Camden Town

Camden Town is an eclectic place with many facets, not just the market it’s famed for (though this too is worth a gander). A mishmash of influences (and lots of students) always turns up surprises—if you are willing to dig, there are treasures to be found among the tourist tat.

The main high street is becoming more homogeneous with many chains moving in, but there is still plenty of idiosyncrasy and personality to admire in Camden. The Stables (further towards Chalk Farm) hold plenty to see and do, the evidence of their past appearing in the form of commemorative plaques and horse statues which turn up in random nooks and niches as you are meandering through the melee. Once a stable and hospital for the horses pulling the barges along the canal, you can now shop for everything you never needed from the various arts and craft stalls and shops. Furniture, alternative clothing, hats galore, even more sunglasses, tie-dyed skirts, and those much needed punk and goth accessories.

It can get a little bit mental and rather fatiguing after a couple of hours, so I would recommend a stroll into Primrose Hill, a delightful respite from the noise and bustle of Camden. Stop at The Landsdowne, a fantastic neighbourhood gastropub, to refuel for further exploration. Then take a canal cruise to Little Venice to end your day relaxing at a tranquil waterside cafe.

Anton Lynch is sharing all his favourite spots in London, leading up to its biggest summer yet.