How to Set Up a Camden Market Stall: Application, Costs, & Tips

Having your own camden market stall can bring rich rewards, but you’ll also need to plan carefully. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything: stall costs, sizes, application process, essential items you’ll need, local attractions, and more.

Camden is one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods, famed for its vibrant atmosphere, creative spirit, and eclectic mix of cultures. A place where music legends cut their teeth, street art adorns every corner of this cultural hub, and shoppers flock to discover the latest underground trends.

It's also home to one of the UK's most famous markets.

Camden Market is a big mix of stalls, shops and street food in Camden Town, made up of several connected areas rather than one single market. Today it’s home to around 1,000 independent traders across Lock, Stables and Hawley Wharf, so the vibe and footfall can feel different depending on where you’re set up.

It started small. Camden Market’s modern story is usually traced back to 30 March 1974, when a Saturday market opened with 16 traders, and it’s grown into one of London’s best-known places to browse for alternative fashion, vintage finds, gifts, and global food.

The market is well connected and easy to get to. Camden Town (Northern line) is the closest Tube station, and Chalk Farm (Northern line) and Camden Road (Overground) are also nearby, which helps keep the area busy all week.

If you’re planning to trade, Camden Market's popularity cuts both ways. It’s great for exposure, but it also means pitches can be competitive, so it’s worth applying early and being flexible on dates and pitch location.

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Camden is renowned for its artistic core. Designers, musicians, and artists have shaped its culture for decades, creating a thriving environment for those who want to create and sell inventive products, or test out new concepts to a willing audience.

Attracting huge crowds each year, Camden enjoys a constant flow of customers. Weekends, in particular, attract international tourists and curious Londoners who want to shop, eat, and soak up the local style. If you’re looking for a location that can generate daily interest in your stall, you’ll find it here.

The Camden market team supports new traders, organising special events throughout the year to boost footfall. Once you join, you get to tap into a built-in crowd rather than having to attract customers entirely on your own. Traders enjoy a sense of community, and you’ll often find helpful advice from more established stallholders.

Despite Camden’s popularity, stall costs aren’t set in stone. However, according to the latest details, a stall can start from £20 on a Monday and go up to around £80 on weekends, depending on exact location, footfall, and availability.

Day rates also vary by area, for example, East Yard (£20 Mon–Thu up to £70 weekends) and Market Hall (£30 Mon–Thu up to £80 weekends).

The type of pitch you select (indoor vs. outdoor, covered vs. uncovered, with or without electricity access) will also affect your rent. Speak with the market team for exact costs. Ask what’s included with your pitch, whether electricity is available, and how payments work.

Stall sizes vary by area. Camden Market’s trader guidance gives a typical outdoor stall footprint of about 1.8m wide with around 1.55m depth, with other areas differing in layout and size.

Do make a note of how much room you need for your product displays and factor that into your decision.

Start with the Camden Market website
Check the latest trader info, pitch areas, and what they’re currently looking for.

Apply using the online market stall form
Share what you sell, your setup needs, and any relevant certificates if you’re trading food.

Wait for the booking team to respond
If your idea’s a fit and there’s availability, they’ll come back to discuss options and dates.

Confirm your booking
Once agreed, you’ll receive your pitch details, trading days, and any requirements to follow on-site. Stalls are pre-allocated and bookings must go through bookings@camdenmarket.com.

If you want a shop, café, or restaurant instead
Camden Market has separate enquiry forms for those too.

Application for restaurant or cafe

Application for retail shop

According to Camden Market’s latest info, the Booking team pre-allocates stalls in advance. All bookings must go through bookings@camdenmarket.com, and any trader who has not secured a stall through these official channels may be turned away at the discretion of the Market Manager.

Be sure to confirm your booking to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Camden Market lists general opening hours as 10am–7pm every day, but stall hours can vary by pitch and season.

Stables and Lock use 10am–6pm in Autumn/Winter and 10am–7pm in Spring/Summer., so confirm your exact hours when you’re booked in.

You’ll want a distinct look for your stall to stand out among the rows of market stalls. Big, clear signage and a cohesive colour scheme can work wonders.

Ensure you’ve got enough products on display to catch people’s eyes, but don’t clutter your space—visitors like browsing comfortably without feeling overwhelmed.

If you’re renting a pitch at Camden Market, you should come prepared with the right equipment and materials. Here’s the essential checklist:

White tarpaulin (East Yard only) – At least 2m x 2m in size, plus enough market clips to secure it.

Tablecloth (East Yard & Market Hall) – Minimum 2m x 1m, covering the top and sides of your table. Pick a fabric that matches your stall’s theme.

Black cloth (Camden Lock Place & Middle Yard stalls) – Minimum 2m x 1m to cover your table’s surface.

Stall ‘Skirt’ (East Yard & Market Hall) – A piece of material 4.5m x 0.8m to cover the front and sides of your stall below the table. It’s great for hiding storage and showcasing a sign.

