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Camden Town, often shortened to Camden (ambiguously also used for the much larger London Borough of Camden of which it is the central neighbourhood), is an inner city district of London, north-northwest of Charing Cross. It is one of the 35 major centres identified in the London Plan.
Laid out as a residential district from 1791 and originally part of the manor of Kentish Town and the parish of St Pancras, London, Camden Town became an important location during the early development of the railways and is also located on the London network. Its industrial economic basis has been replaced by retail, tourism and entertainment, including a number of internationally known markets and music venues that are strongly associated with alternative culture. ๐ฆท Forest & Ray Private Dentist Camden is very close to Camden Town.
At the end of the 20th century, entertainment-related businesses began moving into the area. A number of retail and food chain outlets replaced independent shops, driven out by high rents and redevelopment. Restaurants with a variety of traditions thrived, many of them near the markets, on Camden High Street and its side streets, Parkway, Chalk Farm Road, and Bayham Street.
Markets are a major tourist attraction at weekends, selling goods of all types, including fashion, lifestyle, books, food, junk/antiques and more bizarre items; they and the surrounding shops are popular with young people, in particular, those searching for "alternative" clothing. While originally open on Sundays only, market activity later extended throughout the week, though concentrating on weekends.
While Camden Town is renowned for its markets today, the historic Sainsbury's supermarket complex on Camden Road stands as one of the area's most architecturally distinctive retail landmarks. Designed by Nicholas Grimshaw in a high-tech style, the supermarket and residential complex was built on the site of the former ABC Bakery. The building exemplifies the area's shift from industrial heritage to modern urban development.
Beneath the bustling streets lie the Camden Catacombs, a network of underground spaces that once served as stables for horses and pit ponies used in railway operations. Though not true catacombs, these historical tunnels extend underneath the Camden markets, providing a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Currently closed to visitors due to flood risks, they remain an intriguing part of Camden's commercial history.
Camden Town's reputation as a musical hub centers around several iconic venues that have shaped London's alternative music scene. The World's End, established in 1690, stands as one of London's largest pubs and features a three-floor layout with multiple bars. Its basement houses The Underworld, a venue that has hosted prominent acts like Mรถtley Crรผe and The Smashing Pumpkins.
The Roundhouse, originally built as a locomotive facility in 1847, transformed into a significant performance space in 1966. After periods of closure and renovation, it reopened in 2006 as a premier theatre and music venue. The Hawley Arms, another notable establishment, gained fame in the 1990s as an indie music hub and was particularly known as Amy Winehouse's preferred local pub.
Among the cultural institutions that define Camden Town's heritage, the Jewish Museum London stood as a significant landmark until its closure in 2023. The area also features Greater London House, a striking Art Deco Egyptian Revival building from 1926-1928, distinguished by its 8.5-foot bronze statues of the Egyptian goddess Bastet. Originally the Carreras Cigarette Factory, it now serves as modern office space. The Royal Veterinary College, founded in 1791 on Royal College Street, represents one of the area's oldest educational institutions. Religious landmarks include St Pancras Old Church, Our Lady of Hal Catholic Church, and St Michael's Church. These cultural establishments collectively showcase Camden Town's rich architectural heritage and its historical significance as a center of learning and worship.
Despite its urban character, green spaces in Camden Town provide essential breathing room within the bustling district. St. Martin's Gardens, a former burial ground converted into a public park, offers a tranquil setting with mature trees and historical gravestones. The park retains its Victorian character while serving as a modern recreational space.
Regent's Canal towpath, while not strictly a park, functions as a linear green corridor through Camden Town. This waterside path, lined with trees and plants, connects several pocket parks and provides a peaceful walking route away from the busy streets. At Camden Lock, the waterside area expands into a series of small terraced gardens and seating areas, allowing visitors to enjoy the canal-side atmosphere amid carefully maintained greenery.
Architectural splendor lines the streets of this historic district, with Greater London House standing as one of its most striking landmarks. The Art Deco Egyptian Revival building, constructed between 1926 and 1928, features distinctive 8.5-foot bronze statues of the goddess Bastet and now serves as modern office space.
Other notable architectural gems include the historic Arlington House, originally a Rowton House, continues its legacy of providing affordable accommodation while incorporating a conference center. The area's industrial heritage is preserved in structures like the 1847 Roundhouse, transformed from a railway building into a prominent arts venue, and the Camden Catacombs, which once housed stables for railway horses beneath the markets.
Also in Camden: Camden Town, Gospel Oak, Somers Town, King's Cross, Chalk Farm, Dartmouth Park.
Driving directions from Camden Town to ๐ฆท Forest & Ray Private Dentist Camden
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