15 Hidden Gems in Kentish Town London: Perfect for Your Salon Day Out (2025)
- Margaux Salon
- 19 hours ago
- 27 min read
Tucked away in North London sits Kentish Town, a delightful area packed with surprises waiting to be discovered. While many people only know it for the famous O2 Forum where legends like The Clash and Radiohead once played, we've found this charming neighbourhood has so much more to offer.
Take a stroll beyond the gorgeous Grade II-listed pastel houses and bustling high street, and you'll find yourself in a friendly, welcoming part of London with over 6,875 different activities and attractions. From cozy historic pubs serving delicious Thai food to stylish restaurants offering mouthwatering Latin American dishes, we can't wait to share our favourite hidden spots that will make your salon day extra special.
Looking for the perfect way to round off your pampering session? Maybe planning a full weekend of beauty treats? We've put together 15 fantastic lesser-known gems that'll turn your salon visit into something truly memorable. Trust us - once you discover these NW5 treasures, you'll wonder how you ever missed them.
Table of Contents
Just around the corner from the lively Kentish Town high street, you'll find Margaux Salon - a gorgeous little styling spot that feels both luxurious and wonderfully welcoming. Walking through the door, you're immediately wrapped in warmth from the rich burgundy walls, beautiful timber furnishings, and elegant copper touches that set this place miles apart from your average high street chains.
Signature Hair Treatments
The star of their treatment menu has to be their Hair Botox service - don't worry, no needles come anywhere near you! This clever treatment works wonders on damaged hair, mending those pesky split ends and adding a stunning shine you'll love showing off. What makes it even better? Unlike regular keratin treatments, their Hair Botox doesn't contain any nasty chemicals like formaldehyde. They're also brilliant at:
Beautiful balayage colouring that grows out naturally, meaning fewer trips back
Fantastic styling and cutting for all hair types
Colour services that always include toners for the perfect finish (except T-section)
The Salon's Unique Approach
The team at Margaux really believes in a "less is more" approach, choosing to work with natural products that skip all the bad stuff like parabens, SLS, phthalates, mineral oils, and GMOs. They often say, "The beauty industry has become over-chemicalised," which is why they've made it their mission to use only cruelty-free, natural options that still give amazing results.
For the lovely folks at Margaux, your salon visit should feel like a treat, not just another appointment to tick off your list. That's why they pick their stylists based mostly on personality and how well they connect with people, making sure you feel totally comfortable and looked after from start to finish.
Why Kentish Town Locals Swear By It
With a stunning 4.9/5 rating from more than 1,000 real client reviews, it's easy to see why Margaux has become NW5 London's worst-kept secret. Clients keep coming back because they know they'll get amazing cuts and colours every time, no matter which stylist looks after them.
Booking Information
You'll spot Margaux Salon at 208 Kentish Town Rd, London NW5 2AD. They welcome clients Wednesday-Thursday (10:00-20:00), Friday (9:00-19:30), Saturday (9:00-19:00), and Sunday (11:00-18:00), taking a well-deserved break Monday-Tuesday. Remember to pop down a 30% deposit when you book, and you'll be happy to know that every service comes with a consultation, shampoo, and rough dry included.
Ladies and Gentlemen: Cocktails in a Former Victorian Loo
London has always had a clever way of breathing new life into old spaces, and this little gem in Kentish Town is a perfect example - a former Victorian underground toilet now stands as one of NW5's most characterful cocktail bars. Ladies and Gentlemen, created by William Borrell from the Vestal Vodka family, shows just how magical unexpected places can be.
The Unusual Beauty of This Converted Space
This cozy underground spot makes the most of its quirky layout, featuring two softly lit rooms set at a V-shape with a neat little bar where they meet. Though it's not the biggest place you'll visit, it oozes charm with retro tunes that transport you straight back to the speakeasies of the 1920s. The team has lovingly kept many original features while adding comfy seating - just what your feet need after a day of beauty treatments.
Beauty-themed Signature Drinks
Their cocktail list changes with the seasons, but these special drinks pair beautifully with your fresh salon look:
Rhubarb & Custard - A gorgeous gin creation that's perfectly balanced and looks fabulous on Instagram next to your new style
Reposado Tequila with Carrot and Agave - A surprisingly refreshing drink that feels like it's doing you good from the inside out
Espresso Martini - Just the boost you need between your salon visit and evening plans
Most of their lovely cocktails cost between £8-£9, making them an affordable treat. They even serve free popcorn while you relax - such a thoughtful touch!
How to Include in Your Salon Day Itinerary
Pop in around 5pm after your treatments, when the friendly bartenders are just setting out fresh local honeys and lemons for the evening's drinks. The place gets quite busy, especially on Fridays when it's first-come-first-served after 9:30pm, so it's worth getting there a bit earlier.
