Local Guides

The Best Things To Do In Brixton

Take a walk through glitzy Kensington or hipster Shoreditch and you’d be forgiven for thinking that London was all about glamour and affluence. It’s an easy mistake to make for those who never manage to make their way out of Zone One.

Hope on the tube for 20 minutes, however, 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, sociable without being strident, Brixton will feel like an adventure and make you feel at home all at the same time.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Brixton.


Visit Electric Avenue

Electric Avenue, Brixton

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

Ritzy Cinema, Brixton

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

Mastodon @ 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

Brixton 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 all sorts of great things to buy and try. You’ll find fantastic street foods here from all over the world.


Party at Hootenanny

The Hootenanny

As one of the very best night’s out in Brixton, or the whole of London for that matter, Hootenanny is absolutely not to be missed. With excellent live bands all night, it’s own kitchen and street vendors, an epic dancefloor and an atmosphere you could spread on toast, you’ll be glad you didn’t.


Chill out in Brockwell Park

Brockwell Park 6

After all that partying, you’ll probably need a day to just stretch your legs and relax. Brockwell Park is a lovely slice of green space right in the middle of the city. Find a quiet spot for a picnic, or take a stroll around the duck ponds for a quiet afternoon.


Take a dip at Brockwell Lido

Brockwell Lido

If you’ve arrived in the capital in 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 page. You’ll find a fantastic range of things to see and do.