Yes, there may still be the occasional urban alarm clock (police car siren) and gangland stabbing, but vintage fanatics and artisan foodies have recently moved in – giving it a somewhat unusual twist.
While east London has up and quite frankly ejaculated, Brixton is just getting aroused.
It’s fast becoming London’s cultural epicentre – get in there quick before the hipster hordes get wind of its cheaper rent.
Why Brixton Village?
The formerly shabby and sad-looking Granville Arcade – also known as Brixton Village market – has been transformed into a bustling day and evening shopping precinct with more than 20 shops, cafes and restaurants.
Plus there are heaps of buskers and arty performers at all times of the day.Nearby in Brixton proper, dozens of venues host experimental acts and are at the forefront of London’s music scene.
Venues include the 02 Brixton Academy, Electric Brixton and the warehouse-style Plan B.
“The live music scene here is massive,” says lettings manager Sunny Feridun, of haart estate agents in Brixton.
“This makes it a lively place to live. Brixton really offers every music niche, including indie in Brixton Village.”
Who lives there?
Brixton Village is as diverse as it gets, with young professionals from a range of backgrounds and a vibrant Caribbean community.
“The last two years has seen lots of newcomers and evolution in the general persona of the landscape,” Feridun says.
“We’re seeing that Brixton’s label of a being a ‘dodgy area’, with crime and whatnot is really slipping away. It’s on the upswing.”
The connections
At the end of the Victoria line, on the border of zones two and three, Brixton is a mere 10-minute commute into central London. Bus links are also choice.
Night buses to this neck of the woods are particularly good, meaning there’s scope for raving ‘til the wee hours away from home, too.
The N55 comes from Tottenham Court Road and the 159 gets you home from Paddington.
Don’t move here if …
You are looking for peace and quiet or you’re uninspired by creativity.
“If you’re looking for that quiet suburb with slow foot traffic and a peaceful atmosphere, shy away from Brixton,” Feridun explains.
“Its congestion breeds a lot of creativity and culture, this is a high selling point for a lot of people. The edginess of the environment gives it a particular feel.”
Where to hang out
Of course it has to be Brixton Village (Atlantic Rd, SW9), which has the most exciting dining vista in the city right now.
Fill up on excellent grub in original settings (read: interiors are not filled with generic, chainy IKEA tat).
Try posh Beijing street food at Mama Lan, or head to Ritzy, a cinema, bar, music venue and cafe rolled into one.
It offers a veranda overlooking the centre of town and is a great place to sit and ponder your next creative endeavor.
Further afield, Satay Bar serves up delicious, reasonably priced Malaysian and Thai dishes.
They also do killer happy hour cocktails. Try the Reggae Royale with Champagne and rum. Yum.
My Area
Kensey Green
Cinema Usher, 24
“Take a stroll through Brixton Village, walk through the market and see all the restaurants and cafes.
“There’s so much quirky, independent stuff.”
Sam Frankel
Writer, 22
“I recommend the Crown and Anchor for drinks in Brixton. It’s a new pub with over 40 different draft beers. During the day, visit the trendy Brixton Village.”
Dorian Needs
Musician, 30
“It’s very multi-cultural here, and culture is promoted.
“People want to come out and do new things. The music scene is the single greatest thing about the area.”
SW9 Info
Borough Lambeth
Council Tax Band B: £958.22
Travel time to London 10 mins
Tube Brixton (Victoria line)
Average Room in a House share £500pcm
Average rental studio £750pcm
Average flat 1 bed £1200pcm
Photos: Thinkstock; Getty
