Things To Do
in Friern Barnet

Friern Barnet is a suburban area located in the northern part of London, United Kingdom. It is known for its residential streets lined with Victorian and Edwardian houses. The area has a mix of shops, restaurants, and green spaces, providing a peaceful and family-friendly environment.

Friern Barnet is well-connected to central London via public transportation, making it a convenient location for commuters.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Friern Barnet
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the local parks, such as Friern Barnet Playing Fields. Enjoy the greenery and maybe have a picnic breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit nearby local shops and grab some lunch at a cozy café. Discover unique finds as you browse through the boutiques.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at a local pub, having dinner with friends. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.

day 2
History Uncovered
morning
:

Visit the New Southgate Cemetery for a quiet walk while appreciating the historical tombs. The serene environment is perfect for reflection.

afternoon
:

Explore local historical sites and read about Friern Barnet's rich heritage. Look for informative plaques and local guides.

evening
:

Enjoy a historical-themed dinner at a local restaurant. Share stories of the past while feasting on traditional dishes.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Good access to public transport, including buses and trains.
  • A variety of local amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks.
  • A community-oriented atmosphere with local events and activities.
  • Proximity to larger urban areas, allowing for easy access to more extensive services and entertainment.
  • Can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to nearby urban centers.
  • Some may find housing prices relatively high for the area.
  • Limited options for large-scale shopping or entertainment compared to central London.

Best Activities in Friern Barnet

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

walking

Explore the scenic parks and green spaces in Friern Barnet, perfect for a relaxing walk or a leisurely stroll.

cycling

Enjoy cycling along the numerous bike paths and quiet roads, offering a pleasant way to explore the area.

picnicking

Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the local parks, a great way to spend time outdoors with friends or family.

nature watching

Take the time to observe local wildlife and enjoy birdwatching in the various green spaces.

community events

Participate in local community events or outdoor festivals which often take place in parks throughout the year.

outdoor sports

Engage in outdoor sports such as soccer, basketball, or tennis at the local sports facilities.

Tours

Uncover the best of Friern Barnet with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Friern Barnet

Visit one of these nice places.

Friary Park

A picturesque park with a beautiful rose garden and a stunning view of the city skyline.

Alexandra Palace

Offers panoramic views of the London skyline and surrounding areas, with a perfect spot for photography.

Cherry Tree Wood

A delightful woodland area with scenic paths and open spaces, ideal for capturing natural beauty.

Food in Friern Barnet

Friern Barnet offers a diverse culinary experience with a combination of traditional English cuisine and a variety of international flavors. From hearty British pub fare to authentic ethnic dishes, the area is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts.

Friern Barnet Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish that can be enjoyed at The Friern Barnet Fish and Chip Shop, known for its crispy batter and perfectly cooked chips.

Must-Try!

Pie and Mash

Savor this traditional London meal at The King William IV, which offers rich and flavorsome pie fillings and creamy mashed potato.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Friern Barnet better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Friern Barnet Market

This bustling market features a variety of street food stalls offering cuisines from around the world, including mouth-watering kebabs, aromatic curries, and delectable desserts.

Weather

The climate is classified as a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Winters are generally cool, with average temperatures often hovering around 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is rare but can occasionally occur. Summers are warm but not excessively hot, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). July is typically the warmest month. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months occurring in the autumn and winter. The region experiences a fair amount of cloud cover, and sunshine can be limited, particularly in the winter months. Overall, the climate supports a variety of vegetation and is conducive to outdoor activities during the milder months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

In Friern Barnet, as in much of the UK, using polite language and expressions such as 'please', 'thank you', and 'excuse me' is important. This reflects respect for others and fosters a friendly atmosphere.

Queueing

Brits are known for their patience in forming orderly queues. It's considered rude to push ahead or cut in line, whether at a bus stop, a shop, or any social gathering. Always wait your turn.

Respect for Privacy

People in Friern Barnet, as in many parts of the UK, value personal space and privacy. It's important to respect others' boundaries and avoid overly invasive questions, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Friern Barnet with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in the area is generally considered to be reasonable, as it features a mix of residential neighborhoods and local amenities. Like many suburban areas in London, the crime rate can vary, but it is often lower than in some of the more central boroughs. Common concerns may include petty crime like theft or vandalism, which can occur in any urban setting. Local authorities work to maintain safety through community policing initiatives, neighborhood watch programs, and community engagement. Residents often report a sense of community which can contribute to overall safety, with neighbors looking out for each other. It’s always wise for individuals to stay aware of their surroundings, secure their properties, and engage with local resources such as community groups or local police services for the latest information and support regarding safety in their area.

Tipping in Friern Barnet

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Friern Barnet and the wider UK, tipping is generally seen as a way to reward good service. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if a service charge is not already included. In pubs, it is less common to tip, but patrons may choose to round up the bill. Tipping in other service sectors like taxi services or hairdressing is also common but usually voluntary.

Payment

Payment practices in Friern Barnet reflect those of the UK. Cash is still accepted, but card payments are predominant, especially contactless methods. Many establishments now offer mobile payment solutions. Grocery stores and restaurants often have card terminals, and electronic payments have become increasingly popular due to their convenience. The use of apps for payments has also seen an upsurge in recent years.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Friern Barnet.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

In spring (March to May), you can expect mild and pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer days. It's a great time to visit Friern Barnet and enjoy outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer (June to August) brings warm and sometimes hot weather, perfect for exploring parks, gardens, and outdoor events. It's the peak tourist season in Friern Barnet.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) offers crisp weather, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. It's a good time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings.

