The Elephants Head image

The Elephants Head

Bar Pub

Victorian traditional pub with a long bar and tiled floors, a jukebox and weekend DJs. People often mention Camden, great, atmosphere, good, staff, music, night, beer, people, Great,


Address

224 Camden High St, London NW1 8QR, United Kingdom

Website

www.elephantsheadcamden.com

Contact

+44 20 3643 3965

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (3.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Thursday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Friday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Saturday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Sunday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Monday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM
  • Tuesday: 10:30 AM to 2 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Camden (19) great (18) atmosphere (15) good (15) staff (13) music (12) night (11) beer (10) people (9) Great (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Dai T. 11 months ago on Google • 1016 reviews
    The Elephant's Head in the heart of Camden, close to the canal. A delightful fun pub with my favourite pub table, I bet many a beer has been lost on that! Plenty of choice from the keg along with some cask to keep everyone happy. Laid back, great service and a warm homely atmosphere. A great place to drink, great soundtrack too!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 patrick j. 1 year ago on Google • 90 reviews
    There are very few really traditional old Irish pubs in Camden so when you walk into one like this you instantly feel the tradition, it’s in the walls the atmosphere the staff everything. It even has its own T-Shirts The Elephants Head is ideally located at a main intersection on Camden high road and Jamestown road, within easy reach of the market and lots of great shopping and about a five minute walk from the underground station. As you walk in you know you are not in a trendy wine bar and that is refreshing. I remember this pub was boarded up during the pandemic, they did not even try to open it was a weird sight, but I’m delighted to say that it’s now back on its feet and serving it’s now fully open to its loyal customers again. Over 500,000 people pass through the doors every year to take in the atmosphere and have a cheeky pint. I won’t bore you with the history I’m sure you can research that for yourself but it’s worth a read. Even though you can’t access it yet, the pub has a fantastic roof garden that overlooks the only living wall garden in Camden which is on the MTV building opposite, next door to poppies traditional fish and chips restaurant. It’s hard to give really solid feedback on the staff because of current situation with staff shortage but the staff behind the counter when ever I visit are great and give really good service. They have a few chairs outside at the front so you can sit and watch the world go buy whilst enjoying your pint of beer. They have a great range of drinks and happy to say they sell real Coca Cola in glass bottles, thank goodness. It looks and feels like a great place to enjoy a JD & coke, pop in and do let me know what you think.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 dave p. 1 year ago on Google • 664 reviews
    This is a great pub. The only people moaning are the ones who have been thrown out, usually for good reason. Great beer, lovely food and lively atmosphere. Huge mixture of people due to the market up the road and Camden in general. One of the best pubs around!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Ed H. 2 years ago on Google
    A racist doorman put paid to a first date there, unfortunately. My daughter was on a first date last night and was refused entry with her mixed-race date. The doorman said he had 'caused trouble' the previous week. The young man, who was studying at Manchester University the previous week and had never been there before. He was extremely upset and humiliated and they both pleaded to be let in as it was a misunderstanding. But the doorman [at least, I HOPE it was a doorman; apparently it was fairly elderly guy] sneered and refused to let them in. Incredibly depressing for a first date, don't you think?
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 afshin 0. 1 year ago on Google
    1 - bad security and management… Please take a moment before you judge a person who may have a ... 2 - very expensive and Worst pint in London, got a Heineken and a Kronenburgh…flat watery and tasteless!! 2 sips and left them both.. 3 - doorman on the front door , I assume its the head doorman. Is one of the rudest people I've encountered. 4 - I’ve never seen such as unmotivated staff. Besides that, I think pretty much anyone can pour a beer but when it came to cocktails... not presentation at all and horrible performance. The guy didn’t even know how to hold the shaker right! 5 - There is so much choice(56 other bars)in Camden you really have no reason to drink here.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kenneth H. 1 year ago on Google • 9 reviews
    This pub is a really good place to visit. Really friendly service with a cosy atmosphere good beer and an excellent food partnership with Honest Burgers. We love the place!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kiran D. 2 years ago on Google
    I was having an enjoyable evening until I arrived at this pub. I'd been there before and enjoyed the atmosphere which is very Camden but the bouncers were aggressive, confrontational and rude for no reason. I appreciate it's a tough job but at the time, it was not that busy, I wasn't drunk and they seemed to just not like me and wanted me out for seemingly no reason. They wouldn't even tell me. It's a shame as my memory of this place is now of this experience. I'd go elsewhere as no-one should be treated like I was last night
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 E K. 1 year ago on Google
    I was there about a week ago and was racially abused by one of the doormen. I showed my Id (a valid UK drivers license) as requested and he begun making rude and flippant remarks about it, saying things like 'what is this' and then proceeding to mock and racially abuse me for being partially Asian, despite being born and raised here and a British citizen all my life. Then once my hand was stamped I went to the other door to enter where there was another rude and aggressive doorman, demanding that I take off my bag and search it. Despite his rudeness, I complied without question. Thinking that this behaviour was only with the door staff, I entered and encountered more rude and hostile staff working in there, for instance, one barman was mopping the floor near where I was sitting and very rudely and aggressively demanded I stand up saying something like 'you have to get up now'. I was shocked. Moreover the quality of the drinks was poor and substandard. Looking at the other negative/critical reviews of this place (many of which have similar experiences to me) I am not impressed, it appears that the management mostly responds to them defending and making excuses for this place, rather than seeking to make amends with their dissatisfied customers and improve upon themselves. In my opinion its no wonder this place is run with such low morale. In all seriousness, ive never had such an atrocious experience in a pub before, definitely do not recommend visiting this place, there are tons of other pubs in Camden nearby where they treat their customers with dignity and respect. Quite sad given this is a beautiful Victorian pub with such history.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard H. 1 year ago on Google
    Five stars for a VERY specific need met. That 12 to 2AM on a Monday night pub. Really well controlled by watchful security staff, who keep this super drunken late night venue completely safe. Surprisingly decent selection of beer, though don't expect proper craft, and you'll ALWAYS find a fun conversation. I love the place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Wilhelm S. 2 months ago on Google • 573 reviews New
    Well, there's good music playing in the background, good old rock and roll from the 70s and 80s. The mood immediately rises despite the rain. A place that has seen life in a rutted mess. He doesn't play around with silly beers, but just offers himself. The customer base is already at a good pace. This is an authentic pub that matches the atmosphere of the area!

