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Did you know?

• The Assembly Rooms pub in Kentish Town is so called because people assembled there in groups, then travelling safely across the Heath together.

• The Roundhouse is where the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd made a name for themselves and The Doors played their only UK gig.

• Between robberies, Dick Turpin was reputed to frequent the Spaniards Inn in Hampstead and stabled his horse, Black Bess, nearby.

SHOPPING

Button Lady

The shop itself is a tiny nook in the cranny better known as The Courtyard and stocks a fantastic array of - yep, you guessed it - buttons. Prices range from 10p to an astonishing £300.
ADDRESS: Antique and Craft Market, 12 Heath Street, Hampstead NW3 6TEÌý TEL: 020 7435 5412Ìý OPEN: Tues-Fri 10.30am-5.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 11.30am-4.30pm. Disabled access.

Cycle Surgery

Usual bike-shop gubbins aside (and there's plenty here), a worthy asset of Cycle Surgery is the specific BMX section - the only example of its kind in North London.
ADDRESS: 44 Chalk Farm Road, Camden Town NW1 8AJÌý TEL: 020 7485 1000Ìý OPEN: Tues & Thurs 9.00am-7.00pm; Mon, Wed & Fri 9.00am-6.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 11.00am-5.00pm. Limited disabled access.

from food stalls to fabrics

Fresh and Wild

Take a trundle down Parkway to a mountain of fruit and veg, organic meat, cheese and more soya milk and rice cakes than you can shake a stick at. A small juice and food bar will put you back to rights after a heavy night out.
ADDRESS: 49 Parkway, London NW1 7PNÌý TEL: 020 7428 7575Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 8.00am-9.00pm; Sat 9.00am-9.00pm; Sun 11.00am-8.00pm. Limited disabled access.

Camden Market

The original Camden Lock market has three open yards surrounding the Victorian Market Hall. Here you'll find independently designed clothing, Middle Eastern textiles, hand-carved sculptures and Indian jewellery. There are also plenty of food stalls, selling snacks like falafel, Thai noodles, crêpes and freshly squeezed fruit juices. For more exclusive items, including antiques and handmade one-offs, head indoors to the market hall. Or for cheap and cheerful clothing and bric-a-brac, nip next door to The Stables market, under the railway arches. During the week, there are permanent shops, bars and restaurants for a more chilled out experience.
ADDRESS: Camden Lock Place, Camden NW1 8AFÌý TEL: 020 7284 2084Ìý OPEN: Sat-Sun 10.00am-6.00pm; weekdays 10.00am-6.00pm. 100 stalls open weekdays. Disabled toilets, lift and access to parts of the market.

Hampstead Antique Emporium

Snap up a bargain or purchase an unusual gift - here you'll find dozens of units specialising in everything from Art Deco antiques and glassware, to 20th century collectables and arts and crafts items all under the one roof.
ADDRESS: 12 Heath Street, Hampstead NW3 6TEÌý TEL: 020 7794 3297Ìý OPEN: Tues-Fri 10.30am-5.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 11.30am-5.30pm. Disabled access.

Humla Children's Shops

For the little ones in your life, Humla has a good array of children's toys, clothes and accessories. With beautiful pink, embroidered dresses, soft toy back-packs and cute furnishings that will make you sigh, coo and notice your body-clock ticking.
ADDRESS: 13 Flask Walk, Hampstead NW3 1HJÌý TEL: 020 7794 8449Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm. Limited disabled access.

Comics

Louis Patisserie

Rich chocolate cakes, fresh cream slices, chocolate croissants like you've never seen before, moist rye bread, biscuits and scones galore. The French for window shopping is lèche-vitrine - this is a good place to do some window licking of your own!
ADDRESS: 32 Heath Street, Hampstead NW3 6TEÌý TEL: 020 7435 9908Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 9.00am-6.00pm. Limited disabled access.

Mega City Comics

Here you can pick yourself up a copy of Wolverine, Spiderman or, perhaps more in keeping with the Camden Town vibe, ‘Fetish Interiors’ - read up on spiky, pierced and fluorescent furnishings…
ADDRESS: 18 Inverness Street, Camden Town NW1Ìý7HJÌý TEL: 020 7485 9320Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 10.00am-6.00pm; Thurs-Fri 10.00am-7.00pm. Limited disabled access.

Rehab

This cool, clean, open plan shop is light relief from the normality of Camden Town. Stocking labels such as Fred Perry, Dunlop, Bench and Firetrap, you can be certain to walk away with a pair of fashionably 'nerdy' trainers and a stylised, slash-neck tee to go with your suitably faded jeans.
ADDRESS: 5 Chalk Farm Road, Camden Town NW1 8AAÌý TEL: 020 7485 1741Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 10.00am-6.30pm. Disabled access.

