The stables complex features five stables ranges of Victorian industrial stabling in Stables Yard now known as The Stables, Provender Stores, Long Stable and Tack Room to the southeast and the Horse Hospital to the northwest. The first four form a group that dates from 1856. It includes associated features: horse roads, ramps and galleries; the retaining wall that separated Stables Yard from the street; the single entrance to Stables Yard; and the granite sett pavements. It also includes the horse tunnels, although the significance of these tunnels merits a separate description.
The stables complex in Camden is the most complete example of Victorian industrial stabling that survives in London – and probably the country – in terms of scale, complexity and quality of surviving structures. It illustrates the development of stabling over the second half of the 19th century.
All of the stables ranges are part of Stables Market, which includes retail outlets, workshops, bars and restaurants, and various leisure activities. The former horse-keeper’s dwelling in the Tack Room is now offices for Stables Market Limited, who own and manage the market.
Although Stables Market can now be entered from several access points, for over 100 years the only entrance to Stables Yard was from Chalk Farm Road. This remains the main entrance to Stables Market (2007). For a fuller description and the evolution of stables and horse tunnels see stables complex.