Camden

Though parts of this North London neighbourhood — best known for its canal and street markets — have become highly desirable and somewhat expensive, there is still enough loud, raucous and borderline-illegal activity to satisfy the punks, Goths and indie kids who made Camden famous.

EXPLORE ANOTHER NEIGHBORHOOD:

Hache

24 Inverness St 02074859100

Chandeliers, fairy lights and Venetian glass mirrors are hardly the proper setting for a good burger joint, but you’ll find real American-style hamburgers here as well as veggie options, French fries, onion rings, lamb, chicken and proper puddings.

Photo: Courtesy of Hache

Koko

1 Camden High St 08704325527

The former theatre (built in 1900) now hosts headline performances and weekly club nights for the cool Camden kids.

Photo: Courtesy of Koko

York & Albany

127 Parkway 02073883344

Chef Angela Hartnett serves up modern European dishes in the restaurant of this North London boutique hotel owned by Gordon Ramsay. There are also a bar and deli, where you can find a range of posh cheeses and cured meats to take away.

Photo: Courtesy of York & Albany

The Roundhouse

Chalk Farm Rd 08444828008

Legendary performing arts venue — a former steam engine repair shed — has hosted everyone from Jimi Hendrix to The Doors to Jarvis Cocker. Today it is used for large-scale theatre, festivals, installations, talks and screenings. It’s the perfect space (and shape) for audience interaction.

Photo: Courtesy of Roundhouse

Gilgamesh

Chalk Farm Stables, Chalk Farm Rd 02074825757

A superhero of a venue with a retractable ceiling for seasonal alfresco dining, a 50-foot-long lapis bar, and a tearoom, where full tea ceremonies are performed for every cuppa poured.

Photo: Courtesy of Gilgamesh