RJM Furniture

The clean, sleek interior displays a stock of furniture, accessories and lighting that would make Mr. Conran weep. The modern, retro-influenced pieces purvey a sense of everyday art, boasting aesthetically pleasing curves, rounded corners and tactile materials.
ADDRESS: 203 Kentish Town Road NW5Ìý2JUÌý TEL: 020 7428 9761Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 10.00am-6.00pm; Sat 11.00am-5.30pm. Limited disabled access.

trainers specialists

Rokit

Rokit is the first place to go if you're looking for that truly 'artistic/ individual/ web designer' look. Pick yourself up some original dog-tooth-check flat caps, braces to hold up your saggy, battered Levis and a camouflage jacket to ensure you're protected in the 'Urban Jungle'.
ADDRESS: 225 Camden High Street, Camden Town NW1Ìý7BUÌý TEL: 020 7267 3046Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 10.00am-7.00pm.

Offspring

If you like your trainers to be that little bit more individual, Offspring specialises in harder-to-find versions of all the mainstream brands e.g. Nike, Adidas, Puma, Converse and Reebok.
ADDRESS: 221 Camden High Street, Camden NW1 7BUÌý TEL: 020 7267 9873Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 9.30am-6.00pm. Disabled access.

Swiss Cottage Farmers Market

A weekly produce market, with fresh vegetables, home made pies, chutneys and cakes, all of which are grown or produced by the seller. (N.B. Expecting to move in the near future please check the website for details.)
ADDRESS: 02 Centre car park, Finchley Rd NW3Ìý TEL: 020 7704 9659Ìý OPEN: Wed 10.00am-3.00pm. Limited disabled access.

Velvet Illusion

Think swinging London and Carnaby Street chic. Velvet Illusion is a shrine to all things kitsch, funky, retro and most importantly 60's. If you're looking for a sharp cut corduroy mini, or a pair of purple nylon slacks, rock up to the market.
ADDRESS: Camden Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, Camden Town NW1 8AHÌý TEL: 020 7485 2810Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 12.00pm-6.00pm; Sat-Sun 11.00am-6.00pm.

modern european selection

RESTAURANTS

Al Casba

The front of the restaurant opens up on sunny days and a handful of tables wind their way down Flask Walk: a fantastic little hide away, with a dark, velvety interior, low seating and gold embroidered throws. Al Casba provides belly dancing, hubbly bubblies (Shisha pipes), mint tea and mezze.
ADDRESS: 32 Hampstead High Street, Hampstead NW3 1QEÌý TEL: 020 7435 7632Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 10.00am-12.00am; Sun 10.00am-11.00pm. Disabled access.

Bar Solo

More of a restaurant than a bar, this modern establishment serves a fine selection of that old favourite 'modern/ European'. The menu caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and you can score a main dish of Red Mullet for under £10.
ADDRESS: 20-22 Inverness Street, Camden Town NW1 7HJÌý TEL: 020 7482 4611Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 9.00am-11.00pm. Disabled access, but limited access to toilets.

The Bengal Lancer

This light, airy Indian restaurant is displayed behind a large glass façade on the main stretch of Kentish Town Road. Bengali, Pakistani and European tastes are all catered for.
address: 253 Kentish Town Road NW5 2JTÌý TEL: 020 7485 6688Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 12.00pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-12.00am; Sat 6.00pm-12.30am; Sun 12.00pm-12.00am. Disabled access.

Camden Brasserie

This is a cool, comfortable restaurant with a modern interior, a large bar facility and unusual artworks adorning the walls. The menu is distinctly modern/European, boasting a good selection of salads and fish.
ADDRESS: 9-11 James Town Road, Camden Town NW1 7BWÌý TEL: 020 7482 2114Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 12.00pm-11.00pm. Disabled access.

Café Corfu

This local eatery is along way from home but it's reputation as one of the best Greek restaurants in London is growing at an alarming rate. The décor is a mix of traditional influences and a modern, stark style, whilst the food enters into a domain of it's own. A majority of the ingredients are specially imported from Greece and the chef, Eudoxios Bekris, has already been at the helm of a number of Michelin starred restaurants.
ADDRESS: 7-9 Pratt Street, Camden NW1 0AEÌý TEL: 020 7267 8088Ìý OPEN: Tues-Thurs 12.00pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sun 12.00pm-11.30pm. Disabled access.

