15 of the Best Things to Do in Camden Town That You Can’t Miss!

I lived in London for many years, although mainly to the South of the River Thames. This didn’t stop my friends and me from regularly catching the Tube to the (some might say) trendier parts of Central and North London and Camden Town is about as iconic as you can get for a neighbourhood in London.

We loved it for its amazing charity shops (I still have the DKNY dress I bought for £7!), and often visited the Hawley Arms to try and spot Amy Winehouse whilst she was still alive. We attended many concerts at the Roundhouse and fell into Underworld into the early hours.

My clubbing days are definitely over. I recently headed to Camden for a work event and decided to have a walk around and visit our old stomping grounds. Although Camden is famous for its nightlife and edgy vibe, I was taken aback by its beauty and raw edge, something I didn’t appreciate in my 20s!

Things To Do in Camden Town

From its lively markets to its famous music venues, Camden has got that quirky charm that draws you in. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new, Camden Town has surprises around every corner.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Camden Town that you absolutely can’t miss!

Once you arrive at Camden Town Station, head straight up Camden High Street and immediately you’ll be hit by the vibrant and eclectic heart of what makes Camden so special, with beautiful colours everywhere, funky street art, stalls and food vendors.

Some might say that Camden Town has become overly commercial over the last 20 years, you can’t move for stalls, food kiosks and someone, somewhere, trying to sell you something. But this is just the surface, scratch it and you’ll still find some hidden gems and glimpses of what Camden used to be like.

1. Explore Camden Market

If you’re heading to Camden, then Camden Market is a must. This bustling market is basically the heart and soul of the area, with over a thousand unique stalls, shops, and eateries.

From vintage clothes and handmade jewellery to quirky art pieces and collectables, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention, the smell of street food wafting through the air will have your stomach grumbling in no time.

Camden Market is a collection of different areas –

Camden Lock Village

This was one of London’s first arts and crafts markets, opening in 1974. It has quickly grown around the old T. E. Dingwall builder’s yard and many original features still exist.

There are plenty of independent food stalls lining the cobbled streets around the lock itself, this is definitely one of my favourite places to go in Camden Town.

Inverness Street Market

This is one of the first markets you’ll come across as you head up the High Street from the Tube station. This is more for knock-off designer gear, phone accessories and a few independent food stalls.

Hawley Wharf

Opposite Camden Lock Market, Hawley Wharf is one of Camden’s latest and most exciting developments, offering a vibrant mix of food, shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Hawley Wharf is quickly becoming known as a must-visit food destination. The bustling food market is packed with over 40 vendors serving up a world of flavours. Craving Asian street food? Mediterranean tapas? Or perhaps some indulgent desserts? Hawley Wharf has it all.

I visited the Cheese Wheel for lunch and had the fettuccine alfredo with sauteed wild mushrooms, I can highly recommend it! Especially if you love cheese as much as me.

The Stables Market

This market is huge and is situated in a historic horse hospital and stables dating back to the 19th Century. Today, it has transformed into a sprawling maze of vintage shops, quirky boutiques, unique eateries, and artisan stalls, with the most famous being Cyberdog and Modfather.

The market’s mix of cobblestone paths, vintage vibes, and imaginative décor make it a one-of-a-kind shopping and cultural experience.

Buck Street Market/Boxpark

The market on Buck Street used to come under the Camden Market “umbrella”, but it is now a Boxpark. The market is made up of shipping containers, which is perfect for the Boxpark brand.

It is the perfect place to be entertained, with regular community events, comedy nights and live music, all centred around street food stalls.

2. Stroll Along Regent’s Canal

Need a break from the manic atmosphere of Camden market? One of the best things to do is to take a leisurely stroll along Regent’s Canal. It’s like a breath of fresh air amidst Camden’s busy streets.

The iconic Camden Lock is part of the Regent’s Canal and is a great place to watch the boats go by while enjoying a cup of coffee from one of the nearby cafés. If it wasn’t for the crowds, you could easily forget you were in central London.

The canal is lined with colourful houseboats, greenery, and charming cafes. For a different view, you can even hop on a canal boat tour to Little Venice or even all the way to London Zoo! It’s peaceful, picturesque, and the perfect spot to unwind.