Winter

Winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow. It's a magical time to visit with festive events and decorations.

Friern Barnet at Night

This suburban area in North London has a quieter nightlife compared to more bustling parts of the city. Local pubs and bars provide a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Venues like The Griffin and The Three Hammers often feature live music or quiz nights, attracting a friendly crowd. In addition to traditional pubs, there are some casual dining options, which sometimes offer late-night menus. Cafés and restaurants, especially along the main roads, can be lively spots in the evenings. For those seeking a more extensive nightlife experience, nearby areas such as Wood Green and Barnet offer a broader selection of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Public transport connections make it easy to venture into central London for a night out, where the nightlife is more vibrant and diverse. Overall, the nightlife in this area caters more to locals looking for a laid-back evening rather than an energetic party scene.

Hiking in Friern Barnet

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Highate Woods

A large park in Highgate with wooded areas, walking trails, and open space, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

Nonsuch Park

A historic park featuring extensive walking paths, gardens, and a beautiful lake, perfect for a leisurely hike.

Morden Hall Park

A peaceful park with meadows and woodland, offering easy walking paths along the River Wandle.

Trent Park

A vast park with a rich history, featuring diverse landscapes, woodlands, and several walking trails.

Gunnersbury Park

A large public park featuring gardens, woodland walks, and sports facilities, making it great for daytime hikes.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Friern Barnet through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Friern Barnet by plane.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

The primary airport serving London, located about 15 miles west of Friern Barnet.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Located approximately 30 miles south of Friern Barnet, it is London's second-largest airport.

London Stansted Airport (STN)

Situated around 35 miles northeast of Friern Barnet, it primarily serves low-cost airlines.

London Luton Airport (LTN)

Located about 30 miles north of Friern Barnet, it caters mainly to budget airlines.

London City Airport (LCY)

An international airport situated about 10 miles east of Friern Barnet, primarily serving business travelers.

Walkability

Walkability in this area is influenced by a mix of residential neighborhoods, local amenities, and transport links. The presence of parks and green spaces provides opportunities for leisurely walks and outdoor activities. Key roads feature sidewalks, although some sections may have uneven surfaces or limited crossings. Local shops, cafes, and services are scattered throughout, which can enhance the convenience of walking for daily errands. Public transport options, including buses, connect the area to surrounding neighborhoods and the wider London area, making it easier for residents to access more distant amenities. However, certain parts may have traffic-heavy roads, which could impact the overall walking experience. Efforts to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility, such as installing clearer signage and enhancing crosswalks, can contribute to a more walkable environment. Overall, while there are good aspects of walkability, challenges persist that could be addressed to further encourage walking as a primary mode of transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White British

The largest demographic group, comprising individuals of British and Irish ancestry.

Other White

Includes individuals from European countries, such as Eastern European and Mediterranean nationals.

Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME)

Includes various ethnic groups such as Black African, Black Caribbean, Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and others.

Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups

Individuals identifying as belonging to two or more ethnic backgrounds.

Asian or Asian British

Individuals from various South Asian and other Asian backgrounds.

Black or Black British

Includes individuals of African or Caribbean descent.

The Soul of Friern Barnet

Discover the essence of Friern Barnet through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A popular team sport played by two teams of eleven players, widely enjoyed in Friern Barnet with various local clubs and community teams.

Cricket

A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, cricket has a strong following in Friern Barnet, with several local leagues and clubs.

Tennis

Tennis is a popular sport in Friern Barnet, with numerous public courts and clubs that host matches and tournaments.

Rugby

Rugby is played locally, with clubs that provide opportunities for both youth and adult players to participate in this physical team sport.

Running

Running, both recreational and competitive, is popular in Friern Barnet, often with local clubs and events such as fun runs and marathons.

Traffic

Traffic in this area can be quite variable, with peak hours often seeing significant congestion. The main roads, such as the A1000 and the A406 (North Circular Road), are commonly used routes, leading to a higher volume of vehicles during rush hour. Local traffic can be heavy due to residential areas and schools, which contribute to increased activity during drop-off and pick-up times. Public transport options, including buses, serve the community, but the reliance on private vehicles can sometimes lead to bottlenecks. Parking can also be a challenge in certain areas, particularly around shopping centers and local amenities. Overall, while the traffic flow is manageable outside of peak times, congested conditions are not uncommon during busy periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Friern Barnet.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Friern Barnet offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with highlights including the vegan burgers at The Oak and the vegetarian mezze at Taste of Cyprus.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free fish and chips at The Friern Barnet Fish and Chip Shop, as well as gluten-free dessert options at Maison De L'amour.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Friern Barnet with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located within the London Borough of Barnet, healthcare services in the area are provided through a combination of local general practitioners (GPs), hospitals, and specialized clinics. Residents can access primary care services through several GP practices that cater to various health needs. These practices typically offer routine check-ups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. Appointments can often be made online, by phone, or in person. For more specialized medical care, individuals may need to visit nearby hospitals. The closest major hospital is the Barnet Hospital, which offers a range of services including emergency care, maternity services, and surgical treatments. Other nearby hospitals include the Royal Free Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital, which provide specialized care and facilities. In addition to hospitals and GP services, there are various health clinics and specialist services available for matters such as dental care, mental health services, and physiotherapy. The integration of local health services aims to provide comprehensive care and improve health outcomes for the community. Public health initiatives are also supported by the local council, focusing on promoting healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and access to care for all residents. Overall, the healthcare system in the area reflects the broader structure of the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, emphasizing accessibility, quality of care, and community health.

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