It is on the Edgware branch of the Northern line, between Golders Green and Belsize Park stations.

Designed by architect Leslie Green, it was opened on 22 June 1907 by the Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway.

Because Hampstead is on a steep hill, the station's platforms are the deepest on the London Underground network, at 58.5 metres (192 ft) below ground level;[6][7] and it has the deepest lift shaft on the Underground, at 55 metres (180 ft).

To the north, between Hampstead and Golders Green stations, is the uncompleted North End or Bull & Bush station.

London Overground's Hampstead Heath station on the North London line is a 10–15 minute walk east on South End Road.London Buses routes 46 and 268, schools service 603 and night bus N5 serve the station.