The Elephants Head
Cocktail Bar | London | England | United Kingdom
Cocktail bar in Camden area
"The Elephants Head" is a historic cocktail bar and pub located in the vibrant neighborhood of Camden in London, England. The venue was long a staple of the Camden scene, known for its authentic pub atmosphere and its role as a gathering place for music lovers, locals, and visitors. Until its closure in July 2023 under the original management, it was considered an institution that embodied the rough, unrefined charm of the area. After a change of ownership, the pub was reopened under new management, with many regulars and fans feeling that it has lost its unique character.
Traditional British pub atmosphere
The interior of "The Elephants Head" was typical of a classic British pub: small, somewhat worn, but full of character. Dark wood, simple tables, and a central bar defined the space, which was often packed to capacity. Notably, the music was a highlight—before the change of ownership, DJs regularly spun vinyl here, focusing on rock 'n' roll, ska, reggae, and soul from the 1950s to the 1980s. This musical selection attracted a diverse crowd that danced, sang, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. However, since the reopening, guests have reported that the music style and the vinyl tradition have been replaced with more modern, less distinctive sounds, leading to a loss of the previous vibe.
Musical experience in Camden
The drink offerings were solid and straightforward. In addition to a selection of beers—including classics like London Pride—a small but affordable cocktail menu focused on traditional drinks without placing much emphasis on elaborate mixology. The prices were considered fair for Camden, making the pub especially popular with younger guests and tourists. The food was typically British: fish & chips, burgers, and a full English breakfast were on the menu. Quality varied—while some praised the freshness and flavor, others complained about greasy dishes or long wait times. Under new management, the culinary offerings seem to have remained similar, without major innovations.
Pub with family atmosphere
The clientele reflected Camden itself: a mix of regulars, music fans, tourists, and occasionally businesspeople stopping by on their way to the station. The family atmosphere under the old management, when the pub was still run by an Irish-English family business, was particularly cherished. The late landlord John, his wife, and daughter fostered a warm ambiance that many described as a "real pub experience" without frills. After the change of ownership, guests have complained about a lack of atmosphere, unfriendly management, and a generic bar experience that hardly sets it apart from other Camden venues.
