A black-walled Camden rock and metal institution, saved by its regulars, with a pub downstairs and a sweaty gig room upstairs.
The Black Heart holds down a corner of Greenland Place, steps from Camden Town station, and it makes no secret of what it is. Walls painted black, fairy lights in the gloom, and music artwork everywhere. DesignMyNight calls it a much-loved alternative venue with a lively pub downstairs and concerts upstairs.
This is a rock and metal pub first and a gig venue second, and it does both well. Acts like Orange Goblin and Conan have played the upstairs room. Come for a loud night, a deep beer list, and a crowd that takes its music seriously. Skip it if you want a quiet cocktail.
The Black Heart sits just off Camden High Street on Greenland Place. Walk in for the downstairs pub. Buy a ticket ahead for upstairs gigs, which sell out.
Downstairs is the pub: black walls, dim light, and a bar that keeps the room moving on busy nights. It reads as a proper local for Camden's alternative crowd rather than a polished bar.
Upstairs is the gig room, a small and intimate space that puts you close to the stage. The room you want depends on whether there is a band on.
Beer is the headline. The Black Heart runs a strong range of draught and bottled craft beer and real ale, which regulars rate as one of its defining features. The spirits are no-frills, priced for a pub rather than a cocktail bar.
Order a pint from the rotating draught lines and settle in. The kitchen has built a name for its vegan plates, including a well-reviewed vegan Sunday roast, so it is an easy spot to eat between sets.
What to order
- 01
A draught craft beer
- 02
A bottled metal-scene beer
- 03
The vegan Sunday roast
- 04
A simple spirit and mixer
