Located in north London, Camden Town is one of the city’s most eclectic and iconic neighbourhoods. Brimming with character, it has a certain gritty buzz about it thatโs hard to put into words. However, one thing is certain: you wonโt be short of things to do in Camden!
Camden is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in London, and I’m certainly not alone. Its markets draw in around 100,000 visitors each weekend!
With a diverse mix of cuisines to choose from and a variety of treasures to be found, it’s an experience like no other in London.
Known for its ties to the music world, Camden Town is one of the best places in London to watch live music and has hosted some of the worldโs best musicians over the years. If you’re looking for a great night out and live music – Camden is the place for you!
โญ๏ธ 30 Best Things to Do in Camden Overview
The 30 best things to do in Camden Town are:
- Camden Market
- Amy Winehouse Statue
- Buck Street Market
- Camden High Street
- Street Art in Camden
- Regentโs Canal
- Regentโs Park
- London Zoo
- Primrose Hill
- Camdenโs Colourful Houses
- Cecil Sharp House
- Jewish Museum London
- Cob Gallery
Live Music and Nightclubs - The Roundhouse
- The PowerHaus (formerly Dingwalls)
- Electric Ballroom
- The Jazz Cafรฉ
- Camden Castle Pubs
- Camden Town Brewery
- Cocktails at Fifty-Five, BYOC, or Near & Far
Comedy, Shows and Other Quirky Ideas! - Camden Comedy Club
- Monkey Business Comedy Club
- Etcetera Theatre
- Camden Fringe
- Crazy Golf
- Digital Beer Pong
Things To Do Near Camden Town - British Library
- British Museum
- Camden Arts Centre
- Hampstead Heath
Each of these incredible things to do in Camden are discussed in greater detail throughout the remainder of this guide.
At the end, you will also find a map showing the exact location of each, as well as helpful travel tips and information for planning your visit to Camden.
๐ Top 30 Things to Do in Camden Town
While there are a lot of ways to enjoy a day in town, the following attractions and activities are considered the best things to do in Camden.
๐ 1. Camden Market
Quick History of Camden Market
As the beating heart of Camden, I think it’s fun to know a little about this iconic London landmark.
Nestled alongside Regent’s Canal, Camden Market is a fairly recent addition to London, dating back to 1974. It all began with a small, pop-up arts and crafts fair with only 16 stalls.
Since then, it has exploded to become the fourth most popular attraction in London.
Today, it is London’s largest market and home to over 1000 unique shops, stalls, bars, and cafes that attract 28 million visitors each year.
As of 2014, Camden Market now encompasses two former markets; Camden Stables Market and Camden Lock Village Market.
The Stables Market, as the name suggests, was once a series of stable blocks, horse tunnels, tack rooms, saddler’s workshops, and even a horse hospital.
At the end of the 1800s, around 800 horses were housed here. The last horse was withdrawn from use in 1967 and the depot was closed in 1980.
Camden Lock Market has its roots in gin production. In the 19th century, it was home to a number of distilleries and warehouses known for producing some of the world’s finest gin.
Things to Do in Camden Market
Of all the things to do in Camden, a visit to Camden Market should be at the top of your list. You could easily spend the entire day just wandering around the market whilst perusing the stalls and eating your way through all the incredible food!
There’s even a Vagina Museum within the market. Yes, you read that right – there is a museum dedicated to female genitalia.
It’s definitely among the quirkier things to do in London but is well worth a visit!
For those who love shopping, Camden Market offers a labyrinth of vintage clothing, quirky gifts, stylish accessories, handmade jewellery, antiques, music memorabilia, knick-knacks and souvenirs.
Whether youโre looking for boho, chic or goth fashion, you will find it in these eclectic markets.
And be sure not to miss the famous Cyberdog – stepping inside is like being transported elsewhere in the universe! Expect loud electronic music blaring, the occasional go-go dancers, and walls of neon futuristic clubwear!
The umbrella canopy in Stables Market also provides one of the most Instagrammable spots in London. I took the photo above when the market was closed. However, it’s honestly probably better if you can get there early on a day it’s open to capture the vibrant nature of the stalls on either side.
