Camden Market London Opening Times: Your 2025 Visitor’s Guide
- Comedy in Your Eye
- Oct 7
- 16 min read
Camden Market in London is one of those places you just have to see for yourself. With its mix of food, music, vintage stalls, and quirky shops, it’s easy to lose track of time while wandering around. But before you go, it’s smart to know the Camden Market London opening times, since different areas and shops run on their own schedules. This 2025 visitor’s guide will help you plan your trip, avoid crowds, and make sure you don’t miss any of the good stuff.
Key Takeaways
Camden Market is open every day, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but food halls and some bars stay open later.
Weekdays before noon are the quietest; weekends, especially afternoons, get packed fast.
Each part of the market—like Camden Lock, Stables, and Buck Street—has its own vibe and sometimes different opening hours.
Most food stalls start serving from 11:30 AM, and some keep going until late, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
To beat the crowds, use alternative tube stations like Chalk Farm or Mornington Crescent, and plan your route ahead.
Camden Market London Opening Times by Area
Camden Market is not just one giant market—it's a lively web of smaller markets, each with its own flavor. Knowing when each part opens (and when it really comes alive) can make or break your day.
Standard Opening Hours for Main Market
Almost every Camden market opens daily, rain or shine. Here's a bite-sized table to keep you on track:
Area | Regular Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Main Markets | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Open every day |
Camden Lock Market | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Stays lively to evening |
Stables Market | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Open late on weekends |
Most market sections keep these regular hours, but don’t be shocked if some traders pack up early, especially when foot traffic is light.
Expect the busiest stretches between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Arrive before noon for fewer crowds and a calmer vibe.
Weekdays tend to be quieter, especially Tuesday and Wednesday.
Food Hall and Street Food Timetable
Food is one of the top reasons to visit. Hawley Wharf and the main street food yards open later than the main shops—but they stay open much later too. If you want dinner at the market, you'll find:
Food Court | Hours |
|---|---|
Street Food Stalls | 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
Hawley Wharf Food | 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
Pubs & Restaurants | Open late, weekends busy |
If you're hungry before lunch, only a handful of breakfast spots will be ready. Dinner crowds roll in around 6:00 PM and don’t disappear until late, especially at Hawley Wharf’s best food vendors.
Some stalls sell out early on super busy days, so go early if you have your heart set on something.
Street food is busiest on Friday and Saturday nights.
Weekday afternoons mean less queueing and more places to sit.
The smells in the food yard hit you before you see what’s cooking—no need to worry about a picky group, everyone finds something.
Retail Shops and Special Holiday Hours
Shopping at Camden Market means finding both independent stalls and well-known brands. Shops all have their quirks, especially around holidays. Here’s how it usually works:
Day | Retail Hours |
|---|---|
Mon–Wed | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Thursday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Fri–Sat | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Sunday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Times can shift for Christmas, New Year’s, and bank holidays, but markets rarely ever close completely—just a slower start or early finish now and then.
Best shopping hours are early afternoons on weekdays. Weekends mean crowds, deals, and late-night energy.
Sometimes, individual stalls shut early if it’s slow or the weather’s rough.
If you’re stuck waiting for the shops to open or wrapping up your day and want something completely different, the Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club brings fresh acts and laugh-out-loud sets every night—sometimes you just need to end your Camden adventure with some serious comedy.
Seasonal Patterns and the Best Times to Visit
Camden Market doesn’t have a true off-season, but the way crowds ebb and flow really depends on the time of year, special events, and even what day of the week you swing by. Here’s what you need to know to pick the best moment for your visit and avoid the worst of the crowds.
The Busiest vs. Quietest Days
Some days, Camden feels like everyone in London had the same idea as you. If you want a chill experience without elbowing your way through throngs of people, timing is everything. Weekdays are usually calm, especially early in the day. Saturdays and Sundays, however, can be intense—packed walkways, full food stalls, and barely any room to breathe.
Day of the Week | Typical Crowd Level |
|---|---|
Monday | Quiet |
Tuesday | Very Quiet |
Wednesday | Quiet |
Thursday | Moderate |
Friday | Busy (afternoon) |
Saturday | Extremely Busy |
Sunday | Very Busy |
If you can only do weekends, arriving before 11 am or after 4 pm helps a bit—vendors might be more relaxed, and you’ll get a better look at what’s for sale. For even more breathing room, take a cue from seasoned market explorers and go early on a weekday when things are quieter, as suggested over at Maltby Street Market and Borough Market.
