27 Fun Things to Do in Brixton, London [2024 Edition]

9. Join a Street Art Walking Tour

Take a guided walking tour to uncover the stories behind Brixton’s striking and politically charged street art. These tours provide an engaging and interactive way to explore the area’s vibrant murals and graffiti.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll journey through Brixton’s neighborhoods learning about the cultural significance of its urban artwork. Hear insights into the messages and artists behind the colorful tags and sprawling paintings.

It’s a great activity for anyone interested in art, culture, and urban design. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for street art as a creative platform and come away with new perspectives on Brixton.

Tours run rain or shine, so you won’t miss out on this inspiring experience. Return home with a new admiration for the transformative power of public art.

Location: 49 Brixton Station Rd
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Mon – Tue 9am – 11pm, Wed – Sat 9am – midnight, Sun 9am – 10:30pm

🚶🏽‍♂️Take a Private Walking Tour of Brixton with a Local

Delve into the cosmopolitan delights of Brixton and discover the birthplace of legendary musician, David Bowie, on this private walking tour.

Alongside your guide, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Brixton Market, admire quaint cafes and restaurants in Brixton Village, and browse fashionable boutiques on Coldharbour Lane.

Opt to visit a local art exhibition and learn about the rich history and culture of the area from your personal guide.

➤ Book Your Ticket HERE

10. Cocktails at Seven at Brixton

When it’s time for drinks, pull up a leather armchair at Seven at Brixton – a prohibition-style basement cocktail bar tucked away on Atlantic Road.

Mood lighting, vintage details, and smooth beats set the scene for expertly mixed cocktails. Choose from their list of creative concoctions or ask the bartenders to whip up something tailored to your tastes. One of Brixton’s trendiest nightlife hot spots.

Location: 77 Atlantic Road, Brixton
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Monday – Wednesday 5pm – midnight, Thursday – Saturday 5pm – 2am

11. Browse Brixton’s Bookshops

Bibliophiles should carve out time to peruse Brixton’s excellent second-hand bookshops. For vintage and antiquarian tomes don’t miss Bookmongers – shelves are stacked with everything from first editions to obscure academic titles. Those with eclectic tastes will love the diverse selection.

Also worth a look is Brixton Market Books for more affordable reads. It’s a great place to idle away an afternoon scouring stalls of fiction, non-fiction, art books and more.

Location: Multiple including Bookmongers – 439 Coldharbour Lane
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Hours vary, typically 10am – 6pm

12. See a Show at The Ritzy Cinema

Brixton’s historic Ritz Cinema opened in 1911 and still shows the latest film releases alongside indie flicks and cult classics.

Get into the art deco opulence and catch a screening in one of the smaller theaters for a more intimate viewing experience. Film buffs will enjoy sinking into the vintage seats to catch indie flicks and cult classics on the big screen.

There’s also a nice cafe and bar onsite when you want to discuss the movie over a glass of wine. Check what’s playing during your trip for a fun night out in true cinematic style.

Location: Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane
Admission: £4.99 – £15.50
Opening Times: Daily, first screening 11am, last screening around 10pm

13. Take a Yoga Class in Brixton

Incorporating yoga into your Brixton itinerary is a fabulous way to find your zen amongst the energy of the city. There are several excellent yoga studios and classes held in unique spaces like Pop Brixton.

For a rejuvenating yoga Brixton London experience, visit The Shala yoga studio. Conveniently located right by Brixton Station, their skilled teachers lead powerful Vinyasa and Hatha yoga flows in a tranquil studio space.

All levels are welcome at their diverse class schedule. Try Rise and Shine for an invigorating morning session, or unwind after a day of exploring with a Gentle Yoga class set to soothing playlists.

The Shala’s expert adjustments and spiritual approach will have you leaving in a state of bliss. Come as you are and find your flow.

Location: Unit SC, 1st floor, Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane
Admission: Drop-in £10 – £15
Opening Times: Classes daily, schedule varies

14. Walk in David Bowie’s Footsteps

No trip to Brixton would be complete without paying homage to its most famous son – the late great David Bowie. Stroll by the David Bowie memorial mural on Tunstall Road to view colorful tributes to the pioneering musician.

Look for other Bowie nods like the lightning bolt sign outside his childhood home on Stansfield Road. Stop on Brixton Road to snap a photo next to the red telephone box adopted in his honor.

End at Jimmy C’s modest music venue, where Bowie first took the stage as an unknown artist in 1969 before rising to intergalactic fame.

