Page 10 - The property style magazine - Issue 14
P. 10
St Michael, South Grove, London Photo by John Salmon
Highgate
Highgate is a grand dame of an historic village, a perfect period gem which over the centuries has seen it all from its high perch over the capital.
About Highgate
Every child knows the story of Dick Whittington and his cat but how many people know he actually existed? Apparently he was leaving London, on Highgate Hill to be precise, when he allegedly heard the Bow Bells chiming “turn again, Whittington, thrice Lord Mayor of London”. They were wrong, of course, he became Mayor four times.
The pretty village of Highgate is undoubtedly one of the most sought after places to live in London – and no wonder. The mainly Georgian architecture of the old centre has retained its character, thanks to the conservation work of The Highgate Society. The world famous Highgate Cemetery is also a draw for visitors with impressive tombs and monuments and a host of famous names including Karl Marx, Michael Faraday and George Elliot.
Highgate grew up around the gate to the estate of the Bishops of London and straddled the main route north out of the city. Carters dragging goods up Highgate Hill needed a bit of respite before hitting the road, hence the rather larger number of pubs than usual. It’s also why Dick Turpin and other opportunist highwaymen hung out around there.
Dukes Head, Highgate Photo by Ewan Munrow
Angel Inn, Highgate Photo by Ewan Munro
Welcome to
Kenwood House Photo by Mikegr
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