Galangal Thai Canteen

A dark, sparse interior is home to fast, efficient service and a good selection of freshly prepared dishes. White tiles decorate the front of the restaurant, whilst the back is wooden clad with large sky lights; the décor is minimal with Formica tables and brightly coloured vinyl stools.
ADDRESS: 29-31 Parkway, Camden Town NW1 7PNÌý TEL: 020 7485 9933Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 12.00pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-11.00pm; Fri-Sat 12.00pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-11.30pm; Sun 1.00pm-10.30pm. Limited disabled access.

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An authentic French restaurant where you feel you've really enjoyed a gastronomic adventure. Plus the menu is pretty light on your pocket.
ADDRESS: 3 Chalk Farm Road, Camden NW1 8AAÌý TEL: 020 7267 8116Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm (sometimes closed on Monday). Disabled access.

The Mango Room

This Caribbean restaurant is brightly decorated with a really warm and bright feel to it. The food is delicious with the classic salt fish and plantain dishes on the menu, some choice vintages on the wine list and a very relaxed, Caribbean feel.
ADDRESS: 10-12 Kentish Town Road, Camden Town NW1 8NHÌý TEL: 020 7482 5065Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sun 12.00pm-12.00am. Disabled access.

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This popular, Primrose Hill restaurant serves a beautiful organic, vegetarian menu that has been receiving rave reviews. The menu is renowned for the unusual combinations and good quality ingredients, whilst the desserts have to be tried to be believed.
ADDRESS: 4 Erskine Road, Primrose Hill NW3 3AJÌý TEL: 020 7722 8028Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 6.30pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.30pm-2.45pm & 6.30pm-10.30pm. Please call for details of disabled access.

Marine Ices

Starting out as a Sicilian Ice Cream parlour, Marine Ices now also serves pasta, pizza and traditional Italian food, but it's still the homemade ice Cream that's its main draw. Choose from more than a dozen delicious flavours all made from fresh cream, with no artificial flavours.
ADDRESS: 8 Haverstock Hill, Chalk Farm NW3 2BLÌý TEL: 020 7482 9003Ìý OPEN: Restaurant - Mon-Fri 12.00pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-11.00pm; Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.00pm. Ice Cream Parlour - Mon-Sat 10.30pm-11pm; Sun 11.00am-10.00pm. Disabled access.

Rosmarino

If you're looking for modern Italian food in a truly authentic atmosphere, Rosmarino serve a variety of health conscious Italian dishes in a cosy venue - there's also an outdoor terrace.
ADDRESS: 1 Blenheim Terrace, St John’s Wood NW8 OEHÌý TEL: 020 7328 5014Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 7.00pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat 7.00pm-11.00pm. Limited disabled access.

The Vine

This local bar/ restaurant is a favourite pick for the locals, with a good Mediterranean influenced menu and two rooms upstairs for drinking. There is a great Sunday feel to the place, whilst friends relax throughout the afternoon with a couple of glasses/ bottles of wine and the newspapers.
86 Highgate Road, Kentish Town, NW5 1PB
Tel No: 020 7209 0038. Open: Food: Mon-Fri 12.30pm-3pm & 6.30pm-10.30pm; Sat-Sun 12.30pm-10.30pm. Bar: Mon-Sun midday-11pm. Disabled facilities: Limited access.

an edgy establishment

PUBS AND BARS

The Albert Pub

This is a lovely traditional pub offering a wide range of bitters and lagers alongside great food. You can plump for standard pub fayre, or treat yourself to something a bit more classy: I had a wonderfully mouth-watering seared tuna salad. There's a large beer garden as well as tables and chairs at the front - perfect for Primrose Hill people watching!
ADDRESS: 11 Princess Road, Primrose Hill NW1 8JRÌý TEL: 020 7722 1886Ìý OPEN: Pub Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Food Mon-Fri 12.00pm-2.30pm & 6.30pm-10.00pm; Sat 12.00pm-10.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-9.30pm. Limited disabled access.

The Adelaide

Set between Primrose Hill and Swiss Cottage, the Adelaide comes into its own on balmy summer evenings. The pretty beer garden is its main draw, with sufficient heaters for the usual British climate. Decent Thai food means an afternoon pint often turns into an evening out.
ADDRESS: 143 Adelaide Road NW3 3NLÌý TEL: 020 7722 3777Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access.

Bar Vinyl

An edgy establishment with a food bar at the rear, pumping out a good choice of salads, soups and pasta throughout the day.
ADDRESS: 6 Inverness Street, Camden Town NW1 7HJÌý TEL: 020 7681 7898Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11.00am-11.00pm; Fri-Sat 11.00am-12.00am; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Limited disabled access.

The Flask Tavern

This beautiful little boozer is located down a side-street not far from Hampstead High Street. The interior is truly English traditional: two bars occupy the front, while the conservatory and garden provide a nice respite in the summer months.
ADDRESS: 14 Flask Walk, Hampstead NW3 1AJÌý TEL: 020 7435 4580Ìý OPEN: Bar Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Food Mon 12.00pm-3.00pm; Tues-Fri 12.00pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-9.00pm; Sat 12.00pm-4.00pm & 6.00pm-9.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-4.00pm. Disabled access and toilet.

The Holly Bush

After an afternoon's walk on Hampstead Heath, a pint of real ale in this old fashioned village pub is an absolute must. Tucked away, round the corner from Jamie Oliver's former home, The Holly Bush serves a selection of real ales and traditional food in a cosy environment.
ADDRESS: 22 Holly Mount, London, Hampstead NW3 6SGÌý TEL: 020 7435 2892Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access.

King William IV

King William is an old-style pub with a good selection of pub grub. The main bar has a handful of comfy sofas for lounging on and theatre posters cover the walls. The little walled garden at the rear of the pub is a great sun trap and hosts a barbecue every weekend in the summer.
ADDRESS: 77 Hampstead High St, Hampstead NW3 1REÌý TEL: 020 7435 5747Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access and toilet.

The Lock Tavern

Not quite on the lock, but possessing two rather nice little bars with decks in the corner, a garden at the rear, roof terrace up above, Sunday summer barbecues and some fine tunes.
ADDRESS: 35 Chalk Farm Road, Camden NW1 8AJÌý TEL: 020 7482 7163Ìý OPEN: Please call for details. Limited disabled access.

The Mac Bar

Mac Bar is perfect if you're looking for a buzzy, air-conditioned atmosphere, fuelled by a good selection of cocktail concoctions and a location a little removed from the quirkiness of Camden High Street. The interior is reminiscent of Shoreditch with lots of leather sofas, table service and a good selection of food.
ADDRESS: 102-104 Camden Road London NW1 9EAÌý TEL: 020 7485 4530Ìý OPEN: Bar Mon-Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Food Mon-Fri 12.00pm-3.30pm & 6.00pm-9.30pm; Sat-Sun 12.00pm-9.00pm.

Spaniards Inn

This 16th century establishment is situated on Spaniards Road, sandwiched between two sides of Hampstead Heath. Food is served for lunch and dinner with a good variety of pasta, salads and Sunday roasts. A large garden is packed with heavy wooden furniture, climbing plants and a beautiful cherry tree.
ADDRESS: Spaniards Road, Hampstead NW3 7JJÌý TEL: 020 8731 6571Ìý OPEN Bar Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Food Mon-Sun 12.00pm-10.00pm. Disabled access.

The Worlds End

The Worlds End is a true founder of the local bar scene. The venue itself is massive with tiered layers providing space to get into the full throttle of the action or alternatively alcoves where you can hide if it all gets a little bit too much.
ADDRESS; 174 Camden High Street, Camden Town NW1 0NEÌý TEL: 020 7482 1932Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11.00am-11.00pm; Fri-Sat 11.00am-12.00am; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access and toilets.

ARTS AND CULTURE

The Camden Choir

The Camden Choir is noted for having presented many rarely performed works, including the British première of Leopold Mozart's Missa Solemnis. This friendly and welcoming choir performs three times per year and also holds an annual carol concert.
ADDRESS: St Mary's, Primrose Hill and at Hampstead Parish ChurchÌý TEL: 020 7794 6300Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Adults £10.00 (doors open at 7.00pm); Concs. £6.00. Disabled access to both venues.

Cecil Sharp House

This beautiful Grade II listed building houses the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library and a 60ft mural painted by Ivon Hitchens. It is also the home to the English Folk, Dance and Song Society, which offers a diverse programme of events.
ADDDRESS: 2 Regents Park Road NW1 7AYÌý TEL: 020 7485 2206Ìý OPEN: Library Tues-Fri 9.30am-5.00pm; 2nd and 4th Sat of every month 10.00am-4.00pm. Events programme on at various times throughout the weekÌý COST: Members: Free; Non-members £3.50; Events various charges. Please call for details of disabled access.

