Unlock Camden’s Hidden Gems

October 14, 2024

Best Alternative Things to Do in Camden Off The Main Tourist Path

Welcome to Camden Town - London’s urban rebel. Always evolving, never conforming. Situated just north of central London, Camden has a history oozing from its cracked pavements and graffiti-covered walls. From the 19th-century warehouses left behind by the Industrial Revolution to its reign as a punk mecca and alternative music hub, Camden’s spirit is raw, untamed, and still very much alive.

Sure, Hulu just dropped a documentary on Camden earlier this year, and over on Reddit, people are still asking what happened to it (spoiler: Camden was always best the first time you visited when you were younger). Eight years ago, Vice Magazine even asked “Does Anyone Care That Camden Is Dying?”. But here’s the truth: alternative Camden isn’t dead - it’s just gone underground. And we’re here to show you where to find it.

Camden punk

Camden punks nowadays can be found on Instagram @zombieounk4 (photo credit: Steve Barker on Unsplash)

We’ve been in the thick of it since Psylo opened its first shop at the Stables Market in 2007, and since 2009, we’ve been “under the arches”, where we’re still kicking it. Sure, we missed Camden’s “wild years” of the '70s, '80s, and '90s, but we’re here every day, navigating the gritty streets, breathing in that Camden air (it’s mostly smog, let’s be honest), and getting amongst it. So trust us, we’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to. Here’s what’s left of Camden’s alternative edge:

Camden’s Best Music Venues

Concert at the Roundhouse

Interpol concert at The Roundhouse, London (photo credit: Lloyd Winters).

Camden’s still got it when it comes to live music. You want iconic? You’ve got The Roundhouse. You want grimy? Try The Black Heart, The Underworld, or the goth and metal pub The Devonshire Arms. Feeling groovy? Go to the The Jazz Cafe. Or if you’re feeling fancy, hit up KOKO, or get down with the locals at The Dublin Castle and Electric Ballroom. Whatever your taste, Camden’s got a venue that’ll make your ears bleed (in the best way). Check the lineups, grab a drink, and get ready to lose yourself in some raw, live music.

Camden’s Best Fun

Looking to try something different and fun? Have a laugh with stand up shows at the 'Comedy in Your Eye' nights in The Camden Eye, at the Camden Comedy Club, or have a go at the Junkyard Mini Golf Club - with a bar that looks more like nightclub than golf club, it’s also known as the craziest golf in the world.

Camden’s Best Alternative Shopping

Couple shopping at Psylo's Camden store

Visit the Psylo store at The Stables Market for the best Camden shopping experience (photo credit: Dan Thomas Photography).

Pro-tip: skip the high street chains and souvenir shops. If you want the real Camden, head straight to the Stables Market. Here’s where you’ll find alternative shopping and stuff you won’t see anywhere else. Some of our go-to spots include:

Boom Cat Books: for second-hand finds.
Records Shops: There are plenty around to dig into, such as Massive International, Rock 'n' Roll Soldiers, and Kozmic Records Record Fair, to name a few.
Oddballs London: circus-style shop specialising in juggling equipment, unicycles and kites.
Bandai Namco Cross Store: For 3-floor arcade and video games, Japanese character products, collectables, card games and more.
Tribu London: Tribal jewellery with real edge and raw beauty.
Dr Martens: Flagship store of these alternative uniform shoes.
F.A.B. London: Fetish gear that isn’t for the faint-hearted.
No:Wear Designs: Punk meets burlesque - gritty, sexy, and totally unique.
And of course, Psylo: our own alternative fashion home.

Even though Cyberdog might be overrun with tourists these days, it’s still a rave culture temple - four floors of neon, beats, and everything you didn’t know you needed.

Camden’s Best Hair & Tattoo Studios

Man getting arm tattoos at Venom Tattoo, Camden

(photo credit: Venom Tattoo)

If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the local culture - have a go at looking like the locals! Our recommended studios for tattoos, piercing and art are Sai Sai Ink, Venom or Nemesis Tattoo. While for hair, dreadlocks and extensions, Camden Locks Alternative and Sin Salon are cool.

Camden’s Best Chill Spots

Olivia and Ryo chilling by Regent’s Canal, Camden. Both wear the Soba Dress

Olivia and Ryo chilling by Regent’s Canal, both wearing the Soba Dress (photo credit: Dan Thomas Photography).

Need a breather from the urban chaos? Camden’s got you covered, but you’ve got to know where to look. My Village opposite the Stables Market is a chilled-out, family-run café where you can refuel with wholesome food and soak in some boho vibes. For other options for a calmer eating experience, head to the independent restaurants on Parkway. If you’re in the mood to get outdoors, take a stroll along the Regent’s Canal or hop on a musical canal boat tour for a fresh look at Camden’s gritty, industrial side. Alternatively, a short walk away you can unwind at Primrose Hill with one of the most breathtaking views of London’s skyline.

Above all, remember that what makes Camden unique are the people. So allow yourself to get lost in small alleys and don't be shy to talk to locals and traders ;)

Been to any of these places? We would love to see your photos and hear about your Camden experience in “comments” below.

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