London Borough of Camden, London guide

The climb to the top of Primrose Hill is short, steep and worth it. Poets from William Blake to Dylan Thomas have been inspired by its unique, 360-degree view of the city. Once notorious as a dueling spot, it’s now famous for picnicking — a blanket and a flask of tea will mark you out as a real Londoner.

Camden Lock on Regent’s Canal was once a bustling hub where goods arrived in London by boat. The canal basin is just as busy today. Its grassy banks and towpath are a popular lunchtime hangout for tourists and locals. And the open-air stalls and cobbled yards of its world-famous market are packed with good deals and plenty of foot traffic.

Punk fashion was born in Camden. The neighborhood remains home to all kinds of subcultures, from goths and geeks to hippies and hipsters. That rebellious spirit lives on in its indie businesses. Get a tattoo, a mohawk or an aura reading. Or just walk the streets and watch the colorful crowds pass by.

From Camden Lock, walk the canal to Regent’s Park, an epic oasis in the heart of the city. Have a row on the boating lake, explore an adventure playground, or stop to smell the roses in its famed gardens. Its 420 acres include top family-friendly attractions such as a renowned open-air theater and London Zoo.

Camden is at the heart of London’s music scene, home to The Jazz Cafe and The Blues Kitchen. Famous rock musicians have been playing at venues like Dingwalls and the iconic Roundhouse — a former railway shed — since the 1960s. You’ll also find plenty of world music. And the Green Note is legendary for its intimate acoustic sets.

Important decisions are needed at Camden Market, whose unending street food options span the globe. You’ll also find unique takes on British classics — Yorkshire pudding burrito, anyone? And Hawley Wharf’s covered food court is a good option if it’s raining. But for the best restaurants in Camden, head to Primrose Hill, where eateries like Lemonia have been serving wealthy locals for decades.

Going out in Camden is a London rite of passage. From historic pubs to modern microbreweries, many venues have late licenses, allowing you to make the night last until morning. The clubs here are famous — the Electric Ballroom first opened its doors to dancers in 1978. And there’s plenty of alternative entertainment, including arcades, darts clubs and mini golf.

Curious figures loom from the garish shopfronts of Camden High Street, from a dragon to a giant shoe. Retro and vintage gear are big business on the main drag, as are streetwear and souvenirs. The vast Camden Market, which is spread across six sites, sells everything from cosmetics and crystals to costumes and comic books.

From late July through August, the performing arts festival Camden Fringe showcases dance, drama, stand-up comedy and everything in between. It’s a great time to check out the neighborhood’s intimate pub theaters and comedy clubs. Alternative and indie fans get their fix at various music festivals, including summer’s Camden Rocks.