Places of Interest
Abbey Road Studios 3 Abbey Road
The legendary Abbey Road Studios sit inconspicuously in the exclusive area of St. Johns Wood which is in close walking distance to South Hampstead. Abbey Road Studios is of course where the Beatles recorded most of their music. It was built in 1830 as a private house and began to run as a studio in 1931 recording the top orchestras of the day. ‘Lord of the Rings’ is a recent epic recorded there.
The studios were only opened to the public once in 1983 so don’t expect to see inside. However, an excellent external view can be obtained from the pavement. Housed in a non-descript white building with grey trim, the building is often surrounded by tourists desperate to steal a glimpse. The wall in front of the building has got comments and signatures written all over it by tourists from all over the world wanting to make their mark on this famous building. The zebra crossing out the front has many a visitor ambling across whilst having their photo taken.
Hampstead Theatre Eton Avenue - 020 7722 9301
Now located in Swiss Cottage, Hampstead Theatre was founded in a Scout Hall in the heart of Hampstead village. Enjoying theatrical success for over forty-three years Hampstead Theatre is a small, but well established theatre, held in high regards by writers, critics and audiences. It remains one of Swiss Cottage’s jewels with a reputation as one of London’s leading fringe theatres. Over the years, many of Hampstead Theatre’s productions have been widely acclaimed. Many actors and writers have started their celebrated careers in this theatre such as Ewan McGreggor.