You'll find Ladies and Gentlemen at the bottom of Highgate Road close to the O2 Forum Kentish Town, making it a handy spot to continue your day of pampering. Unlike bigger, noisier venues, this snug setting gives you the perfect lighting to show off your new look before heading off for dinner at one of Kentish Town's many wonderful restaurants.
Earth Natural Foods: Stock Up on Organic Beauty Essentials
Nestled on Kentish Town High Street sits Earth Natural Foods, north London's leading independent natural food shop. This lovely little treasure isn't just about organic veggies—it's packed with natural beauty goodies that perfectly round off your salon day in NW5 London.
Top Natural Beauty Products to Try
We absolutely adore their selection of Weleda products at Earth Natural Foods—a wonderful brand that's been growing plants organically and creating natural health products for over a century. Their shelves are filled with:
Weleda Skin Food (you can grab it in 30ml, 75ml and light versions)—it's the secret weapon models and makeup artists use for that gorgeous post-salon glow
Dr Hauschka organic skincare—famous for working brilliantly without all those nasty chemicals
Loads of natural bodycare bits and bobs completely free from mineral oil, parabens, silicones and those synthetic fragrances nobody wants
More and more people care about what they're putting on their skin these days, so these NATRUE-certified products give you clean beauty you can really trust.
Beauty Supplements Worth Investing In
The beauty magic doesn't stop with creams and lotions—Earth Natural Foods also stocks brilliant supplements that work from the inside out. Their collection features trusted names like:
BioCare and Solgar for giving your skin, hair and nails exactly what they need
Wild Nutrition with clever hormone-balancing formulas that help clear up your skin
Viridian supplements that boost your overall wellbeing
These supplements work hand-in-hand with your salon treatments, supporting your beauty goals from within while professional services take care of the outside.
How These Products Complement Professional Treatments
Adding these organic products to your beauty routine creates a full-circle approach to looking and feeling fantastic. "Clients are looking to come to us not just for a haircut or colour but to leave feeling relaxed, renewed or refreshed, and they trust that we have sourced the best products and ingredients to help with this," says award-winning salon owner Emma Simmons.
Next time you're enjoying a lovely day out in Kentish Town, take some time to wander through Earth Natural Foods' amazing selection. This stop on your beauty adventure connects your professional treatments with everyday self-care, completing your wellness experience in this charming corner of London.
Kentish Town High Street Boutiques: Beauty Shopping Galore
Kentish Town's high street is home to so many wonderful independent beauty boutiques beyond the main salons. Each one offers something special for beauty lovers like us. After your pampering session at Margaux Salon, these lovely spots are just perfect for continuing your beauty day in NW5 London.
Independent Beauty Retailers Worth Visiting
Beauty Box NW5 really shines as a gorgeous boutique beauty salon in Tufnell Park with amazing manicure, pedicure and waxing services. What makes this place special? They use beautiful premium products like OPI nail colour and Essie, and the best bit is you can buy them all right there in the salon.
Glamour Beauty Boutique, tucked inside Ellie's Hair & Beauty, welcomes you with a lovely cup of coffee while you relax into your treatment. Their bright, clean space is just perfect for LVL Lash Lift, Brow Lamination, threading and waxing. The friendly team is headed up by Melissa, who brings more than 13 years of beauty know-how to every treatment.
Unique Products You Won't Find Elsewhere
Wandering through Kentish Town's charming side streets, we stumbled upon Glam Touch, a real hidden gem full of exclusive Korean skincare goodies. Their shelves are packed with:
Wonderful hydrating products for thirsty, dry skin
Clever anti-ageing formulas that help smooth away fine lines
Brightening Vitamin C serums and niacinamide treats
Specially formulated solutions for oily skin and troublesome spots
We also fell in love with Moroccan Essentials, a sweet little shop that locals rave about for their totally organic beauty products. It might be small, but it's bursting with authentic treasures.
Creating a Kentish Town Beauty Haul
For the ultimate Kentish Town beauty collection, start by popping into Earth Natural Foods for all your organic essentials, then make your way over to Beauty Box NW5 for those professional nail care treats. After that, spend some time exploring Glamour Beauty Boutique for top-quality lash and brow products from Nouveau Lashes UK and HD Brows.
And don't miss those side streets! A proper beauty haul simply must include a wander off the main high street, where all the creativity and local charm comes alive. These little independent shops have such unique finds that perfectly complement the professional treatments you've enjoyed earlier in your day.
The Grafton: Post-Treatment Refreshments with a View
Looking for the perfect spot to relax and show off your fresh look after your pampering session at Margaux Salon? The Grafton is waiting for you. This lovely award-winning pub (British Pub of the Year 2015) gives you a uniquely relaxing experience that pairs beautifully with your beauty treatments in NW5 London.
