Ingeniously devised by the Roundhouse a couple of years ago, Camden Beach, which starts again on Saturday, has become something of a summer tradition. A massive hit with locals, Londoners and out-of-towners alike, so far it’s attracted 50,000 visitors a season onto its vast “coastal strip” beside the railway-lines.
The downside of such overwhelming popularity is that queues snake around the block on the hottest days, but at least entry remains free this year. And, to guarantee your spot in the sun, you can do one of two things: hire a beach hut (with fenced-off area, deckchairs, fridge full of beer, food, waiter service, telly and ice cream); or book a table at outdoor pop-up restaurant Fishy Business (from the team behind the Roundhouse’s ground floor bar and kitchen, MADE).
We think the latter is the least stressy option. A set menu only (which, last year, we enjoyed very much), it includes simple piscine fare such as grilled sea bream, seared red tuna steak and, of course, fish and chips – all cooked on a smoking grill before your eyes. Two-course lunches are£14.95, with three-course dinners £19.95. And you have a perfect view over the ‘resort’.
If that sounds a bit pricey there are also two new foodie pop-ups this year: Doghouse, offering a range of gourmet hot dogs to scoff on your deckchair; and PORK, a tarted-up shipping container that’ll be packed with beer, tunes, and, we imagine, more than a pulled pork sandwich or two.
slope off work early on a Monday evening to bag a spot, watch the sunset and enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails all night from the tiki bar. Alternatively, swing by between 5-7pm Tues-Fri. But don’t, of course, all do this at once. Live music fan? Catch the ongoing programme of events on the beach stage too. Upcoming names include Songhoy Blues from Mali, soul artist Karyma Ellis, singer-storyteller Ophelia and Roundhouse Rising favourites Fran Lobo and Henry Webb J.
But the real gawp-factor this year, whether you can actually get up there or not, is a rooftop garden, complete with trees, sun loungers, sofas, private bar, and a swimming pool. Yes, an actual swimming pool. The space is only available for private hire, however, so here’s hoping there’s some way we can all sneak up and have a peek.
While parents bask on the beach, kids (age 11-19) can enjoy a series of summer holiday activities. The Roundhouse Youth Programme has workshops including designing mobile video games, learning tricks from the magician who advised on the blockbuster film Hugo, and building futuristic instruments to perform at Imogen Heap’s Reverb Festival. More info here Camden Beach opens its doors on Saturday 26 July until 23 August. Entry is free. Hours: 12pm-11pm (Mondays 5pm-11pm). Arrive early to avoid disappointment. More info, booking details and prices here