Tips for Early Morning or Late Afternoon Visits
The best way to make the most out of Camden is to go when the market is opening or as things are winding down. Here’s why:
Stalls are stocked, and the street food is fresh in the morning.
Fewer queues at both food spots and shops.
Sellers are sometimes more open to a chat (and a bit of friendly bargaining).
You miss the midday tourist crush and have more time to check out each area.
If you prefer quiet strolls and want better photos without strangers in every shot, mornings are gold.
Nothing beats grabbing a coffee and wandering Camden’s back alleys before the city wakes up.
Holiday and Special Event Dates
Special events can transform Camden, drawing huge crowds and creating an electric vibe—or making it a challenge to walk more than ten feet without bumping into someone. The winter holiday season (late November through December), certain summer festivals, and events like Easter egg hunts fill every corner of the market. Most areas (including Inverness Street, Buck Street, and Hawley Wharf) stay open longer on these dates, and sometimes feature pop-up stalls, extra music, or food specials.
A few recurring moments to keep in mind:
December holiday weekends: Christmas shopping brings more crowds and fun decorations.
Easter holidays: Kid-focused events and family crowds.
Summer weekends: Festival vibe with more live music and street food pop-ups.
If you’re hoping for a blend of fun and less chaos, aim for off-peak times just before or right after the big rushes.
On top of all this, Camden after dark has its own buzz—especially after a show. If you’re sticking around the area for the evening, don’t forget to check out the Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club. There are late-night laughs and a unique venue vibe that fit perfectly after a long day exploring Camden.
Exploring Camden’s Distinct Market Sections
Camden Lock Market started out as just a handful of craft-focused stalls decades ago, but now, it’s become one of London’s biggest destinations for anyone on the hunt for something different. You’ll wander past shops selling graphic t-shirts, vinyl records, second-hand clothes, handmade jewelry, and more food stands than you can count. The place is set right next to Regent’s Canal, so it’s easy to take a break by the water if the crowds get to you.
Over 1,000 unique stalls, cafes, and bars
Strong focus on arts, crafts, and alternative fashion
Lively canal-side setting for people watching or chill time
If you’ve come looking for that quirky, unexpected gift or a bite you can’t get anywhere else, Camden Lock Market is where you should start.
The variety here can be overwhelming, but that’s exactly what people love about it. Don’t rush — you’ll always find something new around every corner.
Stables Market and Vintage Finds
A short walk north brings you to the famous Stables Market, and it honestly does feel like you could get lost in its maze-like passages. The vibe is less polished, more wild, with stalls in old horse hospital buildings. There are 700+ shops and stalls selling everything from goth and steampunk fashion to retro furniture and classic leather jackets. Stables Market is where you spot vintage or handmade oddities and nods to Camden legends like Amy Winehouse (her statue is right here).
Some classic Stables Market finds:
Vintage dresses and biker jackets
Antique trinkets and quirky home goods
Alternative clothing and music memorabilia
If unique is your thing, this is heaven — far from your average London mall.
Buck Street and Inverness Street Markets
Right on Camden High Street, Buck Street Market stands out with its stacked shipping containers and eco-conscious approach. It’s mostly outdoors, striking if you care about sustainability or want plant-based food. There are about 200 stalls and it feels a bit more open and organized than other parts of Camden. You’ll find:
Young fashion brands with a twist
Vegan food stalls
Handmade jewelry and eco-friendly gifts
Meanwhile, Inverness Street Market is just a few minutes away, and it’s a bit of a throwback. You still see fresh fruit and vegetable stands here (a rarity now), plus a clutch of small souvenir and specialty shops. Locals pop by for groceries or a quick pint in one of the nearby pubs, so it’s got a different, more neighborhood feel.
Market Section | Focus | Number of Stalls | Must-Try Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
Camden Lock Market | Arts, crafts, food | 1,000+ | Try the street food by the canal |
Stables Market | Vintage, retro, alt style | 700+ | Find a one-off fashion piece |
Buck Street Market | Eco, fashion, food | 200 | Sample vegan treats in the containers |
Inverness Street | Produce, casual shops | ~20 | Grab fresh fruit or a craft beer |
If you want a little break from shopping and eating, here’s a tip: when you’re done trawling the stalls, unwind with some laughs at Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club. Their shows in Camden are packed with stand-up, and it’s the perfect pick-me-up after a day of crowds and bargain hunting!