Fenton House

A delightful merchant's house dating from 1693, set in the winding streets of Hampstead. It contains the Benton Fletcher Collection of early keyboard instruments, as well as an outstanding collection of Oriental and European porcelain, needlework and furniture.
ADDRESS: Windmill Hill, Hampstead NW3 6SPÌý TEL: 01494 755 563Ìý OPEN: 3Apr-31Oct: Wed-Fri 2.00pm-5.00pm; Sat, Sun & Bank Hols 11.00am-5.00pm. Last entry 4.30pm. Please call for details of disabled access.

The Freud Museum

The Freud Museum is the last residence of the psychologist and contains his personal collection of antiquities and books. Freud died at this residence in 1939, but his daughter, Anna Freud continued to live here until 1982.
ADDRESS: 20 Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead NW3 5SXÌý TEL: 020 7435 2002Ìý OPEN: Wed-Sun 12.00pm-5.00pmÌý COST: Adults £5.00; Concns. £2.00. Limited disabled access; please call for details.

Hampstead Museum - Burgh House

Find out about the history of Hampstead, including its 18th century Spa, and the area's many famous writers and artists such as Constable. The house is also a community arts centre.
ADDRESS: New End Square, Hampstead NW3 1LTÌý TEL: 020 7431 0144Ìý OPEN: Wed-Sun 12.00pm-5.00pm; Sat by appointment; Bank Holidays 2.00pm-5.00pm. (Closed from March 1st-June 1st)Ìý COST: Free. Disabled access.

Hampstead Theatre

Hampstead Theatre is home to a dramatic, elliptical auditorium, open spaces, landscaped gardens, innovative lighting schemes, new art, educational facilities and a café/bar. This local institution showcases contemporary performance, many of which make their way down to the West End; there are also theatre workshops for BOTH children and adults focusing on play writing, directing and acting.
ADDRESS: Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage NW3Ìý3EUÌý TEL: 020 7722 9301 box office/ 020 7449 4200 info lineÌý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Preview and Mon evenings £13.00; Tues-Fri evening and all matinées £19.00; Sat evenings £22.00; Concs. £13.00; under 26s, people receiving state benefits, over 60s and Camden leisure card holders £10.00. Disabled access and toilet.

Jackson's Lane Dancebase

This is an arts venue and community centre providing numerous performance based courses and classes, and is currently the only London venue actively commissioning Disability Arts practice. The centre plays host to a vast array of activities and live events, including over 280 performances every year and 60 different classes and courses every week. They also have a vegetarian café and garden bar.
ADDRESS: 29a Archway Road, Highgate N6 5AAÌý OPEN: Mon-Sat 10.00am-11.00pm; Sun 10.00am-10.30pm. Disabled access to theatre and toilets.

Jewish Museum

See some fabulous displays of Jewish ceremonial art and find out all about Jewish history in Britain, from the Norman Conquest to the present day.
ADDRESS: Raymond Burton House, 129-131 Albert Street NW1 7NBÌý TEL: 020 7284 1997Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10.00am-4.00pm; Sun 10.00am-5.00pmÌý COST: Adults £3.50; Concns. £2.50; Children up to 16 yrs £1.50; Family Ticket £8.00. Disabled access and toilets.

Jongleurs

One liners, jugs of beer, raucous laughter and the odd heckle. The Jongleurs chain has developed a comic reputation in the 21 years since its conception.
ADDRESS: 11 East Yard, Camden, London NW1 8ABÌý TEL: Booking line 0870 78 70 707Ìý OPEN: Fri doors open at 7.00pm, last entry at 8.00pm; Sat doors open at 7.00pm, last entry at 8.00pmÌý COST: Tickets £16.00 advance, £15.00 on door & restricted view seats. Disabled access and toilets.

Keats House

As the residence of the famous poet, Keats House is a beautiful Regency building, where in 1819 he wrote his famous poem Ode to a Nightingale.
ADDRESS: 10 Keats Grove NW3 2RRÌý TEL: 020 7435 2062Ìý OPEN: Tues-Sun 1.00pm-5.00pm; group bookings 10.30am-12.00pmÌý COST: Adults £3.00; Concs. £1.50 (allows free entry for one year). Disabled access to ground floor.

Kenwood House

Set in splendid grounds beside Hampstead Heath, this neoclassical mansion contains art works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner, Gainsborough and Constable. The Visitor Information Centre is based in Mansion Cottage, near the Brew House Restaurant. Lectures, guided walks and concerts are also available.
ADDRESS: Hampstead Lane NW3 7JRÌý TEL: 020 8348 1286Ìý OPEN: Apr-Sept 11.00am-5.00pm; Oct 11.00am-4.00pm; Nov-Mar 11.00am-4.00pmÌý COST: Free. Disabled access via East Lodge Gate, Hampstead Lane, and disabled toilets.

