Camden Market: A Complete Guide to London’s Iconic Market
Camden Market in London is more than just a market – it’s a vibrant collection of market halls filled with unique shops, delicious food stalls, and a rich history. Discover how to get there, what to explore, and pro tips for making the most of your visit.
A Complete Guide to Camden Market
Camden Market in London is a must-visit spot, teeming with eclectic shops, diverse food stalls, and a lively atmosphere. Not just one market but a collection of market halls, Camden offers a unique experience around every corner. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, Camden Market has something for everyone.
Getting to Camden Market
Camden Market is conveniently located in North London and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
By Tube: The closest tube station is Camden Town on the Northern Line.
By Bus: Numerous bus routes serve Camden Town, including the 24, 29, and 168.
By Train: Camden Road is the nearest Overground station, just a ten-minute walk from the market.
By Car: There are several car parks nearby. However, public transport is recommended to avoid the hassle.
The Many Halls of Camden Market
Camden Market isn’t just one market but several interconnected markets, each offering its own unique vibe and selection of goods.
Camden Lock Market: The original and perhaps most famous part of Camden Market, known for its arts and crafts.
Stables Market: Housed in the old stables and horse hospital, this area is renowned for its antiques, furniture, and vintage clothing.
Camden Market Hall: A newer addition, featuring a mix of fashion, art, and food stalls.
Buck Street Market: Also known as the Camden Market, this section is perfect for picking up unique fashion items and accessories.
Savor the Flavors: Top Food Stalls
Camden Market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. Some of the must-try food stalls include:
Meathead Mexican: Renowned for their delicious Birria Tacos, Meathead Mexican is a favorite among visitors. Their slow-cooked beef tacos are a must-try.
Yorkshire Burrito Camden: A British twist on the classic burrito, this stall serves up hearty Yorkshire puddings filled with roast beef, vegetables, and gravy.
Tsujiri Camden: For the most incredible authentic Japanese matcha, Tsujiri Camden is the place to go. Their matcha latte is one of the best we’ve ever had. They also have matcha ice cream and desserts that are worth a try. If you make a visit to Chinatown be sure to stop at their second location!
3 Locks Brewing:
This local brewery offers a selection of craft beers that are perfect for washing down all the delicious food. Located across the street from the busy markets and next to the river, this is the PERFECT place to unwind and escape the crowds of Camden Market.
Funky Chips: This food stall is known for their delicious hand cut frys that are piled high with different toppings. There is usually a line here so be prepared to wait.
Chin Chin:
Known for their liquid nitrogen ice cream and their famous hot chocolate, this dessert shop is not to be missed! We recommend trying the Sticky Toffee Pudding topped with Tonka Bean Ice Cream. They also serve delicious espresso for a pick me up.
More Than Just Food: Explore Unique Shops
While Camden Market boasts an impressive array of food stalls, the real charm lies in its diverse shops. From vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to quirky gifts and local art, there's something for everyone. Some highlights include:
Cyberdog: A futuristic shop offering rave gear and neon accessories.
St Cyr Vintage: A treasure trove of vintage clothing and accessories.
Skinfood: Natural skincare with recycled packaging including products like lip balms, peppermint foot creme, face cleansers and serums.
EffimeHome: This family run business boasts luxury home fragrance items from handmade soy-based candles to diffusers. This shop is worth a stop to delight your nose and meet the mother daughter duo who create these incredible home fragrance products. They also have a small selection of unique and simple jewelry that you won’t find anywhere else in the market- and there are more than 20 jewelry shops in Camden Market.
Reworked Camden: Meet a community-focused upcycling and vintage store dedicated to saving clothing and accessories from landfills. Here, items are transformed into reimagined garments, thanks to the founder's adept skills with a sewing machine. You'll often find him on-site, crafting new designs or empowering locals with essential sewing and textile techniques.
History of Camden Market
Camden Market has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1970s. Originally a small crafts market, it has grown into one of London's largest and most popular markets. The market is set within Camden's historic buildings, including the old stables, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere.
Pro Tips for Visiting Camden Market
To make the most of your visit to Camden Market, here are a few pro tips:
Visit During the Week: The market can get incredibly busy on weekends, with over 250,000 visitors each week. Visiting on a weekday, especially a Thursday, means fewer crowds and a more enjoyable experience.
Spend at Least 4 Hours: With so much to see and do, you'll need at least 4 hours to get a true taste of what Camden Market has to offer. Don't rush – take your time to explore every nook and cranny.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Camden Market is large and spread out, so be prepared to do a lot of walking.
FAQs
Q: Is Camden Market open every day?
A: Yes, Camden Market is open every day of the week, usually from 11 am to 6 pm.
Q: Can I find vegetarian and vegan options at Camden Market?
A: Absolutely! Camden Market offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan food options.
Q: Are there ATMs available at Camden Market?
A: Yes, there are several ATMs located throughout the market. However, we found that most places took credit card.
Q: Is Camden Market family-friendly?
A: Yes, Camden Market is a great place for families, with plenty of interesting stalls and food options for all ages.
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Camden Market is a vibrant and eclectic destination that offers something for everyone. From delicious food stalls and unique shops to its rich history and lively atmosphere, it's a place where you can easily spend a whole day exploring. Remember, the best time to visit is during the week to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy everything this iconic London market has to offer.
So, grab your comfortable shoes, some cash, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Camden Market!
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