Food and Drink: Where to Eat at Camden Market
Camden Market is a star when it comes to food. The whole place feels like one big dinner table where everyone’s invited. Whether you want to graze on rebellious street snacks or settle in for a meal with a canal view, there’s always something happening for your taste buds.
Street Food Stalls Opening Times
You can rely on Camden’s street food vendors to get going earlier than most, because hungry crowds start arriving before lunch. Here’s a quick table of when to expect your favorite bites:
Area/Stall Section | Typical Opening Hours |
|---|---|
Hawley Wharf Food Hall | 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
West Yard Street Food | 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
North Yard Food Kiosks | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Weekend Late-Night Stalls | Until 10:00 PM+ |
Almost all food stalls are open 7 days a week, but if you arrive right at opening time on a weekday, the lines are super short and you get the first pick.
Best Picks from North Yard and Hawley Wharf
With so many choices, it honestly feels impossible to try them all in one trip—believe me, I’ve tried. Here are my top recs to zero in on:
Baba G’s Bhangra Burgers (try the poppadom nachos, they’re no joke)
The Mac Factory for ultra-rich, creamy mac & cheese
Meathead’s birria tacos—these are messy but worth every napkin
Lulu’s Schnitzel for something a bit different
Pino’s Warung if you want hidden-gem Indonesian flavors
For dessert: Humble Crumble or Hans & Gretel (this one’s wild)
Pro tip: If you’re coming with friends, split up to tacklethe queues—each person grabs from a different stall and you re-group by the canal to feast.
Late-Night Eats and Weekend Specials
On weekends, Camden Market comes alive even after sunset. Late-night food stands keep cooking until around 10:00 PM, and you’ll spot plenty of locals grabbing dinner while the music and energy fill the air. Some restaurants on the edges of the market go even later, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Some weekend-only specials to look for:
Pop-up BBQs and paella pans at the edge of North Yard
Dessert carts outside Hawley Wharf after 8 PM
Secret menu items at certain stalls—ask, and you might just get something the regular tourists miss
If you need a break from all that food, the Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club is the perfect spot to laugh off those calories. Grab a ticket for an evening stand-up show—because in Camden, the fun doesn’t stop just because the sun goes down.
Getting to Camden Market London and Navigating Crowds
Camden Market is lively, unique, and packed with surprises—but getting there and actually enjoying your day can be a little tricky if you land in the middle of a crowd. Let’s break down how to arrive, when to go, and some tips to move around even on the busiest weekends.
Best Tube and Bus Routes for Your Arrival Time
The Northern Line’s Camden Town station is the closest, but it gets extremely busy, especially on weekends and during big events. Here are some ways to get to the market:
Camden Town Tube: Just a couple minutes' walk to Inverness Street and Buck Street Markets. Note: This station can switch to exit-only on weekends due to crowd control.
Chalk Farm Tube: About five minutes from Stables Market and tends to be less packed. A smart pick if you want a calmer entrance.
Mornington Crescent Tube: A bit further, but perfect for walking along Regent’s Canal or for a quieter start.
Bus Routes: Lines 24, 29, 134, 214, 274, and 393 all stop within short walking distance. Buses can be slower during rush hour, but you tend to avoid the chaos of the tube.
Overground Trains: Camden Road Overground is another solid option, just a ten-minute walk to the heart of the market.
Station | Walk to Market | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Camden Town | 2 min | Quickest, busiest |
Chalk Farm | 5 min | Quiet entry |
Mornington Crescent | 8 min | Canal stroll |
Camden Road (OG) | 10 min | Alternative arrival |
St. Pancras (train) | 24 min | Daytrip connections |
If you want to miss the worst crowds, arrive before 10 am on weekdays or after 3 pm on Sundays. Saturdays see the heaviest foot traffic, so grab a coffee and start early if you’re set on a weekend visit.
Parking Options During Market Hours
Driving in isn’t the most convenient, but it’s doable:
Street parking nearby is extremely limited and is often pricy with strict time restrictions.
Car parks at St. Pancras Station or the edges of Regent’s Park are your best bets. Expect a solid walk to the market itself.
Look for pay-and-display areas, and always check for signs—wardens are quick to ticket illegally parked cars.
Quick Parking Checklist:
Park at St. Pancras if you want security and don’t mind a 20-minute walk.
Avoid street parking near the market, especially weekends.
Use mobile apps to find open spaces or special deals on multi-hour rates.
Accessibility and Getting Around
Camden Market is spread out across winding paths, steps, and old cobbled alleys—some parts are easy to get turned around in. Here's what you need to know:
Wheelchair Users & Strollers: Many major paths are step-free, and some larger sections (like Camden Lock and the North Yard) are accessible, but tight corners and busy crowds can make pushing through tricky.
Busy Times: Saturdays and holidays are particularly tough for those with mobility needs. Try weekday mornings for more space.
Shortcuts: Local backstreets and canal-side paths are quieter and can get you between market sections faster than following the crowds along Camden High Street.
Top Tips for Moving Around Camden Market:
Skip the High Street for fewer crowds; try the canal walk instead.
Stick to larger paths through the market, especially when it’s busy.
Avoid carrying heavy bags; storage lockers are scarce.
You’ll have more fun if you’re patient, walk at your own pace, and duck into one of the quieter pubs or cafes when you need a break. Markets can fill up quickly, but a little planning goes a long way.
Before you wrap up your visit, why not check out a night of laughs at Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club? The club is right in Camden, making it the perfect way to unwind after a long shopping spree—just walk over, grab a drink, and enjoy some fresh stand-up from local comedians. Your Camden trip isn’t complete without a good laugh!
Experiences Beyond Shopping and Food
Camden Market isn’t just racks of shirts or plates of noodles—there’s loads going on if you know where to look. Even after your arms are full of shopping bags and you’ve tasted something spicy, Camden’s energy keeps rolling.
Workshops and Events with Changing Hours
Camden Market puts on all sorts of workshops. You can book yourself into a bread-baking session, give painting a try, or even join in on a quick yoga class. The workshops change through the year, and new ones pop up every season, so it’s always worth checking the market’s event list before you go. Some run at set times (especially weekends), others you can just drop into if there’s space.
Typical Workshop Times:
Workshop Type | Weekdays | Weekends |
|---|---|---|
Art or Craft | 12–5 pm | 11–6 pm |
Baking or Cooking | 1–4 pm | 12–5 pm |
Yoga/Meditation | 8–10 am | 10–11 am |
Always check in advance: times may shift, especially around holidays
Some sessions book out, so reserve ahead if you can
There’s no dress code (except for kitchen safety stuff)
Drop-in workshops are a great way to break up your day, especially if you’re with a friend who isn’t into shopping. You might leave Camden with a cake you baked or a weirdly-shaped mug.
Family-Friendly Activities and Seasonal Festivals
Camden Market keeps families entertained too. Across the year, there are kid-friendly art workshops, scavenger hunts, canal photo booths, and sometimes you’ll bump into pop-up performances or face painting stands. Festival days are surprisingly inclusive, with special stalls and themed games during events like Halloween, Día de los Muertos, or the summer solstice.
What to look for with kids:
Easter egg hunts in spring — simple, fun, and busy!
Craft tables during holidays — check North Yard and the main courtyards
Winter lantern walks — usually free, and packed with lights
If you prefer structure, you can also book a guided tour that focuses on fun history and quirky shops.
Live Music, Art, and Nightlife Options
Camden’s art and music side is legendary. Street artists often set up right at the market, painting murals or selling prints. There’s free live music around, from solo guitarists to bands tucked away in corners or outside bars. You’ll also catch poetry, buskers, or even random circus acts on weekends. If you’re staying late, nightlife is everywhere—iconic venues, canal-side bars, and clubs open until morning. Legendary spots like the Roundhouse put on big-name gigs, but even the smaller bars have great bands now and then.
Nightlife is intense Friday and Saturday nights, with:
Open-mic jam sessions
Pop-up club nights
Secret pub crawls
If you want a break from the usual, check out Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club for something different and some good laughs—it’s perfect for closing out your Camden evening and makes for the best story when you get home.
Planning Your Visit to Maximize Camden Market London Opening Times
Getting the most out of a day at Camden Market takes a bit of timing and strategy. With so many sections, changing opening schedules, and a crowd that's always on the move, advanced planning really can make or break your experience. The best way to feel relaxed instead of rushed is to know what opens when and where you can beat the biggest crowds. Below, I've broken down how to craft your ideal route and what to keep in mind for a smooth trip.
Crafting Your Own Walking Route
A little bit of route planning saves a lot of hassle:
Start early, if you can—most market areas open at 10:00 AM, but food halls and some retail don't kick off until a bit later.
Plot your visit around the market's distinct areas. For example, hit Buck Street Market first for an eco-friendly start, then wander up to the famous Stables Market for vintage finds (read more about Camden Market highlights here).
Don’t miss Camden Lock itself for handmade arts and crafts, and swing by Hawley Wharf when the food stalls start buzzing around 11:30 AM.
Here's a quick guide you can jot down:
Market Section | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
Main Market Areas | 10:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
Retail Shops (weekdays) | 12:00 PM | 6:00 PM |
Retail Shops (weekends) | 11:00 AM | 7:00 PM (Fri/Sat) |
Food Halls | 11:30 AM | 11:00 PM |
Wandering through Camden early means vendors are setting up, the pace is slow, and you can really take in the market’s character before the crowds roll in.
Combining Market Trips with Local Attractions
Camden is more than just its famous market. If you want to mix it up:
Combine your shopping spree with a walk along Regent’s Canal – it’s peaceful in the mornings.
Visit the Amy Winehouse statue at Stables Market for a pop culture photo op.
If you’ve got extra time, add a stroll to Primrose Hill for one of London’s best (and free) views.
With all the unique food stalls opening a bit later, it’s worth planning your browsing first and lunch second. That way, you get the freshest food with minimal lines around midday.
Top Tips for Beating the Rush
No one likes to shuffle elbow-to-elbow through Camden’s packed corridors. Avoid the hassle with a few tricks:
Visit on a weekday morning – it’s way more relaxed than weekends.
If weekends are your only option, show up right at 10:00 AM or after 5:00 PM.
Try alternative tube stations like Chalk Farm or Mornington Crescent to avoid Camden Town’s bottleneck exits.
If you still want something fun after shopping, check out a show at Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a busy day—it’s just a few minutes away and offers a hilarious twist to cap your Camden adventure.
Wrapping Up Your Camden Market Adventure
So, that’s pretty much everything you need to know before heading to Camden Market in 2025. Whether you’re after a wild new outfit, a bite of something you’ve never tried, or just want to wander and people-watch, Camden’s got you covered. The place is open every day, and honestly, you could spend hours there and still not see it all. If you want to dodge the crowds, go early on a weekday. But if you love the buzz, weekends are where it’s at—just be ready for a bit of chaos. Bring some cash for haggling, wear comfy shoes, and don’t stress if you get a little lost; that’s half the fun. Camden Market is one of those spots that always has something new around the corner, so just go with the flow and enjoy the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Camden Market open every day in 2025?
Yes, Camden Market is open every day, including weekends and bank holidays. Most stalls start at 10:00 AM and close around 6:00 or 7:00 PM, but food halls and some restaurants stay open later.
What time should I visit Camden Market to avoid crowds?
The quietest times are weekday mornings before noon. Weekends, especially Saturdays and Sundays, get very busy. If you want a calmer visit, try coming early or later in the afternoon.
Are there any special events or holiday hours at Camden Market?
Camden Market is open on most holidays, but some shops may change their hours for big events or special days like Day of the Dead. Always check the Camden Market website for updates before you go.
How do I get to Camden Market by public transport?
You can take the Northern Line to Camden Town station, but it gets crowded on weekends. Chalk Farm, Mornington Crescent, and Camden Road Overground stations are good alternatives. Several buses also stop nearby.
Is Camden Market easy to explore for people with limited mobility?
Camden Market has some cobbled paths and busy spots, but there are step-free routes and accessible toilets. If you need more space, try visiting during quieter hours or use the Chalk Farm entrance, which is less crowded.
Can I bring my dog to Camden Market?
Yes, dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas of Camden Market, but they should be on a leash. Some indoor shops and food spots may not allow pets, so it's best to check with each place.