Things you didn't know about... Primrose Hill

How the Hill got its name
Primrose Hill was once known as Greenberry Hill, but in the 17th century the powers-that-be decided to name the area after the primroses that flourish there.

On a clear day you can see all London
Primrose Hill offers magnificent panoramic views across central London. Almost all of the capital's landmark buildings can be seen from the top on a clear day.

Henry VIII once hunted here
Originally part of the Great Middlesex Forest, Primrose Hill was once the hunting ground of King Henry VIII. The area was secured as public open space by an Act of Parliament in 1842. Today it is a designated conservation area.

House prices can get high too
The average price of a house with a Primrose Hill postcode is currently more than half a million pounds. Property prices in the area have increased by more than 200 per cent in the past 10 years.

A rich history
Primrose Hill was once a popular spot for duels. One of the last duels in England was fought here in 1843, when Lieutenant Colonel Fawcett was shot dead by his brother-in-law Lieutenant Munro. The pair had been squabbling over... yes, you guessed it... money.

Primrose Hill philosophy
Famous socialist philosopher and co-author of The Communist Manifesto, Friedrich Engels lived in Primrose Hill until his death in 1883.

A popular celebrity haunt
Primrose Hill has long been a fashionable place of residence among A-list celebrities. Inhabitants have included model Kate Moss, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, and actor Jude Law.

The Martians were here
In author HG Wells' famous science-fiction novel The War Of The Worlds, Primrose Hill was the site of the final alien encampment.

Primrose Hill in popular music
Primrose Hill has featured in a number of pop and rock songs over the years, including work by Billy Bragg, Blur, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and The Beatles. English ska group Madness even wrote a song called Primrose Hill...

Primrose Hill has Britpop covered
Primrose Hill provided the backdrop for the cover image of Britpop band Oasis' hit single Wonderwall.

Primrose Hill on screen
Primrose Hill is a popular setting for movies and television shows. It provided the backdrop for the opening credits of recent British film Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, while nearby Regent's Park was also featured in Hugh Grant film About a Boy.