Back in the 1980s, Brixton was talked-about more for its high crime rates than anything else. But heavy investment and a host of new business have transformed this rainbow-coloured neighbourhood for the better, and now it’s a creative hub packed with street art, independent shops and eateries, and with a sense of identity that any other London district would struggle to match.
Where is Brixton?
Brixton is the beating heart of South London, and comes under the borough of Lambeth. It’s edged by Clapham to the east, Stockwell and Camberwell to the north, and Peckham and Herne Hill to the west.
Brixton’s Afro-Caribbean roots
Brixton’s Afro-Caribbean residents arrived back in the 1940s and the culture gives the area its unique appeal. Reggae bars play exotic beats until late, and Brixton is home to an amazing foodie scene that incorporates street stalls sizzling with specialities like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish. Hootananny is a much-loved hostel-come-nightclub that works to showcase the area’s diversity, with events dedicated to everything from hip-hop to salsa. In fact, Hootananny is cut from much the same cloth as the rest of Brixton’s nightlife scene – these are less nightspots, more local institutions. The 02 Academy Brixton and the Ritzy Cinema are case in point.
Brixton must-dos
It’s not just Brixton’s Afro-Caribbean roots that shine, though. Brixton’s charming, gritty (and sometimes downright wacky) restaurants, shops and bars hail from all backgrounds and celebrate all walks of life – from dingy tapas joints to charming Thai eateries. Brixton Village Market is the place to grab budget fare on the go – home to 20 independent shops, kiosks and restaurants, it’s the community’s cultural epicentre, with live music and street performers bringing the place to life on the weekends. Electric Avenue is another must-see – this thoroughfare was one of the first street’s in the country to be lit by electricity. Nowadays, it’s a haven of vintage shops and market stalls.
Transport from Brixton (Zone 2)
Journeys to Victoria via the Overground from Brixton Rail Station take less than 10 minutes, and its namesake Underground station is right at the end of the Victoria line, which means no fighting for a seat on the morning commute. Loughborough Junction is another option, which gives Brixton residents direct access to the likes of Farringdon and King’s Cross. Lots of Brixton locals opt to travel by two wheels, too, so expect ample bicycle storage in the area’s residential developments and offices.
Living in Brixton
Brixton properties range from cutting-edge apartment blocks to slender Victorian terraced houses. The former have grown in number in recent years, as the start-up companies multiplied and the young, creative population grew.
Brixton Centric is a sought-after development by Muse close to Brixton Village. Its apartments are sleek and ultra-modern, and its residents are spread over two buildings – high-rise Brook House and the Art Deco-style Ivor House.
“The reception area merges into an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, plus each comes with a balcony offering far-reaching views. Kitchens come with integrated Bosch appliances.” – HomeViews Property Pro on Brixton Centric
Not far from here is Brixton Square – a mixed-use new-build property from Barratt Homes. \Another popular, central option, it comprises of contemporary flats and a host of shops and cafés.
“Brixton Square feels safe and secure, thanks to video entry phones and a 24-hour concierge service. Residents will also love the fact apartments come with triple-glazed windows, so despite the development’s location in one of the busiest parts of London, the flats themselves are quiet.” – HomeViews Property Pro on Brixton Square
Find out more about living in Brixton by reading residents’ reviews on HomeViews. Can’t see your Brixton development listed on the site? Click here to add a new one and tell others about your experience.
