The Elephants Head
London
At a glance
The Elephants Head at 224 Camden High Street is an iconic venue that embodies the dynamic and creative spirit of Camden, London. This corner pub is an essential stop for those seeking a true taste of the area's vibrant alternative culture, steeped in music history and brimming with an eclectic mix of patrons. The pub features a striking Victorian bar and tiled interiors that retain an authentic charm, providing a distinctive atmosphere for its diverse clientele.
Known for its lively and inviting ambiance, The Elephants Head draws in a variety of customers, from music enthusiasts and local night owls to visitors looking for an unforgettable evening in Camden. It consistently offers a robust program of live music, featuring everything from grassroots guitar bands to a wide range of genre-spanning acts. This dedication to live entertainment celebrates Camden's deep musical roots and ensures a high-energy experience every night.
The Elephants Head also boasts a versatile drinks menu, catering to all tastes and preferences. Patrons can choose from a selection of great beers, ciders, cocktails, and premium spirits, along with a choice of wines and low-to-no alcohol options. Whether dropping by after work or starting a weekend of festivities, the pub promises a beverage choice for every occasion.
The energetic late-night events and regular live music nights ensure that The Elephants Head remains a centerpiece of Camden's nightlife, offering a place for good drinks and great company. It is an ideal location for music lovers and anyone eager to experience the raw and unfiltered character of one of London's most culturally rich areas.
Reviews
Fantastic place to watch live music and enjoy some beers with friends. Was even packed out on a Sunday night! Thank you The Elephants Head
The Elephants Head is a lively and welcoming pub that really knows how to entertain. One of its standout features is the live show every day, which creates a fun and energetic atmosphere perfect for music lovers and social gatherings. The venue itself is comfortable and spacious, making it ideal for enjoying a drink while soaking in the performance. The staff are friendly and attentive, adding to the relaxed, vibrant vibe. Whether you’re looking for great live music, a casual night out with friends, or just a cozy spot to unwind, The Elephants Head delivers an engaging and memorable experience every time.
Lovely pub that's very close to Camden Town tube so expect it to be busy. No food offering but good selection of drinks though pricing is on the high side but so are most other places nearby. Plenty of seating but often it's a struggle to find a free space due to the number of people present. Service is quick and the staff are fine. Live music takes place and if going for this get there early as it does get busy. The sounds good, no smoke machine which is great and you can actually see the artists as there is lighting. They also have DJ sets too
🚇 Camden Town 🍺 £7.10 Guinness The Elephants Head is located on busy Camden High Street, close to Camden Lock and Camden Market. The nearest Tube station is Camden Town. This beautifully tiled Victorian pub dates from 1869. There are several theories about the origin of its name. One suggests that it was named after the stretch of street in front of the pub which was once known as Elephant Row. Another points to the Marquess of Camden’s coat of arms, which features an elephant’s head. A further possibility is a link to “Elephant Pale Ale”, brewed by the nearby Camden Brewery, which operated until 1925. This is a good-sized one-bar pub with a slightly worn-around-the-edges traditional feel. The bar is long, with the servery located on the right-hand side. At the front is a corner stage, followed by a narrow section with stools on either side and a seating area at the far end. The decor includes a tiled floor, traditional dark wood panelling, rustic tables with pews, framed NME covers, posters celebrating Camden’s musical past, and a touch of neon for good measure. The beer selection is all keg and offers a lineup of familiar mainstream brews. I opted for a Guinness, my pint was decent, price point was on the high side. This is a wet-led pub, so no food is served. We arrived around 3pm on a pleasant Sunday afternoon in September. The pub was fairly busy, with a mix of locals and Camden day-trippers popping in and out. The atmosphere was laid-back with a friendly feel, so settling in was easy. The service was friendly too — the team on duty were welcoming and courteous. The pub hosts regular club nights and live music. I used to visit Camden often in the late ’80s and early ’90s, and always loved the pubs and clubs, which always felt exciting. The skinheads, rockers, mods and rave scene may be a distant memory, but it was great to see this pub enduring. Loved the exterior Victorian tiling and Courage sign, the traditional decor, and the homages to Camden’s musical heritage. I enjoyed my time here and would 100% recommend a visit. Follow @elephantsheadnw1 for updates. 📅 21st September 2025 If you want to see all my pub reviews in one place, head to @londonpubmap on Instagram or Facebook. 🍻