London Canal Museum

This museum is devoted to the commercial and social history of the canals and waterways of south east England at a time when canals were the major form of freight transport. Set in an old ice warehouse, there are two large ice wells on view. You can see inside a narrowboat cabin, learn about the history of London's canals, the cargos carried, the people who lived and worked on the waterways and the horses that pulled their boats.
ADDRESS: 12-13 New Wharf Road N1 9RTÌý TEL: 020 7713 0836Ìý OPEN: Tues-Sun & Bank Holiday Mon 10.00am-4.30pm (last admission 3.45pm)Ìý COST: Adults £3.00; Concs. £2.00. Disabled access.

up and coming bands

London International Gallery of Children's Art

London's only art gallery devoted to art produced by both local children and children from around the world. There are a variety of exhibitions, specially tailored school visits and a wide range of workshops available throughout the year.
ADDRESS: 02 Centre, 255 Finchley Road NW3 6LUÌý TEL: 020 7435 0903Ìý open: Tues-Thurs 4.00pm-6.00pm; Fri-Sun 12.00pm-6.00pmÌý COST: Free. Disabled access.

The London Irish Centre

This is the source for all things 'green and lucky' in the area, with advice, culture and event contacts throughout London.
ADDRESS: 50-52 Camden Square, Camden Town NW1 9XBÌý TEL: 020 7916 7272Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled lift, access and toilets.

Theatro Technis

A little-known theatre tucked away in the heart of Camden, which stages dozens of classic and contemporary plays, dance productions, photography exhibitions and music and film events throughout the year. Theatro Technis also has an internet café and is available for hire by community groups.
ADDRESS: 26 Crowndale Road, Camden NW1 1TTÌý TEL: 020 7387 6617Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 10.00am-5.00pm; Sat 10.00am-1.00pm (by appointment only). Disabled access and toilet.

2 Willow Road

Whether you love or hate architect Goldfinger and his infamous Trellick Tower, this 1930s house - designed and built by the architect - is an intimate snapshot of his life. There are some important furniture designs alongside work by Henry Moore, Max Ernst and May Ray.
ADDRESS: 2 Willow Road, Hampstead NW3 1THÌý TEL: 020 7435 6166Ìý OPEN: 5th-26th Mar Sat only; 31st Mar–29th Oct Thurs-Sat; 5th-26th Nov Sat onlyÌý COST: National Trust Members Free; Adults £4.60; Children £2.30; Joint ticket with Fenton House £6.40. Please call for details of disabled access.

MUSIC AND CLUBS

Barfly

One of the best places to see up and coming bands in the capital, Barfly was a launch-pad for the careers of Coldplay, The Darkness and Franz Ferdinand. It has a committed policy of nurturing new talent and if you go often enough you're bound to see a future household name.
ADDRESS: 49 Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8ANÌý TEL: 0870 90 70 999Ìý OPEN: Opening times vary; telephone or check website for details. Please call for details of disabled access.

The Dublin Castle

Located at the back of this traditional boozer is a back room where you can catch some young rock bands on stage and, if you're lucky, help them smash up the set at the end - so terribly rock'n'roll.
ADDRESS: 94 Parkway, Camden Town NW1 7ANÌý TEL: 020 7485 1773Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 12.00pm-1.00am; Sun 12.00pm-12.00amÌý COST: Mon-Thurs & Sun Adults £5.00, Concs. £4.00; Fri-Sat Adults £6.00, Concs. £4.30. Limited disabled access.

The Forum

This massive venue offers up a great selection of live music and gig nights. The interior is a little rough around the edges, but the sound system is massive and the door staff are cool.
ADDRESS; 9-17 Highgate Road, Kentish Town NW5 1JYÌý TEL: Tickets 020 7344 0044; Info 020 8963 0940Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled access to lower floor; space for wheel chair users.

haven for live music

The Black Cap

This long-standing Camden pub/club attracts a primarily gay crowd, ranging from the young and trendy to the surprisingly square. The upstairs features a relaxed bar with a leafy terrace, whilst downstairs a long, slick bar leads to the dance floor where punters get their groove on to tunes from the 70's through to present day.
ADDRESS: 171 Camden High Street NW1 7JYÌý TEL: 020 7428 2721Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled access.

