Top 10 Unmissable Things to do in Brixton

Brixton is famed for its down to earth, multicultural and fast paced ambience but most importantly, it is loved for its deep roots in street food, art and musical culture. The Brixton O2 Academy is one of the most internationally beloved concert venues, centred within a borough that celebrates community and Afro-Caribbean. If you’re visiting Brixton temporarily or relocating to the area, LHA London has put together this carefully curated list of unmissable things to see and do.

Brixton Windmill

Arguably one of the most iconic landmarks across London, Brixton Windmill was built in 1816 and within 50 years became victim to the industrial revolution. Unable to function profitably with wind blocked by the new houses, the Ashby family made the decision to close the flour mill, remove its sails and use it instead as storage. In 1902, it was restored using more modern methods of power and in 1964, underwent restoration with new mills added. Following half a century of further refurbishments, it was officially opened to the public in 2011 and now stands as a reminder of Brixton’s heritage.

Today, you can visit and buy yourself flour ground in London’s last working windmill.

Brixton Village

Brixton Village is one of London’s most diverse markets with over 100 different vendors representing products and food from the Caribbean, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Lebanon, Ethiopia, and many others. Wonder through a kaleidoscope of colours illuminated by overhanging lights and warmed by its encompassing community feel as you browse your culinary options and pop in and out of shops owned by local vendors.

If you’re moving to Brixton or visiting for a few nights, visiting Brixton Village is one of the easiest and most exciting ways to truly experience the culture and support independent businesses, artisans, and stall holders. You’ll also likely leave with unique produce that you wouldn’t have found elsewhere in the city.

Pop Brixton

Pop Brixton began as a project that turned disused land into a vibrant community space that supported independent vendors and street food start ups with an initial launch of 3 years that was then extended due to its popularity. It is now a beloved spot for tourists and locals to grab a bite to eat and have a drink amongst friends.

Unique to the area, this memorably rustic venue is built almost entirely of repurposed shipping containers, contributing to its indie feel.

Brixton Music Walking Tour

Like Camden, Brixton is a community with strong roots in good music, and its history is one well worth investigating—many would say unmissable. Luckily, the Brixton Music Walking Tour offers a dynamic deep dive through the evolution of subgenres that have infiltrated every street corner and cultural interpretation, from David Bowie’s birthplace to richly colourful street art.

By the time you’ve finished, you’ll understand just why Brixton is referenced with so much warmth in Afro-Caribbean lyrics. The tour is self guided so you can take it at your own pace, with on-screen images and geolocation so you can make sure you’re in the right place at the right time.

Brixton Academy

Of course, we can’t boast about Brixton’s music scene without recommending a trip to the internationally renowned Brixton Academy, a music venue that has hosted some of the most recognised and respected musicians and has now become a destination in its own right. You don’t just see an artist in Brixton, you see them at Brixton Academy. Musicians themselves name it as the best music venue in the world with a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Originally opened as a cinema in 1929, it has held onto the feel of its original interior, decorated with distinctive mezzanine staircases, sloping ceilings and mosaic style flooring. They aim to make all their shows accessible to everyone.

The Blues Kitchen

The Blues appears in a few locations famed for their historic and respected influence on British music culture including Camden, Manchester, and crucially, Brixton. It operates as a bar and restaurant, consistently soundtracked with live blues, R&B, and soul music; ‘the vibes are immaculate’ as declared by themselves and backed by thousands of attendees.

Vibrant, alive with joy; if you’re considering a night out to meet great people or make memories with your friends, this is the place to be.

Each night of the week has something different to offer:

• Tequila Tuesdays
• Live Neo-Soul + £6 Cocktails on Wednesday
• ‘Just One Drink” Thursdays
• Brixton Fridays
• Brixton Got Soul on Saturdays
• Sundays at the Blues Kitchen from 12pm

Electric Brixton

If a more cosy soul bar isn’t your vibe, but you still fancy immersing yourself in Brixton’s musical energy, then going to a concert at Electric Brixton could be the ticket. Though not as big or well known as Brixton Academy, this venue still hosts world class live shows and club nights that are iconic.

The Ritzy

The Ritzy, owned by the Picturehouse Group, has retained key features of its original structure when it opened in 1911 as the Electric Pavillion, making it one of the most complete examples of an early cinema. The result is a one of a kind experience.

It screens both new and independent films on its five screens and is complete with a restaurant and bar for pre and post movie snacking.

Brixton Brewery

Tours of Brixton Brewery are held every Saturday at 12pm, giving lager lovers a guided walk through the brewery followed by a tasting with one of their brewers. If you’ve ever been curious about the science behind beer making and want to see behind the curtain of your favourite drinks, this one’s for you.

This makes a fantastic starting point for a self guided tour of Brixton’s many pubs and clubs, or you can grab a few more samples from their on site taproom. Before you leave, don’t forget to grab some merch.

Black Cultural Archives

The Black Cultural Archives are ‘the only national heritage institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, and celebrating the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK.’ Their aim is to reflect, empower, and ignite conversations around social change. Alongside their powerful archives, they host learning workshops and a youth programme that brings together young people of African and Caribbean heritage, offering a space to develop skills that help them develop careers in the arts.

This is absolutely worth a visit to learn stories that are often left out of history textbooks.

Come home to accommodation from LHA London, where you can unwind after exploring the iconic streets of Brixton. Our hostels cover all major points on the city’s map. For more information about how our charity can help you get set up in the big city, take a look at our available short term/long term accommodation and don’t forget to check out our offer to discover what we can offer you.