Capers in Camden

I love Camden. It is a place which is steeped in a history of individuality and a cosmopolitan and an eclectic spirit. For me - no visit to London is complete without a trip to the Lock and Market.

We're visiting London for a few days - enjoying the hospitality of Philip and Maggie in Balham. It's an opportunity to catch up with Poppa Higgins and for me to do a few touristy things before we go back to work next week. London holds less excitement for Graham; he used to live a shortish train ride away and frequented the city often; however for me - the bustle of London is something I don't tire of.

We arrived on the train into Marylebone. That in itself made me smile - up to now it was merely a place on the Monopoly board (and i never really bothered collecting the "stations" if I'm honest!) We walked from this terminus into Camedon - hardly a short stroll when you're pulling a wheelie suitcase, but it was kind of nice to see some of London on foot. We headed straight for the market as I'd aready decided that I wanted needed two pairs of new boots. It didn't take long to select a red 8 hole and a black velvet pair of DM's!

Admitedly, Camedon isn't necessarily Graham's scene, so we mutually agreed to "park" him in a cafe so I could browse contentedy without him or our luggage! InSpiral is a great vegen cafe and I left him with a plate of vegetarian nosh, a cup of tea and his crossword book. I had a bliss filled hour visiting the hundreds of stalls and shops, selling an individual and extensive array of alternative and vintage clothing and accessories.

When I returned laden with purchases I found Graham engrossed in conversation with a smart but definately punk-type guy. It turns out it was John Robb and they were chatting like old mates, swapping contact details before we left! Nice bloke as it turned out!

We left Camden by tube to continue our journey across London to Balham, but not before Eric had posed with a rack of New Rocks! Such a happening bear!