Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Record Shop Camden Has to Offer

Camden Town is a legendary spot for music lovers, and its record shops are a big part of that vibe. Whether you're hunting for a specific punk album or just want to dig through some crates, there's a place for you. I spent some time checking out the local record shop Camden scene, and let me tell you, it's still got it. Forget endless scrolling online; nothing beats the feeling of finding a gem in person.

Key Takeaways

• All Ages Records is the go-to for punk and hardcore fans, stocking vinyl, CDs, and more.

• Out on the Floor specializes in guitar music like heavy metal, punk, and classic rock from the 60s and 70s.

• Sounds That Swing focuses on rockabilly and blues, with a good side of female-fronted soul and R&B.

• Sister Ray, a long-standing shop, offers a wide variety of genres and has a great community feel.

• Reckless Records is known for buying and selling a broad range of music, from rock to drum 'n' bass, and even offers house calls for large collections.

1. All Ages Records

If you're into punk and hardcore, then All Ages Records in Camden is your spot. Seriously, this place is a gem for anyone who loves that shouty guitar music. It's not a huge store, but they pack it with a really solid selection of punk and hardcore vinyl, both new and used. You can tell they really care about the scene here.

What I like is that it feels like a real community hub. They've got this big pinboard where people put up flyers for local gigs and events. It's a great way to find out what's happening in the underground music scene. Plus, they actually sell gig tickets right there at the counter, and they keep the booking fees super low, which is awesome. Just remember, it's a cash-only place, so come prepared.

They also buy and trade records, so if you've got some punk gems gathering dust, you might be able to swap them out for something new.

Beyond the vinyl, you'll find CDs, DVDs, t-shirts, zines, and books related to the punk and hardcore world. It's the kind of place where you can easily spend an hour just digging through the crates. If you're looking for authentic punk memorabilia or just want to support a shop that's all about the music, All Ages Records is definitely worth checking out. It’s a proper slice of London’s independent music culture.

And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate-digging, make sure to check out the Your in Your Eye Comedy Club for some live stand-up.

2. Out On The Floor

Tucked away in a basement in Camden Town, Out On The Floor Records is a spot for the dedicated vinyl hunter. It’s a multi-level operation, and this particular shop focuses heavily on guitar-driven music. If you're into heavy metal, punk, progressive rock, or classic rock from the 60s and 70s, you'll probably find something to get excited about here. It’s not the biggest place, and some might find the atmosphere a bit… uninviting, but for sheer volume of specific genres, it’s worth a look.

This is a place for serious collectors, not casual browsers.

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

• Genres: Primarily rock, punk, metal, and prog.

• Eras: Strong focus on 60s and 70s releases.

• Format: Mostly LPs, with some older 7" singles.

While some reviews mention a less-than-welcoming vibe, remember that these kinds of specialist shops often cater to a niche audience. Don't expect a lot of hand-holding, but do expect to potentially unearth some rare finds if you're patient.

If you're on the hunt for specific rock albums or want to dig through crates of vintage guitar music, Out On The Floor is a destination to consider. For a good laugh and some top-notch comedy, check out the Your in the Eye Comedy Club later in your Camden adventure.

3. Sounds That Swing

Right off Camden High Street, you'll find Sounds That Swing, a place that really lives up to its name. This shop is a haven for anyone who loves rockabilly and blues. Seriously, the moment you walk in, you're greeted by the faces of legends like Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison staring out from the shelves. While they do have some CDs, it's clear that vinyl is the heart and soul of this place. The owner is definitely a vinyl enthusiast, and it shows.

Beyond the rock 'n' roll vibes, there's a surprisingly good collection of female-fronted soul and R&B tucked away. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours digging through records and still find something new. They also stock books and other bits and bobs, making it more than just a music shop.

The shop is a great spot for finding those hard-to-get gems. They also buy or trade records, so if you've got a collection gathering dust, it might be worth a visit.

If you're looking for a specific genre, here's a quick breakdown of what you might find:

• Rockabilly: Expect plenty of the classics and some deeper cuts.

• Blues: From raw Delta blues to electric Chicago sounds.

• Soul & R&B: Particularly strong on female vocalists.

• Books & Ephemera: A nice addition for collectors.

It’s a real treasure trove for collectors and casual listeners alike. And hey, if you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record digging, check out the Your in the Eye Comedy Club nearby – it's a great way to round off your Camden adventure.

4. Sister Ray

Walking down Berwick Street, you can't miss Sister Ray. It's been a fixture in Soho since 1989, named after that iconic Velvet Underground track. This place has a real vibe, you know? It feels like a proper music hub, not just a shop. They've got a huge selection of vinyl, covering all sorts of genres. You can find anything from new releases to those hard-to-find second-hand gems. The staff are really into music, and they're happy to chat about what you're looking for. It’s a great spot to just browse and discover something new.

