nothern soul

No matter where you go in the Big Smoke, you’re never far from a music venue, but nowhere has such a vast amount of places dedicated to music of the live persuasion than north London’s Camden.

Mainly known for its sprawling market straddling a pretty canal, night owls bypass the shopping in favour of some ear candy. Whatever your musical tastes, it’s all here. Want to see your favourite band perform in full amphitheatrical splendour? Then head to The Roundhouse, a big venue with the best sound system around: it hosted Elton John, Neil Diamond and Robert Plant in October alone. After something more low-key? Look no further than the Barfly, a gig venue that hosts a range of up-and-coming bands alongside some live indie and rock favourites.

Then there’s Proud Camden, a warren of interconnecting former stable rooms welcoming live music alongside performance art, exhibitions, DJs and themed parties. For a pub combining live music with real ale, the Dublin Castle has long been a favourite; if it’s music combined with food you’re looking for, the tiny, candlelit Green Note — accessible via a set of wobbly iron stairs — serves homemade vegetarian food and plays host to live performers perfecting folk harmonies on a tiny stage. And last but by no means least, get dressed up and head to the Jazz Cafe, a balconied venue hosting hot jazz, hip hop, soul, funk, dance and world music together with fine dining; it’s perfect for a special occasion.

Yes, Camden really does have it all.