You can even take a walking tour and step back through the humble beginnings of Bowie’s cosmic career and legacy that lives on today. Brixton remembers its gifted starman.

Location: Tunstall Road, Stansfield Road, Brixton Road
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Always accessible

🚶🏽‍♂️Take the David Bowie Walking Tour

Music lovers will appreciate this walking tour of David Bowie’s London. Starting in Brixton, you’ll see the home where the singer was born, some of the venues he played in the early days, and a local memorial.

You’ll then move on to Soho, a neighborhood rich in music history, where Bowie’s career took off. By walking in David Bowie’s footsteps, you’ll gain insight into a remarkable artist while getting to see London in a new light.

• Explore London on a walking tour of sites linked to David Bowie
• Gain insight into the musician by tracing his London roots
• Stand in the spot where a famous Bowie album cover was shot

➤ Buy Your Ticket HERE

15. Laugh at Comedy at The Effra Hall Tavern

Brixton has a buzzing stand-up comedy scene largely thanks to The Effra Hall Tavern. This intimate pub venue hosts both seasoned comics and up-and-coming talent most evenings.

Have dinner in the cozy pub downstairs before heading up to the theatre for laughs galore. An affordable alternative to the London comedy circuit. You’re sure to leave with cheeks aching from giggling!

Location: 38 Kellett Road
Admission: Free – £15
Opening Times: Comedy shows most nights 8:30pm – 10:30pm

16. Wander around West Norwood Cemetery

Venture to the sprawling Gothic grounds of West Norwood Cemetery for a peaceful wander amid ornate tombs and mature trees. Founded in 1837, this historic cemetery is the burial site of many notable Victorians.

Look out for grand mausoleums adorned with statues, as well as war graves and wildflowers blooming in the lawn. Maps are available to guide you to famous graves. A serene spot away from the city rush.

Location: Norwood Road
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Daily 8.30am – 5.30pm April – September, 8.30am – 4pm October – March

17. Visit Historic Lambeth Town Hall 

Brixton is home to the grand Lambeth Town Hall, an impressive Grade II listed building dating back to 1908.

Step inside the grand entrance with its magnificent stone staircase and soaring atrium. Admire the ornate details like decorative tilework, carved pillars, and high-arched windows flooding the space with light.

On the walls you’ll find historic portraits of former Lambeth mayors and large murals depicting important moments in the borough’s history. Take time to appreciate the artistic craftsmanship throughout.

Join a free guided tour for insights into the town hall’s Edwardian origins and renovations over the decades. Learn about its pivotal role in local governance and major community events held here.

Location: Brixton Hill, SW2 1RW
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, closed weekends and bank holidays

18. Drink Beer at Craft Beer Co.

The UK’s craft beer scene is booming and Brixton’s Craft Beer Co. serves up an outstanding selection of independent brews on tap and in bottles. Pull up a bar stool and taste your way through their 30+ ever-changing options.

Knowledgeable staff will help you navigate the options – go for local London microbrews or sample international options from the US to Australia. Good brews without the pretentiousness.

Location: 11-15 Brixton Station Rd
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Mon – Fri 12pm – 12am, Sat 11am – 12am, Sun 12 – 10.30pm

19. Bowl a Strike at Brixton Rec Bowling Lanes

For some family bonding time hit the bowling lanes at Brixton Rec. This entertainment complex also packs in pool tables, ping pong, arcade games, karaoke booths and a funky bar to keep everyone entertained.

The lighting rig above the bowling alley sets the tunes and colorful scene. Book ahead on weekends when the Rec gets busy with groups of friends. Awesome indoor fun when London weather disappoints!

Location: 27 Brixton Station Rd
Admission: £7.50 – £12 per person
Opening Times: Mon – Thu 9am – 11pm, Fri – Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 11pm

20. Photography at Brixton Photographic Society

Capture the spirit of Brixton through your own lens by joining a Brixton Photographic Society meetup. These free community events include photo walks, practical shoots, critiques, talks and exhibitions.

You don’t need expert skills, just bring your camera and enthusiasm. It’s a great opportunity to meet fellow photographers and find new perspectives on dynamic Brixton for a unique photowalk experience!

Location: Varies
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Club nights 2nd Monday of the month 7:30pm

21. Take a Tour of Brixton Prison

Get an inside look at life behind bars on a guided tour of Brixton Prison. Walk the Victorian wings once inhabited by infamous convicts like serial killer John Christie and corrupt politician Lord Archer.

Your knowledgeable guide will deliver intriguing insights into the harsh realities of prison routines and rules. An eye-opening look at British social history and justice in action. Just don’t drop the soap!

