London's largest ancient parkland at over 3 square kilometres, Hampstead Heath is a rambling giant embracing ponds, woodland, playgrounds, a lido, training tracks and a former stately home Kenwood House.

Hampstead Heath is best known for its chain of ponds running along the eastern perimeter. Three of them are used for public swimming - two are single sex and one is mixed.

After a court battle in 2004, it was decided that swimmers should pay £2 per session to defray costs.

Parliament Hill lies on the south and east sides of the heath and is one of the highest points in London.