Camden Market

You either like Camden Market or you don't. I like it during the week and avoid it like the plague on weekends when it’s very busy. You literally have to jostle for space during peak times on Saturdays and Sundays.

The vibe is distinctly alternative, tied to Camden’s history as a hotspot for punk, goth, and counterculture movements. The Stables Market, for instance, is built into old horse tunnels and stables from the area’s industrial past, adding a quirky, historical edge. It’s busiest on weekends, especially Sundays when the streets buzz with live music and crowds.

The market has become a firm favourite with tourists and domestic visitors. I suspect Londoners pop in and out when they want, but I saw many tourists and a few locals.

My Recent Trips

Initially, I went on a back-of-another photography project, but I really enjoyed the afternoon. There are lots of quirky shops and stalls. The area keeps evolving, so you get to see different sights, sounds, and colours.

My most recent experience was going on a Saturday, and trust me, it was an experience, to say the least, especially near Camden Lock. I also bought a couple of things and had lunch.

The Market History

The market was started on the 31st March 31, 1974, when Camden Lock Market opened with just 16 stalls. This small setup was spearheaded by entrepreneurs, including Peter Wheeler and John Burton, who saw potential in the disused timber yard near the Regent’s Canal in Camden Town.

The area was very creative, and coupled with the bohemian vibe, it tapped into the counterculture spirit of the 1970s. The early stalls sold crafts, antiques, and second-hand goods.

The location was ideal because of the Canal System, which was built in the 19th century to transport goods. By the mid-20th century, much industry had started to die down, leaving behind empty warehouses and yards ripe for reinvention.

The success of Camden Lock Market sparked growth, and it quickly became a weekend hangout for London’s alternative crowd, including punks, hippies, and artists, who were already drawn to the area’s cheap rents and gritty charm. This is how I remember Camden Market as a child - a hippie haven. My parents weren’t too keen on the market back then either.

The 1980s

The market expanded as Camden’s reputation as a music and subculture hotspot solidified. Bands like The Clash and Madness played in nearby venues, and the punk movement left a lasting mark.

The Stables Market

The Stables Market has a fantastic history. It took over the old Pickford stables and railway tunnels once used for horses that pulled canal barges. These atmospheric brick arches gave the market a unique edge, and stalls there leaned into vintage fashion and records, which gave Camden its rebellious edge.

The 1990s

Camden Market came into its own, with multiple sections like Buck Street Market (focused on clothing) and the Canal Market joining the market. However, a significant fire in 1991 could have been catastrophic, but instead, it led to rebuilding and modernising the market.

Visitor numbers soared, with nearly 100,000 people visiting on weekends by the late ’90s, fuelled by the tourists who wanted an alternative to the City’s tourist attractions.

The 2000s

A devastating fire in 2008 gutted parts of the Canal Market, destroying stalls and displacing traders. Instead of progress stalling, the Hawley Wharf development rose from the ashes, opening in 2021 with a fresher, multi-level setup that blended the market’s raw spirit with modern amenities.

The market changed owners for £300 million, and the Israeli billionaire Teddy Sagi invested in its infrastructure while trying to preserve its character—no easy feat as gentrification crept into Camden Town.

Expensive Tat?

Some markets can be a bit hit and miss, especially the popular ones in London. As they’re predominantly catering to tourists, you’ll see a lot of shops with London-branded merchandise.

Today, Camden Market has a vast network of over 1,000 stalls across its various sections, attracting around 250,000 visitors weekly.

You’ll find everything from vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and unique jewellery to records, art, and antiques. The food scene is a big draw, too. I find there’s something for everyone. As with street food, finding a seating area is a challenge.

Assault On The Senses

Walk right to the end near Camden Lock, and you can get loads of tasty exotic foods. The place is an assault on the senses. You can get anything from Korean BBQ, Ethiopian stews, classic fish and chips, Thai, Indian, Fusion, snacks, and other foods from around the world. If you need a spot to sit or perceive, head to the canal.

Parting Comments

Camden Market is a firm favourite for most tourists. It’s known for its diverse mix of stalls, shops, and street food, which attracts both locals and tourists. Most people don’t know this, but the actual market comprises several adjoining markets, including Camden Lock Market, Stables Market, and the original Buck Street Market, each with its character.

Take your time as you walk around the market, and you’ll see for yourself how the market has been resilient in the face of gentrification, adapted, and held on to its alternative roots as it’s grown from a scrappy craft fair to a global destination.

IF you enjoyed reading this article and want to support my work, you can now buy me a coffee ☕️.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TabbyLondon

Thank you for your attention

Best wishes

Tabby