‘I visited the hidden street in London that is almost tourist free and it was such a unique find’ – Alexandra Bullard

It’s a bright and airy spring morning and I feel like having a cup of coffee in a nice snug place. The days of drinking from multinational chains such as Costa are pretty much over for me, and thanks to one global pandemic, I have shifted entirely to independent staples.

However, being a Londoner means you have a million options to buy your morning brew, from picturesque riverside cafes to leafy parks. Well, rest assured, I might have found the perfect hidden spot to get that grab-and-go coffee without the tourists.

Camden Passage is a picturesque cobbled lane, just less than three minutes from Angel underground tube station. I read that it boasts great brunch eateries and antique shops, so if you’re looking to treat yourself to a unique gift – this is the place, apparently. I had to find out more – even if it meant trekking from West London all the way to the other side.

‘Camden Passage is a picturesque cobbled lane’

READ MORE: ‘I visited the pub in Angel which is ‘Islington’s best kept secret’ and it was a hidden oasis’

Like an M&S Christmas sandwich, this street is multi-layered. It begins as a sort of back passage just off Upper Street in north London, where everything is beautifully presented. The trendy cafes are so unique and vibrant – with no sign of a Starbucks or Greggs in sight. Then it opens up to reveal a long street lined with hidden gems.

I am over the moon to see that Camden Passage was not overly crowded. This made the experience rather pleasant, as I had all the time in the world to browse the shops and not buy anything. Speaking of shops – these were not just your typical outlets. There were bespoke vintage shops and a jewellery company selling retro objects, making them fantastic places to while away a few hours.

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‘I am over the moon to see that Camden Passage was not overly crowded’

This little pocket of beauty is also particularly charming as it boasts a collection of bars, including a ‘wine library.’ The Humble Grape specialise in artisan wines, most of which are largely organic and sustainable. The rustic setting within the branch made me feel rather cosy – and I made an escape before falling victim to drinking one of their special offers.

To top of off, this street also has a market which runs every Wednesday and Saturday. I was here on a Thursday, sadly. But I used my time to window shop at the specialist delicatessens, with plump ciabattas, seeded wraps and golden pastries on display like a trophy cabinet.

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‘Sitting in reflection, words cannot ‘espresso’ how much I like this place’

Realising I still needed to fuel myself with coffee – I eventually sip a morning brew from Redemption Roasters. They provide outdoor seating as well, which is the perfect quiet and reflective space for customers to get some fresh air and people watch.

Sitting in reflection, words cannot ‘espresso’ how much I like this place. If having a latte in a quaint hidden street with antique stalls is your kind of thing, then come here. I beg you. There are also ample photo opportunities, which is the ideal incentive to head there for the day with friends.

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https://www.mylondon.news/whats-on/reviews/camden-passage-islington-angel-london-23813342

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