The Camden Markets are a number of adjoining markets in Camden Town near the Hampstead Road Lock, off the Regent's Canal (which is usually called Camden Lock). Together they're collectively called "Camden Market" or "Camden Lock". The stalls sell crafts, clothing, bric-a-brac, fast food, and other paraphernalia. Camden Market is the fourth most popular visitor attraction in London, pulling in approximately 100,000 people each weekend.
It began in its present form in 1974 when the Camden Lock Crafts Market was formed. There was a small local food market in Inverness Street long before that; as of 2009 the market retains only three fruit and vegetable stalls in addition to stalls like those in the other markets. During the 1980s the market left its hippy roots behind and focussed more on contemporary fashions (it was 'the' place to acquire used Levi 501s with holes in the knees) and hot, ethnic fast food. Veggie curry was a regular fixture for decades.

The Stables Market is the largest section of Camden Market. It's built in the former Midland Railway stables and horse hospital which served the horses pulling barges along the canal. Many of the stalls and shops are set into huge arches in the railway viaducts.

The Stable Market is a mixture of indoor and outdoor shops and stalls, some permanent, others hired by the day. Chain stores are not permitted. Like most of the other Camden markets the Stables Market has clothes stalls in abundance. It's also the place to browse furniture in the markets. Many household goods and decorative items are also sold here, most of which are hand-made, and ethnically influenced. Some goods are second-hand or 'modern' antiques.

When you're new to London, it's one of the first places you go on a Sunday. It's heaving and the focus is on individual fashion and music - with food to keep you going. It's a tourist magnet, for sure - but an enjoyable place to spend your Sunday morning. If you're feeling adventurous - walk up to the Lock, hang a left and head off down the Regent's Canal for Little Venice. One of the best walks across town, bar none. More here: Walk the Regent's Canal to Little Venice.

Tube: Camden Town, Chalk Farm
Canal boat trips between here and Little Venice also stop at London Zoo.

Open:
Camden Lock Market: 10:00-18:00 7 days, off Chalk Farm Road
Stables Market: 10:00-18:00 7 days, off Chalk Farm Road

 

JavaScript must be enabled in order for you to use Google Maps.
However, it seems JavaScript is either disabled or not supported by your browser.
To view Google Maps, enable JavaScript by changing your browser options, and then try again.