Discover the Best Vinyl Shop in Camden: Your Guide to Local Record Stores

Camden is a place with a lot of history, and that includes its music scene. If you're someone who loves the feel and sound of vinyl, you're in luck. There are some really great spots around Camden where you can find records. Whether you're looking for something specific or just want to browse, this area has options. This guide will help you find the best vinyl shop camden has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Camden has a vibrant selection of record stores catering to various musical tastes.

• From punk and hardcore at All Ages Records to metal at Raven Records, there's a niche for everyone.

• Out on the Floor Records offers a diverse range, with a special nod to reggae.

• Rock n Roll Rescue provides a unique charity shop experience with vinyl finds.

• Disc Disciples is a good spot for soul, funk, and disco lovers.

1. All Ages Records

If you're into punk and hardcore, then All Ages Records is a must-visit spot in Camden. It's pretty much London's go-to for that kind of music, stocking all sorts of obscure finds alongside the more well-known stuff. You won't just find records here, though. They've got a good selection of CDs, fanzines, books, and band merch too. It's the kind of place where you can really dig in and find something special if you're a dedicated fan of the genre.

What makes All Ages Records stand out is its commitment to the scene. They're known for being super friendly and knowledgeable about punk and hardcore. Plus, they even sell gig tickets, so you can keep up with what's happening live. It's a real hub for the music community.

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

• Music Genres: Primarily Punk and Hardcore, with a focus on rare and underground releases.

• Other Items: CDs, fanzines, books, band merchandise, and gig tickets.

• Atmosphere: Welcoming and knowledgeable staff, a true haven for fans.

This shop is more than just a place to buy records; it's a community space for people passionate about punk and hardcore music. They actively support the scene by stocking relevant items and providing a place for fans to connect.

So, if you're looking for that specific punk album or just want to soak in the atmosphere of a dedicated music shop, make sure to check out All Ages Records. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate-digging, remember to catch a show at the Your In Eye Comedy Club nearby!

2. Out On The Floor Records

Tucked away from the main hustle of Camden High Street, Out On The Floor Records is a spot that really feels like a discovery. It’s a colorful place, and you can tell the owner, Jake, has a real passion for music.

This shop is a great place to find all sorts of records, but if you're into reggae, you're in for a treat. Jake has a particular love for Jamaican vinyl, so expect a good selection of both new and old tunes in that genre. It’s not just reggae, though; the vibe here is eclectic, reflecting Camden's own diverse musical history. You can spend a good chunk of time digging through the crates.

Here's a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Eclectic Mix: Covers a wide range of genres, not just reggae.

• Reggae Focus: A strong collection for fans of Jamaican music.

• Sale Section: Always worth a rummage, with records priced at £6 and under.

The shop's location, slightly off the beaten path, adds to its charm. It feels like a genuine find for music lovers.

If you're looking for a place with character and a good selection, especially if reggae is your thing, Out On The Floor Records is definitely worth checking out. And hey, if you're looking for some laughs after all that crate digging, make sure to catch a show at the Your In Eye Comedy Club nearby!

3. Raven Records

Camden's got a new spot for vinyl lovers, and it's pretty unique. Raven Records just opened up, and it's not just a record store. It's also the world's first bar that's completely alcohol-free but focuses on heavy metal. So, if you're into heavier music and want to hang out without the booze, this place is definitely worth checking out. It's a cool concept, mixing music with a different kind of social scene.

They specialize in metal records, which is great if that's your jam. You can dig through their collection and find some good stuff. It's a nice addition to the Camden music scene, especially for those who appreciate a more specific genre.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Genre Focus: Primarily Metal

• Unique Feature: Alcohol-free heavy metal bar

• Location: 24 Camden Rd, NW1 9DP

It's a good place to go if you're looking for something a bit different in Camden. You can grab a record, maybe catch up with some friends, all in a place that's got a specific vibe.

And hey, if you're looking for some laughs after all that record digging, you should check out the comedy at Your In My Eye Comedy Club. It's a good way to round off a day exploring Camden.

4. Rock n Roll Rescue

Tucked away on Parkway, Rock n Roll Rescue isn't just a record shop; it's a music charity shop with a mission. When you step inside, you're not just browsing for vinyl, you're supporting a good cause. The place is packed with all sorts of musical treasures, from instruments that are just waiting to be played again to band merchandise and clothing that screams your favorite genre. And of course, there are records – lots of them.

It's a fantastic spot for anyone who enjoys a bit of a rummage. You never quite know what you're going to unearth here. One visit might yield a rare punk single, the next a classic rock album you've been searching for, or maybe even a piece of vintage band apparel. The vibe is definitely one of discovery.