Camden Market is open 7 days a week from 10am-6pm, including bank holidays, and some evenings. The only day it is closed is Christmas Day. However, opening times can vary slightly from business to business.
๐ค 2. Amy Winehouse Statue
Within Camden Stables Market, you will discover a life-size bronze statue of Amy Winehouse. This tribute to the legendary Camdenite singer was made in 2014 by British sculptor Scott Eaton and sits near one of her regular hangouts, The Lock Tavern.
๐ฆ 3. Buck Street Market
Buck Street Market is Camden’s newest market. It opened in 2020 and replaced the original market that had been trading here for more than three decades.
The Buck Street Market is unlike any other market in the UK. It is comprised of 88 recycled shipping containers spread over three levels and is the first dedicated market for conscious consumers.
Within it are 26 sustainable food outlets and over 50 ethical fashion retailers. On top of this, they have a zero single-use plastic policy, multiple recycling points, and are composting food waste to generate electricity.
It is also home to the largest rooftop space in London, providing a great spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat in the summer.
This version of Buck Street Market is only intended to be a temporary measure as Transport for London plans to open a new tube entrance here. However, that may take up to 10 years so you’ll be able to enjoy this eco-friendly market for a while yet.
๐ฌ๐ง 4. Camden High Street
Camden High Street is one of the most famous streets in London. Known for its music venues, alternative shops, and market, its vibrant nature demands your attention.
Lining Camden High Street, you’ll discover numerous shops selling gothic clothing, as well as tattoo and piercing parlours often blaring loud music.
Stalls align the pavement outside the ground floor shops that threaten to consume your attention. However, don’t forget to look up!
Adorning the first and second-floor levels of the shops are bright murals and enormous objects clinging to the brick walls.
It’s also a great place for people-watching. With its weird and wonderful community, you’ll spot locals and tourists alike from all walks of life.
Expect to see some neon-coloured hair, gravity-defying mohawks, tattoo junkies, and goths, alongside typical London tourists and hipster millennials – there’s no judgement here! The “anything goes” attitude is one of the best things about Camden.
๐จ 5. Street Art in Camden
As a creative hub, it should come as no surprise that there is a huge amount of incredible street art to be discovered in Camden Town. Take a wander around and mosey down the quieter backstreets and you will inevitably stumble across a variety of spectacular street art.
I’ve included the streets for each of the pieces of street art I photographed. However, due to the nature of street art, it’s likely to change over time so don’t be surprised if you can’t find the same pieces!
๐ถ 6. Regent’s Canal
First opened in 1820, Regent’s Canal was originally developed to provide a link between the Grand Union Canal’s Paddington branch with the River Thames.
Today, it provides a quiet, atmospheric haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once considered London secret and true hidden gem, it is becoming increasingly popular with both Londoners and visitors.
With 8.6 miles of waterways to explore, it’s well worth enjoying this tranquil little oasis on foot or by boat. Or even better, do both!
Walk or take a boat along the Regent’s Canal to Little Venice
If you head west you’ll reach the beautiful Little Venice; a picturesque neighbourhood with a number of cute waterside cafes, cosy pubs and delightful restaurants.
The first thing you’ll pass after leaving Camden Lock is the Pirate Castle! This crenellated building is home to a boating and outdoor activities charity.
As you venture further along the waterway, you’ll pass by colourful boathouses and street art before journeying through Regent’s Park and London Zoo.
Make sure you keep an eye out for warthogs and African hunting dogs in their canalside enclosures. As well as exotic animals, you’re likely to spot a variety of waterbirds including swans, geese, mallards, moorhens, and coots.
Continuing on, you’ll see the back of several grandiose homes belonging to celebrities and diplomats, and pass through the 249m Maida Hill tunnel before arriving in Little Venice.
The total walking distance is 2.4 miles from Camden to Little Venice and is also part of the longer Jubilee Greenway.
I’d recommend walking there and then getting the Waterbus back so you get to experience both! The Waterbus takes approximately 45 minutes and costs ยฃ11-15.