The Rooftop Terrace Experience
The absolute star of The Grafton has to be its secret rooftop terrace, a sunny little haven that feels miles away from the busy Kentish Town high street. With clever full-length retractable Victorian awnings and plenty of heat lamps, this brilliant all-weather space stays welcoming all year round, no matter what tricks London weather decides to play. During summer, it's simply heavenly for sitting back with a cool drink while people admire your fresh style. And guess what? Even in winter, the terrace stays wonderfully cosy and welcoming.
The upstairs bar area deserves a special mention too—it's beautifully tiled with gorgeous natural sunlight pouring through the full-length windows. This bright, breezy space makes taking those post-treatment selfies an absolute dream!
Beauty-boosting Menu Options
The Grafton serves some of the tastiest food in Kentish Town, with dishes that go perfectly with your salon day:
Yummy sharing plates at just £5 each – perfect for light, sociable nibbling
Fresh, local, seasonal ingredients – many grown in their very own allotment
Pocket-friendly wines that won't break the bank, available by the glass or on tap
We love how affordable everything is, with prices that "make some other gastropubs look greedy", so you can enjoy your day of treats without worrying about your wallet.
Why This Pub Complements Your Salon Day
Beyond the scrumptious food and gorgeous terrace, The Grafton gives you friendly, attentive service that matches the pampering vibe of your salon day perfectly. If you fancy a quieter spot after all your treatments, their upstairs function room gives you a peaceful alternative to the main bar.
Sitting right in the heart of Kentish Town, The Grafton works brilliantly as a stepping stone between your beauty treatments and whatever evening plans you might have, giving you time to relax and enjoy your refreshed look in comfy, pleasant surroundings.
Hidden among the leafy treasures of Kentish Town London is the wonderful Boma Garden Centre, a little urban paradise where beauty and nature come together beautifully. This gorgeous plant haven isn't just about greenery—it's a source of inspiration for a complete beauty routine that works from the inside out.
Indoor Plants That Enhance Your Beauty Routine
Did you know certain houseplants can actually help your skin look amazing? Plants with big leafy canopies naturally increase the moisture in your air, helping combat that horrible dry, flaky skin we all hate—especially during those harsh winter months. Peace Lilies and Ivy are absolute superstars at this natural humidifying trick.
For a clearer, healthier complexion, we love these air-purifying beauties:
Snake Plant – brilliant at catching dust and nasty pollutants that can age your skin and rob it of radiance
Dracena – helps clear away toxins that might be causing your skin troubles
Fiddle Leaf Fig – gives your skin a helping hand in flushing out those unwanted toxins
We can't talk about plant beauty without mentioning Aloe Vera! Packed with vitamins A, C and E, it works as both a natural moisturiser and a shield against free radicals. Just snap open a leaf and smooth the gel straight onto your skin—a lovely natural follow-up to your salon treatments.
Natural Beauty Products Available
Pop into Boma in the heart of NW5 London, and you'll discover a fantastic range of plant-based beauty essentials. They stock specialist composts made for different types of indoor plants, perfect if you're growing your own beauty-boosting greenery at home.
The centre also carries top-quality plant care products to keep your leafy friends thriving, including those clever Vitax Orchid Drip Feeders. Orchids aren't just stunning to look at—they're also symbols of luxury and self-care, making them perfect companions for your beauty journey.
Creating a Beauty-enhancing Home Environment
Placing plants thoughtfully around your home creates what designers call a biophilic space that boosts your wellbeing and helps you feel more productive. Big, statement plants work as natural focal points, drawing the eye and anchoring your room's overall look.
House plants bring lovely organic elements that soften the hard edges in your home. All those different leaf shapes and vibrant greens add texture and depth to your space. Try popping plants next to hard surfaces like concrete walls or glass windows for a pleasing contrast that brings warmth and life to your post-salon sanctuary.
The best bit? Studies show that being around nature, even indoors, can lower your stress levels and lift your mood—helping that post-treatment glow stick around much longer.
Standing proud on the busy Kentish Town high street is Caliendo's Gelato, a gorgeous award-winning ice cream shop that offers the sweetest ending to your beauty day. They've earned the impressive title of "UK Parlour of the Year 2023" from the Ice Cream Alliance, and this lovely family business carries Italian gelato-making traditions dating all the way back to the 1880s.
Beauty-boosting Flavours to Try
After being pampered at the salon, why not treat yourself to these feel-good flavours:
Blackcurrant & Liquorice – a fancy mix that scooped a two-star Great Taste award and gives you a lovely antioxidant boost
Belgian Chocolate Sorbet – surprisingly creamy but totally dairy-free
Kesar Mango – bursting with vitamins to make your skin absolutely glow
Salted Butter Caramel – a bit of indulgence that goes hand-in-hand with your fresh new look
They always have at least eight dairy-free options among their 24 daily flavours, and they'll happily make sugar-free ones if you ask. Throughout the year, they switch things up with an amazing 200 different creations, but each and every scoop shows just how much they care about quality.
