in a different stripe print; a retro American college vibe that never disappoints. Both garments are tucked in the tapered, camel trousers with a matching green belt. I wanted to add some yellow to this look with the vintage, bomber jacket. Very soft and light fabric perfect for the rising of the temperature. The brogues in suede and grain leather in beige and yellow add to the overall apparel and compliment the jacket as well as the stripy socks. The old, leather portfolio is the needed touch of accessory that completes and elevates the look and please do praise the details of the tan portfolio colour matching the back side of the shoes. Last, but not in the slightest least, I shouldn’t fail to mention the sunglasses with detail in green and gold complete my April look.