During the summer and weekends, it is worth booking online in advance as tickets can sell out.
Stroll along the Regent’s Canal to King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard
A short 1-mile stroll to the east will take you to King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard. Personally, I feel the walk is a little less scenic in this direction. However, that’s not to say there aren’t pretty spots along the way.
I’d definitely still recommend it, although if you have to choose between the two directions, the walk to Little Venice is just a little nicer in my opinion!
The advantage of taking this route, beyond just being a pleasant walk, is that it’s shorter and delivers you to another lovely part of London.
You’ll find plenty to do around King’s Cross, including St. Pancras Old Church and Hardy Tree, Coal Drops Yard, Granary Square, Harry Potter’s Platform 9ยพ, and the London Canal Museum.
If you have the time and are a keen walker, you could continue on another 5 miles to reach the Limehouse Basin, where the canal joins the River Thames. But I found King’s Cross was far enough for me!
๐น 7. Regent’s Park
Covering 395 acres (1.56km2), Regent’s Park is the largest of the Royal Parks within central London.
Previously used as a hunting park for Henry VIII, the land was converted into a private garden in the early 1800s for the Prince Regent, who later became King George IV.
Today, the park is open to the public, and an amble through the splendid gardens is the perfect way to spend a relaxing morning or afternoon.
It has many large open spaces as well as tree-lined pathways, formal gardens, children’s playgrounds, an open-air theatre, and a boating lake. Take a picnic, or fuel up at one of the number of cafes within the park.
Make sure you don’t miss the Queen Mary’s Gardens, which boasts the largest collection of roses in London (featuring over 12,000 roses!) For the best blooms, it’s recommended to visit in the first two weeks of June.
As well as being absolutely spectacular to look at, the smell walking through is utterly divine. Within Queen Mary’s Garden, you’ll also find a little hidden gem; a Japanese garden and waterfall.
The park is also home to a variety of British wildlife, including around 100 species of bird and a breeding population of hedgehogs. There’s also the occasional non-native wildlife, including feral ring-necked parakeets.
On my last visit, I spotted a white-cheeked pintail which is native to Central and South America… definitely not your normal London resident! ZSL London Zoo is also located within the park, so you may hear some exotic wild animals too!
๐ฆ 8. London Zoo
Located within Regent’s Park, London Zoo originally opened in 1828 making it the world’s oldest scientific zoo. It is now home to over 20,000 animals from more than 750 different species.
On a personal note, I’ve visited the zoo a couple of times and while I love to see animals and have fond memories of zoos as a child, I feel increasingly uncomfortable seeing them in captivity the older I get.
However, I would be remiss to not include London Zoo within this guide of things to do in Camden as it is a popular London attraction, particularly for those with kids.
ZSL claims to have a strong focus on conservation, and it seems evident that they’ve done some great work over the years. However, the role of zoos in conservation and education is a complicated and nuanced debate. I’ll leave it up to you to decide your stance on whether it is ethical to visit the zoo.
If you wish to visit London Zoo, tickets start from ยฃ27 per adult. Online bookings are not required, but tickets are more expensive at the gate. You can also catch a glimpse of the giraffes, zebra, and warthogs from Outer Circle.
๐ณ 9. Primrose Hill
To the north of Regent’s Park, separated from it by Prince Albert Road and the ZSL London Zoo, is Primrose Hill. This open green space reaches 63 metres above sea level and offers some of the best views of London.
In fact, it provides one of the six protected viewpoints in London. As such, the trees are kept low to not obstruct the views, and high-rise buildings are not permitted to be built between the summit and St Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Palace.
Similar to Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill was once part of the hunting grounds for King Henry VIII. In 1841, it was bought from Eton College to extend the parkland and provide more outdoor recreation to the people of north London.
Today, it is a local favourite, providing the perfect spot for a picnic or to watch the sunset.
Primrose Hill also gives its name to the surrounding neighbourhood. Once a deprived area, the now affluent suburban neighbourhood is home to many celebrities and is one of the most expensive places to live in London.
Meander through the streets and you’ll discover many beautiful homes in pretty pastel colours… but more on that next! There are also many independent shops here that give Primrose Hill a village-like feel, in stark contrast to the chaos of Camden!
