I’ve already mentioned in previous parts of this series about how Camden Town became a central hub with a crucial role in the birth and development of the punk subculture, and about some of its iconic venues. Here are more places worth mentioning. It’s also important to note that unlike other parts of London, punk is still very much alive here.
The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8EH
In the 1960s and 70s, this venue hosted Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, as well as David Bowie, Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. In 1976, The Ramones played a pivotal concert here – a wild show that marked their London debut and helped ignite the UK punk revolution. Shane MacGowan and Spider Stacy first met at this gig – in the men’s toilets, where Shane was passionately talking about punk fanzines. Their first interaction was brief but significant. Six years later, they founded The Pogues. Although I personally prefer smaller clubs, this concert hall is the best of the big ones.
It holds up to 3,300 people and hosts not only concerts but also theatre performances, festivals, exhibitions, workshops and community programmes. It’s also home to Roundhouse Studios, which support young artists aged 11–30, offering art workshops and rehearsal spaces for bands.
Modfather, Unit 37, The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AH
A fashion shop for mods, skinheads, suedeheads and rudeboys.
Oi Oi the Shop, Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, Camden, London NW1 8AH
Oi Oi The Shop is a boutique rooted in the punk and skinhead scenes of the late 70s and early 80s. You’ll find everything from short-sleeved button-down shirts to sta prest trousers, crombie coats, harrington jackets and licensed band merchandise.
Elephant’s Head, 224 Camden High Street, NW1 8QR
On the corner of Camden High Street stands Elephant’s Head Pub – a cult venue that’s played a key role in the lives of punks, skinheads, mods and rudeboys since the 1980s. Under John Nolan’s management, it transformed from a regular pub into a space full of music, DJ sets and style. Ska, rock’n’roll, reggae and Northern Soul were all part of the soundtrack. After gigs at Electric Ballroom or Underworld, people often continued the night here. Even MTV presenters, whose studio was across the street, were regulars.
In 2023, the pub changed ownership after 43 years, but the new operator promised to preserve its original character – confirmed by events like regular skinhead meetups supporting testicular cancer awareness. These gatherings blend music and subcultural pride with education and solidarity.
Devonshire Arms, 33 Kentish Town Rd, London NW1 8NL
Just a few metres from Elephant’s Head is another live music venue, known as “The Dev” or formerly “The Hobgoblin.” It’s considered one of London’s most iconic alternative pubs. It was the first goth pub in Camden and remains the longest-running goth venue in the city. In the 1980s, Spider Stacy and Shane MacGowan of The Pogues were regulars. Shane’s drunken escapades eventually earned him a “red card,” and he had to relocate to “The Good Mixer” nearby.
The British Boot Company, 5 Kentish Town Rd, Camden Town, London NW1 8NH
Founded in 1851 as “Holt’s,” this shoe shop has a rich history. As one of the first retailers of Dr. Martens (since 1960), it played a key role in making the boots accessible to punks and alternative subcultures. Loyal customers included members of The Clash, Sex Pistols and UK Subs. Today, you’ll find not only classic models but also rare limited editions costing hundreds of pounds. This tiny shop is packed with brands like Dr. Martens, Solovair, Grinders, N.P.S. and George Cox.
The Underworld, 174 Camden High Street, London NW1 0NE
Over the years, The Underworld has become the heart of the UK’s alternative music scene – a legendary stepping stone to stardom for many artists. I’ve seen Agnostic Front, Perkele and Exploited here. A brilliant venue!
The Black Heart, 2–3 Greenland Place, London NW1 0AP
A music pub with live rock, punk and indie performances.
All Ages Records, 27A Pratt Street, Camden Town, London NW1 0BG
An independent PUNK & HARDCORE record store.
Dublin Castle, 94 Parkway, Camden, London NW1 7AN
A legendary pub and music venue. Madness began building their reputation here, playing their first gig in January 1979 under the name Camden Invaders. They had to pretend to be a jazz band just to get booked. Later, this pub became one of the key spots where Britpop took shape. Blur played their first major shows here. Coldplay and Amy Winehouse were regular performers – Amy even worked behind the bar occasionally.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Rescue, 96 Parkway, Camden, London NW1 7AN
A charity shop next to Dublin Castle with a music focus, supporting punks from Charlie Harper to Exploited.
KOKO (Music Machine), 1A Camden High Street, London NW1 7JE
KOKO (formerly The Music Machine) regularly hosted bands like The Clash, Damned, Jam and Nipple Erectors. Today, it’s focused on a completely different music style.