Fenton House is a merchant's house of 1693 at the top of Hampstead, Grade I listed and one of the area's oldest, left to the National Trust in 1952 by its last resident, Lady Binning. Inside is the Benton Fletcher collection of early keyboard instruments, in the Trust's care since 1938 and kept in playing condition, the oldest from 1540, so volunteer musicians play harpsichords, spinets and virginals in the rooms. Porcelain, 17th-century needlework, Georgian furniture and pictures by Walter Sickert and Laura Knight fill the house, and the walled garden steps down through terraces to a sunken rose garden, kitchen garden and an orchard of 32 heritage apple and pear varieties. Reviewers love hearing the instruments played and rate the garden the highlight. Tips from visitors: climb to the attic balcony for the view across London to St Paul's, and bring a picnic for the lawn, as there is no cafe. Assistance dogs only, no pre-booking, and the toilets are upstairs.