On Saturdays, there is a small market at St Paul’s school. Here, you’ll find stalls of artisan products and small-batch, local produce.
๐ก 10. Camdenโs Colourful Houses
With vibrant terraced houses and pastel delights, these charming homes provide a strong rival to the colourful houses in Notting Hill!
Wander off of Camden High Street onto Hartland Road and you’ll discover a quiet residential street with a difference. You’ll be met instantly by a row of technicoloured homes just waiting to be photographed!
Mosey on to Chalcot Square and Chalcot Crescent in Primrose Hill for some more dreamy hues! Within this upperclass area, you’ll find many Instagrammable doorways and homes in an array of colours, adorned with wisteria or roses if you’re there at the right time of the year!
Keep an eye out for the English Heritage blue plaques as well, commemorating the author Sylvia Plath and poet William Butler Yeats who both lived in this area.
๐ผ 11. Cecil Sharp House
While Camden Town is renowned for its ties to jazz and indie music, it is also home to the only dedicated folk arts centre in England.
Originally built in 1932, Cecil Sharp House is a memorial to Cecil Sharp in honour of his role in the folk-song revival in England. It is a great place to learn more about traditional music and dance, with a wide variety of events taking place year around.
They offer a diverse range of folk song, music and dance classes, courses, workshops and talks for young people, adults and families so it’s worth checking the Cecil Sharp House website to see what’s on offer!
They’ve hosted a wide range of performances over the years. These include everything from well-known acts like Mumford and Sons to barn dances, ceilidhs, a capella choirs, folk festivals and more!
โก 12. Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum celebrates Jewish history, heritage, identity and culture. It houses four permanent galleries showcasing films, objects, photography and hands-on exhibits, as well as temporary galleries, events and activities.
It is open to people of all ages, backgrounds and faiths to learn more about Jewish culture.
Their opening hours change seasonally so be sure to check on their website for up-to-date information on opening hours and events, as well as prices.
๐ผ 13. Cob Gallery
Founded in 2011, Cob Gallery has quickly become a key part of Camden’s art scene. The independent gallery and arts studio supports new and emerging visual artists in North London.
Despite being a photographer, I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of art galleries. However, it is a great place for art lovers to check out the next generation of artists.
๐ Things to Do in Camden at Night
The fun in Camden doesn’t stop at night… in fact, that’s when Camden really comes to life! The area is known for its lively nightlife with an abundance of pubs, bars, live music venues, and clubs.
๐ถ Live Music and Nightclubs
Since the 70s, Camden Town has been at the heart of London’s music scene and it still remains one of the best places to catch a gig and dance the night away.
From up-and-coming indie bands to musical legends, you can find a variety of live music across Camden’s iconic venues and some of the best clubs in London.
14. The Roundhouse
Perhaps the most iconic venue in Camden, the Roundhouse was originally built in 1847 as a railway engine repair shed.
It opened as a performing arts centre in 1966 and has since hosted a huge variety of shows from large concerts to the circus, comedy shows, spoken word, theatre performances, exhibitions and even a summer “beach”!
The legendary cultural venue is also a Grade II* historical building.
15. The PowerHaus (formerly Dingwalls)
Located next to Camden Lock, PowerHaus (formerly known as Dingwalls) is a Camden icon and has been home to live music since 1973. With a capacity of only 500, it is smaller than most of the other music venues and typically attracts smaller up-and-coming acts.
Despite its small size, it has attracted some big names for more intimate performances over the years including The Drifters, Etta James, The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Mumford And Songs and Red Hot Chili Peppers, to name just a few!
In July 2020, Dingwalls reopened as PowerHaus due to copyright issues with its former name, despite the signage on the building still saying Dingwalls!
16. Electric Ballroom
The Electric Ballroom is an integral part of Camden’s musical heritage and character, having been a music venue for over 80 years.
It was the first club in London to use electric lighting in place of gas lamps, hence the name, and even survived bombing during WW2.
