Primerose Hill

London has a wide range of attractions for its visitors. In 1841, Primrose Hill was opened to the public, despite opposition from people living nearby. It soon became a favourite place for Londoners to enjoy themselves, particularly on bank holidays when it was traditional to toboggan down the slopes. A plan to establish a cemetery on Primrose Hill was quickly dropped and in 1847 an open air gymnasium was built which still remains. The actor Samuel Phelps planted an oak in 1864 to mark the 300 th anniversary of Shakespeare's birth. This tree died, but a replacement was planted in 1964 on the 400 th anniversary.  Having climbed the steep slopes and admired the panorama you can regain your strength in one of the many cosy cafés, restaurants or pubs nearby. One of the most pleasant ways to approach the park is to get off at Camden Town and walk along the canal. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for celebs. London tours allow you to see some of the very best London tourist attractions that have been on top of the chart of world tourism map.

The dramatic views from Primrose Hill have made it a popular place with Londoners for over 150 years. But this large open space, just north of Regent's Park, has a darker, more violent past. The name Primrose Hill was first used in the 15th century, probably because of the flowers that grew there. At this time, the slopes were covered by trees and the area was said to be "full of lairs" of stags, bucks, boars and wild bulls. In the 16 th century, it became part of King Henry Vlll's hunting chase and Mother Shipton, a legendary fortune-teller, predicted that when London surrounded Primrose Hill the streets of the city would run with blood. London open top bus tours enable you to jump on and off the buses and visit London attractions at your leisure.

The top of Primrose Hill is 63 metres or 206 feet above sea level and the view over London is now protected in planning law. Visitors can look down on the zoo in Regent's Park and further a field to landmarks such as Canary Wharf, the Millennium Dome and the Post Tower.

They may also spot a film crew because Primrose Hill has become a popular movie location with British directors. The view from the top was used in the 1987 spy thriller The Fourth Protocol and in the 1997 award winner, Career Girls. Most recently, it starred in the opening credits of Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004).

This small, grassy, hilly park, boasting fantastic views over London, has become increasingly popular with the young, the trendy and the famous – particularly from the media world but don't let this put you off. It's a great place to stroll through and take in the scenery.

Come to discover all these and much more about Primrose with the Hill Sights and sounds of London. You can even join our London bus tour and discover the array of attractions in London.