Camden is easily up there as one of the best areas in London you have to explore when you visit our city. After all, it’s so different from many of the other spots in London. This is especially true because of the culture, vibe and all the best things to do in Camden that are dotted all across the neighbourhood.
That being said, with all these spots to see, it can be a tad bamboozling to nail down a few plans. This is especially true if you’re short on time when in London.
Now, in my opinion, Camden should be on every person’s list of places to see when in London. From a whole heap of famous shops like Cyber Dog to the Stables Market, there are literally hundreds of places that’ll catch your eye in Camden.
Now, to give a little context, Camden is a pretty eclectic neighbourhood, that’s just north of Kings Cross. Better still, it’s easily walkable along the Regents Canal (for about 20-minutes). That being said, if you’re feeling a little sluggish, just pop on the tube via Northern Line.
It is one of my very favourite areas of the city, not just because of its vibrancy but because of the feeling of community, acceptance and integration of all people from all walks of life. In so many ways, Camden is a great way to see a true snap-shot of London and how much of an open and welcoming city it is.
This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Camden when you visit London. Have the best trip!
1.) Gorge in the Camden markets
The first thing I always notice when I visit Camden is that it’s an almost chaotic mix of yummy smells and foods that’ll make your tummy rumble.
If you fancy Ethiopian food, coffee from beans roasted in front of you, Salt Beef Sandwiches, Goulash… You name it, Camden will have it.
Now, there are particular food sections within most of the markets in Camden. Though, if you’re wandering near the Stables Market, you’ll find areas that are dedicated to some tasty curries in London or the Italian Alley. There’s literally any kind of food you can ever imagine.
Most of the food stalls will even offer you a little taster of their scrumptious cuisine before you decide – so it’s a great way to find a dish that’s right for you. Just make sure to arrive hungrily and stop at a different stall for dessert. It really is one of the best things to do in Camden when you visit.
Oh yeah, and in almost all the best markets in London (Camden Lock Market, Camden Lock Village, Camden Market and the Stables Market), you can pay by card.
Read more: Best markets in London
2.) Go vintage shopping
One of the great things about shopping in Camden is the huge mix of different stalls, shops and pop-ups that are dotted all across the neighbourhood.
Camden is literally filled to the brim with every type of clothing, antiques, comic books and alternative stores that are so much fun to explore.
Also (and I know I’ve just mentioned the stalls for food) but one of the best things to do Camden is to head through the markets and just scour the stalls.
I love heading to the Horse Tunnel market area, too as there are stalls selling everything from art to jewellery.
Read more: Best places to shop in London
3.) Visit Cyber Dog
One of the more famous stores is probably the likes of Cyber Dog next to the undercover Stables Market. It’s a huge 90s-style rave store that is a sight to behold. Everything is luminous, there are dancers on the walls and pumping music.
You’ll almost be forgiven into thinking you’ve joined a rave yourself.
Read more: Best things to do in Kings Cross
4.) Grab a Poppies
Okay, so fish and chips is a big deal in the UK and a great lunch to have when you’re in Camden. Now, you can go ahead and grab a fish and chips in most pubs that serve food, though, a traditional fish and chip shop is a must for me.
In Camden, there’s a brand of Poppies which is a totally informal, old-school fish and chip shop. It’s a totally no-frills experience but they serve up some of the tastiest freshly fried fish and chips in all of Camden. I love it.
Read more: British food to try in the UK
5.) Visit the Roundhouse
Okay, so the Roundhouse in Camden is easily one of my favourite venues for live music in London. Housed within a historic ‘turning yard’ for trains, the Roundhouse is a pretty intimate venue when you can find gigs and exhibitions from international artists and local musicians playing.
Check out their website for the upcoming shows and exhibitions. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Camden, especially if you love music.
Read more: Best things to do in Covent Garden
6.) See Amy Whinehouse
Nestled within the grounds of Camden Market is one of the areas most famous residents. Yep, this is where Amy Whinehouse came from and called home in London. The whole area of Camden has a long history in music and, so, she’s been immortalised in a life-sized statue of her.
She’s easy to spot, especially as it’s only a minute (or so) walk from Cyberdog.
Read more: Best areas in London to explore
7.) Grab a treat at Coffee Jar
Okay, so the Coffee Jar is easily up there as one of the best things to do in Camden if you love a good cuppa and some tasty treats. This little cafe stall is totally informal but they serve up some of the tastiest puddings and cakes in all of Camden.
It’s a great treat on a cold day, especially after wandering the market. Oh, and make sure to try their hot-chocolate and raw vegan bars… they’re so good!
Read more: Best coffee spots in London
8.) Gorge at Purezza Camden
So, if it’s pizza you’re after, then head straight across to Purezza Camden. It’s easily one of the best pizza joints in London to try.
Now, one thing to note, Purezza Camden does get really busy, especially on weekends. This all means you should book a table (if possible) to avoid waiting for a while. After all, no one really enjoys waiting for pizza!
Read more: Best bars in Shoreditch
9.) See a gig
Seeing a gig is possible one of the most ‘Camden’ things you can do in the area. After all, the whole neighbourhood has a long history with music.
There’s a heap of venues dotted all around the area, but some firm favourites are; The Roundhouse (which I mentioned), The Underworld, Electric Ballroom and Koko. Honestly, you’ll be spoilt for choice for gigs.
Oh yeah, and places like the World’s End pub (connect with The Underworld) is also a great spot to spend an evening.
Read more: Best areas in London to explore
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