Camden Town Has Been a Residential Area Since the 1790S, but It Was
Total Page：16
File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb
Camden Town has been a residential area since the 1790s, but it was only the development of the Grand Union Canal and the improved railway transport that turned it into a bustling part of London. Today, visitors and locals gather to hunt for treasures in Camden's markets, stroll by Regent's Canal, gaze at the beautiful buildings, sample cuisine from around the world, listen to live music and soak up the vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Many famous people, including Dylan Thomas, Walter Sickert and Amy Winehouse, have made Camden their home. History Toponymy Camden Town is named after Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden. His earldom was styled after his estate, Camden Place near Chislehurst in Kent (now in the London Borough of Bromley), formerly owned by historian William Camden. The name, which appears on the Ordnance Survey map of 1822, was later applied to the early 20th century Camden Town Group of artists and the London borough of Camden, created in 1965. Urban development Camden Town stands on land which was once the manor of Kentish Town. Sir Charles Pratt, a radical 18th century lawyer and politician, acquired the manor through marriage. In 1791, he started granting leases for houses to be built in the manor.[6] In 1816, the Regent's Canal was built through the area. Up to at least the mid 20th century, Camden Town was considered an "unfashionable" locality. The Camden markets, which started in 1973 and have grown since then, attract many visitors all week. Camden Lock Village, then known as Camden Lock market, suffered a major fire, but no injuries, on 9 February 2008. It has since recovered. Travel To Camden Use Camden Town Tube station or Chalk Farm Tube station to visit the Camden area. There are also many bus routes that go through the area. If you're going to be in London for more than a day, it's worth buying a Visitor Oyster Card in advance. The Visitor Oyster Card is delivered to your home before you arrive in London. It is one of the easiest ways to get around London. If you do not have a Visitor Oyster Card, but still plan to travel around London for more than a day, buy an Oyster card at the Tube station. Learn more about Oyster Cards. Camden Markets The labyrinthine open-air markets and myriad retail outlets of Camden will keep the keenest shoppers busy, with everything from vintage to futuristic designs on offer. The individual markets are: Camden Lock Market – crafts, books, clothing, jewellery and fast food. Camden Lock Village – clothing and accessories, as well as a range of unusual items. Camden Market – originally Buck Street market, this sells fashion for all tastes. Inverness Street Market – a few of the original fruit stalls remain, alongside clothing, footwear and souvenirs. Stables Market – a mix of permanent shops and stalls selling household items, antiques, alternative clothing, food and much more. There is also an indoor fashion market at the Electric Ballroom, which is only open on Sundays. Food and Drink Feeling peckish? You'll find food from around the globe at Camden's many eateries and street vendors. Going to a show at the Roundhouse? Try their pre-theatre menu. Check out top-quality burgers at Haché or pan-Asian cuisine at Gilgamesh, where you can stay on to enjoy the trendy bar and club. You're never far from a bar in Camden. Try Scottish import BrewDog, the legendary Dublin Castle on Parkway or The World's End, opposite Camden Town Tube station (Northern line). Camden Town even has two breweries, Little Brew and Camden Town – look out for their excellent beers in local pubs. Live Music in Camden Camden has always been a hub for London's live music scene, with legendary venues that have launched many big names. Check out Koko, the Underworld and Electric Ballroom to catch the latest bands. You can also see top jazz and blues performances at the Jazz Café or the Blues Kitchen, while the Black Cap offers a glittering array of drag acts..