Your guide to living in Brixton
Famed as David Bowie’s old stomping ground, the creative hub of Brixton has become one of south London’s must-visit neighbourhoods.
The area has a rich cultural history, thanks to the strong influence of African and Caribbean communities that settled in Brixton after the Second World War - and it’s now one of London’s most exciting music scenes too. Essentially, an area where both delicious jerk chicken and awesome live music aren’t hard to come by.
How do I get there?
Brixton sits at the very end of the Victoria line - making it a prime destination for drunk snoozers after a big night out in central London. It's also London's quickest tube line (you can get from Brixton to Oxford Circus in 13 minutes), making it a total dream for commuters.
Brixton station is also served by Southeastern trains that will take you to London Victoria or Orpington, via more suburban areas like Herne Hill. Handy for tube strikes, or visiting friends that live in obscure locations.
What is there to do?
One is never bored in Brixton.
Film buffs will love The Ritzy, an independent cinema that shows a programme of current movies, as well as hosting open mic nights, DJ events, yoga classes and even live flamenco shows. It’s the cultural hub of south London, essentially.
Learn about the neighbourhood’s history at Black Cultural Archives – a heritage centre that is dedicated to telling the story and preserving the history of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Most exhibitions are super cheap, and you'll see personal mementoes, rare photographs and books on display.
Bookworms can’t leave without a visit to Bookmongers, an independent secondhand book shop that is full of hidden treasures to dig through. As well as a shop dog to pet as you read (the dream).
Or if you want to get away from it all, hit up Brockwell Park. It’s got a walled floral garden, playground and open space with amazing panoramic views of London’s high rises. But the real must-see is Brockwell Lido – a grade II listed building and iconic outdoor pool, with a famed onsite café that serves some of London’s most discussed brunch fayre. Prepare to queue.
Where do I eat?
Start in the buzzing Market Row, packed with small businesses, stalls and restaurants offering food from around the globe. And start with brunch, specifically at Salon. You’ll have to arrive early to get a seat in this teeny venue, but it’s more than worth it for one of their inventive dishes, made using local ingredients. If it's a boozy brunch you're after, look no further than the buzzing Canova Hall. Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am you can treat yourself to bottomless bubbles with your brunch from £26. The menu covers everything from your classic avo toast to truly excellent pizzas, making this the perfect spot for a (heavy) day out with friends.
POP Brixton is your go-to for creative street eats. You’ll find soft, fluffy and irresistible pizzas there courtesy of Made of Dough, deliciously smooth ramen at Koi Ramen, and more.
Fan of Japanese soul food? Nanban is a must try. The project of Masterchef winner, Tim Anderson, this Brixton Road beauty serves a strong menu of Asian comfort food at great prices. Treat yourself to a set feast of pepper prawns, katsu curry and tempura, or slurp up some ramen in eight delicious flavours.
Obviously no visit to Brixton is complete without sampling quality Caribbean food, and you’ll find the best of the best at Fish, Wings and Tings in Brixton Village. Jerk chickem, roti, goat and curries are all on the menu and all promise to get lips tingling. Sold.
And the drinks?
Brixton is pretty well known for its lively nightlife. The Blues Kitchen is the home of live swing, soul and blues music every week. Or try The Brixton Courtyard for funk, hip-hop and guaranteed dancing.
Relative newcomer, Lost in Brixton, is already a local favourite. You can expect to queue to get in to this rooftop terrace, but once you're in you can expect Latin American cocktails, local craft beers, DJs and live music, and all-round good vibes.
After something a bit heavier? Phonox regularly hosts some of south London’s most exciting underground, house and techno DJs in a dark, sleek space with lots of room for serious clubbing.
And of course, there’s POW. Otherwise known as the Prince of Wales, this buzzing venue has a pub AND a roof terrace. Throughout summer, the terrace is the place to be – with fun parties and events every week, plus views of the city skyline.
Want to know the average room rent for Brixton, and other London postcodes? Check out our latest guide here!