The atmosphere inside is really welcoming, making it easy to spend ages digging through the crates. Prices can vary, but you'll find records generally ranging from about £15 to £50. It’s a place that feels like it’s kept the spirit of the old Soho record stores alive. If you're serious about music or just looking for a cool souvenir, Sister Ray is definitely worth a visit. It’s a place that truly understands what a record store should be.

Here's a little of what you can expect:

• A wide range of genres, from rock and indie to electronic and soul.

• A mix of new pressings and vintage vinyl.

• Knowledgeable staff who are passionate about music.

• A relaxed environment perfect for crate digging.

This shop has a long history and has seen many changes in the music industry, yet it remains a steadfast destination for music lovers. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of physical music formats.

If you're in the area and looking for some laughs after all that record hunting, check out the Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Record Shop Camden Has to Offer for more music spots, and then head over to the Your Eye Comedy Club for some great stand-up.

5. Reckless Records

Reckless Records, tucked away on Berwick Street in Soho, has been a cornerstone of London's vinyl scene since it opened its doors way back in 1984. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose a few hours just flipping through stacks of records. They’ve got a seriously diverse collection, covering everything from classic rock and punk to drum 'n' bass, reggae, and jazz. You can even find some original Mo’ Wax and Blue Note pressings if you're lucky.

The constant influx of new stock means there's always something fresh to discover. They get thousands of new arrivals every week, so even if you've been before, your next visit could yield completely different treasures. Prices are pretty reasonable too, generally falling between £5 and £30, which makes it accessible for most budgets. The staff are genuinely passionate about music and are usually happy to help you hunt down a specific album or suggest something new you might like.

If you're looking to clear out some of your own vinyl collection, Reckless Records also buys most types of music, including CD box sets and limited editions. They'll even make house calls for larger collections, which is a pretty sweet deal.

This shop is a real treasure hunt for music lovers. Every visit feels like an adventure, with the potential to unearth rare finds and unique records that you won't see everywhere else. It really captures the spirit of digging for vinyl.

It's a great spot to check out if you're in the area, and it's conveniently located near other great spots like Music Video Exchange.

When you're done digging for vinyl gems, why not check out some live comedy? Your In Your Eye Comedy Club is just a short trip away and always has a great lineup of hilarious acts ready to make you laugh.

6. Phonica Records

Phonica Records, tucked away near Oxford Circus, is a real gem for anyone into dance and electronic music. It’s been around since 2003, and honestly, it feels like a proper hub for the scene. You’ll see DJs browsing the shelves, and sometimes they even work there, which tells you something about the quality of the stock.

They cover a pretty wide spectrum of dance music – think rare soul, techno, dubstep, and disco. It’s not just about the big names either; they’ve got a knack for stocking those harder-to-find tracks that really make a collection special. The staff are super knowledgeable and genuinely seem to love talking about music, which makes the whole experience much more personal. It’s a great place to just spend some time digging through records.

If you're looking to expand your electronic music library, Phonica is definitely worth a visit. They also have a solid online presence if you can't make it in person, and they even offer free delivery on orders over £100, which is a nice touch. It’s a place that really caters to serious music fans, whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out. You might even find some new releases from artists like Tom Skinner here, especially if you're into limited edition vinyl.

And hey, if you're in the mood for some laughs after all that crate-digging, check out the Your In Your Eye Comedy Club nearby. It's a great way to cap off a day of record hunting.

7. Rough Trade West

Alright, so if you're looking for a record shop that feels like it's been plucked straight out of a different era, Rough Trade West is your spot. It's the original Rough Trade, you know, before its bigger sibling, Rough Trade East, popped up. This place is pretty small, honestly, and it hasn't really changed much over the years, which is kind of its charm. It's not flashy, but it's packed to the brim with records.

They've got a really solid selection, covering a lot of ground. You can find new releases alongside older stuff, and the staff are usually pretty clued in. It's the kind of place where you can spend a good chunk of time just digging through the crates. They also do host gigs here, but they're way more low-key and intimate compared to the East London branch. It's a real gem for anyone who appreciates a no-frills, authentic record store experience.

This shop is a testament to the enduring appeal of physical music formats and the dedicated community that surrounds them. It's a place where history and present-day music culture meet.

If you're in the Notting Hill area and want to find some great vinyl, Rough Trade West is definitely worth checking out. It's a bit of a contrast to some of the more modern shops, but that's exactly why people love it. You might even stumble upon something unexpected. Plus, if you're looking for a place to catch some live music in a unique setting, check out the Rough Trade East Cafe.

And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate digging, make sure to check out the comedy at Your In Your Eye Comedy Club. It's a great way to round off a day of exploring Camden's music scene.

8. Flashback Records

Flashback Records is a spot you might already know, especially if you've been around the block a few times. They started out as a market stall, which is pretty cool, and have since grown into a proper shop. You can find them in a few places now, but the one we're talking about is a real gem.

