18 very best things to do in Camden – our local favourites and tips

How we chose the best things to do in Camden

Our team of Visit London authors are London locals and experts who have years of experience exploring the city's many unique neighbourhoods. We keep updated with new openings and special events, sharing our deep knowledge of iconic sites and hidden corners of the capital. Our insights into the visitor experience help us understand what people are looking for and what remains culturally significant in the city. 

In this guide, you'll find everything you need, along with our top tips and recommendations, all curated from our expertise and experience.

Explore Camden's top things to do

Discover these top picks of things to do and places to go in Camden. This unique neighbourhood is small, but packed with exciting activities that are worthy of all London bucket lists.

Whether you're a big foodie, love to browse eclectic shops or simply enjoy taking some time in nature to relax, read on to find out what to do in Camden Town. 

1. Enjoy Camden Market – best for mouthwatering street food and quirky shopping hauls

When you think of Camden, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the famous food markets – and you're right to. Camden Market is the beating heart of the neighbourhood, and attracts people from far and wide with its rich food offering and artisan shops.

The market is made up of three locations: Stables Market, Camden Lock and Hawley Wharf, and has a vast collection of more than 1,000 traders. We easily spend a few hours exploring this labyrinth of stalls and shops, selling everything from handcrafted leather bags and vintage eyewear to colourful lanterns, hats, incense and cashmere sweaters. Feel free to speak to the friendly traders who can let you know more about each product and how much it costs.

Best for: Soaking up Camden's culture and picking up unique finds at the market's many eclectic shops.
Good to know: Try to visit on weekdays to avoid the bigger crowds, and if you don't have long to explore, get a good taste of everything at Stables Market, the largest and most well-known of the three areas.

2. Catch an open-air show in London's Regent's Park – best for a spot of culture on summer nights

When the sun is shining, nothing makes for a more memorable experience than Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. Known for its musicals and adaptations with a modern twist, this enchanting outdoor venue is located in Queen Mary's Gardens with a leafy backdrop that you won't find anywhere else.

Feeling peckish? We've tried and tested the nearby restaurants and they're all great options. Our favourite is the covered terrace or picnic hampers which you can prebook and pick up to enjoy before the show. If you have the time, we recommend picking up your own choice of food from Camden Market and walking over to the park along the canal – just be sure to allow plenty of time before the show starts.

Best for: Theatregoers looking to enjoy a one-of-a-kind performance with a wow-factor backdrop.
Good to know: If it rains, don't worry – the team does what they can to keep the show running. If it has to be cancelled, you'll have the option to rebook or refund your ticket. 

3. Admire the skyline from the Primrose Hill viewpoint – best for striking views and picnics in the park

Primrose Hill is one of our favourite parks in London and easily one of the best things to do in Camden Town. Whether you're looking to spend some time relaxing in the sunshine or fancy a stroll with a view, this is a great activity to add to your itinerary.

We often find ourselves here on a sunny day for a picnic with goodies from Camden Market, and have watched many sunsets over the city skyline here on summer nights. See how many iconic London landmarks you can spot, and don't forget to snap some photos of the view! 

Best for: Relaxing in nature, picnics in the park and snapping photos of the London skyline.
Good to know: Primrose Hill is open 24/7, but the rest of Regent's Park closes around sunset each night, so be sure to check the official website for this information before your visit. 

Activities and experiences in Camden

4. Sip on fresh pints on the Camden Town Brewery tour – best for budding brewers and beer lovers

Embark on a beer-fuelled adventure at Camden Town Brewery, where you get to tour the local brewery, learn about the process of beermaking and, of course, enjoy some freshly poured samples!

The smell of hops hits instantly as you enter this popular local brewery, which provides beer to pubs across the city. Step behind the scenes as an expert guide walks you through the history, the process and the flight of five different beers. If you've worked up an appetite, consider checking out the on-site beer hall which serves up a menu of pizzas, sandwiches, wings and sides that pair perfectly with beer. We loved the carbonara balls!

You should also check out the nearby 3 Locks Brewing Co guided tasting and brewery tour. 

Best for: A niche spot of local culture for beer lovers. It makes for a great birthday gift! 
Good to know: Tickets start at £25 per person and include a welcome half-pint and flight of five tasters.