3. Browse the Vintage and Charity Shops

If you’re into unique fashion and retro vibes, Camden Town is the place to shop for vintage clothing. Head over to shops like Rokit and Cyberdog, where you’ll find everything from classic 90s gear to futuristic rave outfits.

Even if you’re not planning to buy, browsing through the racks is an activity in itself, I love looking at all the vintage gear, shoes and handbags. In Camden, it’s all about expressing your individual style, so don’t be afraid to try on something bold and unusual!

But, my favourite part of shopping in Camden is the Charity Shops, including Traid, Give Me Love and Mind.

Camden is an affluent area (don’t be fooled by the sometimes grotty feel), with neighbourhoods such as Hampstead and Primrose Hill within walking distance. This means the charity donations can often be high-end and you’ll find a real bargain, just like I did with my DKNY dress!

4. Snap Some Pics of Camden’s Street Art

Camden Town is like an open-air gallery, and its street art is something you’ll want to capture on camera. I will sometimes visit an area just for the street art itself, and Camden does not disappoint.

Wander down almost any side street, and you’re bound to spot bold murals, colourful graffiti, and some truly imaginative art pieces. Each one tells its own story, adding to Camden’s edgy character. It’s like a treasure hunt – you never know what you’ll find next!

This is what makes Camden truly magical, with everyone seemingly joining in. The pubs, cafes and shops on the High Street have colourful shopfronts, the streets are painted with rainbows and even Starbucks has joined in with a colourful mural.

5. Amy Winehouse Tributes

If you loved Amy as much as me, Camden has several tributes to this amazing British icon. Head to the Hawley Arms for a huge mural of Amy on the back of the pub.

Camden was home to the late, great Amy Winehouse, and her legacy also lives on in the form of a life-sized statue located in the Stables Market. The statue captures her distinctive style, right down to her iconic beehive hairdo. It’s a poignant reminder of her impact on music and the Camden community.

6. Pub Crawl Camden Style

Just like any London neighbourhood, there is a proper British pub on every street corner. With its eclectic mix of traditional pubs, trendy bars, and live music venues, Camden offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable night out.

Some of the best bars in Camden Town include;

• The World’s End – a maze-like interior and a unique mix of traditional pub charm and alternative vibes.
• The Elephant’s Head – Victorian traditional pub with a long bar and tiled floors, a jukebox and weekend DJs.
• The Dublin Castle – an indie pub, decorated with band posters and hosting new music in the back room.
• The Lock Tavern – offers a laid-back atmosphere with a rooftop terrace perfect for starting the night.
• Bucks Head – Casual British pub eats plus beer, wine & cocktails in a sunny corner tavern with outdoor tables.
• BrewDog Camden – a chain bar specialising in the Scottish brewery’s craft beers, with regular guest brews.
• The Oxford Arms – Traditional pub with an all-day menu, sport on TV, and a small terrace.
• The T.E. Dingwall Buildings – a versatile canalside venue with 3 bars, offering eclectic cuisine and DJ sessions.
• Spread Eagle – A typical Victorian-style pub offering a range of beers and wines as well as a gastro menu.

With so many to choose from, it is probably best to decide where to visit before you head to Camden Town. Or, just turn up and find the vibe you’re looking for! There are plenty of walking and pub tour experiences to book, including this Camden Pub and Walking Tour.

6. Camden Nightlife

You are absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to a night out in Camden. If the above pubs aren’t enough, you can choose from venues offering cocktails, live music, and a good old rave!

Camden Assembly

Known for its eclectic live music line-up, this venue is where your night can take an exciting turn. The bar has a great selection of beers, spirits, and cocktails, and the upstairs venue often hosts gigs or DJ nights.

It’s the perfect place to let loose and dance the night away, wrapping up your Camden Town pub crawl with a bang.

Roundhouse

I have been here many times to watch acts such as Katy B (one of my favourite acts of the late 00s), Noel Gallagher’s Flying Birds and Chase & Status!

The venue is made up of 3 different venues, with the Main Space situated in the round building itself. This venue is superb, it feels intimate but can fit up to 1800 people on 2 floors.

