Camden Art Centre: A Hub for Contemporary Creativity in London
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and creative spaces in a historic London setting at Camden Art Centre.
Camden Art Centre, located on Arkwright Road in London NW3, is a vibrant contemporary art gallery and cultural hub. Housed in a historic Victorian building, it offers a dynamic programme of exhibitions, artist residencies, workshops, and events. Visitors can explore innovative art across various media, enjoy the café and garden, and browse a specialist bookshop. Open Tuesday to Sunday with late openings on Thursdays, it champions underrepresented artists and fosters creative engagement.
A brief summary to Camden Art Centre
- Arkwright Rd, London, NW3 6DG, GB
- +442074725500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-9 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Thursday evenings to enjoy extended opening hours until 9pm.
- Check the centre’s website for current exhibitions and free workshops.
- Take time to relax in the café and garden, especially on sunny days.
- Use public transport or bike racks available on-site to reduce environmental impact.
- Families can join the fortnightly Family Takeover sessions for creative activities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Finchley Road station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Camden Art Centre. The station is served by the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines. Note that the walk includes some gentle inclines and is suitable for most visitors.
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Overground
Use the London Overground service to Finchley Road & Frognal station, which is about a 5-minute walk from the centre. This option is convenient for those coming from other parts of London and offers frequent service throughout the day.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area, including routes 13, 82, 113, and 268. Bus stops are within a short walking distance of the centre. Buses run regularly but check schedules for evening and weekend service variations.
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Car and Parking
On-site disabled parking is available by prior arrangement. Paid parking is also available at the nearby O2 Shopping Centre, approximately 400 meters away. On-street parking is unrestricted on Sundays. Biking is encouraged with racks provided outside the building.
Camden Art Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Camden Art Centre
A Living Space for Contemporary Art
Camden Art Centre stands as a beacon for contemporary art in London, situated in a beautifully preserved Victorian Gothic building that harmoniously blends historic architectural features with modern design elements. This fusion creates an inspiring environment flooded with natural light, ideal for showcasing a wide range of artworks including installations, sculptures, video, and light-sensitive drawings. The centre is renowned for its commitment to presenting unique and often overlooked artists, providing a platform for fresh voices across generations.Exhibitions and Artistic Innovation
The gallery hosts a regularly changing programme of exhibitions that challenge and engage visitors. Recent and upcoming shows include innovative installations and sculptural works by artists such as Ryan Gander and Jack O'Brien, whose pieces explore themes of time, identity, and societal values. The exhibitions often incorporate interactive and thought-provoking elements, inviting visitors to reflect deeply on contemporary issues through art. The centre also supports artist residencies, fostering creative development and experimentation.Creative Learning and Community Engagement
Beyond exhibitions, Camden Art Centre is dedicated to education and participation. It offers a variety of workshops, courses, and family-friendly sessions that encourage creativity and artistic exploration for all ages. The fortnightly Family Takeover sessions provide a relaxed space for children and adults to engage with materials and artistic processes. This educational mission is complemented by public talks, tours, and events that deepen understanding of contemporary art practices.Welcoming Spaces: Café, Garden, and Bookshop
Visitors can extend their experience by relaxing in the centre’s café and garden, both open year-round and offering indoor and outdoor seating. The café is a popular spot especially when the weather is pleasant, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the creative buzz. The specialist bookshop features carefully curated art publications and unique items, perfect for art lovers seeking inspiration or souvenirs. The garden also serves as a peaceful space for picnics and quiet reflection.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Camden Art Centre is committed to inclusivity, featuring level access entrances, lifts, gender-neutral toilets, baby changing facilities, and a wheelchair available on request. Guide and hearing dogs are welcome throughout the building, and there is a disabled parking bay available by prior arrangement. Well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed in the garden and café terrace. The centre encourages sustainable travel with bike racks and proximity to public transport.Location and Atmosphere
Nestled in the leafy area of Camden, the centre offers a calm yet lively atmosphere where art, community, and creativity intersect. Its historic charm combined with contemporary programming makes it a unique cultural landmark in London. Whether exploring cutting-edge exhibitions or enjoying a quiet moment in the garden, visitors experience a rich blend of inspiration and relaxation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
5 Abbey Rd.
2.1 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
3 Abbey Rd.
2.2 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
Hawley Street Art
2.7 km
Discover Camden’s vibrant Hawley Street Art, a dynamic outdoor gallery celebrating creativity, culture, and iconic urban murals.