Why This NW5 Gem Stands Out
Caliendo's isn't your average ice cream shop – it's an Italian Job themed Gelateria where "craft meets passion with cheeky British flare." All their mouth-watering gelato is whipped up fresh on-site using organic milk and cream. The friendly owners, Michelina Caliendo-Sear and Fiona Bell, only opened in December 2019, just before the pandemic hit, but they've quickly become darlings of the London food scene.
Don't be fooled by the shop's black exterior – step inside and you'll find a world of excitement, with helpful staff who love chatting about all the care that goes into each delicious batch. Prices start at £4.75 for a small cone or cup with one flavour, but the portions are so generous you'll feel it's money well spent.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Salon Day
We think Caliendo's makes the perfect mid-afternoon stop between beauty treatments – their gelato gives you just the energy boost you need. If you fancy saving some for later, they do takeaway tubs (£12.50-£31) to enjoy back at your hotel. Or why not grab one of their creamy gelato milkshakes (£8) to sip while you stroll down Kentish Town High Street showing off your fabulous new style?
You'll find this little slice of Italy at 182 Kentish Town Road, NW5 2AE, and honestly, it truly deserves its reputation as not just London's finest, but the country's best gelato spot.
Beauty really does start from the inside out, which is exactly why Guanabana Restaurant deserves a spot on your Kentish Town beauty day plan. Since opening their doors in 2007, this wonderful Latin-Caribbean eatery was one of the first places in London to serve halal food with those gorgeous South American and Caribbean flavours, making it a real trailblazer in NW5.
Caribbean Ingredients for Glowing Skin
Ever noticed how Caribbean food just seems to make people glow? That's because the Caribbean diet naturally boosts skin health with its nutrient-packed ingredients. Guanabana's menu takes you on a tasty tour through Jamaica, Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico, with dishes full of:
Fruits bursting with antioxidants to fight those pesky free radicals
Vitamin-packed veggies like callaloo and okra
Fresh seafood rich in essential fatty acids your skin will thank you for
Warming spices like allspice and scotch bonnet that get your blood flowing
Fancy trying their oak-smoked jerk chicken? This signature dish contains natural compounds that help your body produce collagen—just what your skin is crying out for after your salon treatments.
Perfect Post-salon Menu Options
After being pampered at the salon, why not continue the self-care with these beauty-boosting dishes:
If you're vegan or vegetarian, the Carlita vegetable trio is an absolute winner—it brings together black bean stew, chickpea stew, callaloo and okra on one plate. This plant-powered feast gives you all those essential nutrients that work alongside your external treatments.
Fish lovers should try their pan-fried sea bass with feta mash and coconut herb sauce, packed with omega-3s that keep your hair shiny and skin elastic. The brilliant thing about Guanabana? They have a BYOB policy with just a small corkage fee, though their fresh juices like the zingy Green Zinger with green apple, ginger, and lemon make for a perfect alcohol-free beauty boost.
Booking Tips for Your Visit
Sitting pretty on Kentish Town Road in Camden, Guanabana gets booked up 2-3 weeks ahead, especially their cosy back dining area. Our advice? Sort your reservation well in advance of your salon appointment.
Bear in mind that Sundays get particularly hectic, and they can't take party bookings then. Oh, and do make sure you're on time—if you're more than 10 minutes late, you might lose your table.
Planning a group pampering session? Their back dining space fits up to 40 people, making it perfect for beauty days with your favourite people.
Ready for the perfect finale to your beauty day in Kentish Town? We've found The Parakeet, a real culinary treasure that's turned the old Oxford Tavern into one of NW5's most sophisticated places to eat. This lovely restaurant brings together a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with amazing fire-cooked food that complements your fresh salon glow beautifully.
The Beauty of Their Seasonal Menu
Everything on The Parakeet's menu celebrates British dishes and seasonal produce, all cooked over open flame by their talented Head Chef Ben Allen, who previously worked at the famous restaurant BRAT. Their menu changes with the seasons, always showcasing ingredients when they taste their absolute best. We couldn't resist their smoked mutton sausage and spider crab croquettes as starters - they're simply divine.
Sunday is a special treat at The Parakeet, with a fantastic roast menu served all day long. You can choose from mouth-watering options like flame-grilled leg of lamb and salt-aged topside beef, all cooked slowly over charcoal and wood. Their chicken dish is something else too - pre-brined and roasted in hay to give it a gentle smoky flavour that makes this classic Sunday favourite feel extra special.
Why Fire-cooked Food Complements Wellness
Fancy a bit of science with your supper? After your salon treatments, fire-cooked food actually gives you some surprising wellness benefits. Studies show that just sitting near fire naturally lowers your blood pressure, which helps reduce your risk of stroke, kidney and heart problems. Fire cooking has also been shown to ease stress and help people recover from feelings of depression and anxiety - exactly what you want after a day of being pampered.
