When people think of Camden, the first thing that comes to mind may be Camden Town, famed for its maze of eccentric markets and eclectic live music options. As fun as it may be, the truth is there’s so much more to Camden than that. Standing proud as the largest borough in London, this sprawling district stretches from Holborn to Hampstead. So, where do you even start your explorations? Fear not, because we here at Plum Guide are here to share our very favourite things to do in Camden with you.

Set off from one remarkable home (like Plum's Mount Square) and head out to explore another in the form of Kenwood House. Nestled atop leafy Hampstead Heath, this graceful 17th Century Georgian house, with its grand interiors and sprawlings gardens was formerly a stately home. Extensively refurbished in 2013, it is now considered one of the best places to retreat to for a tranquil moment in London. Take a stroll through the immaculately landscaped grounds or head inside to admire the sumptuously decorated interiors. It’s also a good spot for taking in views of the city. Art enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either - you’ll find a Vermeer, a Rembrandt and two Van Dycks amongst the impressive collection here. Keep an eye on their events calendar as well. During the summer, you can enjoy an open-air concert or take in a classic film showing on their huge outdoor screen set against a backdrop of London.

Fancy a glimpse into the life of one of the most renowned authors in literary history? Of course you do. This Georgian terraced house at 48 Doughty Street is where Charles Dicken spent two important years of his life between 1837 and 1839. The famous Victorian author’s old home is where he wrote some of his most popular novels, including Oliver Twist. It has been transformed into a museum with recreated rooms holding some of Dickens’s belongings, paintings and writings. The museum is worth visiting for a fascinating insight into the writer’s personal life and a look at his journey to dizzying heights of success. Stay in nearby Plum home, The Adaptable House and you can pay the museum as many visits as you please.

Serving up delicious street food seven days a week, Kerb Camden Market has a selection of 34 carefully curated food stalls to eat your way through. This is the place to go to find some of the best street food offerings across London. With a stall for pretty much every cuisine you can think of, Kerb Camden gives you a (tasty) glimpse into just how diverse the city’s food scene is. They’re always adding new traders to their list, so this one’s worth several visits. Recreate your favourite dishes in the well-equipped kitchen of your very own Plum home for foodies.

Interested in exploring the oldest zoo in the word? The London Zoo, located in Regent's Park, is right on the border of the Camden borough, not too far from Plum's lovely home for the whole family, Funtherapy. It’s currently home to 698 different species of animals, and they’re always adding to their collection. There’s also a spectacular kids’ play area and petting zoo if you’re looking for some family fun in London.

Get an insight into the life, love, and poetry of John Keats by paying a visit to Keats House. This charming museum is located in a house where the much loved Romantic poet John Keats once lived, and where he wrote some of his most well-known poems. You can explore the works of Keats and learn more about what inspired his poetry. Romantics at heart will love that this is also where Keats found love with Fanny Brawne, the girl next door. Special events and exhibits are held here throughout the year.

If you're on for people watching, mindless browsing and vintage clothes shopping, a trip to Camden Market comes highly recommended as one of the best markets in London. Camden Market is actually made up of six (yes, six) markets. So saying there’s something for everyone is no overstatement. These six include Camden Lock Market, Camden Stables Market, Camden Canal Market, Electric Ballroom, Inverness Street Market and Buck Street Market. Phew. You can find everything from handmade jewellery and quirky gifts to spicy street foods and gothic garb here. Buck Street Market and Electric Ballroom are well known for selling clothing and accessories for those with, um, alternative tastes. You'll find plenty of inpsiration for your shopping spree from your characterful Plum home in the area like Camden Gem.

A visit to Camden simply must involve a visit to Regent’s Canal, which runs through the heart of the borough. Sit by it, stroll or cycle along it, or take a boat trip upon it, or really push the boat out (get it?) and do all four. The canal boats from Camden Lock take you on a picturesque water journey through the middle of London Zoo to Little Venice and back. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the canals, the London Canal Museum in King’s Cross could be worth a visit.

Looking for somewhere a little fancier for your lunch or evening meal? Located on the cusp of Camden, York & Albany is one of Gordon Ramsey’s restaurants offering a classic British menu in a stylish and spacious setting. The main menu is seasonal, and they also have a bar snack menu with some great stone baked pizzas and divine truffle chips on offer.

Ever heard of liquid nitrogen ice cream? No? Well, now's the time to get involved. For a taste of this unique sweet treat, check out the Chin Chin Laboratorist in Camden, where you can watch your ice cream being made right in front of you. The list of flavours is quite endless, with everything from coconut marshmallow to beer butter caramel on offer. Trust us, this isn’t just a dessert spot, it’s an experience.

When in Camden, make sure to visit the historic Hampstead Heath, for an easy amble, picnic or bike ride. Just walking distance from the charming Hampstead Village, this 320 hectare London park is one of the highest points in the city and is one of our favourite spots for those precious sunny days.

Located on the banks of Regent’s Canal, this fountain filled square is at its most bustling on sunnier days. There are plenty of great restaurants to satisfy your cravings here, including the popular Indian eatery Dishoom which is worth the long queues for its masala chai alone. Caravan is also great for breakfast options, deliciously roasted coffee and urban-chic vibes. If you’re ready to get experimental with tea, Yumchaa in the Granary Building is also worth a visit.

Highly recommended for a taking in the London city skyline at sunset (or any other time of day, for that matter), Primrose Hill is one of the best viewpoints in London. Take a bottle of wine along with you and spend some time taking in the spectacular city before you. Get those daily steps in by climbing to the top of Primrose Hill from the north side of Regent's Park.

Have these things to do in Camden inspired a trip to the area? Browse our collection of homes in Camden Town and beyond and let us help you find your perfect place to stay. Our home critics personally vet each and every home on our site to ensure they're up to the (very high) standards you deserve. Want to keep reading? Take a look at our complete guide to East London.