5. Explore Regent's Canal by foot or bike – best for picturesque views and getting outdoors 

If you're in the area, you must try to make time to stroll along the picturesque Regent's Canal, where you can spot boats, wildlife and admire a slice of nature.

We either venture east along the towpath from Camden Lock towards King's Cross and Coal Drops Yard for a spot of shopping, dining or to explore more of the area's exciting activities. Or, head west along the canal towards Regent's Park. The route takes you past the famous Feng Shang Princess Chinese restaurant on water and the London Zoo. If you have children in tow, Pirate Castle is a fantastic family-friendly spot with water-based activities to enjoy.

Best for: Getting among nature and enjoying picturesque canalside views.
Good to know: You can sometimes spot the monkeys in their enclosure at London Zoo from the Regent's Canal towpath!

6. Visit the iconic Amy Winehouse statue – best for music fans and pop-culture lovers

Pay a visit to the Amy Winehouse statue commemorating the musical icon's love for the neighbourhood. Unveiled in 2014, you can find the bronze figure in the middle of Stables Market, free to take photos with and pay respects to. 

You might be wondering why the statue was erected here. Amy Winehouse was a Camden local who lived in the area for many years. She cut her teeth at Camden's live music bars and frequented the pubs and bars both before and after she became world-famous. The Hawley Arms is the pub Amy was said to have visited most often, commemorated by a giant mural of the singer on its exterior. Fans can take an Amy Winehouse-themed walking tour to learn more about the singer's connection to Camden. 

Best for: Music fans and lovers of the famous singer.
Good to know: Amy Winehouse is said to have sold trinkets at Camden Market before she rose to fame. There are several plaques and murals of the star dotted across the neighbourhood.

Where to eat in Camden

7. Explore the street food stalls at Camden Market – best for world cuisines and canalside picnics

Camden Market is a foodie hotspot, and no visit to the area is complete without tasting the wide variety of fresh street food on offer. You'll be spoilt for choice with cuisines from around the world, serving up everything from fresh-filled tacos and vibrant curries to steak-loaded fries and pizzas by the slice. 

We tend to start near Camden Lock and Hawley Wharf before making our way through Stables Market, where there are more food stalls to be found. The market can get busy, especially on weekends, so try to visit early and on weekdays to avoid the crowds. But things move quickly here, so you never have to queue for too long!

Best for: Feasting on freshly made street food from around the world.
Good to know: Look out for traders handing out tasters to help you narrow down your food options. Stables Market and Camden Lock have benches where you can sit, eat and people watch.

8. Book a table at a neighbourhood pub or bistro – best for a relaxed sit-down feast

Beyond the iconic markets, you'll find many restaurants in Camden worth visiting. Whether you're looking to enjoy a Sunday roast at one of the area's well-known gastropubs or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred meal, Camden has a foodie offering for every taste and budget.

If you're looking for a local spot with fantastic food, Filipino-French bistro Belly is one we can't stop speaking about. OKA near Primrose Hill offers fresh pan-Asian dishes, and Andy's Greek Taverna serves up delicious Greek food with alfresco seating just behind the bustle of Camden High Street. Poppies is a must-go for those looking for a traditional fish and chip shop, while The Parakeet is rightfully regarded as one of London's top gastropubs. We also love Pick & Cheese, which has a cheese conveyor belt – need we say more!

Best for: A romantic date, catching up with friends, a celebration, a family meal or just because.
Good to know: Lots of popular dining spots fill up quickly, especially during peak times, so be sure to book in advance. 

9. Fill up on breakfast and brunch at a top-rated Camden cafe – best for a morning coffee fix

If you're anything like us, all good days start with brunch and a caffeine fix! You can fuel up for the day with a hot drink and a bite to eat at plenty of great independent coffee shops and cafes dotted around the area before a day spent exploring. 

Arvo Cafe is a local favourite serving up all-day brunch plates. The challah French toast is a must-try and it's also a great people-watching spot! Bite into freshly baked New York-style bagels with your choice of filling at It's Bagels. Don't worry about the limited indoor seating – you can take your baked goods to nearby Primrose Hill for a picnic with a mouthwatering view. Finally, for something a little unique, start at Camden Market when it opens at 10am where you'll find everything from Portuguese pastries to fresh, locally sourced fruits. 

