In the early 19th century the village of Hampstead was known as 'the northern heights of London'. Separated from the city by fields, Hampstead was a place of impressive views, healthy, clean air and an escape from the squalor of London. It was attractive to artists and their families, but despite this, they could not give up a central London studio or move too far from their patrons and source of income. So Hampstead remained a weekend retreat for most of its artist residents.

Further information about Hampstead is available through these links:

John Constable

William Blake

A walking tour about Blake

Burgh House, Hampstead Museum & General History