Camden Town is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and edgy charm, and there’s no shortage of brilliant Camden bars to discover. From cocktail bars with an experimental cocktail menu to club nights in an iconic music venue, there’s a spot for every taste.
This guide lays out all you need to know to plan your visit without missing any highlights. If you’re after live music, bottomless brunches, or a laid-back pint near Camden Lock Place, we’ve got you covered.
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Our picks for the best bars in Camden town are:
- The World’s End
- The Blues Kitchen
- The Lock Tavern
- Camden Assembly (formerly Barfly)
- The Jazz Café
- BrewDog Camden
- The Hawley Arms
- The Dublin Castle
- The Electric Ballroom
- The Devonshire Arms
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The World’s End
Known as one of Camden's most famous landmarks, The World's End boasts two sprawling floors and a lively night scene packed on weekends.
Famously known amongst locals as a fun spot to grab a beer or burgers, this bar offers a traditional pub menu and plenty of booze to choose from. With a massive interior, you'll find yourself parties happening in its multiple nooks.
TripAdvisor score: 3.5
Operating hours: Mondays to Sundays - 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Contact: +44 20 7482 1932
Reservation needed? Typically no (walk-ins are welcome).
The Blues Kitchen
As Camden's top venue for soul, blues, and funk gigs, The Blues Kitchen serves up hearty American-inspired food like ribs and burgers alongside an extensive selection of spirits.
Don’t miss their happy hour deals on cocktails. The DJs and live music acts here create a cool vibe that keeps everyone dancing late into Fridays.
TripAdvisor score: 4.5
Operating hours:
Sundays - 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Mondays and Tuesdays - 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Wednesdays and Thursdays - 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Fridays - 12:00 PM to 2:30 AM
Saturdays - 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7387 5277
Reservation needed? Recommended for dinner or bottomless brunches, especially on busy Saturdays.
Fee to enter? Varies (free before certain times, cover charge on late club nights).
The Lock Tavern
With its prime locations by the lock, The Lock Tavern makes it the perfect hangout for soaking up the Camden scene. Its rooftop terrace has views over the canal and hosts regular events featuring DJs and local bands.
Their menu includes pub classics, making it a great place to drink a pint and enjoy casual food in the heart of town.
TripAdvisor score: 3.5
Operating hours:
Sunday - 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Mondays to Wednesdays - 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Thursdays - 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Fridays and Saturdays - 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7688 3160
Reservation needed? Not usually, but booking a table on weekends can be a good idea if you’re in a group.
Camden Assembly (formerly Barfly)
Known as a legendary music venue, Camden Assembly hosts everything from emerging rock bands to indie acts, on top of late-night DJ sets.
Their upstairs performance space is known for their intimate gigs, while the bar downstairs keeps the fun going with their wide range of beers.
TripAdvisor score: 4.5
Operating hours:
Sundays - 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Mondays - Closed
Tuesdays to Fridays - 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Saturdays - 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Contact: +44 20 74240800
Reservation needed? Recommended for club nights and popular gigs, as it can get busy.
Fee to enter? Often yes, especially for ticketed events.
The Jazz Café
The Jazz Café is a world-famous jazz, soul, and hip-hop gig venue. With its intimate atmosphere, and amazing line ups, it's the ideal place for music fans looking to get close to the action.
Their drinks menu includes some tasty cocktails, and the upstairs floors give you a good view of the performance below.
TripAdvisor score: 4.0
Operating hours:
- Sundays to Thursdays - 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Fridays and Saturdays - 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7688 8899
Reservation needed? Strongly advised for the restaurant level overlooking the stage.
Fee to enter? Yes, tickets are typically required for live music nights.
BrewDog Camden
Known as a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, BrewDogs Camden showcases their core range alongside guest brews. With simple but tasty food options (like sharing plates and burgers), it’s a cool spot to drink with friends.
Their industrial-chir interior is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed vibe.
TripAdvisor: 4.5
Opening hours:
Sundays - 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Mondays to Thursdays - 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Fridays to Saturdays - 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7284 4626
Reservation needed? Not usually, but recommended for large parties.
The Hawley Arms
With many celebrity sightings over the years, including the late Amy Winehouse (rest in peace), the legendary Hawley Arms is known for hosting gigs and DJs. Their hearty pub food, solid drink selection, and rooftop area make it a go-to spot, especially on those sunny weekends.
TripAdvisor score: 4.5
Operating hours:
Sundays to Thursdays - 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Fridays to Saturdays - 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Contact:+44 20 7428 5979
Reservation needed? No, typically walk-in friendly.
The Dublin Castle
With its classic pub vibe in front and a no-frills music venue at the back, The Dublin Castle is a legendary spot for seeing electric gigs, launching big British bands over the years.
TripAdvisor score: 4.0
Operating hours:
Sundays to Saturdays - 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7485 1773
Reservation needed? No (first-come, first-served).
Fee to enter? Usually free for the pub area, small cover for live music in the back.
The Electric Ballroom
A legendary music venue and nightclub, The Electric Ballroom has been rocking Camden for decades. This multi-floor hotspot has hosted iconic gigs, from The Clash to Arctic Monkeys. Expect high-energy club nights on Fridays and Saturdays, featuring top DJs spinning everything from rock to electronic beats.
If you love a proper venue that blends history with modern nightlife, this is a great place to experience Camden’s electric side.
TripAdvisor score: 4.0
Operating hours:
Sundays - 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Mondays to Thursdays - Closed
Saturdays - 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Contact: +44 20 7485 9006
Reservation needed? No, walk-ins welcome.
The Devonshire Arms
For those craving something darker, The Devonshire Arms—affectionately known as "The Dev"—is Camden’s go-to bar for metalheads and goths. Regular events include themed nights and live gigs, making it a favourite haunt for alternative music lovers. If you want a drink in a place with attitude, The Dev won’t disappoint.
The menu leans towards classic pub grub, while the interior is decked out in band posters and eerie decor.
TripAdvisor score: 3.5
Operating hours:
Sundays to Wednesdays - 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Thursdays - 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Fridays to Saturdays - 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Contact: +44 20 7267 8827
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Frequently asked questions
Is Camden safe for a night out?
Camden’s generally lively and welcoming, with lots of cool bars near the canal. It’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, but there are plenty of people around and good transport links late at night.
How much does it cost to enter these venues?
Most bars are free to enter, but some music venues charge a fee during club nights or special gigs. It’s best to check each site in advance for exact pricing and ticket info.
Can I get food at these bars, or do I need a separate restaurant?
Many spots in Camden serve food, from pub classics to full burgers and pizza menus. It’s possible to dine and drink in the same location without heading elsewhere.
Are bookings essential?
Some places recommend bookings on busy weekends or for large parties, while others offer walk-ins with no fuss. A reservation can save time if you’re going on popular nights like Fridays and Saturdays.
What’s the best way to get to Camden’s bars?
You can take the Tube to Chalk Farm or Camden Town, then walk around. Buses and taxis run often, so hopping between different places is straightforward if you want to keep exploring.