Since 1938, it has seen a huge number of famous names grace its stage from The Boomtown Rats to Alt-J, Stereophonics, Sir Paul McCartney, Madness, Garbage, Prince and many more. It still continues to draw in huge crowds, both for live performances and its regular club nights.
17. The Jazz Cafรฉ
Opening in 1990, The Jazz Cafรฉ is one of London’s newest jazz venues. It attracts performances from the biggest names in jazz, soul, hip-hop and reggae.
With a capacity of 450 people, it provides an intimate setting and with its recent revamp, now offers an upstairs restaurant with views over the stage too.
You can expect to find live music here 7 days a week, and just a few past artists include Amy Winehouse, Bobby Womack, D’Angelo, Adele, and Grandmaster Flash.
Other Venues
There are many music venues and clubs in London and this is far from an exhaustive list! Some of the other most popular venues include Koko (formerly Camden Palace), Egg London, Scala, Underworld, and Camden Assembly.
๐ป Pubs and Bars
After a long day exploring all that Camden has to offer, you’ll find plenty of pubs to relax with a cold pint… or go on a full-on pub crawl! From traditional local boozers to more hipster craft beer, upmarket gastropubs or a British rock pub, you’ll find somewhere to wet your whistle.
Many of the pubs have a long history, in particular Camden’s castle pubs. It is rumoured that the Edinboro Castle, Windsor Castle, Pembroke Castle and Dublin Castle pubs were built to provide national pubs for the Scottish, English, Welsh and Irish navvies, respectively, building the canals during the 1800s.
The disparate national groups were known to fight one another as well as the public. The rumour is that the pubs were built to keep the groups segregated to avoid the mischief.
However, the legend of the Camden castles has been dispelled as a myth due to the pubs opening at very different times; Dublin Castle opened in 1821, Edinboro Castle in 1839, Pembroke Castle in the late 1860s, and Windsor Castle was an off-license until 1953 (and is now closed). It makes a fun story though and they’re still worth a visit!
18. Camden Pubs
Dublin Castle has hosted many famous bands and artists including The Killers, Blur and Amy Winehouse. It is perhaps the best place for the most authentic Camden experience. Amy Winehouse was even known to jump behind the bar both here and at the Hawley Arms and pull a pint!
Edinboro Castle today is a modern gastropub with a lovely pub garden. It’s the perfect spot for a bite to eat, particularly on a sunny afternoon.
The Pembroke, formerly Pembroke Castle, also offers a small beer garden and pub grub within the higher-end neighbourhood Primrose Hill.
The Lock Tavern often has live music and has a great roof terrace.
For craft beer lovers, Brewdog provides a regularly changing selection of the Scottish brewery’s finest beers, as well as an array of international craft beers and a menu of burgers, hot dogs and wings.
For a traditional pub feel, head to the Oxford Arms, they offer delicious home-cooked meals and live sports.
Another pub that offers a real feel for Camden is The World’s End. With roots as a tavern dating back to the 1600s, it has had many famous patrons over the years, including Charles Dickens. Today, you’ll find a great atmosphere and an eclectic mix of people in this rock pub.
19. Camden Town Brewery
Founded in 2010, a tour of Camden Town Brewery is one of the best things to do in Camden. Here you can get to know more about brewing before sampling several of their beers including their signature lager, pale ale, and limited-edition beers.
You’ll even get to try the beer as fresh as it gets – straight from the tank!
While a tour of the brewery is a great way to end your day with the last tour taking place at 8pm, you can also take a tour during the day.
20. Camden Bars
For the best cocktails head to Fifty-Five! With over 200 cocktails on the menu, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love here.
BYOC (aka Bring Your Own Cocktail) also offers incredible cocktails… but with a more unique experience. You bring along a bottle of your favourite spirit and a professional mixologist will create 5 rounds of bespoke cocktails for you!
Looking for a boozy brunch? Look no further than Near and Far! They offer bottomless brunches on weekends and have a lovely roof terrace that overlooks Camden Stables. They also have great cocktails and Mexican street food 7 days a week, plus party DJs at the weekend.
๐ญ Comedy, Shows and Other Quirky Ideas!