London Central Mosque
2.8 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
2.8 km
Historic iron footbridge offering scenic canal views and vibrant access to Camden’s lively markets and cultural heart.
Kensal Green Cemetery
3.5 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Kensal Green Cemetery, one of London's oldest burial grounds, a tranquil escape amidst the city's vibrancy.
221B Baker St
3.5 km
Explore the iconic 221B Baker Street, the legendary home of Sherlock Holmes, and immerse yourself in the world of detective fiction and Victorian charm.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
3.7 km
Discover the charm and intrigue of London at the Sherlock Holmes Statue, a fitting tribute to the legendary detective and a must-see tourist attraction.
The Fan Bridge
3.7 km
Explore The Fan Bridge in Paddington Basin, London, a stunning architectural landmark offering unique views and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Paddington Basin
3.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Paddington Basin, London's enchanting waterside destination filled with modern architecture and relaxing scenery.
The Paddington Partnership
3.7 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
2 Eastbourne Terrace
3.7 km
Explore the architectural beauty of 2 Eastbourne Terrace, a stunning landmark in London showcasing the city's rich history and modern charm.
St Mary's Church, Bryanston Square
3.8 km
Neoclassical Pantheon-inspired church in Marylebone, built 1824, blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community engagement.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant academic life at Marylebone Hall, a historic university in London surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
Paddington Bear Statue
3.9 km
Visit the charming Paddington Bear Statue in London, a delightful tribute to the beloved character that captures the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jewish Museum London
0.1 km
Explore British Jewish history, culture, and identity in a striking Libeskind-designed museum in vibrant Camden Town.
St John-at-Hampstead Church
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church in Hampstead with classical architecture, rich heritage, and a distinctive copper spire dating back to 1747.
Freud Museum London
0.5 km
Explore the preserved home and study of Sigmund Freud, featuring his iconic psychoanalytic couch and rich collections in tranquil Hampstead.
National Trust - Fenton House and Garden
0.9 km
Explore a 17th-century merchant’s house with historic collections, stunning gardens, and panoramic London views in tranquil Hampstead.
Burgh House
1.0 km
Discover Burgh House, a stunning Queen Anne historic house and vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Hampstead, London.
Keats House
1.2 km
Step into the Regency home where John Keats penned timeless poetry and found love, surrounded by tranquil gardens and literary history.
2 Willow Road
1.2 km
Explore 2 Willow Road, Ernő Goldfinger’s iconic 1939 modernist family home blending bold architecture with mid-century art in leafy Hampstead.
Royal Free Hospital
1.2 km
A leading London hospital blending advanced medical care with compassionate patient support in a vibrant urban setting.
Abbey Rd.
1.6 km
Iconic London street and world-famous recording studios where The Beatles made history and music innovation thrives.
Hampstead Heath
1.8 km
Escape to Hampstead Heath, a sprawling urban oasis with ancient woodlands, swimming ponds, and stunning panoramic views over London.
St. John's Wood
1.9 km
Elegant village charm meets iconic landmarks and green spaces just minutes from central London in St John's Wood.
Dr. BR Ambedkar House
2.0 km
Explore the London home of Dr. BR Ambedkar, a global icon of social justice and architect of the Indian Constitution, now a memorial and museum.
Primrose Hill
2.0 km
Historic hilltop park in London offering stunning city views, Victorian charm, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.
The Queens
2.1 km
Experience the heart of London at The Queens, a vibrant pub in Primrose Hill offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Abbey Road Studios
2.1 km
The world’s first purpose-built recording studio, immortalized by The Beatles and a beacon of musical innovation since 1931.
