Last Updated on 20 September, 2023
For good reason, Camden Market is a must-see for any tourist in London. Whether you’re a native or a visitor, a day spent at this landmark will leave an indelible impression.
It can be difficult to know where to begin when exploring Camden Market in London, as there are so many options. In light of the abundance of one-of-a-kind stores, it’s no wonder that visitors come from all over the world each week.
The market has expanded greatly since the stalls were relocated to more convenient locations like the former O2 box area and Lockor Wharf by the canal. Among the cool and free things to do in London, markets are up there on the list of what to do in London.
A little about Camden Market
Camden Town, a district in central London, is well-known for its many outdoor markets, most notably the Camden Market. It is one of the busiest tourist areas in London, attracting thousands of visitors every week.
Since its opening in the 1830s, the market has served as a vital part of London. The market is open seven days a week, but on the weekends and holidays, it is particularly busy.
In today’s global economy, there are markets for a wide range of goods. Clothing, food, trinkets, bartering, and the performing arts all have their own distinct commercial districts.
What to expect when visiting Camden Market
Camden Market is a fantastic place to look for one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones due to the incredible variety of goods it sells. Accessories such as jewelry, handbags, shoes, and more can be found alongside the clothing.
The vast selection of items available at the market is a major plus. The market’s wide selection of foods, clothes, accessories, music and everything in between makes it easy for anyone to find something they enjoy eating, wearing, or listening to.
You can get anything from fish and chips to burgers to Mediterranean food to French crepes. Everything from art, antiques, one-of-a-kind accessories, the list is endless. Many street vendors sell a wide variety of foods, from tacos and curries to jerk chicken and hot dogs.
Food on offer at Camden Market
Even though there are restaurants, pubs, and cafes scattered all around Camden market, each section has its own specialties. Near Lock Bridge, you’ll find a wide variety of Asian food stalls selling everything from Chinese to Japanese to Thai to Tibetan.
There are two other vendors selling food, one of whom is famous for his carbonara and the other for his crepes. Camden High Street is lined with food stalls selling everything from Western fare to Asian specialties. Taco stands, Jamaican jerk chicken stands, and even a Japanese yakitori stand can be found here. This market is simply food heaven among all the craft items and antiques that dot the market.
It’s incredible the range of preferences represented here at this market. You won’t believe the selection at the more than 300 stalls selling independent companies. Bars and restaurants are also plentiful, but we did the research for you.
In order to experience some of London’s finest food markets without the hassle of crowds, it is recommended that you arrive early.
Camden Market opening times
Despite being open seven days a week, the Camden Market is busiest on the weekends. The market opens at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Sundays and at 11 a.m. on Saturdays. It closes somewhere between 5 and 9 o’clock, depending on the day.
The market is busiest on holidays, when it shuts at 7 o’clock. The market is the least busy during the weekdays, making it easy to meander around and take it all in. On weekends and during holidays, it may become very crowded, so it is preferable to arrive early.
Interesting facts about the Camden Market
At its peak, Camden Market once sold up to 240 different food and drink products from up to 300 stalls on any given day. Punk rock T-shirts (great concealment for rowdy teenagers), used books, vinyl records, and handmade jewelry are just some of the items that draw customers in today, but the vibe is what keeps them coming back for more.
Things To Do Near Camden Market
- We have covered in detail the best things to do in Camden here but for a quick inspiration below are a few places not to miss.
- Camden Town: Camden Town is a popular tourist destination in London. The neighborhood of Camden is well-known for its abundance of unique stores and delicious eateries.
- Nearby is one of London’s most visited parks, Regent’s Park attracts a lot of visitors. The park is lovely, and it’s home to a wide variety of wildlife.
- It’s no exaggeration to say that the Camden Arts Centre is among the best-known museums in all of London. It features a wide range of contemporary art exhibitions, especially works by emerging artists.
- The British Library is among the world’s largest collections of books. Lots of books and manuscripts are kept there, among other things.
- Visit Little Venice which you can do via a canal boat tour to and from Camden Market.
- There are so many amazing and colorful streets in Camden perfect for that Instagram shot.
- Check out the street art scene tacked away in the streets of Camden Town.
- Go for a gig in many of the bars and pubs that offer free and paid gigs in Camden Town.