Fancy a giggle or a show? There’s plenty of options in Camden, and the best thing about it is that most of the comedy clubs are cheap or free!
21. Camden Comedy Club
Held upstairs in a room above the Camden Head Pub, the Camden Comedy Club offers live comedy 7 days a week.
On Fridays and Saturdays, bigger names perform at their regular comedy shows. These have included TV headliners such as Harry Hill, Alan Carr and Russell Howard.
One of the great things about Camden Comedy Club is the price. Regardless of the act, tickets are only ยฃ10 at the weekend and usually free or pay-what-you-like during the week.
22. Monkey Business Comedy Club
Monkey Business Comedy Club hosts shows in a few different Camden venues. In the past, they’ve seen performances from the likes of Harry Hill, Lee Mack, Russell Howard, Michael Macintyre, Sarah Millican, Russell Kane.
In addition to their award-winning comedy shows, they also host cabaret and burlesque drag nights for a different night out in Camden. Ticket prices range from ยฃ5 to ยฃ17.50 and food is available at all their venues.
23. Etcetera Theatre
Etcetera Theatre is one of the smallest theatres in London and has existed above the Oxford Arms on Camden High Street for 35 years. This fringe theatre hosts a huge array of shows each year, including cabaret, magic, comedy and musicals.
More recently, the pub theatre has become a hub for several London theatre festivals, including Camden Fringe and London Horror Festival. It also hosts an Edinburgh Fringe preview season.
It’s worth noting that the pub can get very busy so be sure to let bouncers know you have a ticket when you arrive.
24. Camden Fringe
If you’re visiting Camden in the summer then check out Camden Fringe to see what’s on. It is a comedy festival that takes place over four weeks each summer in August as an alternative to Edinburgh Fringe.
It has been running since 2006, and by 2017 had grown to 1000 performances across 25 venues! Performances include stand-up, revivals of classical plays, new writing and musical comedy.
25. Crazy Golf
Tucked away within Camden Market is a quirkier evening option; Plonk Golf!
This bright and tropical 9-hole crazy golf course comes complete with a fully licensed bar so it’s a great way to kick start a night out, or fun enough to be the night out!
Image courtesy of Plonk.
26. Digital Beer Pong
Enjoy a game of beer pong with a difference! You can find three state-of-the-art digital beer pong tables in Camden at Lan Kwai Fong. The cups have digital sensors and keep score for you, which is downloaded onto an international scoreboard!
Games cost ยฃ20 for one game, including a pitcher of beer or spirit and mixer. They also have various other packages including drinks and sharing platters of Asian food.
You can even continue your night here with some karaoke in a private booth!
๐ Things To Do Near Camden Town
While you’ll find plenty of things to do in Camden Town, there’s also plenty more to do nearby! Camden also refers to the London Borough of Camden, which stretches north to Hampstead and south to Holborn.
Within the borough, there are more fun things waiting to be explored in easy reach of Camden Town.
๐ 27. British Library
Image courtesy of the British Library.
The British Library is the national library of the UK and is the largest library in the world based on collection size. It is home to a whopping 170-200 million items in over 400 languages from all over the world.
The British Library offers a variety of exhibitions and talks throughout the year, but perhaps the best part is still the Treasures Gallery. Here you’ll be taken through 2000 years of human experience and discover some of the most incredible items in their collections.
These range from the Magna Carta to Jane Austen’s notebooks, handwritten lyrics by the Beatles, Leonardo Da Vinci’s notebooks, and original writings from Charles Dickens, plus so much more!
General admission to the library is free, however must be currently booked in advance. Some of the temporary exhibitions are free and some are paid entry, so make sure you check online.
๐ฟ 28. British Museum
Image ยฉ The Trustees of the British Museum.
I absolutely adore London’s museums! There are so many wonderful ones to choose from, but the best is arguably The British Museum.
The British Museum has enamoured visitors for over 250 years as the worldโs oldest public national museum, dating back to 1759. It is the UK’s most visited attraction and one of London’s most famous landmarks.