Best for: Enjoying Camden's coffee culture and getting ready for a day of exploring.
Good to know: Most cafes and restaurants offer a brunch menu with breakfast and lunch items to enjoy into the early afternoon.

Nightlife, bars and live music

10. Listen to live music at Camden's famous venues – best for discovering up-and-coming bands 

Camden is renowned for its rich music scene, with a long history as a hub for musicians. Name a famous rock band – they probably started out playing Camden's pubs. 

And some things never change! Every day of the week, you can catch a live performance in one of Camden's venues, both big and small. We usually try to book in advance for iconic venues such as Roundhouse, KOKO and Electric Ballroom. But more intimate spaces such as The Dublin Castle, Green Note, Dingwalls, The Elephant's Head and The Camden Assembly often sell tickets on the door to catch emerging rock bands. We also often happen upon many free gigs in those smaller venues – especially on weeknights.

Best for: Lovers of rock and alternative music looking to enjoy Camden's live music culture.
Good to know: The Chemical Brothers, Madness, The Vaccines, Wolf Alice and many more started out playing at Camden's smaller venues, and you can sometimes still see huge bands play secret gigs in the area's intimate spaces. 

11. Soak up the culture in Camden's bars and pubs – best for a catch up with friends

Camden's pubs welcome hundreds of locals and visitors almost every day, with many establishments steeped in history and known for hosting celebrities, featuring in films and more. There is a pub for every season, budget and mood in Camden.

When the sun is shining, we often find ourselves at The Edinboro Castle to soak up the sunshine in its beer garden. It's also a great spot for catching sports screenings. On the other hand, when the seasons change, The Hawley Arms has comfy sofas and a cosy fireplace to warm up next to. The Spread Eagle and The Parakeet both boast fantastic, seasonal food menus if you're feeling peckish. The Parakeet is widely regarded one of the city's best gastropubs, with everything cooked over an open flame. The Hawley Arms and The World's End are also both top picks for being iconic pubs, London landmarks in their own right and a must-visit on any trip to the area.

Best for: An evening spent soaking up Camden's culture like a local.
Good to know: The World's End inspired the film of the same name, based on a pub crawl and featuring Simon Pegg.

12. Grab tickets to an activity bar, comedy night or karaoke – best for big groups or date night

There are plenty of fun things to do at night in Camden beyond its famed live music scene. Camden pubs, bars and venues regularly host comedy shows, karaoke nights and immersive activities. 

One of our favourite ways to have some fun with mates or colleagues is heading to an activity bar such as Lane7 Camden. You'll find everything from bowling, shuffleboard and darts to an on-site bar and fairground arcade here. If you're looking for a really unique activity, WeJam – The Immersive Rockstar Experience allows you to enjoy a private recording session led by a professional musician. Or, you can't go wrong with a visit to Boxpark Camden, which hosts a variety of events every day including quiz nights, dance classes, sports screenings and more.

Best for: An evening filled with a fun activity or entertainment.
Good to know: Each summer, Camden Fringe celebrates the arts with a host of theatre, comedy and music events scattered at venues across the neighbourhood. 

Family-friendly things to do

13. Spot the monkeys, lions, tigers and more at London Zoo – best for the ultimate family day out

People often forget that Camden is home to one of London's top family attractions. Situated in leafy Regent's Park, you'll find London Zoo, home to more than 700 animal species. It's a fantastic way for animal lovers to spend a morning or afternoon in the capital, especially if you're looking to entertain little ones!

Step foot inside the gates of this magnificent institution and explore the different enclosures, from Giants of the Galapagos and Land of the Lions to Tiger Territory and Monkey Valley. We like to explore each area by following the three different colour-coded routes – and you can break each up with a visit to the Terrace restaurant or gift shop. Look out for different experiences such as the junior keeper experience or daily talks with zoo keepers to learn more about the animals, their routines and their habitats. 

Best for: Learning all about the natural world and experiencing magnificent animals up close.
Good to know: You can sleep overnight near the lions at the London Zoo Lodges – one of the coolest family stays in London!

