If you’re planning a visit to North London and want to explore beyond the usual city centre sights, Barnet is a gem worth discovering. Known for its leafy parks, historic streets, markets, and welcoming atmosphere, Barnet blends countryside charm with easy access to the heart of London.
Whether you’re coming for a day trip, a weekend adventure, or a longer stay, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know where Barnet is, how to get there, transportation options, top attractions, tips for visitors, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to explore Barnet like a local.
Where Is Barnet Located?
Barnet is a large suburban borough in North London, England. It sits on the northern edge of Greater London, bordering the county of Hertfordshire to the north. This location gives Barnet a unique feel; you can enjoy quiet green spaces and historic town centres while still being part of bustling London life.
The borough includes several neighbourhoods such as High Barnet (Chipping Barnet), Totteridge & Whetstone, East Barnet, and Friern Barnet. Each area has its own character, from market streets and cosy cafés to open commons and nature reserves.
Transport links are strong, so getting here from central London or beyond is straightforward which brings us to the next section.
Getting There by ( Bus )
If you’re coming to Barnet by bus, you’ll find frequent services connecting it to many parts of London.
Several London bus routes serve Barnet and the surrounding neighbourhoods, including routes such as 184, 234, 263, 34, 384 and more. These buses stop at different points around the borough and make getting around Barnet and linking up with train and tube stations easier.
For many visitors, taking a bus is a slower but scenic way to travel from central London watching the city transform into leafy suburbs and then into Barnet’s historic streets.
Buses also link Barnet to neighbouring parts of Greater London, so once you’re in the area you can easily explore beyond its borders using London’s extensive bus network.
Getting There by ( Train )
Barnet is also accessible by train, which makes it easy if you’re arriving from outside London or prefer rail travel.
The main nearby train stations include:
- Oakleigh Parka walkable station close to parts of Barnet.
- New Barnetanother station within walking distance of key neighbourhoods.
- Hadley Wood a bit further but still in the general Barnet area.
These stations are served by mainline services such as Great Northern trains, connecting Barnet to central London stations like King’s Cross and Moorgate, often in under 30–40 minutes depending on service.
Train travel here is a great option if you want a comfortable, scenic route from cities outside London or from suburban areas.
While public transport is frequent, many visitors prefer the door-to-door reliability and enhanced safety of traveling by taxi at night, especially when navigating unfamiliar suburban streets after a long flight.
Getting There by ( Taxi )
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available throughout London and to Barnet. If you’re coming straight from an airport (Heathrow, Gatwick, or London City), a taxi is convenient, especially with luggage.
The main advantages of a taxi are:
- Comfort and door-to-door service
- No transfers or changes
- Useful if travelling in a group or with heavy bags
Keep in mind that fares can be higher compared to public transport, but for many visitors this trade-off is worth it for convenience especially if you’re arriving at odd hours or with family.
Getting There by ( Tube )
One of the easiest ways to reach Barnet is by London Underground known locally as “the Tube.”
The Northern Line runs right up to High Barnet, which is one of the main transport hubs in the borough. From here:
Reaching High Barnet is simple via the Northern Line; however, for those unfamiliar with the wider London Underground network guide, it is helpful to map out your interchanges at major hubs like King’s Cross or Euston.
- You can walk into the Barnet High Street
- Catch buses to other parts of the borough
- Explore local shops and eateries
The Northern Line offers direct connections to central London, meaning you can be in the West End in about 30 – 40 minutes or in London Bridge in around 45 minutes depending on your destination.
While Barnet doesn’t have a Tube station literally in every neighbourhood, High Barnet and Totteridge & Whetstone are the key stops. From these points you can easily take local buses, taxis, or even walk to where you need to go.
6 Top Attractions in Barnet
Once you’re in Barnet, there’s a surprising amount to see and do! From historic landmarks to nature trails and markets, the area offers a variety of experiences.
1. Barnet High Street & Market
Barnet’s High Street is a vibrant area filled with boutique shops, cafés, pubs, and historic buildings. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Barnet Market brings the street to life with stalls selling fresh produce, crafts, and local goods, a wonderful way to experience local culture.
