Pinboard extra: Camden Beach 2013 preview

Today we were lucky enough to have a sneaky peek of the new-look Camden Beach, which we unveiled here last week.

And we have to say that it’s more impressive than last year, and they’ve dealt with those pesky never-ending queues by installing several new bars (total: four). Then there’s the lovely new shaded fish restaurant from the Made In Camden people (£24.95 for three courses + glass of wine) which, if you book online, guarantees queue-jump beach entry.

But don’t worry if that’s a bit pricey or you’re not an organized (or fish-loving) type: it’s still free entry and Bubba, the man behind the infamous Arkansas Café in Old Spitalfields Market, is firing up his carnivorous BBQ daily.

And yup, the frozen stuff is there in spades: Ben and Jerry’s have parked their ice cream van basking in the corner.

We have to say we were a little disappointed to hear that the three VIP beach huts have now been booked for the entire season (at £240 a day, 8 sun-worshippers per hut), so any dreams of your own fenced-off area with own deckchairs, prosecco and shade can be swiftly despatched pronto.

But overall, it looks good, doesn’t it? And yikes, the beach is open for biz from midday tomorrow – so get there early. And don’t forget there’s live music at sundown each Friday night starting next week.

Don’t miss our review of Fishy Business next week.