The Monarch, Chalk Farm

no the photo is correct if old. This was the Man In The Moon. It is now The Monarch. Same dreary interior but with mega-PA and loud bands. Incongruous but good :)

16 Oct 2008 17:46

The Princess of Wales, Primrose Hill

This is an anti-Camden / anti-Primrose Hill pub. Back in the day most pubs used to be like this and the Princess of Wales would have been nothing out of the ordinary. Nowadays it is a tiny island between the of gastropubs in Primrose Hill and the oceans of dj bars / venues / clubs / pubs that want to be one of the other 3.

The Princess is quiet and laid back and a great place to wind down gently after work. If you're of the "work hard play hard" persuasion don't bother. If you're looking for a quiet place near Camden to caress your worn soul on a Saturday night - this is it. Pub gold.

16 Oct 2008 17:42

The Hawley Arms, Camden

Very, very chilled out. Diverse jukebox, really good guinness, simple but well prepared and served food. None of the pseudiness of the Lock Tavern, none of the gothic metal nonsense of the Caernarvon Arms, a real oasis. Some of the soft drinks are v. cheap which is good if you're driving. A favourite among market stall holders having been assaulted by millions of people in Camden who want whatever it is for less, don't speak English, want stuff for free, ignore you completely, can get this stuff for half the price in (insert place here) whatever - after a day of aggravation the Hawley Arms is the perfect antidote. Was closed for 10 weeks but opened bigger and much better. Nice work fellas.

Hang on - that means loads of people will pile down there & we won't get a seat... no it's rubbish - don't go, it's terrible :) (it's not working is it)

a hidden gem in the heart of Camden.

22 May 2006 17:34