When visiting London, there are many things to do in Brixton. This vibrant multicultural neighbourhood is a good place to enjoy street food, vintage finds and Caribbean influences. While walking through the pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, you can enjoy the renowned bars, clubs and live-music venues. From rock gigs at the O2 Academy Brixton to cutting-edge sounds at Hootananny, Brixton offers something for everyone.
History of Brixton – London
There’s a lot of history to explore in the borough of Brixton in south London. Before it became a hip and trendy part of London, the area was a working class area. The first market in Brixton was on Station Road, and later the market expanded to include African and Caribbean food, as well as reggae music and clothing. Today, Brixton still hosts several markets, including farmers’ markets, vintage markets, and pop-up restaurants.
In the 1950s, the area was home to a wide variety of entertainers and musicians, including comedians, singers, ventriloquists, and acrobats. One famous former resident, Tom Major-Ball, lived on Coldharbour Lane with his family.
Brixton’s name is believed to come from the Saxon word “brixistane”, which means “bright hill.” Brixi, a Saxon lord, is said to have erected a boundary stone to mark the location of the ancient court. The location of the boundary stone is believed to be the top of Brixton Hill, but the exact location of it is unknown. The area’s name also marks the rise of the area from the marshes of North Lambeth, Streatham, and Upper Norwood. During this time, the area was also covered with farms and market gardens.
Ashby’s Mill
Located in Lambeth, London, Ashby’s Mill, or Brixton Windmill, is a restored Grade II* listed tower mill. The mill was originally constructed in Surrey and has been restored and preserved. Today, visitors can take a tour of the mill and learn about its history.
Once a working mill, Ashby’s Mill is now a centre for learning and engagement with Brixton’s history. The mill is listed on Historic England. The Friends of Ashby’s Windmill Gardens maintain the mill and its gardens. The mill is operated by volunteers and has received awards for their work.
The Ashby family leased the windmill in 1817. John Ashby was 45 years old at the time of the lease. He was married with six children. His first wife, Hannah Lutchford, had five children. Ashby’s Mill in Brixton was listed as a Grade II* building in 1951. In the 1950s, Lambeth Borough Council purchased the mill. Despite its status as an historic site, the mill remained vulnerable to redevelopment. In 1957, London County Council bought the mill and began landscaping the grounds. Restoration work began in 1963.
Brixton Market
There are many things to do in Brixton, London. This multicultural neighborhood is rich in ethnic culture and history, and the Brixton Market is a great place to experience street food, Caribbean roots, and vintage finds. The pedestrian-friendly village also features several celebrated live music venues and bars. Rock concerts are frequently hosted at the O2 Academy Brixton, while cutting-edge sounds are showcased at the Hootananny.
During the 19th century, Brixton was home to a number of African and Caribbean immigrants. Today, there are more than 130 independent traders selling everything from fresh produce to art and handmade cookware. The market is well known for its landmark windmill, which was converted from handmilling to steam milling to serve the public. It is free to tour the windmill, but you must be fit and agile to climb the numerous steps.
For those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, there are plenty of places to go for a relaxing night out. A popular place to go for a drink is Dog’s Grandad, a popular microbrewery that features vegan and natural beers.
Brixton Academy
The Brixton Academy is a mid-sized concert hall in the South London district of Brixton. It opened in 1929 as a cinema before being converted into a discotheque and concert hall in the early ’80s. Today, it hosts a variety of events, from classical music to rock concerts.
The building is a Grade II-listed landmark, with a stage design inspired by Venice’s Rialto bridge. The venue was originally a variety hall and cinema in the 1920s, and has a rich history. In 1983, rock star Simon Parkes bought the venue for £1 and reopened it as Brixton Academy. The venue has since become famous for its rock concerts and club nights.
The venue has hosted several notable artists, including Rammstein, Iron Maiden, Bob Dylan, and The Clash. In addition to hosting concerts, the venue has hosted comedy shows. In 1986, The Smiths played at the Brixton Academy, as part of the Artists Against Apartheid benefit.
Ritzy Cinema
The Ritzy Cinema in Brixton, London, is a restored 1911 cinema with multiple screens and a cafe. It screens a varied film programme. There is also a bar and cafe. You can enjoy a drink in the cafe before or after a movie. The Ritzy Cinema also offers a range of events and activities.
The Ritzy Cinema is a unique film venue that features an eclectic mix of arthouse and mainstream films, as well as political films. It also features local art exhibitions and live music. It also has a cafe bar and sells ice cream and snacks. The cinema has a membership card, so you can access a number of benefits, including discounts to local art exhibitions and live performances.
The Ritzy Cinema opened in 1911 as The Electric Pavilion. It has been a center for unrest in the black community. It also played an important role in the Brixton Riots of 1996. It offered a space for public expression, allowing black citizens to express their feelings about important issues.
Windrush Square
Windrush Square is an open public space located in Brixton, London, UK. It is the area in front of the Brixton Tate Library. It was previously known as the Brixton Oval and Tate Gardens. It is a popular place for people to hang out, enjoy some fresh air, and socialize with friends.
A water feature has been added to the area, which is controlled by an anemometer on a lighting mast. If the wind blows too hard, the water feature will shut off. Cast iron paving panels in the area are adorned with a sugar cane motif. The area also has special lights, dubbed the Windrush Lights. In addition, paving slabs feature commemorative text.
The square was originally named after the Windrush, a ship that carried the first West Indian immigrants to England. The square is now a popular spot for locals to meet, with tables set up in the summer. When the remodeled area is finished, Windrush Square will be a center of life in Brixton.
Brockwell Park
Brockwell Park is a beautiful, 50.8-hectare park in Brixton, London, UK. This green space is located in south Brixton between Herne Hill and Tulse Hill. The park is bordered by Brixton Water Lane, Dulse Hill Road, and Norwood Road.
The park’s landscape is hilly and contains ponds, ancient oaks, a walled ‘Old English’ flower garden, and wide, open meadows. Originally a private estate, Brockwell Park was formally acquired by the Metropolitan Board of Works in the late nineteenth century and opened to the public in 1892.
Despite being well-managed, Brockwell Park is not immaculately tended. The undulations are a challenge for runners, but the overall atmosphere is soothing. The park is located between Herne Hill and Brixton and is home to Brockwell Hall and Brockwell Lido. It also holds the 38th Lambeth Country Show, which was held during summer 2012.
Brockwell Park in Brixton is home to an extensive range of activities and events. It was home to the Cannabis Festival in the past and is now home to a variety of free and paid events. Other activities include the Lambeth County Show, which features farm animals, a craft fair, and live bands. There is an annual fireworks display around November 5th.
Brixton Village
Brixton is an eclectic area with a diverse cultural scene and something for everyone. Enjoy street food and find vintage treasures in the vibrant Brixton Market. Or explore the local Caribbean roots in the vibrant Brixton Village. At night, hit some of the celebrated live-music venues and bars. Rock gigs at the O2 Academy Brixton and cutting-edge sounds at the Hootananny are just a few examples.
There are also several things to do in Brixton that are educational and fun for kids of all ages. If you are planning a family day out, Brixton is an excellent option. Many of the attractions in the area are easily accessible and bookable online. There is even an indoor swimming pool!
While you’re in Brixton, check out the area’s pubs and restaurants. You’ll find a variety of eateries, a wine parlour, a cute taproom, and more. The neighborhood is also home to many small shops that sell trinkets and other interesting items. It’s a great place to watch some live music at the weekends.