Here's something fascinating - the world's healthiest communities still cook their food over fire. This age-old practice naturally helps detox your body and calms your nervous system, which means that post-treatment tranquillity you felt at Margaux Salon lasts even longer.
Making Reservations for Your Salon Day
The Parakeet has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from more than 800 happy diners, so booking ahead is definitely a must. For groups of up to six people, they open reservations on the first day of each month for the following month - pop it in your diary! Planning a beauty day with a bigger group? Their private dining room can seat up to 30 guests.
We love how the restaurant area is separate from the pub section, creating an intimate dining space that feels more like a proper restaurant than a gastropub. This thoughtful setup makes it the ideal spot to show off your gorgeous new style while enjoying some of the best food Kentish Town has to offer.
Is Kentish Town Safe? Navigating the Area with Confidence
After exploring all these lovely hidden gems in Kentish Town, you might be wondering about the best ways to get around safely. Good news! This charming corner of NW5 London actually has crime rates lower than the London average, making it a wonderful neighbourhood for your beauty day adventures.
Best Routes Between Beauty Spots
When walking between your pampering stops, Kentish Town High Street works brilliantly as your main reference point. From Margaux Salon, you're just a quick five-minute stroll away from Earth Natural Foods. Fancy a more scenic wander? The tree-lined paths of Caversham Road are absolutely gorgeous and really bring the streets to life. As you get closer to Camden, keep an eye out for those first buildings covered in colourful street art – that's how you'll know you're moving between neighbourhoods.
Don't miss the charming side streets with their Instagram-perfect pastel-coloured houses on narrow cobbled lanes! That said, if you're in a bit of a hurry, Kentish Town Road is your best bet as the main north-south route.
Evening Safety Tips
Kentish Town has such a lovely community feel and a visible police presence, but it's still worth taking basic precautions after dark. Unlike the tourist hotspot of Camden Town next door, you won't find crowds of visitors here at all hours, though there are plenty of locals around the main travel spots.
If you ever feel a bit uncomfortable in the evenings, pop over to the Camden Safety Bus parked outside Camden Town Tube station on Friday and Saturday nights (9:30pm-2:30am). They offer a safe place to charge your phone, get some water, or even first aid help if needed. Many local shops and cafés display the Safe Haven logo too – they're all happy to help with directions or assistance.
Transport Options for Your Salon-hopping Day
You'll be pleased to know Kentish Town sits right in Zone 2 of London's transport network, so getting around is super easy:
Tube: Hop on the Northern Line at Camden Town (just a 7-minute walk from Kentish Town Road) with first trains running from 5:43am and last trains at 12:52am
Trains: Both Thameslink and Overground services stop at Camden Road Station (a quick 6-minute walk from Kentish Town Road)
Buses: Routes 214, 29, 31, 88, and night buses N20 and N31 cover the area really well
Most beauty spots are just a one-minute walk from the Royal College Street bus stop, which is so handy! And if you're enjoying a late dinner at The Parakeet, don't worry about getting back – the N31 night bus starts running from 3:00am, so you'll never be stuck.
Nestled between Camden's artistic streets and the lush greenery of Hampstead Heath, you'll discover Quadrant Grove – a secret little lane in Kentish Town that's just perfect for a gentle post-salon wander. After being pampered and preened, this sweet tree-lined street with its charming white picket fences and beautiful rose gardens makes the loveliest backdrop for showing off your fresh style.
The Beauty of This Hidden Street
At first glance, you might just see a pretty residential road, but look a little closer and this "oasis of calm" reveals something special – gorgeously preserved period architecture, including the oldest villas (numbers 23-29, built way back in 1849) sitting proudly at the top left corner of the street. The peaceful, quiet atmosphere here feels worlds away from the buzzy energy of Kentish Town high street.
Pop over to the other side of the street and you'll spot the historic St Pancras Almshouses, which once provided shelter for "decayed and deserving ratepayers of the parish". This fascinating mix of architectural styles makes for a delightful little exploration after your beauty treatments.
Perfect Photo Opportunities
Fresh from your appointment at Margaux, Quadrant Grove gives you some absolutely stunning backdrops to showcase your new look. If you're an early bird, the morning sunlight makes spring flowers look almost see-through, creating the most magical lighting for your photos.
Start by snapping a few shots with the beautiful row of period homes behind you. Much like the colourful houses on nearby Kelly Street, Quadrant Grove's elegant buildings create the dreamiest setting for your post-salon pics. Just keep an eye out for the friendly neighbourhood cats who might photobomb your shoot – they're part of the local charm and often spotted "under cars, on walls, scuttling behind bins"!