  • 5/5 J N. 5 months ago on Google • 433 reviews
    My brother and I recently visited The Elephants Head in Camden for a casual pint of Guinness. The pub exuded a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, with cozy stools tucked away in a quiet corner, creating an ideal space for a leisurely conversation. The Irish barman on duty was an absolute gem, displaying exceptional politeness and genuine helpfulness. He even went out of his way to apologize for serving Guinness in plastic glasses, which was due to the bustling Halloween crowd and rapid customer turnover. Despite the temporary plastic serving, the Guinness was expertly poured and tasted great. The overall experience at The Elephants Head was incredibly friendly and welcoming. We’re definitely looking forward to returning for another enjoyable visit. Cheers to a great spot in Camden!

  • 5/5 Ashley G. 2 years ago on Google
    Great pub, I always visit here whenever I'm in Camden. Get views for people watching, central location and the nicest staff ever 😊
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chenxiao H. 1 year ago on Google
    A great choice to spend your night in Candem town! The music is great and the staff is helpful. Remember to bring your id to be checked at the main streets door so you can get the entry stamp 😊 Will come back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Darren T. 1 year ago on Google
    Was last in this pub about 35yrs ago when I used to drink in Camden and I'm glad to say it hasn't changed a bit apart from the price of a pint proper pub with a DJ playing some great ska tunes and a great place to people watch highly recommend
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Philisamalo around the w. 4 years ago on Google
    The place is a genuine English pub with character. Meaning we feel being in England. The beer is as expected and the food is good. We had the traditional fish and chips seasoned with lemon juice, vinager and salt (mashed beans and tartare as sides). The kids had the hot dog and ham and cheese ciabatta. No picture of the hot dog as my son jumped on it. Guess he was hungry. A pleasant place to make a stop and relax before resuming the walk in Camden high street. Open every evening until 2am.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Charlène C. 2 years ago on Google
    At first the atmosphere seemed nice, we wanted to take some coffees and then maybe some beers. But the barmen were not happy that we ordered only coffees apparently, so they were not very nice and the coffees were the worst we had ever taken. Toilets dirty and no water from the sink in there in times of COVID...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Luis Fernando López M. 1 year ago on Google
    Worst beer ever! It was warm, I don’t know how, specifically when outside is 3 degrees! I don’t recommend this place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andre Lucas R. 3 months ago on Google • 191 reviews New
    Typical pub with the advantage of having live music. There was no seat available when we arrived, but a random group offered for us to sest with them. The beer selection is varied, and they were well served. The place was a little bit too noisy, but the music was good and compensated for it.