Debit or credit card – You’ll need this to pay your rent. A manager will usually collect around midday.

Legible signage – Aim for an eye-catching design in a durable material. Customers should recognise your brand from a distance.

Price list – Keep it clear and visible so shoppers know what your goods cost.

Lights and extension leads – Include the correct plug fittings: 16 amp commando for outside stalls, or standard 13 amp three-pin for indoor stalls.

Having the right setup shows visitors you’re professional and helps you make a memorable first impression. Make sure everything is neat, fits well, and showcases your style in a way that appeals to Camden’s diverse crowds.

Camden Market is known for its variety, from fashion to artwork, from jewellery to street food. You’ll find everything from smaller UK start-ups testing brand-new lines to bigger brands looking to connect with a unique London audience. Still, there are some guidelines:

Prohibited items: Camden Market has a clear prohibited list. You can’t sell alcohol, counterfeit goods, drug paraphernalia, real animal fur (including vintage if not labelled), rude or offensive products, or any inflammable items

Hot food regulations: If you’re offering hot food or drink, be sure you have the correct licences and hygiene certificates.

When in doubt, double-check the official Camden Market policy or send a request for clarification via the contact details on their website.

Camden stands out for its diverse visitors; students, tourists, families, and hardcore fashion enthusiasts all come to explore. This is a big plus for your business, as you can connect with a broad customer base that has varying budgets and tastes.

Because the crowds are so varied, it’s a brilliant testing ground. You can experiment with new products, gauge real-time feedback, and adapt accordingly. Market traders often talk about how they refine their offerings day by day based on what customers want.

The costs of operating in Camden might be higher than in some smaller markets, but the foot traffic is significantly greater. Competition can be fierce, but it also pushes you to hone your craft, perfect your pitch, and create a brand that resonates with your audience.

Camden Market draws shoppers hunting for everything from alternative fashion to unique handcrafted items:

Fashion and accessories: Gothic, punk, boho, vintage, and high-street styles are all on show. You’ll also see a strong presence of ethically made or custom-designed gear.

Creative crafts: Handmade jewellery, artwork, and home décor give Camden its artsy edge.

Food and drink: Expect street food stalls featuring cuisines from around the globe. The array of tastes means visitors can sample multiple snacks and dishes on any given day. You might spot new food or drink companies among the stalls, along with more established names like Innocent Drinks.

Exploring the market is half the fun because you never know what hidden gems you’ll stumble upon. You might find a unique gift or your next favourite accessory by rummaging through the many stalls.

Camden isn’t just a market; it’s a neighbourhood full of character. After you’ve finished checking out the market stalls, you can enjoy:

Regent’s Canal: Wander by the water’s edge or take a scenic boat ride towards Little Venice.

Camden Lock: Capture the iconic lock in photos, or simply watch the canal boats navigate the waterway.

Live Music Spots: Camden’s live music scene is legendary. The Roundhouse is just up the street and often hosts major gigs and cultural events.

Leather Lane: While not technically in Camden Town, Leather Lane is a short distance south and offers its street market vibe. It’s worth a visit if you love exploring different markets in London.

If you’re wondering about amenities like free toilets, you’re in luck. There are toilets in and around Camden Market, but access can vary by area. There are trader toilets in Market Hall (for Market Hall tenants), so ask the market team what applies to your pitch.

Look for signage around the market, or ask a fellow trader for directions if you’re not sure.

Don’t be put off by the large crowds; you can usually find a facility without too much trouble, especially on weekdays.

Camden Town Underground: The closest Tube station, though it can get busy on weekends.

Chalk Farm Station: Also on the Northern line, just a short walk away.

Buses: Multiple routes stop in and around Camden High Street.

Rail London’s major rail hubs like King’s Cross and Euston are a short distance away, offering easy connections.

Pickpocketing can happen in crowded places, so watch your valuables. As for your stock, many traders prefer storing their items off-site in a secure facility, especially if they can’t leave them at the stall overnight.

Once you’ve closed your stall, it’s worth experiencing Camden’s nightlife. From lively pubs and bars to buzzing music venues, the area pulses with energy.

The Roundhouse, Electric Ballroom, and various smaller clubs along Camden High Street often feature local and international acts.

You can celebrate a successful day of trading by catching a gig, trying a new craft beer, or grabbing dinner at one of Camden’s many eclectic restaurants.

Setting up a stall in Camden Market is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners to connect with a broad base of shoppers. You’ll encounter visitors from all around the world, each with their own style and story to share.

Trading here does come with challenges (such as competition from other stalls, overhead costs, and the hustle of daily operation) but it also provides a platform for real growth.

Need more space for your Camden Market stall? With us at HOLD in Camden, you can securely store your stock and/or equipment, keeping your stall neat and organised. Our flexible business storage solutions are tailored to your unique needs, allowing you to focus on what you do best: selling and growing your business.

Trust HOLD to keep your essentials safe and accessible, so you can make the most of every trading day.