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Bridge Approach, London

bridge approach street

Sometimes travel doesn’t need to be far-flung or exotic. Often the most interesting discoveries are a few steps away from our front door or workplace. Our writer Claudia takes a look at one of her favourite streets in London: Bridge Approach.

When you think of a street, you think of a pavement and a road. Bridge Approach stood out to me precisely because it had neither of these things. It is, in fact, a pedestrian bridge overlooking a canal which was unlike anything I’d ever seen before.

London has so many beautiful streets filled with fashionable shops and places to eat, but this one is my favourite. Located just off a main road in Camden, this street in the form of a bridge transports you from the urban to the rural. Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill are in the distance and the shop-filled area surrounding Chalk Farm station is just behind you.

bridge approach london

I instantly felt relaxed when I reached Bridge Approach. You’re not constantly dodging people like you are on so many London streets. With the beautiful willow trees by a canal to the right of you, the church to the left of you and a huge park in front of you, you almost forget you are in London. It’s a long way from the hustle and bustle of Camden Market just down the road.

As small and quiet as it was, this street wasn’t completely devoid of people. There were mothers with prams – who I assume had just come from the park – and elderly couples going for a walk. I can see why local people would choose this street as part of their route – the decking is clean and the air is fresh. What more could you want?

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On Primrose Hill, there’s an engraved stone with William Blake’s quote: “I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill.” I reckon he had a point, but there is something quite spiritual about this spot even before you get to the hill. It’s a calm sanctuary away from crowded Central London.

On sunny autumn days, the browning leaves of the trees by the canal and the bright Victorian houses make for a beautiful backdrop. This place really has everything. If you’d like to visit it, the address is: Bridge Approach, London, NW18BD.

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What’s your favourite hidden gem where you live? Share with us @tweetjanes.