14. Embark on a themed walking tour – best for budding musicians and soaking up the local culture 

One of our favourite things to do in Camden is to take a simple stroll through the neighbourhood to learn about its unique history. There are plenty of things to see, from Cecil Sharp House and Etcetera Theatre to the Sylvia Plath blue plaque and colourful houses lining Chalcot Square. 

Camden is known for its street art, with murals at Camden High Street, Hawley Street, Camden Market and the iconic Camden Lock Bridge, painted by John Bulley. We recommend taking a themed tour about the art and music history that has shaped Camden's culture. Camden Arts Centre, the Jewish Museum and The Cob Gallery are also excellent places to visit in Camden for a cultural fix and to educate young minds.

Best for: Exploring the neighbourhood, discovering hidden gems and learning some new, interesting facts.
Good to know: Camden is renowned for its music history, so there are many music-themed walking tours in the area.

15. Follow the neon lights to Babylon Park – best for thrill seekers looking for an indoor activity

Babylon Park is London's answer to an amusement park, and the first of its kind in the city. Set across three underground floors and featuring a space theme, whether we're heading with friends or taking kids, it's always a fun day out here, especially on a rainy day.

The park has seven exhilarating rides, including a roller coaster, a drop tower, bumper cars, immersive VR experiences, numerous nostalgic arcade games and soft play zones for younger children. Choose an allotted time slot to enjoy unlimited games, or we tend to just purchase game coins when we arrive for more flexibility.

Best for: Entertaining children and adults of all ages on a rainy day.
Good to know: The park is free to enter. You can either prebook unlimited games for specific time slots, or arrive without a ticket and purchase game coins as you go.

Where to stay in Camden

16. Stay at a great-value hotel in the heart of Camden – best for a fantastic location for a great price

Camden is a great place to stay in London, with lots to explore in the neighbourhood and great transport links to the rest of the city. But we know accommodation can be pricey, so we've picked the top budget-friendly hotels in the area.

Book a room at Camden Enterprise Hotel, conveniently situated next to Camden Market, opposite the iconic Roundhouse and with an on-site pub. Stay right in the heart of Camden at family-friendly Holiday Inn Camden Locke, with large, comfortable rooms and views onto the iconic neighbourhood. Or, check into a Camden landmark at The Wesley, a boutique hotel set in an old chapel dating to 1824, situated just off Camden High Street.

Best for: Staying among the bustle of Camden without splashing too much cash.
Good to know: You can also save money staying just a couple of stops away from Camden along the Northern line in areas such as Kentish Town, Tufnell Park and Archway.

17. Treat yourself to a stay at iconic The Standard – best for a luxurious experience

Prepare for a stay to remember at The Standard, one of the coolest and most famous hotels in London. While it's not technically in Camden, it's just two stops away on the Northern line or a 30-minute stroll away from the markets.

If it's luxury, style and comfort you're after, this hotel is our top pick in the area. Enjoy rooms filled with designer furniture, three on-site restaurants and a rooftop terrace with views of the capital. STAY Camden is another great option if you want to indulge, boasting fully furnished, spacious apartments overlooking Regent's Canal – perfect if you want to really feel like a Camden local.

Best for: Indulging in a comfortable, stylish room with top-quality amenities and views of the capital.
Good to know: The Standard has suites with outdoor bathtubs that overlook London St Pancras station, if you really want that wow factor.

18. Book a room at a hotel near leafy Regent's Park – best for a relaxing stay with great transport links

Feel like a London local with a stay at one of the many hotels lining Regent's Park. This affluent area is surrounded by greenery, an amble walk from Camden and with easy public transport links to the rest of London.

Make the most of the modern and spacious interiors at London Marriott Hotel Regent's Park, where you can expect top-quality service, family-friendly amenities and just a 10-minute walk to one of our favourite viewpoints in London at Primrose Hill. Holiday Inn London Regent's Park is another family-friendly option located between Regent's Park and Fitzrovia.

Best for: Easy access to Camden and beyond with green space on your doorstep.
Good to know: If you have time, walk through Regent's Park along the canal to Camden, one of our favourite London walks.

Keep exploring London's neighbourhoods. Check out the art and shopping hotspot of nearby King's Cross, uncover the hidden beauty of Angel and Islington, or tick off more hidden gems at Paddington.