How to Include in Your Beauty Day Itinerary
For the perfect timing, we suggest visiting Quadrant Grove in that lovely window between your salon appointment and dinner reservations. From Kentish Town high street, it's just a relaxed 10-minute stroll westward. While you're admiring all the beautiful architecture, why not pop into the historic Lord Southampton pub at the end of the street? Karl Marx himself used to drink here, and nowadays they have a gorgeous roaring fire that's simply heavenly during winter visits.
Want a bit more? Carry on your walk to nearby Malden Place, where the 1980s pop group Bananarama once called home. It adds such a fun musical touch to your beauty day adventures in Kentish Town!
Looking for the perfect way to round off your beauty day in Kentish Town? Pop over to The Rose & Crown, where Sunday Shtick serves up free comedy with a side of unexpected beauty perks. This award-winning pub hosts one of London's most brilliant live stand-up comedy shows every Sunday at 7:00pm, giving you the ideal evening treat after your salon session.
Why Laughter Enhances Your Post-salon Glow
Here's a fun fact - laughter isn't just good for your soul, it's brilliant for your skin too! Studies show that a good giggle actually reduces those pesky stress hormones like cortisol that play havoc with your complexion. After you've had a proper laugh, your blood pressure drops lower than it was before and stays there, helping that post-treatment calm last even longer.
While you're chuckling away, your body's busy sending extra blood flow and oxygen to your skin, delivering all those lovely nutrients while giving your facial muscles a proper workout that helps boost collagen production. Think about it - you're using 43 different facial muscles when you laugh, giving yourself a bonus toning session that works wonderfully with your salon treatments!
Show Information and Booking
You'll find The Rose & Crown on Torriano Avenue (NW5 2SG), where they host Sunday Shtick every week with a brilliant mix of seasoned comedy pros and exciting new talent. While you can get in for free, we'd suggest booking a seat online (£5-£9) because you'll get a free drink from the bar included. The show runs from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, leaving you plenty of time for a late dinner afterwards.
This lovely Time Out Award-winning craft beer pub has such a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and their resident pop-up kitchen even gives comedy-goers 20% off their entire menu - what's not to love?
Beauty Preparations for a Night of Comedy
To keep your salon-fresh look perfect throughout the show, try dusting on a light layer of setting powder to soak up any shininess. It's also worth popping some blotting paper or tissues in your bag for quick touch-ups during the interval.
Outfit-wise, go for something comfy but stylish - maybe dark jeans paired with a pretty blouse. And don't forget your waterproof mascara - with comedy this good, you'll likely shed a few tears of laughter, but unlike most tears, these actually enhance your beauty!
Just a quick trip from NW5 London, you'll find nature's very own spa—the beautiful historic swimming ponds of Hampstead Heath. These gorgeous natural waters are the perfect partner to your salon treatments, offering amazing benefits that work from the inside out.
The Skin Benefits of Wild Swimming
Wild swimming at Hampstead Heath gives your skin perks that no fancy bottle on a shelf could ever match. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has given thumbs up to the water quality, rating it as 'Good' at both the Ladies' and Mixed Ponds and 'Excellent' at the Men's Pond. Swimmers often talk about how their skin looks clearer after regular dips, thanks to the way natural swimming boosts your circulation.
Unlike those chlorine-heavy pools that can leave your skin feeling tight and dry, these natural waters are much kinder to sensitive skin. Plus, the mental boost you get from wild swimming shows on your face—that lovely dopamine rush is why people travel from all over London for a swim here. Many regulars say the ponds have helped them through tough times in life, from menopause to losing loved ones.
Post-salon Hair Protection Tips
Want to keep your fresh salon style looking gorgeous while you enjoy the ponds? Here's how:
Pre-swim preparation: Give your hair a good soak with fresh water before you jump in—this clever trick fills the hair shaft so there's less room for pond water to get in
Apply protection: Smooth some leave-in conditioner or argan oil through your damp hair to create a lovely protective barrier
Style defensively: Got longer locks? Try a protective style like a braid or low bun to keep your hair safe from too much exposure
Washing your hair after every swim can strip away your natural oils, so you might want to try "co-washing" instead—just cleansing with conditioner to keep that moisture balance just right.
How to Incorporate into Your Wellness Day
You've got three beautiful bathing ponds to choose from: Kenwood Ladies' Pond and Highgate Men's Pond welcome swimmers all year round, while Hampstead Mixed Pond opens seasonally. For the perfect beauty day, why not start with your salon treatments in Kentish Town, grab a bite at one of our suggested restaurants, then finish off with a refreshing swim?
Each pond has its own special character—the Mixed Pond on the Hampstead side is closest to Kentish Town, making it ideal if you're staying in local hotels and fancy a quick dip in nature. Brave enough for winter swimming? Just remember the golden rule: never stay in longer than the water temperature in degrees.
Just a stone's throw from the buzz of Kentish Town high street lies a gorgeous 18th-century treasure that most visitors walk right past. Little Green Street is like stepping into a perfect Georgian time capsule, with just eight houses on one side and two on the other—all built in the 1780s and Grade II listed. This tiny cobbled lane is one of the few Georgian streets in London that's still completely intact, making it the dreamiest spot for photos after your salon visit.