It also has the Roundhouse Bar, a sleek and modern setting which offers a fantastic range of cocktails, beers and wines, which you can visit without going to an event. On gig days, Caspar’s Bar and Terrace is open from 6.30 pm.

KOKO

Housed in a stunning 19th-century theatre building and originally called Camden Palace, it has an iconic red exterior and has been a vital part of Camden’s music scene for decades. It’s where legendary artists like Prince, Madonna, Amy Winehouse, and The Rolling Stones have graced the stage.

Recently refurbished, KOKO has returned better than ever, offering a world-class music and nightlife experience you won’t want to miss.

Beyond the main stage, KOKO now boasts a rooftop bar with stunning views over Camden Town. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink before a show or unwind afterwards with friends.

Electric Ballroom

Another iconic music venue situated on Camden High Street, you might easily miss its all-black facade. It is a smaller, indie-type venue and night club, and holds themed nights like Seoul Club: A K-Pop Party.

I remember going here in the early 2010s, it felt quite grungy back then and after reading reviews, I don’t think it’s changed much! But if you’re after something different in Camden, then it is worth checking out.

The Blues Kitchen

We had a Blues Kitchen in Brixton, near where we lived and visited often. If it’s soul, R&B and blues you’re after, then this is the place to go.

Make sure you make a booking in the restaurant, it is cosy, yet lively and the decor is worth it alone.

7. Where to Eat in Camden Town

You can’t go wrong with any of the pubs or venues mentioned before when it comes to getting a bite to eat in Camden. But where Camden really shines is its huge street food and stalls catering to every cuisine under the sun!

This is a blog post all on its own and I’m sure my husband would love the opportunity to spend a day eating his way around Camden Lock. Here are some of the best places to eat in Camden, some of them I’ve eaten in, and some I will literally go to London to eat in! :)

If you’re in Camden for the food itself, it is well worth going on a Food Tour to get the most out of your visit!

Poppies Fish & Chips

Is any trip to London complete without having some fish & chips? This iconic eatery has been a part of London’s food scene since the 1950s, and its retro vibes and dedication to quality make it a must-visit when you’re exploring the area.

It is known for serving up perfectly crispy fish and golden chips. The fish, whether you go for cod, haddock, or plaice, is freshly sourced, lightly battered, and fried to perfection. The chips are thick-cut, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned.

Don’t forget to add a splash of vinegar and a sprinkle of salt for that authentic British experience!

Andy’s Greek Taverna

Freshly cooked Greek food, Andy’s Greek Taverna looked extremely inviting from the outside, so I popped in for a quick lunch. I had a few light bites and the Corfu prawns were incredible! My friend had the Kleftiko and I quickly regretted my food choices…

The staff are amazing, we hadn’t booked but they managed to find us a table for two and were very attentive. If it wasn’t for the red buses rumbling by on the street outside, you could be mistaken for believing you were in Greece itself.

Baladin Camden

If you head down Italian Alley in the Stables Market, you’ll find Baladin with its covered outdoor area. It has an Italian craft food and beer menu with plenty of pizza and pasta to choose from.

Dahpne Camden

Another wonderful Greek Cypriot restaurant that has rave reviews on Tripadvisor, the Daphne Restaurant has an intimate setting with booths and a bistro vibe. The food looks incredible and they offer a 2-course lunch menu for £9.50.

Rudy’s Dirty Vegan Diner

A haven for plant-based eaters, Rudy’s serves up indulgent comfort food that’s 100% vegan. Their “Dirty Burger” is a crowd favourite.

Street Food

So many to mention, but here are some of the best –

• Oli Baba’s – This stall is famous for its irresistible halloumi fries, offering a perfect mix of salty, sweet, and crunchy flavours. A Camden classic!
• The Cheese Bar – A paradise for cheese lovers, The Cheese Bar offers ooey-gooey melted cheese in every form you can imagine. Their halloumi fries are a must!
• KERB Camden Market – KERB brings together some of London’s top street food vendors, so the variety is incredible. From Korean BBQ to vegan burgers, it’s a foodie’s dream come true.
• Maize Blaze – Serving up delicious, hearty Colombian street food, Maize Blaze’s arepas are gluten-free, packed with flavour, and customizable with a range of fillings.
• Melt – elevates the humble toastie to gourmet levels, using quality ingredients and packing them full of flavour. Perfect for a quick, hearty bite!
• Only Jerkin’ – Crispy, spicy, and packed with Caribbean flavours, their jerk chicken nuggets are to die for. Don’t forget to try their jerk BBQ sauce!
• Magic Falafel – Fresh, flavorful, and vegan-friendly, Magic Falafel serves up crispy falafel wraps that are generously packed with veggies and mouth-watering sauces.