Essential places to dine
Rossopomodoro Camden
2.9 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
wagamama camden
2.9 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Mildreds Camden
2.9 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
Jamon Jamon
3.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
3.1 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Laz @Camden
3.1 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Il Sugo
3.3 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Daphne Restaurant
3.3 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
3.5 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Frida Camden
3.5 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
3.5 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
3.7 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
The Ledbury
4.0 km
Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
4.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Cocotte Notting Hill
4.1 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Centre London
1.4 km
Discover a unique blend of gifts, souvenirs, and practical items at Gift Centre London, your one-stop shop for memorable finds.
Unique London
1.5 km
A vibrant clothing boutique on Kilburn High Road, offering unique fashion finds and personal service in a diverse, lively London neighbourhood.
Shop
2.6 km
A compact, ever-changing Camden Market shop serving eclectic vintage, designer finds and small-run curios in the Stables’ maze-like atmosphere.
Zakka Camden
2.7 km
Discover artist-designed cushions and design-led gifts at this quirky Camden Market gem, blending Japanese zakka charm with London's creative pulse.
Cyberdog
2.7 km
Step into Cyberdog, Camden’s neon-lit rave shop where futuristic fashion meets pounding techno beats in a vibrant club-like setting.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
2.7 km
Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
What Goes Around Comes Around
2.7 km
Dive into Camden's retro Americana vault at What Goes Around Comes Around, where vintage varsity jackets, Levi’s, and 80s tracksuits await in the Stables Market.
To Home From London
2.7 km
Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
Camden Gift
2.8 km
Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
KESKIN GIFT
2.8 km
Discover handmade wonders at Keskin Gift, where Camden's craft spirit shines through chess sets, masks, and artisanal jewelry in the iconic Lock Market.
Mr Frinky
2.8 km
Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
Church Street Market
3.2 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
London Beatles Store
3.5 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Antique Clothing Shop
3.9 km
Discover timeless threads and retro glamour at this Portobello Road gem, where antique clothing whispers stories from London's stylish past amid market vibrancy.
Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
4.1 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bobby Fitzpatrick
0.6 km
Step into a vibrant 1970s-themed cocktail bar in West Hampstead, where expertly crafted rum drinks meet retro charm and playful culinary twists.
The Hawley Arms
2.8 km
Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
All About Eve
2.9 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
Canalside Bar
2.9 km
Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
The Elephants Head
3.0 km
Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
Bucks Head
3.0 km
Lively Camden pub with roof terrace views, pub grub, real ales, and festive vibes opposite Buck Street Market—perfect for soaking up the neighborhood's electric energy.
The Devonshire Arms
3.1 km
A cosy NW1 pub where grilled dishes and small rock gigs meet—intimate evenings, unpolished energy and classic pub bones in the heart of Kentish Town Road.
Simmons Bar | Camden Town
3.1 km
Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
The World's End
3.1 km
Camden’s legendary pub and live music venue blending rich history, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local spirit in the heart of London.
Sunlight Lounge
3.3 km
An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Camden Head
3.3 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
Be At One - Camden
3.5 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
The Quiet Night Inn
3.6 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
The Intrepid Fox
3.7 km
A legendary London bar famed for its rock and metal spirit, craft beers, and vibrant music culture in Archway.
The Highgate Inn
3.8 km
A lively and welcoming London pub on Archway Road, blending historic Highgate charm with a vibrant local atmosphere and moderate prices.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monster Queen
2.5 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
2.6 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
2.8 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Soul City
3.1 km
A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Club Swizzle
3.2 km
Dive into acrobatic cabaret mayhem at the Roundhouse: Swizzle Boys flip chairs, Reuben Kaye slays with wit, and the bar becomes your front-row thrill ride in Camden's hottest 2018 spectacle.
Max's Other Flat
3.5 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Subteranian
3.7 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
The Globe
4.0 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Egg London Nightclub
4.2 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Electric House
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Duke of Wellington
4.3 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
4.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
4.7 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Carwash Nightclub
4.9 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
101 Nightclub London
5.1 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly