Things To Do
in Finchley

Finchley is a residential suburb located in North London, United Kingdom. It is known for its distinct mix of urban and suburban living, with a variety of housing options available. The area features plenty of green spaces, parks, and local amenities, making it a desirable place to live for families and professionals alike. Finchley also has a rich history, with landmarks such as the Victorian-era St.

Mary's Church and the historical Avenue House adding to its charm.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Finchley Parks
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in Victoria Park, enjoying the greenery and fresh air. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the benches.

afternoon
:

Head to Church End and explore the local shops and cafes for lunch. Don't miss out on Finchley's history at the nearby Finchley Museum.

evening
:

Relax with a nice dinner at a local restaurant. End the night with a stroll through the park under the stars.

day 2
Finchley Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Arts Depot, where you can explore local art exhibitions. Participate in an early art workshop if available.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Finchley Baptist Church to appreciate its beautiful architecture. Grab lunch at a local café offering fresh homemade treats.

evening
:

Attend a live performance or film screening at the Arts Depot. Enjoy a late-night coffee at a cozy café after the show.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Good transport links to central London, including the Northern Line tube.
  • Family-friendly environment with plenty of parks and green spaces.
  • A variety of shopping options, including high street stores and local markets.
  • Diverse community with a mix of cultures and backgrounds.
  • Highly rated schools and educational institutions in the area.
  • Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in London.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours can be an issue.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to more central locations in London.
  • Occasional concerns about safety in certain spots.
  • Can be perceived as less vibrant than other London neighborhoods.

Best Activities in Finchley

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Victoria Park

A great place for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking.

Hampstead Heath

Offers beautiful open spaces, woodland areas, and ponds for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and bird watching.

Riverside Walk

A scenic path alongside the River Brent, perfect for leisurely walks and cycling.

Tours

Uncover the best of Finchley with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Finchley

Visit one of these nice places.

Victoria Park

Offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for photography

Hampstead Heath

Provides beautiful panoramic views of London and its skyline

Hampstead Heath Pergola and Hill Garden

Great spot for capturing scenic views and nature photography

Food in Finchley

Finchley, located in North London, offers a diverse culinary scene with influences from various cultures. From traditional British fare to international cuisines, there's something to please every palate.

Finchley Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

A quintessential British dish, Finchley boasts several great fish and chip shops like Kens Traditional Fish Bar and Mr. Fish.

Must-Try!

Salt Beef Bagel

Try a delicious salt beef bagel at Roland's, a renowned local deli that's been serving this delicacy for over 60 years.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Finchley better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

North Finchley Market

Explore North Finchley Market for diverse street food options, including mouth-watering falafel wraps, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked pastries.

Weather

The climate in this area is classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Summers tend to be warm but not excessively hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters are relatively cold, with temperatures generally hovering around 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed across the months, although late autumn and winter tend to be slightly wetter. The region experiences overcast skies frequently, with cloudy days being more common than clear ones. Snowfall can occur during the winter, but significant accumulations are rare. Overall, the climate supports a variety of vegetation and is conducive to lush green spaces, which are characteristic of the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting personal space

In Finchley, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in queues or public transportation.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Finchley, so it's important to be on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.

Politeness and courtesy

People in Finchley appreciate polite and courteous behavior, including saying 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions with others.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Finchley with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this area is generally regarded as relatively good compared to many urban environments. The local community experiences a lower crime rate, which contributes to a more secure living environment. Residents often express a sense of safety during both day and nighttime activities. Local authorities and police regularly engage with the community to address concerns and implement measures for improvement. Neighborhood watch programs and community policing initiatives are common, fostering a collaborative approach to safety. Public spaces, parks, and residential areas are maintained effectively, enhancing the overall sense of security. While, like any urban area, there are occasional incidents of petty crime, these are not typically high in frequency, allowing families and individuals to feel more at ease in their surroundings. For those considering a visit or a move, it is advisable to stay informed about local safety trends and participate in community initiatives that promote a safe environment.

Tipping in Finchley

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Finchley, United Kingdom, tipping is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill, but if not, a tip of 10-15% is customary. Tipping for other services like taxis, hotels, and tour guides is also appreciated but not obligatory.

Payment

Payment in Finchley, United Kingdom is commonly done using credit or debit cards, and contactless payment methods are widely accepted. Cash is also a viable option, especially for smaller transactions or in places that may not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash if needed.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Finchley.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Finchley as the weather starts to warm up, flowers begin to bloom, and the city comes to life with various outdoor events and activities.

Summer

Summer is the peak tourist season in Finchley, with warm weather, longer daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor festivals, markets, and parks to enjoy.

Autumn

Autumn in Finchley is characterized by beautiful foliage, mild temperatures, and a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal time for leisurely walks and exploring the city's parks and gardens.

Winter

Winter in Finchley brings a festive and holiday atmosphere, with Christmas markets, lights, and events adding to the charm of the city. While it may be cold, the seasonal decorations and indoor activities make it a delightful time to visit.

