New Opportunities for Cafés in London’s Beloved Green Spaces
The charities behind three of London’s most treasured green spaces, Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, and Queen’s Park, are inviting proposals from potential operators to lease five café facilities across these much‑loved sites.
The City of London Corporation, which manages these open spaces as registered charities, has opened up a competitive re‑marketing process aimed at finding operators who can reflect the distinctive character of each location while serving the needs of millions of visitors every year. Existing operators are welcome to apply alongside new bidders, with the option to bid for one or more sites.
Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, Sheriff and Alderman Gregory Jones KC, said:
“As custodians of some of north London’s most popular open spaces, we want to ensure these sites offer the best experience for the millions of people who visit each year. A competitive re‑marketing process will help us deliver that aim.
“All five café operators are trading under tenancies at will, which are short‑term arrangements. This process will provide greater clarity and security for the cafés’ operators, supporting their long‑term investment and future on these sites.
“We are focused on securing the best operators to serve the local community and support the aims of our open spaces charities. We deeply appreciate the long‑standing contributions of our café operators. Their experience and dedication are valued, and they are encouraged to take part in this opportunity.”
A closer look at these green spaces
Hampstead Heath is a name synonymous with open air and city escape. A Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation and part of the 11,000 acres protected by the City Corporation, the Heath welcomes over eight million visits every year. From its historic bathing ponds and Parliament Hill Lido to the recently refurbished athletics track, the Heath is both a haven for wildlife and a playground for sport and leisure. It has held a Green Flag Award every year since 1997.
Highgate Wood, a 70‑acre woodland, is another jewel in the capital’s crown. Managed by the City of London Corporation since 1886, it is not only a beautiful setting for cricket and football but also home to the most complete Roman pottery kiln discovered in Greater London. Like Hampstead Heath, it proudly flies the Green Flag each year.
Queen’s Park, set in the Queen’s Park Conservation Area, offers 30 acres of Victorian design with landscaped gardens, sports courts and a thriving local community. Managed by the City Corporation since 1887, it too has consistently achieved Green Flag status.
What the City Corporation is looking for
Applicants will need to show that their café concepts are more than just coffee and cake. Menus, environmental management, social value, and community contribution will all be considered alongside experience and a clear business plan. These cafés are intended as welcoming hubs – places where walkers, families, and sports enthusiasts alike can meet, rest and enjoy the surroundings.
With their rich history and strong community ties, these sites offer a unique chance for operators to become part of something bigger than just a food and drink venue. Details on how to apply can be found via the City of London Corporation’s open spaces page.
A call to get involved
For Londoners, these parks are open spaces that are part of daily life. The cafés within them play a quiet but important role in shaping that experience. As the search for operators begins, there’s an opportunity for fresh ideas and new energy to help these green spaces thrive for years to come.
For more updates on London’s parks, communities and opportunities shaping our city, visit EyeOnLondon City. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the future of these cafés and what you’d like to see on the menu – share your views in the comments below.
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