The signs of spring are unmistakeable on Hampstead Heath, from green shoots appearing to a symphony of beautiful bird songs.

The Heath has had a busy winter, with high numbers of visitors during the third national lockdown.

The ground has been well trodden, and the Heath team are working on recovery plans to help restore areas which need it most and to make sure the Heath remains clean and safe for all visitors as lockdown restrictions ease.

This year we are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the passing of the Hampstead Heath Act. This landmark Act protected the Heath for the public to enjoy and paved the way for the protection of other green spaces across the nation.

The City of London Corporation had been instrumental in this movement, acquiring green spaces such as Epping Forest, to protect it from privatisation.

This important anniversary will be celebrated throughout the year along with partners Heath Hands, the Heath & Hampstead Society and others.

Ham & High: Anne Fairweather is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the passing of the Hampstead Heath ActAnne Fairweather is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the passing of the Hampstead Heath Act (Image: City of London)

Celebrations include an outdoor exhibition, community events in the summer (more details to follow), new seasonal signs which celebrate biodiversity, a digital historic postcard project and a social media campaign Love the Heath.

We’d love you to share what you love about the Heath – memories, old photos, stories and favourite locations using the hashtag #LoveTheHeath.

You can also share your story via email hampstead.heath@cityoflondon.gov.uk.

We’re delighted to be able to reopen many of our sports facilities including the Bathing Ponds and Lido on March 29, in line with the government roadmap out of lockdown.

I know many of you will be ecstatic to get back into the water and our team on the Heath will ensure the Ponds and Lido are safe and welcoming for your return.

We have recently published a draft report which reflects on the past swimming season and looks forward to the season ahead.

I’d welcome your views on this report which can be found on the Hampstead Heath webpages, or a copy can be emailed on request. For further information, please email HH-swimming@cityoflondon.gov.uk.

I hope you have a wonderful spring and Easter and enjoy spending time with your loved ones when restrictions are lifted.

The Heath will continue to be busy over the coming months so please help us by following the government guidelines, respecting Heath staff and taking your litter home with you whenever possible.

  • Anne Fairweather is chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath Management Committee.