Located in Central London, the world-famous Camden Market is popular with tourists – and locals – looking for a unique shopping experience and a fun day out . Made up of 6 different markets in and around London, each one of these has something for everyone: from England-themed souvenirs to vintage clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and one-of-a-kind items, a visit to Camden Market should be at the top of your London to-do list!
Planning on visiting the market soon? Check out this guide for some of the best things to see, eat, and shop for at Camden Market!
In this guide, we'll take a look at:
1.
A quick history of Camden Market
2.
How to get to Camden Market
3.
Best time to visit Camden Market
4.
Best things to do in Camden Market
5.
Where to stay in Camden London
6.
FAQs
A quick history of Camden Market
Before becoming what it is today, Camden Market started as a small, 16-stall market selling jewelry and other handmade items on Sundays. Once it started to gain popularity, the market continued to grow and blossom into what it is today.
One of the more curious developments is the history of Camden’s Stable Market. Originally a network of saddlers and horse stables, as well as a horse hospital, horses played a vital role in the transportation of goods during the early 20th Century. Because of its proximity to King’s Cross railway and Regent’s Canal, Camden was a hub of bustling economic activity that provided the whole of the British Empire with goods from all over the country. But what does this have to do with horses? Well, the animals were used by sellers and workers to transport goods and train parts from the canal and into the storage yards. As such, the stables were the perfect place to home and look after the horses during and after a long workday.
Traveling on the London Underground – commonly referred to as the “tube” – is the most convenient way to get to Camden Market, located in the London borough of Camden, from wherever you may be staying in the city.
What tube line is Camden on?
Camden Town is a popular underground station on the Northern Line. Depending on where you are in London, you can easily access a train on the same line or transfer from one line to the other without much hassle.
If you’re wondering which tube station you need to travel to for Camden Market, you’re in luck! There are four different stations you can choose from to end your journey and check out the different areas of the market: Camden Town (a 2-minute walk from the Inverness and Buck Street Markets), Chalk Farm (a 5-minute walk from Stables Market), Kentish Town (a 10-minute walk from Camden Lock Market), and Morning Crescent (next to Regent’s Canal).
From London Victoria to Camden Market
If you’re starting your journey in London Victoria, take the Victoria tube from Victoria station to Euston Station. Once there, hop off and take the Northern tube from Euston Station to Camden Town station.
The ride will take about 20 minutes total and the price will be £2.50 (3 USD) per person.
From Paddington to Camden Market
From Paddington, take the Circle line to Euston Square station. Once there, transfer to the Northern Line from Warren Street station and head directly to Camden Town station.
The journey will take approximately 24 minutes and the price will be about £3.50 (5 USD) per person.
Best time to visit Camden Market
Given its history, you’re probably wondering “Is Camden Market open everyday?”. Luckily, the answer is yes! The market is open Monday through Sunday, which means you can visit and shop whenever you want – and whenever you might be in town!
Most stalls and businesses are open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, although you might find that some shops are open until later during the summer and close earlier during the winter. Meanwhile, stalls on Inverness Street are open throughout the year (except on Christmas Day) from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
Keep in mind that the market is generally busier on weekends, which means that you might have to battle the crowds both while riding the tube and once you’re out on the street. Lunchtime is also a popular time given that the market also serves some delicious food. If you don’t mind waiting a little longer, grabbing a bite to eat at Camden Market is a great way to get to know more local businesses while enjoying delicious food and soaking up some good vibes.
Best things to do in Camden Market
If shopping isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of other activities to do and things to see around Camden Market that will keep you entertained. From museums and parks to delicious eateries, here’s a rundown of the best things to do in Camden Market:
What to explore near Camden Market
Two great spots you can head to once you’ve browsed the local shops are the Camden Town Library and the Camden Comedy Club. Although the Comedy Club is only open in the evenings, you can stick around until doors open at 7 PM for an evening filled with laughter.
Other places worth exploring around Camden Market are: Regent’s Park (1.4 KM) for a day outdoors; the Sherlock Holmes Museum (2.1 KM) to learn more about the famed literary character; Madame Tussauds London (2.1 KM) for chance to get a selfie with some wax celebs; The British Museum (2.6 KM) for a deeper dive into history; and The Wallace Collection (2.6 KM) to admire some more art.
Where to eat in Camden Market
With hundreds of cafes, bars, street food stalls, and other top-notch restaurants to choose from, finding a place to eat in Camden Market is easy.
