Summary
Introduction to Camden Market
If it’s alternative, handmade, vintage, cool, retro, antique, classic, funky, or ethnic, chances are you can find it in Camden Market. Every weekend, more than 100,000 visitors flock to Camden Town for a unique shopping experience filled with eclectic offerings.
Camden is the most concentrated area in London to discover original and unusual merchandise from hundreds of independent stallholders, designer-makers, and shops. Camden High Street boasts an array of shoe stores, leather outlets, vintage clothing shops, and vinyl records.
This vibrant destination attracts both locals and tourists alike, making it a bustling spot throughout the week, particularly on weekends. Most shops open daily, providing plenty of opportunities to explore. However, for a true market experience with stalls in action, Sunday is the ideal day to visit.
Moreover, for those with the energy after shopping, Camden offers a lively nightlife scene filled with legendary clubs, bars, and music venues.
How it All Began
The transformation of this area into a vibrant community and shopping destination experienced several setbacks before the markets we know today emerged in the 1970s.
The first attempt at development came from Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, towards the end of his long career. As an influential figure in Parliament and the Lords, he served as Lord Chancellor in the 18th century. His speeches against taxing American colonies and advocating for their independence left a legacy of respect in the early United States, with several towns named after him. In 1788, he received permission to build a development of 1,400 houses on his land in North London. Unfortunately, little progress was made for nearly a century, but the name Camden Town was established.
The second development attempt occurred after the completion of Regent’s Canal around 1820, which attracted modest workshops and light industry to the area. However, trade diminished with the advent of railways, leading to the abandonment of plans for a railroad and leaving the warehouses in a state of neglect throughout the early 20th century.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that entrepreneurs recognized the potential in the derelict buildings. In 1972, two friends purchased a dilapidated timber yard and established Camden Lock Market, one of London’s first artisan crafts and antiques markets, which became a beacon for other retailers. A year later, another pair of entrepreneurs revitalized an old warehouse into Dingwalls Dance Hall, a venue that significantly contributed to the Punk Rock movement.
The Markets Today
From its modest beginnings with just 16 market traders, Camden Market has flourished into a vibrant hub with over 1,000 market stalls and shops across four main markets, as well as scattered stalls throughout courtyards and side streets. The markets line Camden High Street and Chalk Farm Road, conveniently located between Camden Town and Chalk Farm Tube Stations on the Northern Line.
The market comprises smaller segments, each intended to showcase its unique style. However, unless you strictly adhere to a specific style tribe, you’ll find the markets blend seamlessly, allowing visitors to roam freely from one to another. Here are the main market areas:
- Camden Lock Market: This historic site is where the markets began in the 1970s, characterized by stalls around the canal’s locks. Initially a craft market, it now features numerous shops selling clothing, jewelry, and eclectic gifts. Open daily from 10 a.m. to late evening, it offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with excellent food stalls next to the canal.
- Camden Stables Market: Home to over 450 shops and stalls, this market is renowned for its wide selection of vintage clothing. Expect a vibrant mix of clothing and accessories, with various food stalls serving cuisine from around the world. The area has historical significance, having once housed stables for cargo-hauling horses. A unique feature includes the Horse Tunnels Market made from Victorian brick tunnels, famously adorned by a bronze statue of Amy Winehouse.
- Camden Lock Village: This area, once known as the Canal Market, was revitalized following a fire in 2008. With an updated layout, Camden Lock Village specializes in accessories, fashion, and gifts, attracting significant foot traffic.
- Buck Street Market: The first market upon heading north from Camden Town Tube Station, it has lost its vintage charm and now predominantly sells inexpensive sunglasses and slogan-printed t-shirts. Future plans may integrate some traders into the main markets, yet it remains less noteworthy.
The Bottom Line
Exploring these markets offers a delightful opportunity for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere. This embodies London street style at its essence. However, if you’re in search of the latest untapped fashion designers, be forewarned that while discovery is possible, it is not guaranteed. The market maintains a timeless aesthetic reminiscent of past decades, offering silver skull jewelry, tie-dye apparel, leather goods, and more.
Tips To Stay Safe at London’s Markets
- Always carry cash for purchases at market stalls, but be cautious not to bring more than needed for the day.
- Keep valuables hidden and close to your body to avoid theft; be especially vigilant for pickpockets.
- Avoid giving money to beggars around Camden Town Tube Station, as they are often present daily.
- You are not obliged to carry identification in Britain, so consider leaving your passport securely at your accommodation when not needed.
What Else to Do Nearby
- Visit the ZSL London Zoo in Regents Park. It’s a pleasant 15-minute stroll along the canal.
- Take a leisurely walk or go celebrity spotting in Primrose Hill: This area offers one of London’s highest viewpoints with stunning 360-degree vistas of the city. It’s a tranquil and picturesque location, surrounded by upscale residences and boutiques.
- Board a canal boat: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the historic Regents Canal. The London Waterbus Company provides hourly departures from Camden Locks to Little Venice, with admission to the zoo included with your ticket.
- Catch a live gig: Conclude your evening at the Jazz Café, a renowned music venue. You can enjoy dinner while listening to live performances, or visit other local venues such as Underworld and Dingwalls for diverse music experiences.
