Welcome to Camden!
In this part of London, the beer flows like water, the music scene keeps pumping, and the unique creatures that cultivate the eclectic vibes make this area of London truly worth visiting.
Camden has long been a hip area of London known for the breed of new music artists. The most renowned music artist emerging from Camden was Amy Winehouse with her hit songs such as Valerie and Back to Black. You can feel her spirit as you walk the streets towards Camden Locks. Don't forget to see her statue just as you enter the Camden Market on the corner of Chalk Farm Road and Hartland Road.
Time is of the essence. So, you will get the best Camden experience by visiting the Camden Locks.
Camden Locks:
For those looking for a 'local experience,' explore the Camden Locks with an array of art, crafts, and clothing that will for certain resonate as a symbol of your Camden visit. These local artists have a brilliant talent and being part of their story is truly rewarding.
Immerse yourself inside with the classic architecture of the market interior such as the balcony entrance that takes you to a different world of local art.
Beyond the crowds of tourist and locals, you will emerge into the local feeling of Camden with its market vibe of different ethnic foods and small businesses offering a taste of the Camden flavour.
The aromas of the ethnic foods will lead you into the heart of Camden, which has something for everyone from families, group of friends, or couples. Whether your taste buds are for Thai food, Japanese, British or simply, an ice cream parlour, you will find it at Camden Market Hawley Warf. Head to the second level through stairs or lift and have even more food options so arrive here on an empty stomach.
For those interested entertainment, there is a games room called Lane7 with games such as bowling, basketball, and Wack-O-mole. Whether you are with kids or want to feel like a kid again, you will for certain have a good time at Lane7.
Camden Market and The Stables Market
Located after Camden Locks.
The quintessential feeling of being in Camden will never fail to amaze you. For those with a curousity for an even more local experience, head over to Camden Market and Stables Market to taste Camden so arrive with an empty stomach. You will find foods such as crepes, Thai food, fish and chips, and more...
There are a variety of clothing stores, accessories, leather, and souvenirs' with local Camden designs and a flare of artsy inspiration.
Roundhouse
As you walk down Regent's Canal Towpath, you get to see the hidden side of London with modern to postmodern buildings and graffiti that enlightens the artsy culture of Camden Town. Careful as this pathway can get quite narrow in certain parts and be on the lookout for cyclists that may be on the same path. Nevertheless, move effortlessly to one side to let these cyclists pass you as there is no barrier preventing you from falling into the canal.
The Regents Canal is the longest in central London stretching from Paddington, to Little Venice, to Camden Town, to Kings Cross, and emptying at Limehouse in East London. You can easily tour through the heart of Central London, find hidden treasures and cute cafes, and end up in East London near the Thames River.
On this journey, I only made it to Kings Cross which is about a 45 minute walk from Camden Town.
The hidden gems behind the Regent's Canal are the quintessential colourful boats docked along the canal that have a story or character of their own. It is a lovely sight for anyone visiting London for the first time. These boats may seem as an imagery from a Midsummer Nights dream, but in fact, most of these boats are floating homes.
After speaking to some locals on a sunny spring day, I found out from one lad that he pays approximately £1 000 per year for a licence to dock his boat on the Regent's Canal and live on the boat.
Why do they live on a boat? According to the Londoner I spoke to, the cost of living keeps rising and affordable rent in London is difficult to find. This could be a logistical way for some to live in London to combat the rise of the cost of living in London, but apparently it is an alternative, but with a cost, of course.
If you are in the mood for a tasty cuisine by the canal, I suggest you pop in this to this lovely restaurant called The Constitution. This restaurant is locate approximately after the fifth bridge you will pass under. I suggest arrive early or make reservations as it can get quite crowded during lunchtime. They offer Sunday Roast and a mixed menu of me seasonal and British dishes.
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