With all the wonderful places to explore in London, few visitors to the capital ever venture as far out as Hammersmith. However, take the time to do so and you’ll find one of the most eclectic and interesting neighbourhoods in the city.
Hammersmith simply has a huge amount going on. It’s home to trendy music venues, comedy nights, bars, and bistros; the home of Westfield London Shopping Centre, and some of London’s most pleasant green spaces. Most importantly, it’s located on banks the river Thames, offering some of the best pub and restaurant experiences in the city.
But, let’s take a closer look and discover all the best things to do in Hammersmith and Shepherd’s Bush.
Check out a show
If you are a serious music lover, then you have probably heard of the famous venues that this place provides. With the likes of the Shepherd’s Bush Empire and Eventim Apollo, it is a place that attracts the stars – even the likes of Jeff Goldblum and Jade Bird. But if you are into smaller more intimate gigs, almost every pub hosts live music, from Irish bar The Jameson to Under the Bridge for jazz and blues. If you’re an indie fan, then check out Bush Hall. The area has a little something for everyone.
If you’re searching for an experience you won’t find elsewhere, we recommend the Hammersmith Ram bar. They dedicate every other Wednesday to up-and-coming musicians and the night is completely free, so it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Breathe in some greenery in the parks
Hammersmith is home to some lovely parks, the loveliest of which may well be Hammersmith Park itself. With tennis courts, a Japanese Garden, a pond and a children’s play area, the park has everything you need. Rest in the peaceful surroundings of the Japanese Garden or get active in the summer weather. Its an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For an alternative to Hammersmith, try Ravenscourt Park. It’s small and secluded with a uniquely beautiful willow-tree-shaded lake. It also sports a café and playing field, so it’s charming and practical in equal measure.
Stop for a meal
There are far too many pubs and restaurants to mention in this neck of the woods to do justice to them all. However, if you’re looking for somewhere to while away a summer’s afternoon The Crabtree is the ideal spot. Located on the very edge of the Thames, the beer garden is especially beautiful with its fairy lights, view over the water, with the shelter of a huge willow tree. It’s the perfect place to watch the sun with a refreshing drink. If this wasn’t tempting enough, the pub plays host to a large array of events, from quizzes to live music.
Get your shopping fix
Shepherd’s Bush provides one of the countries best shopping experiences with Westfield Shopping Centre – home to more than 300 shops high-street and designer outlets. The centre also boasts of plenty of cafes and high-end restaurants, for when the shopping makes you peckish, and a high-tech cinema for that much-needed post-shopping chill. For those looking for something a bit more special than high street brands, check out The Village – a luxury ‘enclave’ of designer shops, from Burberry to Tiffany and Co.
For more exciting ways to explore the capital, take a look at our London Tours page. You’ll find a huge range of experiences there that will take you off the beaten track to really get to know this great city.
