Belsize Park 

Well situated. In French that translates to 'bel assis', and this is where Belsize Park gets its name. It is, after all, squashed between Hampstead, Camden, Chalk Farm and Primrose Hill - not a bad location if you like variety on your doorstep. The area has been around and referred to since 1317 and has seen it's fair share of action. Most notably was the bombing of the area during World War II, making it a good job that it's also the site of one of the large underground bomb shelters, which you can't fail to miss as you stroll down Haverstock Hill, past Downside Crescent. Consisting of one main high street (the aforementioned Haverstock Hill), the focus for this smallish area is on good times and socialising, with plenty of dining and drinking options available. It is spread out quite nicely, and you certainly won't feel claustrophobic - it's like you have a breather between lines of ten or so shops, bars and restaurants at a time. Considering the area's focus, you may not be surprised to find that bumping into a celeb or two isn't uncommon, with the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and fellow actor Jude Law (not to mention supergroups Coldplay and Oasis) either frequenting the area or living here. Were it somewhere out in the sticks, Belsize Park may not be your first choice for escapades, but truth is it's all about location, and that's where this place comes up trumps, offering a trendy link between all the surrounding areas which, together, make one hell of an outing.