Hampstead Heath pondcam livestream

A desire to ease the stresses of waiting to be seen in the oncology clinic was the idea behind our installation of a webcam at one of the ponds on Hampstead Heath.

Pondcam has been set up at a pond which is a nature reserve rather than for swimming and has extra planting around for the wildlife. The camera focuses in turn on various locations around the pond, allowing patients and staff to see live images of the many species of birds and other animals.

There is well-documented evidence of the benefits of connecting people to natural environments whether virtually or directly. Both the trust and the City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath, have strategic priorities around mental and physical health which the project supports.

A patient in the oncology clinic at the Royal Free Hospital said: “Watching the water gently rippling away is so calming and therapeutic! I’ve watched a majestic swan glide around and I also watched a family of ducks just going about their everyday business. I think pondcam is a wonderful idea.” Oncology clinic patient.

You can see live images of the pond here and download our guide which may help you identify some of the wildlife you see there.