  • 4/5 Alison G. 2 months ago on Google • 99 reviews New
    Great old fashioned pub Good selection of beers and lots of other choices Buzzing atmosphere Even better by the evening DJ turned up playing vinyl Great choice of music something for everyone

  • 3/5 Sam W. 2 months ago on Google • 47 reviews New
    I have been coming here for decades. However, having visited this evening I noticed a big change, the old owner has after 40 odd years moved on and the music is unfortunately no where near as good as it was. Take a look at the music, it ain't what it was

  • 5/5 Silvia C. 5 months ago on Google • 45 reviews
    We thought there Saturday night for couple of drinks and we end up there till the closing time. Attila was serving us, and he is been amazing. So funny and friendly. As restaurant manager I wish to have all Attila in my team! :) Look after him, and if you gonna loose him, give me a shout as I’ll take he in my team 😂😂

  • 3/5 Melanie A. 3 months ago on Google • 43 reviews New
    Cute interior but no one cleans the toilet and pretty much crowded. Some cards are not working here. 그냥 무난한 펍. 굳이?

  • 5/5 Captain H. 5 years ago on Google • 17 reviews
    Nice pub, a bit small, but over all okay.

  • 5/5 Luca I. 1 month ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights are an absolute blast. Great music. Everybody dancing. You’ll love the vibes. And amazing bar staff.

  • 3/5 John M. 3 months ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    This used to be my favourite place to go on weekends when the old dj played there. The atmosphere was electric. The music was amazing. But since it recently changed owners there are different djs who lack the quality of the old dj. Now atmosphere is non existent. Sad to say that after being disappointed numerous times I have now stopped going there

  • 4/5 Sean S. 1 year ago on Google
    Elephant Head is one of the most popular pubs in Camden. It has a large range of drinks and becomes a mini club after 10 pm. It often attracts people from all over the world, and while it's a little small, it is still one of the best places for a night out during the weekdays.

  • 5/5 Axel V. 8 months ago on Google • 3 reviews
    I spend a wonderful moment yesterday, especially because of an angel behind the bar named Nadia, a very professional and careful person! I've rarely someone that sympathetic working in a pub... I advise you to taste the Brixton beer, it's local and tasty!

  • 5/5 Scott C. 1 year ago on Google
    Typical characterful Camden pub. A bit rough around the edges but decent prices, great atmosphere with a lot of great old tunes played during the afternoon. Great spot to sit and watch the weird and wonderful world of Camden go by.

  • 5/5 pambos p. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the best pubs in Camden. You can start your day with proper english breakfast and then continue with a variety of beers and ales.

  • 3/5 Cameron D. 9 months ago on Google
    Its a bit rough, but it's not pretending to be anything else, like it, just not a lot of seating on a Wednesday night 🤷‍♂️

  • 5/5 Dee Z. 1 year ago on Google
    Super fun and quirky place. Old school DJ on a Sunday night. The place was packed with a great mix of people incl. some real curiosities. Great place to spend some fun hours.

  • 4/5 Jeff L. 4 months ago on Google
    Popped in for a pre-gig meet up, would come again.

  • 3/5 Jj Del Carpio (. 1 year ago on Google
    Oh man this place is packed! It's not bad at all but you'll be with tons of people in a small venue. The music is good but very very safe, which isn't bad. This is a good last place of the night since it's open later than the others around and there's warehouse pizza right in front of it.

  • 5/5 mp h. 1 year ago on Google
    Came on the recommendation of a family friend and it was amazing! Even left the club night we went to after drinking here to come back as it was such a good atmosphere! Can’t wait to come back

  • 4/5 Henrique C. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent music and spirit from customer. Could improve service quality

  • 5/5 Victor L. 2 years ago on Google
    What u want??is a pub that stay open 'till DOS. Amazing vibe, gets crowded after 22:00, and is still amazing. Its camden, folks!!

  • 5/5 PETER B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great pub good friendly atmosphere and great prices.

  • 5/5 Quintino F. 4 years ago on Google
    One of oldest pubs in Camden Town. So pleased to be there for drink and a chat with friends. Friendly staff, nice Dj and music selection. If is not to crowded you can feel the hit and dance! I really recommend this place!

  • 3/5 Joe C. 2 years ago on Google
    One of my favourite places in Camden and good to see it open again. Especially the late nights I like. Very disappointed to be served Guinness like this on a quite Sunday afternoon and when I asked for a tissue rather than the barman clean the glass he handed me a handful of blueroll. I know after almost 50 years at the pub the landlord will be disappointed in staff servicing guinness like this


Call +44 20 3643 3965 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery

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