Hello friends, it’s Claire your girly London guide and today we’re taking one of my favourite long walks in the city: from Marylebone to Hampstead. Think golden leaves, elegant streets, cosy cafes, and those perfect “London in autumn” moments that make you fall in love with the city all over again.

This route is one of the prettiest for the season, beginning in chic Marylebone before heading through Regent’s Park, past Primrose Hill, and ending in leafy Hampstead. It’s a half-day adventure (about 20,000 steps!) filled with coffee, colour, and plenty of photo stops.

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☕ Morning in Marylebone

We started our day in Marylebone which is just a short walk from Bond Street Tube and where autumn leaves were already turning a deep gold and red. Marylebone is such a charming neighbourhood, with a relaxed, village-like feel despite being right in central London.

We began at Wimpole Street, home to those classic white townhouses draped in red Virginia creeper. The contrast of crimson leaves against glossy black doors is pure autumn perfection.

From there, we wandered along Marylebone Lane, stopping at VV Rouleaux, a treasure trove of ribbons and trimmings that’s basically heaven for any creative soul. There’s something so magical about seeing ribbons in every colour of the rainbow when the world outside is muted and cosy.

A quick stop at Bon Bouchée for a croissant and tea gave us the fuel we needed before continuing along Marylebone High Street, full of independent boutiques, pretty pubs dressed for the season, and that irresistible “London village” vibe.

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📚 Regent’s Park and Queen Mary’s Gardens

Just a short walk north brings you to Regent’s Park, one of London’s most beautiful spaces and especially in autumn.

I used to live nearby, so this area feels like an old friend. The park’s Queen Mary’s Rose Garden is still full of life in October, with late-blooming pink and orange roses and leafy walkways perfect for a slow stroll. You’ll also find the Broad Walk, lined with trees that turn the most incredible golden yellow — the kind of view you can’t help but stop and photograph.

Even though the roses are fading, there’s a quiet beauty in the season here. Sit on one of the benches, people-watch, and breathe in that crisp autumn air.

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🌆 Primrose Hill: Views and Cafes

From the north edge of Regent’s Park, follow the path to Primrose Hill, where you’ll find some of the best views of London.

This neighbourhood is famous for its pastel houses and celebrity residents (yes, Harry Styles, Kate Moss, and even Taylor Swift have called this area home). But beyond the glamour, it’s the perfect place to pause for lunch or coffee.

We stopped at Les Tea Cosy, a charming café with outdoor seating. It is ideal for sunny autumn days.

The high street is dotted with independent cafés, florists, and fashion boutiques, all brimming with personality. This is London living at its best: slow, stylish, and full of charm.

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🍂 Belsize Park and Hidden Corners

Next, we walked north through Chalk Farm into Belsize Park, where autumn really comes into its own.

This area feels tucked away from the world, full of characterful pubs, pastel houses, and streets that look straight out of a rom-com. We stopped by Steele’s Mews North, famous for its red Virginia creeper archway — it’s absolutely stunning in the autumn sun and the perfect spot for a photo.

Grab a coffee at WatchHouse Belsize Park, or stop by Daunt Books, another branch of the beloved London bookshop we visited earlier in Marylebone.

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🌳 Hampstead: The Final Stop

Finally, we made our way towards Hampstead, one of my favourite areas in all of London. I actually went to school nearby, so this walk always feels nostalgic for me.

We passed The Garden Gate Pub (which has the prettiest outdoor garden) and ended at The Freemason’s Arms, where we toasted the day with a drink before heading to South End Green.

If you still have energy, carry on into Hampstead Heath for panoramic city views or wander through the charming local shops and cafés. Every corner feels cinematic in autumn.

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💭 Final Thoughts

This walk from Marylebone to Hampstead might just be my favourite autumn route in London. It’s a blend of the city’s elegance and nature’s beauty — with golden leaves, historic architecture, and plenty of cute cafés along the way.

If you’re planning an autumn trip to London, add this to your list. And if you prefer a visual version of this walk, you can watch the full YouTube video here 🎥

Until next time,
Claire x