It is home to around 8 million artefacts, including the Rosetta Stone and mummies! While worth a visit in any weather, it makes for the perfect rainy-day activity if you get some typical British dreariness on your visit!
Perhaps the best thing about visiting the British Museum is that, like most of the museums in London, general entry is free of charge.
๐ง๐ฝโ๐จ 29. Camden Arts Centre
Founded by artists in 1965, Camden Arts Centre is a gallery showcasing world-class contemporary art exhibitions. They also host a variety of talks, events, residencies, courses, and educational programmes.
Entry to the gallery is free, although you may have to pay extra for some exhibitions or events.
๐ฒ 30. Hampstead Heath
Only a 30-minute walk from Camden Town is one of London’s hidden gems, Hampstead Heath. Sprawling over an enormous 800 acres, you can spend hours meandering through woodlands and meadows on the Heath.
With its breathtaking panoramic vistas over London, Parliament Hill is the most popular part of the Heath. It is also the spot that Guy Fawkes stood in 1605 looking over parliament, awaiting its explosion.
Accordingly, itโs also a great place to watch the firework displays over the city on Guy Fawkes Night and New Yearโs Eve.
In addition to its beautiful walks and marvellous views, Hampstead Heath is also one of the few places you can go wild swimming in London. So if you’re brave enough you can experience London like a local and take a dip at one of the swimming ponds on the heath!
๐ Planning Your Visit to Camden
So now you know all the best things to do in Camden, here are a few helpful bits of information to help you plan your visit!
๐บ Map of the Best Things to Do in Camden
You will find all the places mentioned in this blog post within this interactive Google Map. Click here or on the image below to open the map in Google.
How to Get to Camden
Public transport is going to be the best way to get to Camden. Don’t even bother trying to arrive by car! Camden isn’t in the congestion zone, but you’ll find it very busy and parking is an absolute nightmare!
The two closest tube stations to Camden High Street are Camden Town and Chalk Farm Road, both of which are on the northern line.
Depending on where you plan to start your day will depend on which it’ll be best to get off at. This is the quickest and usually the most convenient route to Camden, but is also usually the busiest, particularly on the weekends.
You can also take the overground to Camden Road, from which it is a short walk to the markets and high street. Or there are a number of buses that serve Camden. I’d recommend checking on the Transport for London website for up-to-date information and to plan your route.
Of course, you can always get a taxi in London. Or for a more fun way to arrive in Camden, you can start your day in Little Venice and take a narrowboat from there!
๐ฝ Where to Eat in Camden
Where should you eat in Camden? Honestly… anywhere and everywhere!
Camden is an absolute mecca for foodies. You can find cuisine from all over the world and everything from street food to upmarket sit-down dining.
Camden Market
At the epicentre of food and drink in Camden is, of course, Camden Market. Here you’ll find hundreds of vendors, serving something for all tastebuds.
Start at Camden Market’s West Yard (previously KERB), where you’ll discover an extravaganza of street food. There’s an ever-changing feast of stalls here so whether you’re strictly vegan or carnivore, health-conscious or wanting allll the sugar, fancy something sweet or savoury, you’re guaranteed to find it here.
Venture further into Camden Market and you’ll find even more delights along the re-branded alleys, including Asian Alley and Italian Alley.
There are also a number of restaurants that offer seated dining within Camden Market.
Powerplant
Honestly, there’s little reason to venture beyond Camden Market when it comes to looking for food. However, with that said, I did have the best vegan food I’ve ever eaten (I’m not vegan and was still blown away) at Powerplant.
You could easily miss it as there’s little signage but the interior is gorgeous. I would highly recommend a stop here for a bite to eat too! In particular, the mushroom paratha and the croissants are amazing!
Poppies Fish and Chips
The only other venue that I feel is worth a mention is Poppies Fish and Chips. I’ve still yet to try it. However, it’s been recommended to me time and time again for having the best fish and chips in London.
Plus, as a British staple, it is pretty much compulsory that you try fish and chips at some point while in the UK if you’re visiting from abroad!
๐ Where to Stay in Camden
At no cost to you, we receive a small amount for any bookings made using the links below.