Here's what you might find:

• A wide selection of vinyl across various genres.

• Instruments looking for a new home.

• Band t-shirts and other cool merch.

• Unique clothing items.

The real charm of Rock n Roll Rescue lies in its unpredictability. It's a place where music lovers can hunt for hidden gems while contributing to something meaningful. The staff are usually pretty clued up too, so don't be afraid to ask if you're on the hunt for something specific.

If you're looking for a place that offers more than just music, and you enjoy the thrill of finding something unexpected, Rock n Roll Rescue is definitely worth checking out. And hey, if you're in the mood for some laughs after all that digging, make sure to catch a show at the nearby In Your Eye Comedy Club – it's a great way to round off your Camden adventure.

5. Disc Disciples

Tucked away in the bustling Camden Market, Disc Disciples is a real gem for anyone who loves digging through crates. It's not a huge place, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in the sheer quality and variety of its stock. The owner, Danny, has a knack for organizing his records, making it surprisingly easy to find what you're looking for, even if you're not sure what that is yet.

You'll find a fantastic selection of old-school sounds here, with a strong focus on soul, funk, and disco. But don't stop there – Danny also stocks a good range of folk, punk, and rock records, so there's really something for most tastes. It's the kind of place where you can spend a good hour or two just browsing, and you're almost guaranteed to walk away with a few unexpected treasures.

Here's a quick look at what makes Disc Disciples stand out:

• Genre Focus: Primarily soul, funk, and disco, but with a solid mix of other genres.

• Organization: Crates are well-labeled, making the digging process more enjoyable.

• Atmosphere: A friendly, no-fuss environment perfect for serious record hunters.

• Location: Conveniently situated within Camden Lock Place, making it easy to combine with a market visit.

This shop is a testament to the passion of its owner. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into sourcing and presenting the records, creating a space that feels both authentic and exciting for vinyl enthusiasts.

If you're in Camden and on the hunt for some classic grooves or just want to explore a well-curated collection, make sure Disc Disciples is on your list. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate-digging, check out the upcoming shows at the Your in the Eye Comedy Club nearby – it's the perfect way to round off a day of music discovery!

6. Rock Revival C.I.C @ Kozmic Records Fair

Keep an eye out for the Rock Revival C.I.C pop-up at the Kozmic Records Fair. This isn't your typical record shop, but rather an event that pops up, often in the vibrant Hawley Wharf area. It's a fantastic place to hunt for those rare 7-inch singles and other unexpected treasures.

When you visit, you can expect to sift through crates of vinyl and maybe even snag some band merchandise. What makes Rock Revival C.I.C special is that all profits generated go directly to supporting good causes right here in Camden and across North London. It’s a great way to find some cool records and contribute to the local community at the same time.

These fairs are a bit unpredictable, so it's best to check listings for upcoming dates and locations. You can often find information about these events through resources like Record Fairs UK.

The thrill of a record fair is the element of surprise. You never know what you might uncover, and that's part of the fun. It's a treasure hunt for music lovers.

If you're in Camden and looking for a unique record-buying experience that also gives back, definitely try to catch the Rock Revival C.I.C at the Kozmic Records Fair. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that digging, check out the comedy at Your Eye Comedy Club nearby!

7. Sounds Of The Universe

Sounds Of The Universe started out as a market stall, but the owner had bigger plans and eventually landed in Soho. This place is a real hub for global sounds. You can find everything from classic jazz to new releases, and they've got a great selection of used records too. The staff are super helpful if you're looking for something specific, whether it's a fresh dub-techno 12" or a rare jazz find in the basement.

It's a spot that attracts all sorts of people, from DJs to casual listeners. They even have a record label, Soul Jazz Records, which puts out some really interesting stuff that connects different musical styles. It's definitely worth checking out if you're into music that spans different cultures and genres. You might just discover your next favorite artist.

This shop is a treasure trove for anyone looking to explore music beyond the usual charts. They really focus on bringing diverse sounds to the forefront.

If you're in the mood for some serious crate-digging, Sounds Of The Universe is a must-visit. They have a massive collection, and you never know what gems you might unearth. It's a place where you can spend hours just browsing and soaking in the atmosphere. Plus, if you're looking for a good laugh, check out the lineup at Your Eye Comedy Club nearby – it's a great way to round off a day of record hunting.

8. Honest Jon’s

Honest Jon's is a real institution, a place that feels like it's been around forever, and honestly, it kind of has. It first opened its doors way back in 1974, starting out on Portobello Road and specializing in jazz. Imagine that, a butcher's shop turned into a haven for vinyl lovers. They eventually moved to their current spot on Portobello Road in the 80s.

