The Friends of Kenwood

Kenwood House and its beautiful grounds adjoining Hampstead Heath were bequeathed to the nation in 1927 by the Earl of Iveagh. This outstanding neo-classical house holds one of the most important collections of paintings ever given to the nation.

Works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Reynolds, Gainsborough and Turner all hang against a backdrop of sumptuous rooms, including the richly decorated library; one of Robert Adam’s masterpieces. The landscaped grounds and lake are enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year and form the backdrop to films, open air concerts, plays and other events.

The Friends of the Iveagh Bequest, more well-known as the Friends of Kenwood, was formed in 1977. Our purpose is to inspire visitors of today and tomorrow to promote and preserve the special qualities of Kenwood House, its collection and estate.

Detailed view of 'Self Portrait' c.1665 by REMBRANDT, VAN RIJN

Our Aims

To achieve the above, our specific aims are to:

  • Provide a forum and voice for friends and supporters, and act as advocate for the Kenwood estate and the terms of the Iveagh Bequest
  • Support English Heritage in their management of the Kenwood estate
  • Provide for members a range of social, educational, and fundraising activities, publications and events
  • Stimulate public interest in, and care of, the beauty, history and character of Kenwood, and ensure that this character is maintained
  • Raise funds for acquisitions, conservation work and other relevant projects or activities related to Kenwood
  • Encourage high standards in, and appropriate development of, all areas of activity at Kenwood, including architecture, planning, estate management, conservation, and the visitor experience.

twitter icon Tweets @FriendsOfKenwood

Another windy day forecast for Wednesday 29 April. Gusts of 39mph forecast so Kenwood house, estate, car park, cafe will all be closed. #windyweather #climatechange #springtimeinlondon #kenwoodhousehampsteadheath #kenwoodhouse @EHKenwood

Very gusty weather. Kenwood house, Cafe, car park and estate closed Wednesday 25 March
#verywindy #kenwoodhousehampsteadheath #kenwoodhouse #nowalkstoday @kenwood_house_

Lecture Sunday: Joseph Wright of Derby - Martin Postle - https://mailchi.mp/86e2ef9b2b6c/lecture-sunday-joseph-wright-of-derby-martin-postle-17995294

Tuesday 17 March 2.30pm Kenwood Cold Bath - witness the 1st person in perhaps 200 years take a plunge! An historic moment!
Jamie Knowles makes a SPLASH!
Beautifully restored by @EnglishHeritage with support from #kenwoodbookshop @ThePilgrimTrust & others.
@EHKenwood @menspond

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Latest News

Kenwood Landscape Forum Conservation Management Plan Day – Slides

To view the slides, click here July 2026
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A King’s Birthday Honour Comes to Kenwood

The Friends of Kenwood are delighted to announce that Friends’ council member Mark King …
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English Heritage seeks Friends of Kenwood Curator

Kenwood House, in Hampstead, London is to benefit from the first named curator at any of …
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Upcoming Lectures & Events

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Mrs Kauffman and Madame Le Brun
20Sep
Franny Moyle
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