Wondering about the best things to do in Brixton? After walking through glitzy Kensington or hipster Shoreditch, hop on the tube for 20 minutes from Central London, and you’ll encounter one of the most friendly, down-to-earth, and hospitable places you’re ever likely to find.
Welcome to Brixton, London’s multicultural heart and one of the best places in the city to hang out. Cool without being snooty and sociable without being strident, Brixton will feel like an adventure and make you feel at home all at once.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Brixton.
Visit Electric Avenue
This iconic street, made famous by Eddie Grant in his song of the same name, was the first place in the UK to be lit by electric lighting. Today, the street is a buzz of market activity, as dealers sell a massive range of unique goods and foods. It’s a great place to head if you’re hungry or looking for a bargain.
Take in a movie at The Ritzy
This baroque theatre now houses one of London’s best prestige cinemas. Showing a range of great independent and international movies, as well as a few blockbusters for good measure, this enchanting cinema is a trip to remember.
Rock out at the Brixton Academy
It’s without a doubt one of London’s best venues. With global acts such as Die Antwoord, The Flaming Lips and Babymetal coming up in the next few months, you should definitely grab a gig if you can.
Wander and shop around Brixton Village and Market
A market run by local traders only, Brixton Market is about as far as you can get from the posh bazaars of Notting Hill and Sloane Square. It’s a true community, with a different theme every week and many great things to buy and try. You’ll find fantastic street foods from all over the world here.
Party at Hootenanny
As one of the best night’s out in Brixton, or the whole of London for that matter, Hootenanny is not to be missed. It has excellent live bands all night, its own kitchen and street vendors, an epic dancefloor, and an atmosphere you could spread on toast, so you’ll be glad you didn’t.
Chill out in Brockwell Park
After all that partying, you’ll probably need a day to stretch your legs and relax. Brockwell Park is a lovely slice of green space in the middle of the city. Find a quiet spot for a picnic or stroll around the duck ponds for a quiet afternoon.
Take a dip at Brockwell Lido
If you arrive in the capital during the height of summer, you might be glad of the chance to cool off a little. Brockwell Lido is one of the UK’s famous outdoor swimming pools—an excellent place to experience a piece of British culture that has pervaded for close to a hundred years.
Looking for more great ways to explore the capital? Take a look at our London Tours. You’ll find a fantastic range of things to see and do.