Selina Camden
There are a variety of options for accommodation both in and around Camden. However, I’ve personally only stayed in one hotel in Camden, and I’ve stayed in it twice!
That is Selina Camden. I was invited for a gifted stay and meal, and loved it! The staff were incredibly friendly, the bed was super comfortable, the decor was stunning and the food was amazing (see above!).
Then, by chance, the following weekend I ended up back there for another event (not sponsored by Selina) and had an equally great experience.
Selina Hotel is in the perfect location, just opposite Chalk Farm Road tube station and a few minutes walk from Camden Market and high street.
On my first visit, I stayed in The Loft, a private room, and on my second I stayed in a shared room and enjoyed both experiences. The Loft also has a little kitchenette with a fridge, not that we used it as we ate at their restaurant, Powerplant!
A bed in a shared room starts from ยฃ45, and private rooms start from ยฃ130.
St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel
If you don’t mind staying a little further away and want something more luxurious, then the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a great option.
Several friends of mine have stayed here and loved it – although I’ve yet to stay there myself. But even the exterior is extravagant!
Located in King’s Cross, it’s about a 25-minute walk from Camden and provides a great location if you’re planning on also visiting other parts of London.
Prices for a double room start at ยฃ199.
Other Accommodations in Camden
These are far from your only options for places to stay in Camden. You’ll find a wide variety of accommodations for all budgets.
Use the button below to browse other options to suit your budget, preferred location, and needs.
โ FAQs About the Best Things to Do in Camden
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Camden. Click on the drop down to view the answers!
What is Camden best known for?
Camden Town is best known for the world-famous Camden Market, which draws in around 100,000 visitors each weekend. It is also famous for being an artsy, creative hub, with incredible street art and buzzing live music venues, as well as a premier shopping destination.
How do you spend a day in Camden?
If your time is limited, here is how to spend a day in Camden:
- 9am: Grab a coffee and breakfast at the Lost Elephant’s Kitchen.
- 10am: Go shopping and explore the sights at Camden Market.
- 12:30pm: Indulge in some world-class street food.
- 1:30pm: Stroll or take a waterbus along the Regent’s Canal to Little Venice.
- 5pm: Enjoy a pint in a legendary Camden castle pub.
- 6pm: Indulge in a Michelin-star dinner at Michael Nadra Restaurant or have a sunset picnic at Primrose Hill.
- 8pm: Watch live music or a comedy show at a top entertainment venue.
Is Camden Town worth visiting?
Camden Town is one of the most fun and quirky neighbourhoods in London. Its funky counterculture provides an eclectic mix of things to do for every type of visitor. Camden is absolutely worth visiting while in London and is one of the best areas to stay in London for a more local experience.
Is Camden Town good at night?
Camden is one of the best places in London for a lively night out. It is home to a wealth of top entertainment venues, with live music and comedy shows available each night, as well as plenty of bars, pubs, and nightclubs.
Is Camden good for shopping?
Camden provides one of the best shopping experiences in London. Here you will find a unique mix of everything from high street stores to independent boutiques and the world-famous Camden Market.
๐ค Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Camden
As you may now have realised, there are plenty of things to see and do in Camden Town and nearby. Hopefully, this guide should have told you everything you need to know about what to do in this eclectic north London neighbourhood!
As always, leave us a comment with your thoughts and let us know if weโve missed anything, or just say something nice – we like that too!
Before you go, if you’ve found this blog post useful and you’re planning of exploring more of London and the UK, then you may also enjoy some of our other related guides:
- Ultimate London Itinerary: 2 Incredible Days in London
- London Bucket List: 101+ Awesome Things to Do in London
- Explore London Like a Local: Non-Touristy Things to Do in London
- London’s Famous Landmarks: 55 Iconic Places You Need to Visit
- Most Instagrammable Places In London: Epic London Photo Spots
- Best Castles Near London: 15 Beautiful Must-See Castles From London
- England’s Prettiest Villages: 40+ Quaint English Villages
- White Cliffs Of Dover From London: The PERFECT Day Trip
๐ Enjoyed this guide to the best things to do in Camden? Pin it! ๐
Because sharing is caring!