The Historical Beauty of This Preserved Street
What makes Little Green Street so special is how beautifully preserved it is—like a living museum of Georgian architecture. Those eight charming bow-fronted houses used to be sweet little shops selling everything from ribbons and coffee to mousetraps. There's even a fascinating mention of the street in Old Bailey records from 10 July 1805, about a servant charged with theft, giving us a peek into its rich history.
Back in 1898, a social researcher called Charles Booth described the street in his survey, noting its "old-fashioned cottages" with "round projecting windows" and "small panes of glass"—and amazingly, these lovely features are still there today, looking almost exactly the same. The street got its name because Highgate Road was once called Green Street, and this was simply its smaller, quieter neighbour.
Perfect Backdrops for Your Post-salon Photos
Fresh from your styling session at Margaux Salon, this photogenic little street offers:
Authentic Period Setting: Those gorgeous Georgian facades create a timeless background to show off your new look
Textured Visuals: Beautiful cobblestones and historic brickwork that add depth and character to your photos
Cultural Significance: Music lovers will be tickled to know The Kinks filmed one of the very first music videos here for their song 'Dead End Street'
Having survived both the London Blitz during World War II and all the pressure to redevelop over the years, Little Green Street gives you a taste of authentic London history that's hard to find anywhere else in NW5.
Best Times to Visit for Photography
Given it sits snugly between busy Highgate Road and the Ingestre Estate, picking the right time for your visit makes all the difference for perfect photos. The morning light bathes the eastern side of the street beautifully, highlighting all those lovely Georgian details. For a more balanced light that really flatters your fresh salon style, early afternoon tends to work best.
If you're looking for something truly special to do in Kentish Town, this delightful little lane transforms your ordinary post-salon selfies into stunning portraits against a backdrop of genuine London history.
Hotels in Kentish Town London: Extend Your Beauty Retreat
Fancy turning your salon day into a proper mini-break? We've done our homework and found some wonderful places to stay in and around NW5 London. With such a mix of cosy boutique spots and hotels with spa facilities nearby, your beauty treatments could be just the beginning of a truly relaxing escape.
Boutique Stays with Spa Facilities
Kentish Town doesn't have loads of spa hotels itself, but there are some fantastic options just a short hop away. The Gyle gives you air-conditioned rooms, a pretty garden, free WiFi and a nice bar, all just 1.6 km from the British Museum . If you're after some serious pampering, Rowhill Grange in Kent (you can get there in under an hour from London) has the award-winning Utopia Spa with two indoor swimming pools, a special manicure/pedicure room, hair salon, sauna and steam room .
We also love Sakkson House Boutique Rooms & Suites for a more modern stay, with designer rooms featuring those dreamy pillow-top mattresses and Egyptian cotton bedding . Even though it's on a main road, guests say they barely notice any noise, and everyone appreciates how secure it feels - you actually need three different keys to get to your room !
Perfect Locations for Your Beauty Weekend
If you want to be ideally placed for exploring all the Kentish Town gems we've recommended, take a look at The Standard London. This stylish spot has the most wonderful eclectic library lounge and bar, plus their cultural hub called the Sound Studio, where they host regular DJs and live music events .
For easy travel connections, Travelodge London Central Kings Cross is just 1.9 miles from central London , giving you brilliant access to all Kentish Town's attractions. Camden Enterprise Hotel is another great option that puts you within easy reach of both Kentish Town High Street and all the excitement of Camden .
Special Packages Worth Considering
Throughout the year, various spa places near Kentish Town offer some really tempting packages. Banya No.1 in Hoxton has their "Silver Package" (£150) which includes a Parenie treatment, organic scrub, mud mask and herbal tea over 2 hours 45 minutes . For something truly special, you might fancy their private Taiga Experience for groups (from £515 for two people) .
Just down the road in Crouch End, the Beauty Detox Spa Wellness offers their Signature Package (£109) with 1 hour 55 minutes of pure indulgence , making it the ideal companion to your Kentish Town salon experience.
Comparison Table
Looking for a quick glance at all our Kentish Town gems? Here's a handy overview of everything we've covered. Whether you're planning your route or trying to decide which spots to prioritise, this little table should help you get your beauty day sorted!