Finchley at Night

The nightlife in Finchley offers a varied and vibrant experience, reflecting its balance of suburban charm and modern amenities. For those looking to unwind with a drink, there are several pubs and bars that cater to different tastes. Places like The Old White Lion or The Catcher in the Rye provide a cozy, traditional pub atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing evening with friends. For a more contemporary vibe, there are chic bars and cocktail lounges where you can enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a stylish setting. Music lovers will find occasional live performances and open mic nights, adding an element of spontaneity and local talent to the scene. Culinary enthusiasts can explore an array of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from hearty British fare to exotic international dishes. Many establishments stay open late, allowing for a leisurely dinner followed by drinks. Those looking for entertainment can check out local theatres or cinemas showcasing an intriguing mix of mainstream and independent films, as well as live theatre productions. For a quieter night out, the local cafés provide a pleasant environment for a late-night coffee and chat. With its blend of traditional British pubs, modern bars, diverse dining options, and cultural activities, Finchley's nightlife has something to appeal to most preferences and makes for an enjoyable evening out.

Hiking in Finchley

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Alderley Edge

A picturesque area with stunning views, featuring a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. Often frequented for its beautiful woodlands and rock formations.

Barnet Copthall

A large open space perfect for walking and hiking, featuring numerous trails along the River Brent and various natural habitats.

Hampstead Heath

A large, ancient park in London offering scenic hills and woodlands, with numerous walking and hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the city.

Epping Forest

A vast ancient forest located to the northeast of London, ideal for hiking. It features a variety of paths and tracks through beautiful landscapes.

Middlesex Golf Club

While primarily a golf course, it also offers scenic walking paths around the green areas and is surrounded by nature, making it a nice spot for light hiking.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Finchley through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Finchley by plane.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

The primary airport serving London, located approximately 18 miles west of Finchley.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

The second-largest airport in London, located about 30 miles south of Finchley.

London Luton Airport (LTN)

An international airport located around 30 miles north of Finchley.

London Stansted Airport (STN)

Located about 40 miles northeast of Finchley, it serves as a primary hub for low-cost airlines.

London City Airport (LCY)

Located approximately 10 miles east of Finchley, it is the closest airport to central London.

Walkability

Walkability in this area is characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods, local shops, parks, and community amenities. Many of the streets have sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, which enhance safety for walkers. Key points of interest, such as schools, libraries, and healthcare facilities, are often within a reasonable walking distance for residents. The availability of green spaces, such as parks and recreational areas, adds to the appeal for walkers, providing pleasant routes for strolls and outdoor activities. The local public transport system is generally accessible, making it easy for residents to travel without needing to rely solely on cars. In some parts, particularly near the town centre, walkability is improved with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as designated walking paths, improved crosswalks, and traffic calming measures. However, in more suburban areas, the distance between amenities can make walking less practical. Overall, while there's a decent level of walkability, it can be enhanced by further investments in public space improvements and connectivity between neighborhoods and local services.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White British

The largest demographic group in Finchley, representing a significant portion of the population.

Other White

Includes White Irish, White Gypsy or Irish Traveller, and other White backgrounds.

Asian or Asian British

Comprising groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian backgrounds.

Black, African, Caribbean or Black British

Encompasses African, Caribbean, and other Black backgrounds.

Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups

Includes individuals from mixed ethnic backgrounds.

Other Ethnic Groups

A diverse range of individuals who do not fall into the previous categories, including those from Middle Eastern or Latin American backgrounds.

The Soul of Finchley

Discover the essence of Finchley through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Finchley, with numerous local teams and leagues participating at various levels.

Cricket

Cricket is widely played in Finchley, with many community clubs and summer leagues where people of all ages can participate.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following in Finchley, with clubs offering opportunities for both youth and adults to engage in this team sport.

Tennis

Tennis is enjoyed by many in Finchley, with local courts and clubs available for recreational and competitive play.

Athletics

Athletics is promoted through local clubs and events, encouraging both youth and adults to participate in running, jumping, and throwing.

Swimming

Swimming is a popular sport in Finchley, with several public pools and clubs providing lessons and competitive opportunities.

Traffic

In this area, traffic conditions can vary significantly depending on the time of day and local events. During peak hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, roads tend to become congested as commuters travel to and from central London and nearby areas. Major thoroughfares such as the A1000 and A1 experience heavy usage, leading to slower movement and occasional delays. Public transport, including bus and train services, provides alternative travel options and can alleviate some road congestion. The local bus network is quite extensive, servicing various routes, while the Northern Line offers a direct connection to central London. Parking can also be a challenge, with limited spaces available in residential areas and high demand near shopping centers and schools. Moreover, roadworks and construction projects can further complicate traffic flow. Overall, while Finchley has a mix of busy streets and quieter residential areas, the traffic patterns reflect the suburban nature of the area combined with its accessibility to larger urban centers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Finchley.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Many restaurants in Finchley offer extensive vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring those with plant-based diets are well catered for.

Gluten-Free

Visitors with gluten-free requirements can delight in various offerings across the area, from gluten-free bakeries to designated menu options at local eateries.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Finchley with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

In this suburban area of North London, residents have access to a variety of healthcare services. The National Health Service (NHS) is the primary provider of healthcare, ensuring that residents can receive treatment through a network of general practitioners (GPs), hospitals, and specialized clinics. Local GP surgeries serve as the first point of contact for patients. These practices often provide a range of services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. Many surgeries have adapted to incorporate online booking systems and telehealth consultations, particularly in response to changing patient needs. For more specialized care, residents can access local hospitals, such as the Royal Free Hospital and the Barnet Hospital, which offer emergency services, surgeries, and various specialist treatments. Additionally, Finchley is home to community health services that focus on preventive care and support for mental health, maternity, and children's services. Pharmacies are also plentiful, providing not only medications but also health advice, minor ailment services, and health screenings. Overall, healthcare services in the area emphasize accessibility and comprehensive care, with a range of resources available to meet the needs of the local population.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2024 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide