Discover the Best Camden Vinyl Shop for Your Next Record Haul

Planning a record hunt in London? Camden is definitely a spot to check out. While some say its best days are behind it, there are still plenty of places to dig for vinyl. This guide will point you to some of the top spots to find your next favorite record, no matter your taste. Get ready to explore the best camden vinyl shop options around.

Key Takeaways

• Camden offers a variety of record shops, from general stores to genre specialists.

• Out On The Floor Records is noted as the oldest and a strong generalist with a good ska and reggae selection.

• Disc Disciples is a long-standing reggae specialist within Camden Market.

• Sounds That Swing focuses on rockabilly, early soul, and rock 'n' roll.

• All Ages Records is a major punk specialist that sources stock globally.

Out On The Floor Records

Right in the heart of Camden, Out On The Floor Records is a spot that’s been around for a while, and honestly, it feels like a bit of a Camden institution. It’s actually two shops rolled into one, which is pretty neat. You’ve got the ground floor, which is where you’ll find a solid mix of rock, reggae, and soul. Then, there’s the basement, which leans more towards indie stuff. The basement’s hours can be a little unpredictable, so if you’re set on checking it out, maybe give them a call first.

I spent some time browsing the ground floor, and it’s got a good variety. You’ll see the usual suspects – Bowie, The Beatles, Amy Winehouse – which is pretty standard for shops in busy tourist areas. But dig a little deeper, and you can find some gems. They’ve built up a really strong reputation over the years for their ska and reggae selection, which is apparently some of the best you’ll find in the city. Even if that’s not your main jam, it’s worth checking out their reggae section. I managed to snag a copy of Mantronix’s “This Should Move Ya” and a volume from the Street Sounds series, which I’ve been trying to complete for ages. It’s a slow process, finding them in good condition, you know?

The shop has a good mix of everything, from well-known artists to more obscure finds. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a good hour just sifting through the racks.

If you’re looking for specific genres, they’ve got a decent range. While I was there, I noticed a good amount of soul records, and the reggae section is definitely a highlight. They also have a good selection of 12-inch singles, which can be a goldmine for DJs or collectors. It’s a place that feels like it caters to both casual browsers and serious collectors. I’ve heard they have a particularly good selection of ska, which is something I’m trying to explore more myself. It’s always exciting to find a record like the "Tuff Scout - Out On The Floor Dub Tuff Scout LP" [6efd], even if it’s out of stock right now.

So, if you find yourself in Camden and in the mood for some record hunting, Out On The Floor is definitely worth a visit. It’s got that classic record store vibe, and you never know what you might unearth. And hey, if you’re looking for some laughs after all that digging, make sure to check out the Your Eye Comedy Club nearby – it’s a great way to cap off a day of crate-digging.

Disc Disciples

Tucked away inside Camden Market, Disc Disciples is a spot you might easily miss if you're not looking for it. It's not the biggest place, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its carefully chosen selection. The owner, Danny Haywood, has a real knack for stocking a solid range of soul, funk, and jazz. I've found myself digging through their crates more than once, always hoping to unearth a hidden gem.

What I particularly appreciate about Disc Disciples is the surprisingly good amount of disco records they manage to fit in. Plus, they have a really strong 70s and 80s section that always catches my eye. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a good chunk of time without realizing it, just sifting through the vinyl. It’s definitely one of my go-to spots when I’m in the market and looking for something a bit different.

Disc Disciples might be small, but its curated selection makes it a worthwhile stop for any serious vinyl hunter.

If you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record digging, you should definitely check out the Your In Eye Comedy Club. They've got some great shows lined up, and it's a perfect way to unwind.

Camden Lock Vinyl

Tucked away within the bustling Camden Lock Market, this shop is a solid spot for grabbing records, especially if you're looking for some of the more well-known artists. They seem to stock a good amount of the big names, which is probably a smart move considering how many tourists wander through the market.

I’ve always managed to find something interesting here on my visits. On my last trip, I stumbled upon Jane Wiedlin’s 1985 debut LP. It was a bit of a surprise, actually, because it came with a couple of postcards. The idea was for buyers to send messages to Reagan and Gorbachev, urging them to talk more about nuclear weapons. It really makes you think, doesn't it? Like, what if Adele had done something similar with one of her albums back in the day? Wonder how things might be different.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Stock Focus: Leans towards popular artists, great for casual collectors and tourists.

• Pricing: Generally competitive, especially for the area.

• Location: Inside Camden Lock Market, making it easy to find if you're already exploring the market.

• Vibe: A straightforward record shop experience within a busy market environment.

While it might not be the place for super obscure finds, Camden Lock Vinyl is a reliable stop for accessible records and a bit of music history. It’s a good place to pop into if you’re already in the market and want to see what’s on offer without a huge time commitment.

If you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record hunting, you should definitely check out the Your Eye Comedy Club. They've got some great shows lined up.

Let It Roll Records

Just a short walk from the main Camden market area, Let It Roll Records is a relatively new spot, having been around for less than a year. It's got a modern feel, nicely set up, and even includes a small café, which is a nice touch if you need a break from digging. They're planning to get involved with Record Store Day this year, which is always a good sign.

When I stopped by, the rock and metal sections were pretty solid, and there was some good soul music tucked away towards the back. I was actually pretty pleased to find a couple of interesting mainstream and pop records. Betty Boo's 'Boomania' on picture disc caught my eye, and I also managed to snag Act's 'Laughter, Tears And Rage' – a ZTT classic I'd been looking for. It's those unexpected finds that make record hunting so rewarding, right?

Here's a quick look at what they offer:

• Rock & Metal: A wide selection for fans of heavier sounds.

• Soul: Decent choices available, especially if you explore the back.

• Mainstream & Pop: You might be surprised by the gems you can uncover here.

The shop has a good vibe, and it's great to see newer places like this popping up and doing well. It shows there's still a real appetite for physical music.

If you're in the Camden area and looking for a mix of genres, especially rock and metal, Let It Roll is definitely worth checking out. Who knows what you might find? Speaking of finding things, if you're looking to find some laughs, you should definitely check out the Your in My Eye Comedy Club for some great stand-up.

Sounds That Swing

Tucked away on Parkway, Sounds That Swing is a bit of a hidden gem for anyone into rockabilly, early soul, and classic rock 'n' roll. This place has been around for ages, about 25 years, and has been in its current spot for 12 of those. It’s co-owned by Martin Heaphy and Neal Scott, and they’ve really carved out a niche for themselves.

What’s cool about Sounds That Swing is that it’s not just for collectors; a lot of DJs swing by here to dig for beats and samples. This keeps the vibe pretty fresh and the crowd younger than you might expect for such a specialist store. They’ve seen a big surge in interest for rockabilly 10-inch records, which is great because it means the genre is still going strong.

You can really feel the passion for the music when you talk to the owners. Martin, one of the co-owners, is a big buyer himself and admits he doesn't quite get the obsession that keeps vinyl lovers hooked, but he totally understands it. It’s one of those places where you just accept the magic of it all. I even picked up a cool reissue of a Bill Haley record while I was there – you know, gotta follow the trends!

The shop is a testament to the enduring appeal of specific music genres. It’s a place where dedicated enthusiasts can find exactly what they’re looking for, and maybe discover something new they didn’t even know they needed.

If you're in Camden and looking for something a little different from the usual fare, definitely make a point to check out Sounds That Swing. It’s a solid spot for some serious crate-digging. And hey, if you're looking for some laughs after all that record hunting, make sure to catch a show at the Your in Eye Comedy Club – it's a great way to round off your day!

All Ages Records

Tucked away on Pratt Street, All Ages Records is a bit of a pilgrimage site for punk and hardcore fans. Nick Collins, the owner, started selling records on a market stall back in 2000 before opening this shop a few years later. He's got a really strong point of view about the music scene, and it shows in his stock. He’s not really into the whole online thing, preferring the tangible experience of a physical shop and building loyalty with his customers. It’s one of those places that feels like it has its own distinct vibe, you know?

What you’ll find here is a serious collection of punk, hardcore, and related genres, sourced from all over the globe. It’s not just the big names either; Nick digs deep for the obscure stuff, the independent releases, and the records that might have slipped under your radar. If you're a dedicated follower of punk, this place is a goldmine. They also have a "secret" DVD store out back, which is a whole other adventure if you're into classic films and TV shows.

• Specializes in punk and hardcore genres.

• Sources international and obscure releases.

• Focuses on the physical retail experience over online sales.

• Features a "secret" DVD store with classic films and TV.

This shop is a testament to the fact that certain music scenes never really died out. For those deeply involved in punk, the need to buy and sell records has always been there, a constant thread through the years. It’s not about a fleeting trend; it’s about a lasting passion.

If you're in Camden and looking for something beyond the usual suspects, All Ages Records is definitely worth checking out. It’s a place with character, run by someone who clearly loves what they do. And hey, if you're looking for some laughs after all that digging, make sure to check out the Comedy in Your Eye Comedy Club nearby – it's a great way to round off a day of record hunting!

Massive International

Tucked away in Camden Market, Massive International is a bit of a hidden gem for vinyl enthusiasts. It’s not the biggest shop you’ll find, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its carefully curated selection. You won't find endless rows of the same popular artists here; instead, the focus is on digging a little deeper.

This spot really shines if you're into more niche genres. They often have a solid collection of reggae, dub, and world music, alongside some interesting electronic and funk finds. It’s the kind of place where you might stumble upon something completely unexpected that becomes your new favorite track. Don't expect a huge amount of mainstream pop or rock; this is for the dedicated crate digger.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you might find:

• Reggae & Dub: A strong selection, often featuring classic and harder-to-find releases.

• World Music: Diverse offerings from various global scenes.

• Electronic: Expect some interesting house, techno, and experimental electronic records.

• Funk & Soul: Good picks for fans of these genres.

It’s a great place to spend some time if you’re looking to expand your collection beyond the usual suspects. You might need a bit of patience, but the rewards are usually worth the effort. It’s definitely one of the spots that makes discovering London's vinyl scene so exciting.

If you're in the Camden area and looking for something a bit different, Massive International is well worth a visit. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that record hunting, check out the Your in the Eye Comedy Club for some live stand-up!

Honest Jon's Records

Tucked away on Portobello Road, Honest Jon's Records is a true survivor in the vinyl game. It's been around since 1974, though its location has shifted a bit over the years. What started as a single shop has grown, and they've even branched out into releasing music themselves, with a little help from Damon Albarn of Blur fame.

Their record selection has really expanded from its early reggae, jazz, and soul roots. Now you can find blues, folk, and a good mix of dance music, with a nice balance of both new and used vinyl. It's a place where you can easily lose track of time, especially if you're like me and agonize over whether an original pressing of a Prince album is really worth the extra cash compared to a reissue.

The sheer volume of choices can be a bit overwhelming, and sometimes you just have to walk away, only to regret it later. It's a common vinyl hunter's dilemma.

Here's a quick look at what you might find:

• New Arrivals: A steady stream of fresh stock across various genres.

• Used Gems: Digging through crates for those hard-to-find older records.

• Specialty Sections: Dedicated areas for reggae, jazz, soul, blues, folk, and dance music.

If you're in the area, especially when Portobello Road Market is buzzing, make sure to stop by. And hey, if you're looking for some laughs after all that record digging, check out the Your In Eye Comedy Club – it's a great way to cap off a day of crate-digging!

Music And Video Exchange

Alright, so if you're anywhere near Notting Hill, you absolutely have to check out the Music and Video Exchange. It's one of those places that's been around forever, and honestly, it feels like it. They've got a massive amount of stuff, and I mean massive. It's not just vinyl either, hence the name – you can find CDs, DVDs, you name it. But for us vinyl hunters, it's a goldmine.

They've got their stock pretty well organized, which is a lifesaver considering how much they have. The basement is usually where you'll find the classical records, while the ground floor is packed with rock and pop, including some seriously rare finds. If you're into soul, reggae, or dance music, you'll want to head upstairs. Seriously, the sheer volume of records here is something else. I once spotted a sealed copy of OMD's 'Universal' from 1996, and while the price was a bit steep, it just goes to show the kind of gems you can unearth. It's a place where you can easily lose a few hours just sifting through the bins.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Rock & Pop: Everything from classic rock to indie, with a good selection of collectables.

• Soul, Reggae & Dance: A solid range covering various eras and subgenres.

• Classical: Tucked away in the basement, but still a decent collection.

• Other Media: Don't forget the CDs and DVDs if you're feeling eclectic.

It's the kind of shop where you might not find exactly what you're looking for on your first pass, but you'll definitely stumble upon something unexpected and awesome. They also have a system where prices get marked down over time, so if something is a bit pricey, it might be worth checking back. It's a classic spot for a good record haul, and you can often find some great deals if you're patient. Plus, they’re known for having attentive staff who can even point you towards other great spots in the area, like Honest Jon's Records.

If you're looking for some laughs after all that digging, you should definitely check out the In Your Eye Comedy Club nearby. It's a great way to cap off a day of record hunting.

Sounds Original

Tucked away on South Ealing Road, Sounds Original is a bit of a gem that started life back in 1983. Paul Green, the owner, moved the shop to its current spot near South Ealing Tube station around the turn of the century. It’s a handy stop if you’re coming in from Heathrow, just a few tube stops into town.

This place really shines when it comes to collectors' items, especially from the 50s and 60s, but don't let that fool you; there's a solid selection across all sorts of genres and eras. Paul is really particular about the condition of his records, and it shows. He even makes an effort to get the right label sleeves for the singles, which is a nice touch. I was really impressed by the sheer range and how well-organized everything was. On my visit, I ended up grabbing some Cliff Richard pressings from the 70s, a few cool 90s LPs, and even a soundtrack from Logan's Run. It's the kind of place where you might go in for one thing and leave with way more than you expected.

Here's a quick look at what you might find:

• 1950s & 1960s Classics: A strong focus for collectors.

• 7" Singles: An exceptional collection, especially for interesting finds.

• LPs: Good coverage of various decades, including 90s gems.

• Soundtracks: You might stumble upon some rare film or TV scores.

Paul's dedication to condition means you're likely to find records in great shape, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone serious about their vinyl.

If you're looking for a place that feels like a proper record store, run by someone who genuinely cares about the music and its presentation, Sounds Original is definitely worth checking out. It’s a bit of a trek from central London, but for the quality and selection, it’s often worth the journey. Speaking of good times and laughs, if you're ever in the area and need a good chuckle, you should check out the Your In My Eye Comedy Club – they always have a great lineup of comedians that will have you rolling.

Camden's Vinyl Scene: Still Spinning

So, after all that digging, it's clear Camden still has a lot to offer vinyl fans. While some shops might have changed over the years, the spirit of crate-digging is alive and well here. Whether you're after a rare reggae find, a classic rock album, or just something unexpected, Camden's record stores are worth checking out. It might take a bit of searching, but the thrill of finding that perfect record makes it all worthwhile. Happy hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of music can I find in Camden's vinyl shops?

Camden has a wide variety of music! You can find everything from rock, soul, and reggae at places like Out On The Floor Records to rockabilly and early soul at Sounds That Swing. There are also specialists for punk, like All Ages Records, and reggae, such as Disc Disciples.

Are there any shops good for finding rare records?

Many shops in Camden carry a mix of popular artists and more unusual finds. While some cater to tourists with big names, places like Out On The Floor Records are known for their great selection of ska and reggae, and All Ages Records brings in stock from all over the world for punk fans.

Which shops are best for beginners who are new to buying vinyl?

For beginners, starting at a place like Out On The Floor Records or Camden Lock Vinyl might be good. They have a broad range of music and are in central spots, making it easy to browse. Let It Roll Records also has a good mix of mainstream and pop records that could be fun to explore.

Do any of the shops have a cafe or other unique features?

Yes, Let It Roll Records has a small cafe inside, making it a nice spot to relax while you dig for records. All Ages Records also has a unique 'secret' DVD store in the back filled with classic films and TV shows.

What are the opening hours like for these shops?

Most shops in Camden are open seven days a week, generally from around 10 am or 11 am until 6 pm or 7 pm. However, it's always a good idea to check their specific hours before you visit, especially if you're planning a trip on a Sunday or a public holiday.

Is Camden a good place to go if I'm looking for a specific genre like ska or punk?

Absolutely! Camden is great for genre hunting. Out On The Floor Records has a big reputation for ska and reggae, and is considered one of the best shops in London for those styles. If punk is more your thing, All Ages Records is one of the UK's biggest and best specialists in that genre.