Over the years, it's become more than just a shop; it's like a community hub for people who really care about music. Loads of well-known musicians and DJs have spent time here, soaking up the atmosphere and digging through the crates. It's a place where you can find some seriously interesting stuff, from jazz LPs to reggae 7"s and experimental 12"s. They even started their own record label, Honest Jon's, with Damon Albarn, which has put out some pretty adventurous music.

If you're looking for a place with a deep history and a serious selection, especially if you're into jazz, reggae, or just generally cool global sounds, you've got to check out Honest Jon's Records. It's the kind of shop that makes you want to hang out for hours.

And hey, if you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record digging, make sure to catch a show at the Your in Eye Comedy Club – it's a great way to round off your day.

9. Sister Ray

Sister Ray has been a staple on Berwick Street in Soho since 1987, though they've had to move a few times. The shop is named after that famous Velvet Underground song, and it's a real gem for anyone looking for something a bit different. They focus on stocking a mix of new releases, used records, and interesting finds, deliberately keeping their best stuff out of the online store to make visiting the shop worthwhile. You won't find classical music here, but they do have a quirky collection of flexidiscs and football-related records.

Sister Ray also had a small reissue label back in the early 2000s. While they didn't press many records, their release of the Billy Nichols LP is now quite hard to find.

They have a second, smaller location at the Ace Hotel in Shoreditch, so you have options depending on where you are.

If you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record digging, check out the comedy at Your in Eye Comedy Club – it's a great way to round off your day.

10. Kristina Records

Kristina Records is tucked away in Dalston, and it’s a spot that really leans into the more experimental side of things. If you're into stuff that's a bit out there, like ambient drone, avant-garde jazz, or darker electronic music, you'll probably find a lot to like here. It's kind of like the record store equivalent of checking out Boomkat online, but you get to hold the vinyl.

They've got a good mix of new and old, with some really interesting worldwide reissues and those hard-to-find original pressings that can make your wallet a little lighter, but it's usually worth it. The shop itself is pretty cool looking too, definitely one of the nicer ones you'll find in the city.

Here's a quick look at what makes Kristina Records stand out:

• Specialty Genres: Focus on experimental, avant-garde, left-field electronic, and ambient.

• Unique Finds: Good selection of worldwide reissues and rare originals.

• Atmosphere: A visually appealing shop that encourages browsing.

While they cater to niche tastes, don't be surprised if you walk out with more than you planned. The selection is just that good.

If you're in the mood for something a little different and want to explore the weirder, more wonderful corners of the music world, Kristina Records is definitely worth a visit. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate digging, check out the comedy at Your in My Eye Comedy Club nearby!

Keep Spinning Those Records

So there you have it, a quick look at some of the great spots to find vinyl in Camden. Whether you're hunting for that super rare B-side or just want to browse some classic rock, these shops have got you covered. It’s cool to see places like this still around, offering something a bit different from just clicking buttons online. Each shop has its own vibe, and honestly, the best way to find your favorite is to just go explore. Happy digging, and may your needle always find the groove!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of music can I find at Camden's record shops?

Camden's record shops have a huge variety of music! You can find everything from rock, punk, and metal to jazz, soul, funk, disco, reggae, and even world beats. Some shops specialize in certain genres, while others have a bit of everything. It's a great place to discover new sounds or find old favorites.

Are vinyl records still popular?

Yes, absolutely! Vinyl records have made a big comeback. Many people love the unique sound quality and the experience of collecting and playing records. Record Store Day is a big event that celebrates independent record shops and the love for vinyl.

Can I find rare or used records in Camden?

Definitely! Camden's record stores are fantastic for digging through crates of used vinyl. You can find rare gems, out-of-print records, and special editions. It's all about the thrill of the hunt and seeing what treasures you can uncover.

Are there any record shops that focus on specific genres like punk or metal?

Yes, some shops cater to specific tastes. For example, 'All Ages Records' is known for punk and hardcore music. 'Raven Records' is a newer spot that's the world's first heavy metal alcohol-free bar and record shop, so you'll likely find a great metal selection there.

What makes Camden a good place for record shopping?

Camden has a rich musical history and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a great spot for record lovers. Even though some older shops have closed, new ones have opened, and the area still buzzes with places to find music. It's a place where you can really feel the music scene.

Besides records, what else can I find in these shops?

Many record shops offer more than just vinyl. You might find CDs, band merchandise, books about music, fanzines, and even gig tickets. Some places also have a cool vibe, like 'Raven Records' which is also an alcohol-free bar, or 'Rock n Roll Rescue,' a charity shop with music items.