Exploring Brixton

I've been living in London for almost 2 years and for the past 10 months Brixton has been my home. When I tell people I live in Brixton a concerned expression always passes over the faces of those who don't know the area. Visions of the 1980s riots still cloud their minds and many assume Brixton is still a scary, tension-filled, no-go, inner city suburb. I then slowly (and hopefully not too patronisingly) remind them that the Brixton Rising actually happened over 30 years ago, and funnily enough times have changed.

The great thing about Brixton is that it has an amazing buzz; there's always something new and exciting happening yet it still holds it's shabby, eclectic charm. The high street isn't shiny-clean and perfect and there's always a feeling of underlying chaos. This is starting to change though and I guess you could say Brixton is the next 'up and coming' area in South London. I don't want Brixton to become too gentrified though. I like it's rough-around the edges feel. I love the smells and chaos of Electric Avenue and the absolute chaos that greets you when you emerge from the tube.

If you ever visit London and want a more authentic experience, away from the tourist buzz in central, then I urge you to check out Brixton. Hop on the Victoria Line southbound, get off at the final stop and ta daaaa.. you've arrived!

Pop Brixton
This is one of Brixton's newest additions and is now just over a year old. Pop Brixton consists of numerous shipping containers, stacked on top of and next to each other. These containers play host to little restaurants, bars, shops and cafes. There's a seating area located downstairs and on an upper level, as well as an area to watch live music. In the winter a canopy is erected to cover everyone from the inevitable rain and it's open air in the summer. It's a great place to spend a day eating, exploring or drinking with friends.

The Ritzy
This old school cinema is just down the road from the tube station and is a great alternative to the usual chain cinemas. The building is lovely and there's also a bar inside and you can take drinks into the cinema with you. So, if you fancy watching a movie while in London, head to The Ritzy for a slightly different experience.

David Bowie
If you didn't already know, the iconic David Bowie was born in Brixton and there is a mural dedicated to him right across the road from the tube station. After his death, earlier this year, the mural became a shrine-like place for grieving fans to pay their respects. If you're a Bowie fan it's definitely worth a visit! 

Electric Avenue
Sound familiar? Yep, there's a song named after it! Electric Avenue is round the corner from the tube station and is well worth a visit, just to see the sights and smells! The street is a buzzing hive of activity, filled with market stalls and shops selling all and every type of food. Even if you don't need to buy anything, wandering down the street is definitely an experience and you'll find yourself questioning if you're actually in London.

Brixton Village Market
I think this is my favourite thing about Brixton! Brixton Village Markets are 2 indoor arcades filled with independent shops, bars and restaurants. You can find pretty much any cuisine there, the atmosphere is buzzing and everything is great value. I'd recommend Senzala, they do the most amazing sweet and savoury crepes and galettes stuffed with every filling imaginable!

F.Mondays
This lovely little café is my favourite brunch stop in London and it is conveniently located down the road from my house. Turn left out of the tube station, cross the road and walk straight up Brixton Hill for about 10 minutes and you'll find this little gem on the right (or take the bus for 3 stops if you're feeling lazy). Their cake selection is unreal and there's something on the menu for everyone. My personal favourite is the crushed avocado and halloumi on sourdough toast with chilli flakes and a white chocolate and sea salt hot chocolate. YUM.

Have you visited Brixton? Where's your favourite place?