Venue Name | Type | Location | Key Features | Opening Hours | Price Range | Notable Highlights |
Margaux Salon | Hair Salon | 208 Kentish Town Rd, NW5 2AD | Hair Botox, balayage, styling | Wed-Thu 10:00-20:00, Fri 9:00-19:30, Sat 9:00-19:00, Sun 11:00-18:00 | 30% deposit required | 4.9/5 rating from 1,000+ reviews |
Ladies and Gentlemen | Cocktail Bar | Near O2 Forum Kentish Town | Converted Victorian toilet, intimate setting | Best before 9:30pm on Fridays | £8-£9 per cocktail | Complimentary popcorn served |
Earth Natural Foods | Natural Food Store | Kentish Town High Street | Organic beauty products, supplements | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | North London's leading independent natural retailer |
The Grafton | Pub | Central Kentish Town | Rooftop terrace, seasonal menu | Not mentioned | £5 sharing plates | British Pub of the Year 2015 |
Caliendo's Gelato | Ice Cream Parlour | 182 Kentish Town Road, NW5 2AE | 24 daily flavours, artisanal gelato | Not mentioned | £4.75 small cone, £12.50-£31 takeaway tubs | UK Parlour of the Year 2023 |
Guanabana Restaurant | Restaurant | Kentish Town Road | Latin-Caribbean cuisine, BYOB | Not mentioned | Small corkage fee applies | Established 2007, halal options |
The Parakeet | Restaurant | Former Oxford Tavern | Fire-cooked British cuisine | Sunday roast all day | Not mentioned | 4.8-star rating from 800+ diners |
Little Green Street | Historic Street | Off Highgate Road | Georgian architecture, cobbled lane | Always accessible | Free | Featured in The Kinks' music video |
Hampstead Heath Ponds | Swimming Venue | Hampstead Heath | Natural swimming ponds | Year-round (Ladies' and Men's), Seasonal (Mixed) | Not mentioned | DEFRA rated 'Good' to 'Excellent' water quality |
Feel free to mix and match these lovely spots to create your perfect beauty day out. We'd suggest starting with pampering at Margaux Salon, followed by some natural beauty shopping at Earth Natural Foods, then perhaps a refreshing dip at Hampstead Heath Ponds before finishing your day with delicious food at The Parakeet or Guanabana!
Conclusion
We've taken you on quite a journey through Kentish Town, haven't we? This lovely corner of North London has so much more to offer beauty lovers than you might have guessed. What makes it so special is how it blends gorgeous salon experiences with all that wonderful historical character, creating the perfect setting for a truly memorable pampering day.
Margaux Salon really is the star of the show here, while other little treasures like Earth Natural Foods and Caliendo's Gelato add such delightful touches to your beauty day out. And we simply must give a special nod to the food scene – from The Parakeet's amazing fire-cooked dishes to Guanabana's nourishing Caribbean flavours that work wonders for your skin and wellbeing.
If you're a nature lover, you'll adore how a dip in Hampstead Heath's swimming ponds perfectly complements your professional beauty treatments. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can show off their fresh new looks against the stunning Georgian backdrop of Little Green Street. And don't worry about getting around – the strong community feel makes exploring all these hidden gems a breeze.
What we really love about Kentish Town is how versatile it is. Fancy just a quick salon visit followed by cocktails in that quirky converted Victorian loo at Ladies and Gentlemen? Or perhaps you'd prefer extending your stay at one of the area's lovely boutique hotels? This friendly neighbourhood caters to whatever takes your fancy. These 15 hidden gems show just how magical beauty treatments can be when you surround them with the right mix of experiences.
One last tip from us – do book your appointments well in advance, especially for popular spots like Margaux Salon and The Parakeet. Your perfect beauty day in NW5 is waiting for you – time to get planning and treat yourself!
FAQs
Q1. What makes Kentish Town a unique destination for a beauty day out? Kentish Town offers a perfect blend of sophisticated salon experiences, historical charm, and hidden gems. From award-winning salons like Margaux to unique dining experiences at The Parakeet, the area provides a diverse range of activities to complement your beauty treatments.
Q2. Are there any natural beauty spots in Kentish Town? Yes, the Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds are a short journey from Kentish Town. These natural bathing waters offer therapeutic benefits that complement salon treatments, with swimmers reporting improved skin clarity after regular dips.
Q3. What dining options are available after a salon visit in Kentish Town? Kentish Town boasts a variety of dining options. The Parakeet offers sophisticated fire-cooked British cuisine, while Guanabana Restaurant serves beauty-boosting Latin-Caribbean dishes. For a sweet treat, Caliendo's Gelato, crowned UK Parlour of the Year 2023, is a must-visit.
Q4. Is Kentish Town suitable for capturing post-salon photos? Absolutely. Little Green Street, a preserved Georgian lane, provides a perfect backdrop for post-salon photos. The cobblestones and historic brickwork add depth to photographs, creating a timeless setting for showcasing your new look.
Q5. How can I extend my beauty day in Kentish Town into a weekend retreat? While Kentish Town itself has limited spa hotels, nearby accommodations like The Gyle offer excellent facilities. For a luxurious experience, consider Rowhill Grange in Kent, accessible within an hour from London, featuring the award-winning Utopia Spa. Many hotels also offer special beauty and wellness packages to complement your salon day.
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