Licklist guide to... Camden

Camden may be known for its market and street food but the North London town also has an eclectic nightlife and in recent years, has firmly established itself as one of London’s top partying destinations – Pete Doherty is also often pictured here. (Now if that doesn’t scream ‘cool’, I don’t know what will.) Okay, maybe a lot of things are cooler but Camden is home to some seriously cool places.

Shaka Zulu is open every Saturday for those generic ‘house’ lovers. Grab the Shaka Zulu experience which, wait for it, entitles you to a cocktail on arrival and a 3 course meal beforehand. Snazzy or what?!

If you’re more of a ‘burger and ribs in one hand’ and a drink in the other kind of person, then The Blues Kitchen is what you’re looking for. Open until 3am serving cocktails, beers and spirits, this place is also famous for its BBQ kitchen. This place has even been graced by Seasick Steve.

And then there’s Proud. This unique night out is one not too miss as the venue mixes a bar, a live music venue, a boutique club and a chill out club all in one. With its converted stables, there is no excuse for not horsing around.

Camden is pretty cool and if you’re socialising in Camden, you’re also pretty cool. But one of the coolest hangouts in North London is Simmons Camden. You’ll find a vintage retreat renowned for its VHS videos, Mario Kart and the world’s largest skull mirror ball. With dessert inspired cocktails and happy hour throughout the weekend, nothing can go wrong.

If you’re a mosher, rocker or just fancy a tad bit of indie, then head to KoKo in Camden. This venue was a former theatre so you’ll find yourself partying in boxes, stalls, galleries and maybe even on stage. KoKo is known for it’s well known bands and also upcoming artists so head there if you want to get to know who’s going to be big in 2015.

Now if you’re looking for something more casual, Underworld, on Camden High Street, is for you. This club is what it says on the tin – It’s a club under the ground. Under a pub actually. By causal we don’t mean put on your Louboutin wedges instead of your Chanel 6 inches. We mean trainers and jeans but if you love indie and grime and what some call ‘proper music’, than this is the joint for you.

And if all this isn’t enough, there’s still the slight matter of the Camden Bar crawl. Every Monday, Tuesday and Saturday this alternative night out takes place. Great people, great venues, free shots, free queue jumps and loads of discounts. You’d practically be making money!

So whether you’re looking for house, rock, indie, a cocktail night or a meal, Camden will definitely have something for you.

By Lucy Acton