In short
London’s punk neighbourhood is Camden Town, just north of the centre (Camden Town tube station). Come for the street art and Camden Market, open seven days a week, and for legendary venues such as the Roundhouse, the Electric Ballroom and the Underworld. One day is enough to see it all, evening gig included.
Contents
Camden Town is still the beating heart of London’s alternative scene: market stalls, painted façades, live music every night and a rebellious streak that gentrification has never quite managed to tame. Here is our guide to London’s punk neighbourhood, with a one-day itinerary and practical tips.
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Why Camden is London’s punk neighbourhood
On 4 July 1976, the Ramones played the Roundhouse, Camden’s former railway engine shed. In the crowd were several of the young musicians about to launch British punk. Over the following years, Camden’s pubs and clubs became home to punk, then to new wave, goth and Britpop. Amy Winehouse, who lived in the area, is now one of its most celebrated figures. Despite rising rents and chain shops, Camden has kept its alternative identity.
Camden Town Amy Winehouse tour
A punk day in Camden
Morning: street art and Camden Market
Start at Camden Market, made up of several areas (Camden Lock, the Stables Market and Buck Street Market). The shopfronts on Camden High Street are works of art in themselves, with giant boots, dragons and sculpted façades. Look out for the many murals, including tributes to Amy Winehouse and David Bowie.
Lunch: street food by the canal
The market’s food stalls serve dishes from all over the world. Eat by Regent’s Canal, at the foot of Camden Lock.
Afternoon: legendary venues
Walk past the Electric Ballroom, one of London’s best-known rock venues, and the Underworld, a basement club beneath the World’s End pub, both pillars of the punk, metal and alternative scene. Then head to the Roundhouse, now an arts centre, where the 1976 Ramones gig took place.
Evening: a gig
Check the listings: the Electric Ballroom, the Underworld, the Roundhouse, Dingwalls and the Camden Assembly host gigs almost every night, from up-and-coming bands to big names. End the night with a pint in one of Camden’s rock pubs.
Getting there and practical tips
- Getting there: Camden Town or Chalk Farm tube stations (Northern line), or a walk along Regent’s Canal from King’s Cross or Little Venice.
- Camden Market: open seven days a week, busiest at weekends. Come on a weekday morning for a calmer visit.
- Gigs: book ahead for the bigger venues, especially the Roundhouse.
- Respect: ask before photographing people, and tip the artists.
- Safety: Camden is lively and generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowds and at night.
Explore London further
Camden is easy to combine with a walk along Regent’s Canal, Primrose Hill for the view, or Shoreditch for even more street art. Our guides: London in 3 days and the best free things to do in London.
FAQ
What is the punk neighbourhood of London?
Camden Town, in north London. Since the 1970s it has been home to the punk and alternative music scene, with venues such as the Roundhouse, the Electric Ballroom and the Underworld, and the famous Camden Market.
Is Camden still a punk neighbourhood today?
Yes, even though it has changed. The markets, pubs, vintage shops and music venues still keep its alternative spirit alive, alongside a much more touristy side.
What should I see in Camden?
Camden Market (Camden Lock, the Stables and Buck Street), the decorated shopfronts of Camden High Street, Regent’s Canal, the Roundhouse, the Electric Ballroom and the Underworld, plus a gig in the evening.
Is Camden safe for tourists?
Yes, Camden is generally safe, especially during the day. As in any busy area, watch out for pickpockets in crowds and stay alert late at night.
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