Location: Jebb Avenue, Brixton
Admission: £20 per person
Opening Times: Selected Saturdays, time varies

22. Go Record Shopping on Record Store Day

Vinyl lovers rejoice – Brixton boasts some of London’s best independent record shops! Whether you’re into reggae, dub, soul, rock or indie there’s vinyl gold to be found in Brixton Market’s many music stores.

Vinyl junkies can dig for hours in the crates at Brixton Market’s many indie record shops.

Time your visit to coincide with Record Store Day in April and you’ll join queues of fellow crate diggers seeking limited edition releases. If you miss it, year-round the record shops offer expansive collections across any genre.

Location: Brixton Market & shops
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Last Saturday of April, times vary

23. Catch a Gig at Brixton Academy

Experience Brixton’s legendary music scene in full force with a night out at Brixton O2 Academy. Since opening in 1929, this Grade II listed venue has hosted rock royalty from David Bowie to Amy Winehouse.

With a capacity of almost 5,000, the atmosphere is electric when seeing major acts on the Academy’s hallowed stage. Intimate standing room means getting up close to the amped up action.

The lineup of local and international artists at Brixton Academy provides a can’t-miss concert experience for music lovers. Lesser-known indie bands and DJs also grace the stage in one of London’s most iconic gig venues. Check the Academy’s events calendar during your visit and rock out! 

The nightlife doesn’t stop when the music ends – stay on for club nights spinning hip-hop and dance anthems at O2 Brixton London Academy.

Location: 211 Stockwell Rd
Admission: £20 – £50
Opening Times: Depends on gig schedule

👉 See also: Electric Brixton London is another popular music venue and one of Brixton’s leading nightclubs.

24. Dig into Literature at Brixton Tate Library

Pop into the historic Brixton Tate Library for a literary escape and to admire the ornate architecture. Founded in 1897 by philanthropist Sir Henry Tate of Tate Galleries fame, the library still serves the community today.

Browse the collection of over 27,000 fiction and non-fiction titles. Cozy up on leather sofas under the domed stained glass ceiling. Attend one of their author talks, children’s reading hours, or other events.

Take the spiral staircase up to appreciate the handsome curved balconies overlooking the main reading room. An inspiring setting for turning pages! 

Don’t forget to peek at the bronze bust of Sir Henry Tate himself keeping watch near the entrance.

Location: Brixton Oval SW2 1JQ
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5pm

25. Have a Pint at The Prince of Wales

For a proper London pub experience, cozy up with a pint at The Prince of Wales in central Brixton. This traditional watering hole has been serving locals since 1856 with its classic British décor and ever-flowing taps.

Choose from their frequently changing selection of cask ales and local craft beers – the bartender will happily recommend the best option. Soak up the friendly vibe while enjoying live music or classic pub trivia nights.

Tuck into hearty pub classics like fish & chips and bangers and mash in the dining area. With its dark wood interiors, snug booths, and pops of color, The Prince hits all the right nostalgic notes. The perfect place to rest your feet after exploring Brixton!

Location: 467-469 Brixton Rd
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Mon-Thurs 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am, Sun 12pm-11:30pm

26. Urban Beekeeping at Brixton Buzz

Get a taste of urban beekeeping at Brixton Buzz – a community project aiming to spread awareness through honey tastings, workshops, and public apiaries.

Walk through their wildly flowering garden to see buzzing hives first-hand. Sign up for one of their regular beginner-friendly classes to try your hand at beekeeping while learning how important pollinators are to the environment.

Bring home a jar of their hyperlocal raw London honey harvested right in Brixton, available at onsite markets. A sweet way to help sustain city biodiversity!

Location: Blenheim Gardens Wildlife Garden, off Brixton Water Lane
Admission: Free, classes £10
Opening Times: Always accessible, office hours Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

27. Catch Rugby Fever at Brixton RFC

See fast-paced rugby union action up close by attending a match at Brixton Rugby Football Club. Since 1882, the historic club has promoted community sport and today fields several men’s, women’s and youth teams.

Head to Reg Johnson Field and grab a spot in the stands bar for nail-biting rugby under Friday night lights. With cheap drinks, lively crowds, and high-adrenaline competition on the pitch – you’re sure to feel the sporting passion.

Don’t miss the opportunity for photos with players post-match. A fun way to experience grassroots sport alongside diehard Brixton fans!

Location: 149 Brixton Hill
Admission: Match tickets from £5
Opening Times: Home matches on Saturdays 1pm, with added Friday night games

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