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Date updated: 5/05/2026
The Heath is a beautiful setting for film and photographic shoots, but you need permission to film or take photos so please apply for a permit below. Demand is high in summer so we might take longer than usual to respond to your application.
Essential maintenance work is currently taking place at the Pergola which means some areas will be inaccessible and there is scaffolding on site. This may impact your planned photo shoot.

Hampstead Heath offers many opportunities for filming and photography, with spectacular views and surprisingly rural landscapes so close to the centre of London.

How we manage filming

In managing the Heath, our main aim is to protect its habitats and natural resources for wildlife and visitors, and to preserve it as a nice, quiet place to visit.

This means that we will only consider requests to film if they can show that they won't cause long-term damage to the landscape, and where disruption to visitors and the community is kept to a minimum.

The Bathing Ponds are exceptionally well used by the public and securing sole use is exceptionally rare. Filming and/or photography at these locations can only be considered for significant or high-profile productions with a clear creative justification.

Enquiries

To discuss commercial or student shoots, wedding, engagement or portrait photography and more, please contact us below.

When enquiring, please make sure to include the following details:

  • Location (please be as specific as possible)
  • Date(s)
  • Start time 
  • End time
  • Crew and cast size
  • A summary of your activities
  • A list of equipment you plan to use
  • Your Public Liability Insurance details (this must be worth at least £5 million)
  • Any additional requirements you may have (e.g. parking)
  • Your contact details

We will respond to your request within 14 working days. Please note: any missing information may delay your application.

If your application is successful, you will be issued a licence to undertake filming and/or photography on Hampstead Heath.

Fees

Fees are available on request.

Email the Hampstead Heath Team

Wedding and lifestyle photography at the Hill Garden and Pergola

The Hill Garden and Pergola, located on Hampstead Heath, offers a unique and beautiful setting for photography. This location is particularly well-suited for wedding, engagement, civil partnership, and other celebratory or lifestyle photo sessions, as well as individual portraits and still photography.

For photography involving a small number of participants and handheld equipment, you can apply for a 2 hour licence online. 

Licence Fee: £234

Availability: Monday to Friday only (not available on weekends or bank holidays)

Apply for a 2 hour photography licence at the Hill Garden and Pergola

Drone guidance

Flying drones on Hampstead Heath requires a permit. Prospective applicants should read our drone guidance in the document below completing our application form here:

Apply for a drone permit

You will be asked for the following details:

  • Operator’s name and Company
  • Contact number and email address
  • CAA ID number
  • Flight date and start/finish time
  • Drone type
  • Location and maximum operating height
  • Description of the drone activity

Note: applying does not guarantee permission for the flight as each case is assessed individually.

Hampstead Heath drone policy PDF (150KB)
Date submitted: 27/03/25

All drone flyers are also recommended to read the Civil Aviation Authority's drone guidance for up to date rules and regulations.

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