The Bull and Gate

This is a new bands venue, showcasing some of the best in new UK and London based music. Having been used as a stepping stone for many young bands, this is a great venue to check out some new talent and mix with the A'n'R lot.
ADDRESS: 389 Kentish Town Rd NW5 2TJÌý TEL: 020 7485 5358; Info 020 7093 4820Ìý OPEN: Mon-Sat 11.00am-12.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pmÌý COST: £5.00 charge for gigs. Limited disabled access.

Koko

Recently renamed and given a bit of spruce up and set in an old theatre, live bands play throughout the week culminating in Club NME on Fridays; the music policy switches to top dance acts and DJs on Saturdays and The Album Chart Show is also filmed here.
ADDRESS: 1a Camden High Street, Camden Town NW1 7JEÌý TEL: 0870 432 5527Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST Please call for details. Limited disabled access.

Electric Ballroom

Sin CityÌýon Fridays is a firm favourite on the Camden scene. This alternative night sees skaters, nu-metal heads and indie kids all going for it on the club's numerous dancefloors.
ADDRESS: 184 Camden High Street, Camden Town NW1 8QPÌý TEL: 020 7485 9007Ìý OPEN: Fri-Sat 10.30pm-3.00amÌý COST: Fri Adults £7.00, Members & Students £5.00; Sat Adults £10.00, Members & Students £8.00.

Jazz Café

Since its inception in the early nineties, the Jazz Café has made a point of supporting music for reasons of artistic integrity above all else. The venue covers a broad range of genres but, as the name suggests, improvised music takes pride of place. The Jazz Jam session on Sundays is the perfect chill-out activity, with local musicians taking to the stage for a jam with the house band.
ADDRESS: 5 Parkway, Camden NW1Ìý7PGÌý TEL: 020 7916 6060Ìý OPEN: Sun-Thurs 7.00pm-1.00am; Fri-Sat 7.00pm-2.00am; Sun 12.00pm-4.00pm & 7.00pm-1.00amÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled access and toilet.

Lock 17

Formerly known as Dingwalls, Lock 17 is located in the most famous Camden address possible, in the Middle Yard, surrounded by market stalls, Mohicans and rubber. There's live music during the week, with the likes of Feeder, White Stripes and Coldplay amongst those that have already graced the stage.
ADDRESS: 38 Middle Yard, Camden Lock, London NW1 8ABÌý TEL: 020 7428 5929Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Please call for details. Limited disabled access.

Underworld

Underworld is a local Camden institution, visited by clubbers all over London. The venue hosts both live music and club nights and has been the launch pad for many big artists including The Darkness, Radiohead, Sheryl Crow and Suede. Expect anything from Rock and Ska through to 80s revival and disco.
ADDRESS: 174 Camden High Street, Camden Town NW1 0NEÌý TEL: 020 7482 1932Ìý OPEN: 11.00pm-lateÌý COST: Please call for details. Limited disabled access.

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES

Camley Street Natural Park

Two unique acres of wild green space on the banks of the Regents canal, this innovative and internationally acclaimed reserve is a place for both people and wildlife. Special features include a pond, meadow and woodland, providing a natural environment for birds, bees, butterflies, amphibians and a rich variety of plant life.
ADDRESS: 12 Camley Street, London NW1 0PWÌý TEL: 020 7833 2311Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 9.00am-5.00pm (Winter 9.00am-Dusk); Sat-Sun 11.00am-5.00pm (Winter 10.00am-4.00pm); Fri closedÌý COST: Free. Disabled access and toilets.

Golders Hill Park

Part of Hampstead Heath in Barnet: facilities include an animal enclosure, a bandstand, climbing frame, café and toilets. Sports facilities include tennis courts, golf practice nets, a putting green, cricket nets and an athletics track.
ADDRESS: c/o Golders Hill Park Office West Heath Avenue off Finchley Road NW11 7QPÌý TEL: 020 8455 5183.

Hampstead Heath & Parliament Hill

With fantastic views from Parliament Hill, gaze across the horizon with The O2 (formerly the dome), St. Pauls and the Telecom Tower gracing the landscape. With lidos for the summer months and some undisputed kite flying opportunities, Hampstead Heath is a highly popular open space for many a North Londoner.
ADDRESS: Hampstead Heath Staff Yard, COL, Highgate Road NW5 1QRÌý TEL: 020 7485 4491.

Kentish Town City Farm

Kentish Town City Farm is a great place for children and adults, with pony rides on Sundays at 1.30pm, a community garden, activities and summer events for children, barbecues, barn dances and a pensioners' gardening club (please call for more details). Once you've learnt all there is to know about farm life, stroll down the road to Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill for some good pubs, local heathland and panoramic views of the capital.
ADDRESS: 1 Cressfield Close NW5 4BNÌý TEL: 020 7916 5421Ìý OPEN: Tues-Sun 9.00am-5.30pm; Feeding 9.00am & 4.00pmÌý COST: Free - donations are welcomed. Disabled access and toilets.

