Kenwood on Hampstead Heath offers free Old Masters and festive weekends

On the northern edge of Hampstead Heath stands one of London's great free treats. Kenwood, cared for by English Heritage, is a handsome house filled with world class art, set in parkland laid out by Humphry Repton, and entry costs nothing.

The house has a rich history. The original house was probably built around 1616, and in 1754 it was bought by William Murray, later the 1st Earl of Mansfield and Lord Chief Justice. From 1764, Robert Adam remodelled it for Lord Mansfield, adding the library, one of his best known interiors, and the grand Ionic portico. During the Gordon Riots of 1780, rioters headed for the estate, but free ale from the nearby Spaniards Inn delayed them until cavalry arrived.

Kenwood's art collection came later. In 1925, Edward Guinness, 1st Earl of Iveagh, bought the house and its remaining land, and when he died in 1927 he left it to the nation. It opened to the public the following year, and it is still sometimes known as the Iveagh Bequest.

The collection is extraordinary for a house of its size. Highlights include Rembrandt's Self Portrait with Two Circles and Vermeer's The Guitar Player, along with works by Gainsborough, Turner and Constable.

Kenwood also tells the stories of the people who lived here, including Dido Belle, and a newly commissioned portrait of her is part of the displays.

The grounds cover 112 acres, flowing into Hampstead Heath, and they make a lovely place for a winter walk before warming up in the café. Families can enjoy children's activities in the Housekeeper's Room, and a free Bloomberg Connects digital guide offers audio tours and an interactive map.

The autumn and winter programme includes guided tours about Lord Mansfield, performances by the City Music Foundation and Father Christmas weekends in late November and December.

Kenwood is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3.30pm. Tickets are not required, though booking online guarantees entry.

Kenwood is on Hampstead Lane, NW3 7JR, a walk across the heath from Hampstead or Highgate. For events and opening times, visit the English Heritage website.