Kenwood House
- Art lovers
- Architecture and design enthusiasts
- Families with children
What Visitors Say
We had a lovely visit to Kenwood House. The staff were very welcoming from the start. One of them kindly explained that tripods and flashes are not allowed inside, but handheld filming is fine. She explained everything in such a polite and friendly way, which was really appreciated. The house itself was amazing and really impressed me. A beautiful place full of history and a great atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit.
Had an amazing time here! We were offered a lift in the buggy with a very friendly volunteer who introduced us to the house. The staff are wonderful and will engage you in conversation with their vast knowledge of the house and gardens. Spent a small fortune on goodies in the shop next to the cafe. Bought books but couldn’t buy any of the plants today. Next time!
Kenwood House is absolutely massive! It’s hard to believe such a sprawling, grand estate is tucked right away in London. The house itself is a historical gem—built in the early 1600s, it feels like stepping back in time. Inside, it’s packed with incredible collections; there are so many period costumes, intricate ornaments, and ancient books to explore. After wandering through the rooms, the café is a perfect stop for a coffee and a sandwich, and the gift shop has some really lovely souvenirs. The grounds are just as impressive as the house. There are endless walking paths winding through the estate, featuring a stunning variety of trees, flowers, and seasonal leaves. It’s incredibly peaceful. Why I recommend it: Family Friendly: Great for kids to run around and explore. Accessible: Perfect for the elderly or those who just want a gentle stroll. Educational: Plenty of history for the adults. Whether you're a local or a tourist, it’s a fantastic day out for every family. Highly recommended! Oaid parking inside but outside free parking if space is available!
Great house to look around, all free. I booked a free ticket online for the day, but other people were just walking in. Lovely walk up to the house, great view all over London. The entrance is around the back, it was the home of Lord Mansfield, when his niece Dido came to stay with his daughter Elizabeth, they came in a carriage when the Gordon riots were on and the local publican at the Spaniards Inn pilled the rioters with booze so they forgot they were chasing the carriage and they got away to Kenwood House. Lovely picture of Dido and Elizabeth in Mansfield's dressing room. The music room is lovely and the library has an amazing ceiling. The staff and volunteers are very helpful and knowledgeable and help with any questions that you have. There is a lovely gift shop and a cafe around the front where the stables used to be. Would recommend it to anyone and would definitely return, as the gardens are a lovely peaceful place to walk with fantastic views of the city.
This place has a lovely house and huge grounds to enjoy. It is free entry to the grounds for walk and there is admission fee for the house. Collections inside the house are beautiful and all volunteers are so kind and informative. The architecture and paintings are extraordinary. So many things to enjoy.
Highlights
Adam Library
Robert Adam’s neoclassical showpieceRemodelled c.1764-79, the library’s pale colours, apsed end and intricate plasterwork reveal how Adam turned rooms into ‘harmonies’ of architecture, furnishings and light.
Ground floor, south wing
Rembrandt Self-portrait
Late work by RembrandtPainted in the 1660s, the ageing artist studies himself with thick, luminous paint; every ridge of brushwork shows how he built light from darkness.
First floor, Picture Gallery
Vermeer Guitar Player
Rare Vermeer in BritainJohannes Vermeer’s c.1672 canvas catches music mid-note. It was famously stolen in 1974 and later recovered, adding a modern chapter to its quiet scene.
First floor, Picture Gallery
Capability Grounds
Picturesque heathland settingSweeping lawns, woodland and water frame the house like a landscape painting, refined in the late 18th century to give long, unfolding views over London.
Gardens and lake, outdoors
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
Johannes Vermeer’s ‘The Guitar Player’ was stolen from Kenwood in 1974 and later recovered.
Robert Adam’s remodelling created the signature library interiors between the 1760s and 1770s.
Kenwood’s art includes a late Rembrandt self-portrait painted in the 1660s.
The house sits on the edge of Hampstead Heath with long views towards central London.