Some of the top restaurants in Camden, London, include: Lockside Camden, with delicious Tex Mex meals and refreshing cocktails; Haché London, home of “the best burger in London”; York and Camden, a chic spot that’s perfect to celebrate a special occasion; Lost Boys Pizza, for a slice of the charcoal pizza; and The Mac Factory, for an on-the-go cup of warm comfort.
Not big on meat or cheese? Camden Market also has plenty of spots for the vegetarians and vegans who want in on the action.
Our new on-site restaurant Powerplant with its delightful list of plant-based meals including the Huevos Rancheros breakfast, the streaky “bacon,” and the iconic Falafel Waffle, is ranked one of the best vegan restaurants you can find in Camden, London.
Another great eatery, Magic Falafel is home to some mouthwatering goodies like their signature gluten-free, vegan falafel, or the veggie-fueled Magic Box: a fresh salad base with crisp falafel balls and hummus to boot! Other notable spots include Mildreds Camden (which also happens to be one of the best spots for brunch in Camden Market), Temple of Camden, and Good Dog Vegan.
If you’re having a hard time picking where to go, check out Camden Market’s own restaurant guide< for a little extra help!
Combining 6 different markets, Camden Market is a great day out for travelers looking to shop ‘til they drop. There are over 1,000 shops to choose from, including handmade items, novelty T-shirts, local souvenirs, secondhand clothing, jewelry, and so much more.
For handmade items and second-hand clothing, head over to Camden Lock Market to browse the many stalls. If you’re hoping to get your hands on something vintage, Stables Market should be your go-to. Meanwhile, shoppers looking for trendy pieces should head over to Buck Street Market to snag some cool accessories and other items of clothing.
As Camden is popular with all kinds of explorers, it has many places where you can spend a night in a calm and serene environment. However, if you want to stay at a hostel in Camden Town that bustles with people from all cultures, has a great guest experience and delightful accommodation, and offers a never-ending list of exciting events while also being near the heart of the town, you can do that too. It will enable you to live surrounded by buzzing music venues, shops, and restaurants, and enjoy this tourist hotspot the way it deserves to be enjoyed.
Your next visit to Camden Market
All in all, visiting Camden Market is a great way to enjoy a day out in London. With thousands of cafes, restaurants, and stores to explore, you’ll be sure to find something that will keep you busy and entertained.
Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t be afraid to barter a little with some of the stall owners: you might get lucky and snag a better deal!
The best day to visit Camden Market is usually on a weekend when the market is buzzing with locals and tourists looking for a great time. However, weekends are also the busiest time to visit. If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds, head to Camden Market on a weekday or earlier in the morning. Keep in mind, however, that going earlier might mean some of the stalls and shops will be closed.
What days is Camden Market Open?
The Camden Market is open 24/7. But if you like to visit the Market in all its glory and experience the bustling environment it’s famous for, you should consider visiting it at the weekend.
Is Camden Market cash only?
No, Camden Market isn’t cash only. While some vendors may ask for cash, a majority of them prefer to use credit cards. You can also find many free-to-use cash machines at the Market.
How big is Camden Market?
Camden Market is made up of six different markets that stretch out and cater to different tastes and needs. Some of the most popular ones include Camden Lock Market, Stables Market, and Buck Street Market. Another notable mention includes Inverness Street Market.
What do they sell at Camden Market?
Camden Market offers an assortment of local and exotic delights. From Portuguese custard tarts and coffee to the best Italian gelato since 1884, and from New York deli classics to kosher Lebanese wraps, they sell it all. And of course, who can forget the Shawarma bar and the traditional Camden fish & chips – the list is pretty much endless.
Is Camden Market safe at night?
Camden Market is unarguably one of the safest markets at night. Unlike other areas of London, it’s a trendy, lively place with loud pubs and nightclubs packed with both tourists and Britons.
When was Camden Market built?
Camden Market was officially founded in 1971, and has been open since 1974. Almost ten years later, in 1985, three more markets were opened. Since then, the market has grown to what it is today and continues to bring in tourists and locals looking for a great shopping experience and some delicious local bites.
How long has Camden Market been open?
Camden Market has been open for around four decades. Its history dates back to 1974 when Camden Town saw its first Saturday market being launched in March that year. Back then, the market was nothing but a collection of 16 shops, selling jewellery, antiques, and local artwork.