8. Take a Photography Tour

Camden is a photographer paradise, if you can just get past the crowds and people forever getting into the perfect shot. I always try and get to an area before 9 am before the crowds turn up, but this isn’t always possible.

A Camden photography tour will take you on an immersive experience, wandering down little-known alleys and finding hidden street art gems that are perfect for your Instagram feed! This is ideal for urban explorers and photography enthusiasts!

Things To Do in Camden With Kids

I think all of the above would entertain kids, from exploring the colourful and lively markets with their handmade crafts and unique trinkets to taking a trip on the canal. You could turn it into a scavenger hunt and ask kids to spot different items like brightly coloured murals, quirky hats, or unique keychains as you wander through.

However, if you are after specific kid-related activities, Camden has a few! Some might appeal to the big kids as well :)

9. Visit The Pirate Castle

Located right on Regent’s Canal, The Pirate Castle offers water-based activities for kids, including kayaking, canoeing, and boat trips. It’s a fun and active way for kids to enjoy Camden’s waterways.

Make sure you check their website in advance for scheduled family-friendly activities or book a session to try something new with the kids!

10. Grab a Sweet Treat at Chin Chin Labs

Chin Chin Labs in Camden Market serves up some of the coolest ice cream in town, literally! They make ice cream using liquid nitrogen, which our kids love to watch. With flavours like burnt butter caramel and marshmallow fluff, it’s an exciting (and tasty) treat.

Make sure you let your kids watch the ice cream-making process, it’s a mini science experiment in action! You can also email them if you fancy having your own bespoke ice cream made.

11. Babylon Park

If you’re looking for a fun and thrilling activity for kids in Camden, Babylon Park is a fantastic choice! This indoor amusement park is packed with exciting rides, games, and attractions that will keep kids entertained for hours.

Designed with a space-themed twist, Babylon Park features a variety of activities for children of all ages, including arcade games, soft play areas, and even small roller coasters.

Tip: Babylon Park can get busy, especially during weekends and school holidays. Plan to arrive early if you want to enjoy the rides and attractions without long waits

12. Go to London Zoo

While technically a short walk from Camden Town through Regent’s Park, London Zoo is a fantastic outing for children. They’ll be excited to see animals from all over the world, including lions, penguins, giraffes, and reptiles.

Take the canal boat from Camden Market to the zoo for a fun and scenic journey that kids will love!

13. Relax at Regent’s Park

After exploring Camden’s lively streets, take a short walk to Regent’s Park for a peaceful break. Kids can run around, play, and even rent a paddle boat on the park’s lake.

If your kids are fussy eaters like ours (although there are so many amazing food stalls in Camden, I’d be surprised if you can’t find anything they won’t eat!), you could pack a picnic with treats from Camden Market for a family lunch in the park.

14. Junkyard Golf

If you love Crazy Golf, Junkyard Golf is a unique and fun twist on the classic mini-golf experience. Set within a quirky, neon-lit space, this venue features several themed crazy golf courses made from repurposed materials, old fairground rides, and random junk – giving it that eclectic, Camden-style vibe.

With 3 themed courses to choose from, like “Gary,” which has a 90s garage scrapyard design, and “Pablo,” a tropical jungle vibe, each offers different obstacles and surprises around every corner. The courses are playful, sometimes challenging, and always filled with crazy decor.

Just make sure you go before 7 pm, as this is limited to 18+ with cocktails and a more adult vibe.

15. For Music Lovers

Camden Town is a music lover’s paradise, with its rich history as the birthplace of punk, rock, and alternative music scenes. It has long been a hub for artists, musicians and music fans with a huge wealth of legendary venues, live gigs and an electric atmosphere, there is music everywhere!

