The Kenwood Brew House is a casual restaurant attached to the side of Kenwood House. We visited the Brew House on a Saturday morning in December, having enjoyed the 3km amble through Hampstead Heath from the bus stop at South End Green. The route we took led through trees and grassy meadows, and we were able to look back on some great vistas of London. We also passed the Kenwood "ladies’ pond." The ladies’ pond is open to women only, is open during daylight hours throughout the year, and is free to use. (Hampstead Heath also has mixed and men-only bathing ponds).

When we reached the Brew House, we were definitely ready for breakfast (served from 9 to 11:30am), despite not having gone for a swim en route. I tucked into an "English" breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, and tomato, while Tina went for a couple of croissants and coffee. It was too early for champagne or beers (although they are on sale), and we wanted more than the cold sandwiches, which are also on offer. We found a table in the outside eating area – among the shrubs, squirrels, and friendly robins and blackbirds – and watched happy families enjoying themselves. There were lots of toddlers running around and generally having fun. No dogs in this area – they and their owners have their own very pleasant spot in front of the building.

Having fuelled up at the Brew House, we were set to wander around to the other side of Kenwood House to stroll among the paintings.

TIPS

The Brew House opens at 9am. There is also an indoor eating area at the Brew House that is warmer than the outside and a good place to read the newspaper if it is windy, with plenty of high chairs available.

It is easy (and not particularly unpleasant) to take the wrong path in Hampstead Heath. Print out this map before you go. Wear good walking shoes.

The Brew House can be very popular, particularly on weekends when the weather is good. There may be a long queue in the corridor when you arrive – this queue is for hot food, and you can skip the queue if you only want drinks or sandwiches. We paid with our VISA card.

It is possible to reach Kenwood House (and the Brew House) without walking too far. Take the London Underground to the Golders Green station (zone 2 of the Northern Line, about 30 minutes from Leicester Square). From there, take the no. 210 bus about 10 stops in the direction of Highgate. Get off at the Kenwood stop and walk about 400m to Kenwood House.