2. Barnet Museum
History lovers will enjoy the Barnet Museum, a charming local museum that tells the story of the area, including the famous Battle of Barnet from the 15th century. It’s a small but rich cultural experience with collections that span centuries.
3. Parks and Green Spaces
Barnet is known for its beautiful open spaces:
- Mill Hill Park, a large public park with playgrounds and sports areas, perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
- Watling Park, another great green spot with plenty of room for picnics or exercise.
- Oak Hill Park, offering vast grassy areas, woodlands, and walking trails.
- Barnet Gate Wood, a small but atmospheric ancient woodland for nature lovers.
The abundance of green space makes Barnet a top choice for those planning family-friendly activities in London, offering children plenty of room to play away from the crowded city center.
If you enjoy fresh air and scenic walks, all these parks are excellent.
4. Dollis Valley Greenwalk
For nature enthusiasts, the Dollis Valley Greenwalk is a long walking route through woodlands and fields, offering peaceful countryside views just minutes from urban life.
5. Historic Festivals
Barnet hosts several community and historic events throughout the year. The Barnet Medieval Festival brings history to life with reenactments and markets, while the East Barnet Festival is a summer celebration of music, food, and local culture.
6. Shopping and Leisure
If retail therapy is on your agenda, The Spires Shopping Centre offers high-street brands and eateries, ideal for a mix of shopping and dining.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Visiting Barnet is easy, but here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Plan Your Transport Ahead
London’s transport system is extensive and efficient, but if you’re unfamiliar with Oyster cards or contactless payments, make sure you understand how the Tube and buses work before you go. Using a contactless card or an Oyster card is typically the easiest way to pay for journeys on buses, trains, and the Tube.
Since Barnet is located in North London, planning your return journey to the airport is vital; researching the best way to travel to Heathrow ensures you avoid heavy M25 traffic and reach your terminal on time.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes
Barnet has historic streets and large park areas. Comfortable footwear will make walking between landmarks and exploring green spaces much more pleasant.
- Check Bus Times in Advance
Buses in Barnet run frequently, but times can vary especially on weekends and evenings so check schedules beforehand or use Transport for London’s journey planner.
- Visit Parks According to Weather
Barnet’s parks are beautiful year-round, but visiting them in spring or summer brings grassy fields and flower blooms to life, while autumn offers stunning colours great for scenic photos.
- Explore Local Food and Pubs
Barnet has a lively food scene, from cosy cafés to historic pubs. Try local spots on the High Street or ask a resident for their favourite lunch place for a truly local experience.
- Accessibility Information
Transport options like Freedom Passes, Blue Badges, and travel support exist for visitors who might benefit from them and check local council advice if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the top place to visit in Barnet?
While “top” can depend on what you love, Barnet High Street and Market is often considered a must-see because it’s vibrant, historic, and central to the local experience. But if you prefer nature, the Dollis Valley Greenwalk and Oak Hill Park are equally spectacular.
2. Does the Tube go to Barnet?
Yes! The Northern Line serves Barnet via High Barnet (with other nearby stations like Totteridge & Whetstone). It’s one of the most convenient ways to reach the area from central London.
3. What are the top tourist attractions in Barnet?
Some of the most popular attractions include:
- Barnet Museum
- Barnet Market
- Mill Hill Park
- Oak Hill Park
- Dollis Valley Greenwalk
- Historic pubs and High Street shops
Conclusion
Barnet is a wonderfully diverse part of North London easy to reach, full of character, and rich in both history and green spaces. Whether you’re exploring the scenic parks, strolling through historic streets, enjoying a local festival, or simply relaxing in a café, Barnet serves as the perfect starting point to discover the best things to do in North London, blending historical charm with modern convenience for an unforgettable trip.
Barnet is a destination you can confidently add to your London itinerary. Pack your walking shoes, check the transport times, and get ready and looking for relible london cab services to discover the charm of this inviting borough.
