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The Elephants Head

Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.

4.3

Nestled on Camden High Street, The Elephants Head is a scruffy Victorian pub dating back to 1832, once tied to the Camden Town Brewery's Elephant Ale. This lively spot buzzes with classic rock on the jukebox, hearty Full English breakfasts, and pints of local ales amid checkered floors and dark wood. It draws a diverse crowd in Camden's alternative heart, open late till 2am daily with a traditional English boozer vibe that's equal parts characterful chaos and nostalgic charm. Expect high energy after dark, tourist-friendly service, and standard London prices around £7 per pint.

A brief summary to The Elephants Head

  • 224 Camden High St, London, NW1 8QR, GB
  • +442036433965
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-2 am
  • Tuesday 10 am-2 am
  • Wednesday 10 am-2 am
  • Thursday 10 am-2 am
  • Friday 10 am-2 am
  • Saturday 10 am-2 am
  • Sunday 10 am-2 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early for seating, as it packs out fast after dark with no outdoor drinking allowed.
  • Try the Bloody Mary or local ales like London Pride alongside a hearty Full English breakfast.
  • Catch open mic nights or jukebox classics from the 50s-80s for peak pub energy.
  • Note the high pints prices typical of Camden—budget accordingly for extended sessions.
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Discover more about The Elephants Head

Victorian Roots in Camden's Heart

Established in 1832 as part of the Camden Town Brewery, The Elephants Head brewed its namesake Elephant Ale in the 1800s, anchoring it in London's pub heritage. The building retains classic features like checkered tiled floors, dark wooden bars, and low ceilings that evoke a bygone era of Victorian boozing. Over time, it has witnessed Camden's evolution from literary haunt—linked to figures like Charles Dickens—to a punk and alternative enclave.

Iconic Camden Neighborhood Presence

Positioned at 224 Camden High Street, the pub sits amid the bustle of Camden Town, a district famed for its markets, street performers, and eclectic vibe. Its prime location makes it a natural pitstop for those exploring the area's markets or nightlife, blending seamlessly into the neighborhood's brash, working-class energy despite sky-high rents. The exterior promises unpretentious refuge from the surrounding tourist frenzy.

Atmosphere of Lively Chaos

Inside, expect a scruffy charm with leather-clad locals, piercing enthusiasts, and tourists mingling under dim lights. The jukebox pumps out 50s-80s classics, sparking singalongs late into the night, while open mic nights add spontaneous entertainment. Daytime offers a calmer scene for quiet pints, shifting to heaving energy post-midnight as it absorbs spillover from nearby spots. Traditional decor nods to its history, though facilities like toilets show wear.

Pub Fare and Drink Classics

The menu sticks to pub staples: robust Full English breakfasts cooked to perfection, paired with standout Bloody Marys or pints of London Pride and guest ales. Prices reflect central London's premium—around £7 for a pint—but portions satisfy. Food service runs alongside drinks, making it ideal for pre-market fuel or late-night bites in a space that balances standing room with ample seating.

Nightlife Hub in Alternative Camden

Open from 10am to 2am every day, it thrives as a late-night staple in a neighborhood synonymous with rockstars like Amy Winehouse and Pete Doherty. The vibe peaks with friendly door staff managing crowds, creating a uniquely British pub experience amid Camden's 'sustainable coolness.' It's less polished than trendy speakeasies, offering genuine character over pretense.

Enduring Appeal of the Traditional Boozer

The Elephants Head embodies the resilient spirit of London pubs: unapologetically rough around the edges yet packed with personality. Its location ensures constant footfall, from sober daytime sippers to raucous after-hours revelers, cementing its role as a Camden fixture where history meets hedonism.

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