The Best Things to Do in Camden

Camden’s always been a little bit alternative. Located north of the River Thames, this was originally a transport hub and industrial area which blossomed over decades into a thriving music destination carrying a rich alternative arts and culture scene. This is where to find vintage pieces that are a little bit out there, where to catch an emerging artist that’s set to make their mark on the charts (punk rock was born in Camden FYI), and where you’ll find the tastiest British grub whether a generously portioned Sunday roast or box of fish and chips. Our guide to the best things to do in Camden will take you through the greats. 

1. Dig into North London’s top fish and chips and Poppies

Consistently ranked number one for fish and chips in Camden, we’re not blowing our own trumpet when we say Poppies is the best. Our Camden restaurant takes you back to the 1940s to a post-war time of rebirth. Shall we call it the ‘fishy forties’? Here, the catch is so fresh it practically swam into its crispy batter, and when it comes to chips you’ll always want to go large. The fixtures and fittings from floor to ceiling are all sourced by our beloved Pops, and there’s an upstairs performance lounge so you can grab a beer or a cocktail and enjoy a show after lunch. 

2. Shop till you need wine at Camden Market 

Being the shopping capital of the world, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to burning plastic in London, but Camden’s a must-stop on any shopping itinerary. The market is home to a staggering 1,000 vendors, spanning crafts and antiques, fashion, music, street food and just about anything you can think of. Camden Lock and Camden Market Stables are part of the open-air labyrinth, and you’ll also want to wander along Hawley Wharf for some under-the-radar gems and spots to rest your feet. A Curzon cinema, covered food courts and The Hawley Arms pub offer just the respite. 

3. Pay homage to Amy Winehouse at The Good Mixer pub 

Amy Winehouse was synonymous with Camden Town. Drawn to the area for its eclectic atmosphere and music scene, she felt a sense of belonging and moved over in 2003, around the time of her debut album, ‘Frank’. This became her playground, and The Good Mixer pub the infamous meeting point with future husband Blake Fielder-Civil. It was heavily used as a filming location for the movie ‘Back to Black’. Other points of interest include the Amy Winehouse statue at Stables Market and her former home at 30 Camden Square. 

4. Take a scenic stroll along Regent’s Canal 

When the weather is on side, grab a coffee and take a beautifully scenic stroll along Regent’s Canal. Starting at Little Venice, and ending in Docklands, it was named after the Prince Regent and is part of London’s Grand Union Canal. The walkway winds through Camden, passing the market, the London zoo, and many a Victorian warehouse. Visitors can also enjoy the experience on water, via boat tours or kayak rentals.   

5. Catch a gig at the Jazz Cafe 

A destination for live sounds, there are plenty of spots to catch new and established acts, but one of our favourites is the Jazz Cafe on Parkway. Over the last 35 years the venue has hosted the likes of Jamiroquai, Don Cherry, and of course Camden’s Amy Winehouse. It triples up as a restaurant with a mezzanine overlooking the stage, and hosts famous club nights such as Soul City. Other hot ticket live music venues in the area include the Blues Kitchen, KoKo and the Electric Ballroom.