London Zoo

Housed in the north of Regent's Park, the London Zoo was first established in 1828 and is now home to 650 species, from Asiatic Lions to Seychelles Millipedes. The zoo also has beautiful gardens and impressive architecture including ten listed buildings, such as the modernist penguin pool and the giraffe house.
ADDRESS: Regents Park NW1 4RYÌý TEL: 020 7722 3333Ìý OPEN: Mar-Oct 10.00am-5.30pm; Nov-Dec 10.00am-4.00pm (closed Christmas day)Ìý COST: Adults £12.00; Children (Age under 3) Free; Children (Age 3-15) £9.00; OAPs & Students £10.20. Disabled access and toilet.

Regents Park

Regents Park is a beautiful oasis of calm in the middle of the city, with wide open spaces, an amazing array of activities and a history that stems back to 1811. Amenities include gardens, a lake with islands, a heronry and waterfowl collection, sports and catering, children's playgrounds and the open-air theatre.
ADDRESS: Royal Parks Agency Parks Office, The Store Yard, Inner Circle, Regents Park NW1 4NRÌý TEL: 020 7486 7905Ìý OPEN: 5.00am-Dusk.

CINEMA

Everyman Cinema

ADDRESS: Holly Bush Vale, Hampstead NW3 6TXÌý TEL: 0870 06 64 777Ìý COST: Adults £9.00; Concs. and children £7.50. Disabled access to screen 1.

Odeon Camden Town

ADDRESS: 14 Parkway, Camden Town NW1 7AAÌý TEL: 0871 22 44 007; 020 7482 4576Ìý COST: Before 5.00pm Adult £5.80; After 5pm Adults £8.30; Children £5.00 at all times. Disabled access to screen 1-4.

Screen on The Hill

ADDRESS: 203 Haverstock Hill NW3 4QGÌý TEL: 020 7435 3366Ìý COST: Adults £8.00; All day Mon and before 5.30pm Tues-Fri £5.50. Please call for details of disabled access.

SPORT AND LEISURE

Hampstead Heath Open Air Ponds

Offering some of the most staggering views of the city, plus superb kite flying facilities, wide open spaces and the sublime Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath is also renowned for its open-air swimming facilities. Dip your toes at the Open Air Ponds (children not admitted), which are open all year round.
ADDRESS; Access via Millfield Lane N6Ìý TEL: 020 7485 3873Ìý OPEN: Please call for detailsÌý COST: Free at time of writing but there are plans to charge in the future.

Kentish Town Sports Centre

ADDRESS: Prince of Wales Road NW5 3LEÌý TEL: 020 7267 9341Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-9.30pm; Sat-Sun 9.30am-5.30pmÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled access to swimming pool; disabled changing rooms and toilet. There are also two disabled swimming clubs on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

Maitland Park Gymnasium

ADDRESS: Maitland Park Villas NW3 3LEÌý TEL: 020 7485 7004Ìý OPEN: Mon-Thurs 5.00pm-9.30pm; Fri 5.00pm-9.00pm; Sat 10.00am-8.30pmÌý COST: Please call for details. Disabled access and ramps for the hall activities, but no access to the weights room.

Mornington Sports and Fitness Centre

ADDRESS: 142 Arlington Road NW1 7HPÌý TEL: 020 7267 3600Ìý OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-9.00pm; Sat-Sun 10.00am-5.00pmÌý COST: Please call for details.

Parliament Hill Lido

Parliment Hill has stunning views of the city, so if you need to cool down after a walk on the hill, stroll down to the recently refurbished lido. The 60m open-air swimming pool is unheated, there is also a paddling pool for the kiddies and the early morning swimming session is free.
ADDRESS: Parliament Hill Fields, Gordon House Road NW5 2LTÌý TEL: 020 7485 3873Ìý OPEN: Summer season (1st week in May-mid Sept) 7.00am-9.30am & 10.00am-6.30pm; last ticket 9.00am & 6.00pm respectively. Open during winter season (subject to demand) Dec-Jan 7.30am-10.00amÌý COST: Please call for details.

COUNCILS

Camden Council

ADDRESS: Camden Town Hall, Judd Street WC1H 9JEÌý TEL: 020 7278 4444Ìý TEXTPHONE: 020 7974 6866.