There are plenty of tours taking you on a Rock n’ Roll journey in London, but if you want to see areas specifically in Camden, then these are the best spots;

• As mentioned before, Hawley Arms was a popular spot for celebrities in the 2000s, including Amy Winehouse, Kate Moss, Pete Doherty, and Noel Fielding. You may even spot a celebrity in there today.
• The Dublin Castle is where Madness made its name in the 1970s, and later Blur in the 1990s. Amy Winehouse used to work here and would pour pints in between her sets! The pub continues to be a hotbed for new talent, offering live music nights where you can experience the gritty, authentic side of Camden’s music scene.
• The Good Mixer was the main hangout for the Britpop scene including Oasis, Blur and Pulp and is where the band Elastica signed their record deal. The Mixer was also featured in a Disney+ documentary about Camden.
• Dingwalls has an amazing rock history and is said to be the birthplace of punk. With the likes of The Clash, The Sex Pistols, Foo Fighters and The Stranglers all having played and socialised here, you can literally feel rock and roll oozing out of its original warehouse walls!

Camden is more than just a place to listen to music; it’s a destination that lives and breathes musical culture. With its iconic venues, street performances, and rock ‘n’ roll history, a visit to Camden Town is a must for any music lover!

Where to Stay in Camden Town

We stayed at the Marriot Hotel Regents Park when we last visited Camden Town. There seems to be a lack of decent hotels located directly in Camden, but that can only be a good thing as it means it retains its historical character without huge hotel complexes moving in.

It is a 30-minute walk from Camden Town Station, but you can walk through the magnificent Primrose Hill. The hotel itself is modern and the staff were extremely friendly, so I highly recommend this hotel if you are visiting Camden and Regents Park.

We were in a room for 2 adults and 2 children and there was plenty of space for us all. It has extensive onsite facilities including a 15m swimming pool, sauna, steam room, solarium, gym and beauty salons.

We ate in Carluccio’s restaurant in the evening, with a varied Italian-style menu and although the food and staff were exceptional, I did find it a bit overpriced. But I guess that’s just London!

The breakfast is included and has a great variety, from the traditional English breakfast, continental style food and a pancake maker which our kids loved. Perfect for starting another day of walking around London :)

Our Top 3 Picks: Camden Town Hotels

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Holiday Inn Camden Lock
✔️ Great Breakfast
✔️ Amazing Location
✔️ Friendly Staff

↳ Book it

#2 PICK

Camden Town Hotel
✔️ Opposite Roundhouse
✔️ Clean & Comfortable
✔️ Amazing Staff

↳ Book it

#3 PICK

Camden Lock
✔️ Spacious Aparthotel
✔️ 2 Bedrooms & Kitchen
✔️ Terrace With Views

↳ Book it

Although Camden Town itself is not large, it has a huge personality and you could easily spend a day here taking in the madness of it all. There is something for everyone, shopping, music, restaurants and bars and a little bit of water activity!

If you are looking for somewhere that really captures the spirit of London, you can’t go wrong with Camden Town. It’s a place I have always loved and will go back to time and time again.

FAQs

Is Camden Town Safe?

Camden is generally safe, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of visitors. As with any busy area, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded market areas.

Avoid walking alone in quieter streets late at night, and stick to well-lit, populated areas.

Is Camden Town family-friendly?

Yes! Camden offers many family-friendly activities, including Babylon Park, Regent’s Canal, Camden Market, and ZSL London Zoo nearby. While some areas, like bars and clubs, are more suited to adults, there are plenty of places for kids to enjoy during the day.

What are the opening hours for Camden Market?

The market is typically open from around 10 AM to 6 PM daily. Some stalls and shops may have extended hours, especially on weekends or during special events.

Can I bring my dog to Camden?

Yes, Camden is generally dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome in most outdoor market areas and along Regent’s Canal.

However, indoor spaces, like some shops and food stalls, may have restrictions, so it’s best to ask before entering.

Are there public restrooms in Camden Market?

Yes, there are public restrooms available in Camden Market. Some may charge a small fee, so having some change handy is useful.