London area of Brixton guide

What to do and where to stay in London's Brixton neighbourhood

Multicultural Brixton used to be an extremely wealthy settlement outside London. In the 18th century, the area boasted lush farmland and a market garden known for its game, strawberries and windmills. Today, Brixton is best known for its vibrant markets and its position as the centre of London's Caribbean community (a quarter of the population is of African and Caribbean descent). One windmill still stands, although it is in a derelict condition. Electric Avenue, inspiration for the Eddy Grant hit, got its name for being the first shopping street in London to be lit by electricity, and is now the site of the popular Brixton Market. It wasn't the only "first" for the area: London's first department store, Bon Marche, was built in Brixton in 1877. Local landmarks include the Ritzy Cinema (one of England's first purpose-built cinemas), the Art Deco listed 5,000-capacity O2 Academy Brixton, and the Windmill pub. A series of colourful murals were commissioned by the council after the riots of 1981 and many of them still exist today, including one outside the Brixton Academy. David Bowie was born in Brixton, former Prime Minister John Major grew up here and singer La Roux still lives in the area.

See our recommended nearby Brixton Entertainment, Sights and Attractions, Shopping, Restaurants, Pubs, Nightlife, Leisure, Education, and Meeting Venues.