Londonist's Back Passage

A tribute to the capital’s alleys, ginnels and snickleways.

30. Holly Bush Steps

Where? Steep cutting leading up from the west side of Heath Street, Hampstead.

What? The slopes of Holly Hill couldn't be more quaint if they were tended by a hobbit's grandmother. This passage takes you to the highest strata of Hampstead society, past seriously expensive properties. No hint of tramp's piss here. If any commoner released his bladder upon these august flagstones, all trace of the besmirchment would be quickly washed away. By the maid. With leftover Moet and/or Chandon.

The twisting alley eventually reaches a plateau, from which can be seen The City, in some of its glory.

Why use? As is so often the case with these passages, Holly Bush Steps leads to one of London's finest pubs. The Holly Bush dates from 1643 and was one of many, many favourite drinking holes of Samuel Jackson.

See each and every one of our back passages mapped here.