Camden Market

The basics

Long known as an alternative shopping destination to the chic boutiques of Central London, Camden Market’s 1,000 stalls offer vintage clothing, books, antiques, and much more—there’s even a store dedicated to vintage pianos. You can taste your way through the many different food stalls, pick up an artisanal coffee, browse the clothing booths, or retreat to one of the canalside pubs for a refreshing drink while you watch the action unfold. The fun comes in just soaking up the atmosphere around you.

Visitors can choose to wander at will through the different areas of the market or take part in an organized walking tour to learn more about the area’s history and the many colorful characters the market has welcomed over the years.

Things to know before you go

• Camden is famous for its live music venues, including The Dublin Castle and Jazz Cafe.

• Camden Market is well-known for its excellent street food, so plan to enjoy lunch or dinner while you’re there.

• The area is always busy—keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets.

How to get there

Camden Market is best accessed by public transport or taxi, as parking is very limited. The nearest tube station is Camden Town. Chalk Farm and Mornington Crescent stations are also a short walk away. A number of buses from different parts of the city also serve the area.

When to get there

Camden Market is open every day (including bank holidays) from 10am until late, except Christmas Day. The market can get very busy on weekends, especially on Sunday afternoons, so plan to visit on a weekday if you prefer a slower pace. To navigate the market stalls more easily, you can organize a private tour.

Take a stroll on Regent’s Canal

After your fun Camden Market tour, head down to Regent’s Canal for a peaceful stroll through one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods, where elegant terraces line the canalside and narrow bridges take you back to a time when horses were the only form of transport. You can walk as far as Regent’s Park—one of London’s eight Royal Parks—complete with a lake, flower gardens, and tree-lined pathways.

Ways to explore

Long known as an alternative shopping destination to the big brands of Central London, Camden Market’s 1,000 stalls offer vintage clothing, books, antiques, and much more. There are myriad ways to experience the market. Taste your way through the many different food stalls, browse the clothing booths, or retreat to one of the canalside pubs for a drink and watch the action unfold around you. Or, delve into the area’s musical history on a rock ‘n’ roll stroll or shop till you drop on a market tour that combines Camden with the foodie hot spot of Borough Market.

Accessibility

Hawley Wharf has step-free access to all levels. The Stables and Lock markets are mostly step-free, but cobbled ground might pose a problem for travelers with limited mobility.

Age limits

None, though some venues within the market that serve alcohol might have age restrictions.

What to pack

Camden Market is typically crowded and prone to pickpockets, so make sure you pack valuables in bags with secure zippers that you can keep close to you.

What to wear

Camden Market requires lots of walking and has some uneven ground, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Not allowed

Smoking in partially enclosed sections, unruly behavior

Amenities

Public restrooms, shops, bars, restaurants

Address

Camden Market is best accessed by public transportation or taxi, as parking is very limited. You can walk to the market from King’s Cross St. Pancras station via the Regent’s Canal, a particularly lovely stroll in the summer.

Driving

If you’re driving from the central spot of King’s Cross, head north on York Way (A5200), then continue straight onto Camden Park Road. Turn left onto Camden Road (A503); continue until you reach Camden Town.

Public transportation

The nearest London Underground station to Camden Market is Camden Town on the Northern line. Chalk Farm and Mornington Crescent stations on the same line are also a short walk away.

Best times to visit

Camden Market’s wealth of food stalls means it’s an excellent place to visit during lunchtime—vendors typically offer free samples to help you make an informed decision.

Best days to visit

The market is typically packed on weekends, especially on Sunday afternoons, so visit on a weekday for a slower pace. However, fewer vendors might be open during the week.

Best months to visit

Due to its open-air nature, Camden Market is best in spring and summer. However, it is festive during the winter holidays and the ideal place to pick up Christmas gifts.

Special events

The annual Camden Windrush Day in June celebrates the diverse culture of the Windrush generation with music, performances, and other live events.