Camden Town - London

Look into past

The history of Camden Town is not too long. Originally, there were to be found here vast meadows and fields. Anyway, all changed at the end of 18th century, when this dominion was taken over by certain lawyer and politician, Sir Charles Pratt (known later as Count Camden). Extensive green areas started to be changed into building-plots, and new houses wereconstructed inside this, not too attractive, locality.

In the middle of 19th century, this tedious Camden Town awoke suddenly. The construction of railway line, stations, canals and shops  temptated to Camden Rown their first inhabitants, especially Irishmen. Within short time period, this place became a popular shopping centre and allured the spectators (observers) to two grand cabarets, where big stars had their regularly performances. In 1907, first underground station was open here for public. This act became the last step to the fact that provincial Camden Town changed to real town quarter.

However, 2nd World War was for Camden Town, similarly as for other places, a sad chapter. Neighbouring places were bombarded, and it was necessary to start the reconstruction works.

At present, Camden Town is very cosmopolitan town. The area in south direction from Camden High Street is a home for the biggest Bangladesh community in London. Thanks to this cosmopolitan society, the town quarter became a centre of art, fashion and music…

Markets, markets, and markets once again

Yes, Camden Town is unforgettably connected with markets of all types. If you long for exotic kitchen, antique furniture, extravagant dressing, etc. you will be able, for sure, to choose here something concrete. So, everybody could find his corner, in order to satisfy his needs. And in case, if you do not like shopping, you can walk through winding small streets, watch coloured shops, listen to unusual tones, and, first of all, to absorb the inimitable atmosphere of this mystery place.

Oh yes, the word mysterious is just the right word! Frankly speaking, there are not to be found many places, where you succeed to forget a fact that you find in the centre of busy, modern and rush London. So, Camden Town Markets are right places, where you can feel as in fairytale…

Regent´s Canal

Popular Regent´s Canal passes throughout Camden Town. The history of this canal comes to the beginning of 19th century, when its construction begun. Now, especially during summer months, the canal is often used by excursion boats. Its part is also a sluice, managed by hands. It serves for water level balancing in canal…

Text: Libor Včelík

Photo: Libor Včelík

Translation: ing. Jan Jonáš