This iconic London market has long been a place to browse an eclectic mix of little shops, stalls, and catacombs crammed full of everything and anything. Shopping aside, there are food stalls from all around the world and enough bars to keep you busy for a night.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Camden Market is via the tube, just take a train to Camden Town and then walk up the High Street. You’ll notice a strange mix of tourist shops selling souvenirs, headshops, and your standard restaurants and cafes. Camden is pretty gentrified these days, but back in the day, it was a more grungy area.
About halfway along the high street is the Buck Street market. It’s a collection of shipping containers stacked on top of one another to form an enclosed shopping mall with little boutiques and a few food stalls.
Food Stalls
There is no shortage of food at Camden Market, and the variety is pretty incredible. You could get a Yorkshire Burrito, cheesy naan, or grilled pitta all within a minute’s walk. The main food area is just across the canal from the big Wetherspoons–a big english pub with cheap (for London) drinks and pub food. If you want to save some money on drinks or just get smashed before heading over to the market, this is the place to go.
Most of the food stalls are open late morning to about 6 or 7, but the more popular/famous restaurants like Humble Crumble, Funky Chips, and the aforementioned Camden Market Yorkshire Burrito can get super busy, especially on a weekend.
Horse Tunnel Market
Right at the far end of the market is an area known as the stables or horse tunnel, where you’ll find plenty of old knick-knacks, there are some little tea rooms as well and a photobooth. These subterranean tunnels date back to the 19th century, when horses pulled boats and shunted trains.
These days, you can buy anything from old film cameras to postcards, souvenirs, and plenty of handmade and vintage things. Look out for the cool bronze statues of old horses working hard.
Camden After Dark
Winter afternoons, when the sun sets at 4 pm, are a great time to visit; just wrap up warm. The little alleyways get lit up, stalls glow under fairy lights, buskers play by the canal, and the scent of spiced street food hangs in the air. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine, browsing for vintage finds, or settling into a cosy pub with live music and board games, it’s a good time.
Attractions Near Camden Town Market
Whether you are looking for something to do on the way there or the way home, there is plenty nearby. Primrose Hill is just across the train tracks to the west and has plenty of pubs to choose from, plus the hill itself is a great place to see the city or watch the New Year’s fireworks.
If you are coming from Marylebone, why not walk through Regent’s Park? You can stop in at the zoo just between Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill.
From the zoo, you can walk all the way to the market along the old canal, where people live on funky houseboats. Just don’t fall in, it’s pretty stinky.
Hamstead Heath is a 15-minute bus ride north of Camden and offers plenty of greenery and quiet neighbourhoods. If it’s summer or you’re cold-resistant, why not take a dip in the Hampstead ponds (don’t worry, the water is cleaned)? Regardless of what you are into, there is plenty to see and do in and around Camden Market.