They've got a good mix of stuff here. Think 60s soul, R&B, and garage music, but don't stop there. They also stock a decent amount of classic rock, indie tunes, and even some electronic music. It's not just new records either; they have plenty of used vinyl just waiting for you to dig through. Besides the music, keep an eye out for their other bits and bobs like t-shirts, tote bags, books, and comics. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a good hour or two just browsing.

The vibe in Flashback Records is pretty relaxed, making it easy to just chill and flip through the crates. The staff are usually pretty knowledgeable too, so if you're stuck or looking for something specific, they might be able to point you in the right direction. Prices are generally reasonable, especially if you're looking at the used section. You might find some real bargains if you're patient.

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

• New vinyl releases

• Second-hand records across various genres

• Merchandise like t-shirts and tote bags

• Books and comics

Flashback Records has a solid reputation for digging up those harder-to-find records. It's a place that rewards patience and a keen eye for a good find.

If you're in the mood for some laughs after all that record hunting, check out the Your In Your Eye Comedy Club. It's a great way to unwind and catch some local talent.

9. Stranger Than Paradise Records

Stranger Than Paradise Records, tucked away in Hackney's Mare Street Market, is a spot that really lives up to its name. It’s not your typical high-street shop; you have to know it’s there. The vibe inside is pretty chill, making it easy to just wander around and see what you find. They’ve got a good mix of stuff, leaning towards indie and electronic, but you can definitely dig up some interesting finds across different genres.

What’s cool is that the people who run it used to work at Rough Trade East, so they know their stuff. They’ve got a solid collection of post-rock and indie, plus some really nice contemporary jazz and older classics. It feels like a place where you can genuinely discover something new, not just the same old hits. The selection feels really thoughtfully put together, not just a random jumble of records.

If you're looking for a specific kind of sound, like that hypnotic indie track that just keeps playing in your head Shaun's vocal spikes , you might just find it here. They also have a decent amount of merchandise, books, and even cassettes, which is a nice bonus.

It's the kind of place that rewards patience. You might not find what you're looking for immediately, but if you take your time, you'll probably stumble upon something you didn't even know you wanted.

Prices are generally reasonable, usually falling between £10 and £30, so it won't break the bank. It’s a great stop if you’re exploring the market anyway. And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that crate-digging, check out the comedy at Your in the Eye Comedy Club nearby – it’s a good way to round off the day.

10. Honest Jon's

Honest Jon's has been a fixture in the London music scene for a long time, starting way back in 1974. It began by selling jazz records from a small shop and eventually moved to its current spot on Portobello Road in the 80s. This place is known for its wide selection of global music, really covering a lot of ground from jazz to reggae and beyond.

It's not just about the records, though. The vibe in Honest Jon's is pretty special. You can tell the people who work there really know their stuff and genuinely love music. They're always happy to chat about what's new or help you find something you might like. It feels less like a store and more like a community hub for music fans.

They even have a record label, which shows a real commitment to putting out new music.

If you're looking for something specific or just want to spend an afternoon digging through crates, Honest Jon's is a great spot. They've got a mix of well-known artists and some really obscure finds, so there's always a chance you'll stumble upon something unexpected. It's a place that respects music history while still looking forward.

And hey, if you need a good laugh after all that record hunting, check out the Your in Your Eye Comedy Club nearby. It's a fun way to cap off a day exploring Camden's music scene.

Happy Digging in Camden!

So there you have it, a quick look at some of the spots in Camden where you can find some great records. Whether you're into punk, rock, or something a bit more obscure, Camden's got a shop for you. It’s always worth just popping your head into a few places, you never know what you might find tucked away on a shelf. Happy hunting for those vinyl treasures!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of music does All Ages Records focus on?

All Ages Records is known for its punk and hardcore music selection. If you like loud guitars and heavy sounds, this is the place for you. They have a wide range of music within that style.

Where can I find a good mix of old and new records in Camden?

Camden has several great spots! Out on the Floor is fantastic for rock, punk, and metal from the 60s and 70s. Sounds That Swing specializes in rockabilly and blues, with a good collection of soul and R&B too.

Are there record shops in Camden that are good for dance music?

While Camden is famous for other genres, Phonica Records, though not directly in Camden, is a top spot for dance music fans. It's known for techno, dubstep, disco, and rare soul.

Which Camden record shop is best for rare vinyl?

For rare finds, you might want to check out stores like Reckless Records or Flashback Records, which often have a great selection of second-hand and unique vinyl. Taking your time to dig through the bins is key!

Can I sell my old records at these shops?

Some shops, like Reckless Records, are known to buy used music. It's always a good idea to call ahead or ask the staff if they are currently buying records or trading collections.

What makes Rough Trade West special?

Rough Trade West in Notting Hill is the original Rough Trade store. It's known for being well-stocked despite its smaller size and often hosts intimate in-store gigs, offering a different vibe than its larger sister store.