Location

Brixton is an inner-city area of London, four miles to the south of Charing Cross. For most of the twentieth century it was regarded as a rather run-down area, but more recently the process of gentrification has begun, as its reputation as a lively multi-cultural area has attracted a new breed of young urban professionals.

History

Brixton’s history may have begun with a Roman settlement on Brixton Hill, but it was a mainly rural area until the railway arrived in the nineteenth century. In Victorian times, it was a prosperous suburb, but in the early twentieth century many of the large villas were converted for multiple occupation, and it became a cheap place to live.

Community

Brixton is one of Britain’s oldest multicultural communities. Caribbean migrants of the Windrush generation settled here shortly after the Second World War, and since then communities from many parts of the world have established themselves. One of Britain’s oldest mosques is located in Brixton. It is also popular choice for Australians and New Zealanders on working visas.

Property

Until quite recently, Brixton was one of the most affordable residential areas to be found within close reach of central London. For this reason it became popular with people in the theatrical professions, which helped to form its present artistic character. However, property prices and rents have been rising steadily as the area becomes fashionable, with young professional people in particular.

Transport

On the Victoria Line, Brixton underground station is only four stops from central London, and in the central fare zone. There is also a surface railway station, which connects easily to Gatwick Airport and to much of southern England. Additionally, there are plenty of bus routes, including night buses, serving the area.

Shopping

A local landmark, Morley’s in Brixton is one of London’s few remaining independent department stores. There are also all the usual chains, and some interesting specialist shops, but for most people the best thing about shopping in Brixton is the market. It’s open every day, and is a famously authentic multi-ethnic shopping experience. Every possible kind of meat, poultry, fruit and vegetable is on sale here, along with clothes, housewares, hardware, and electrical goods, all at keen prices. For the best in locally-produces food there is a weekly farmer’s market too.

Entertainment

There is a lively music scene in Brixton, from the nationally-known Brixton Academy, which hosts many styles of contemporary music, to many smaller pubs and clubs offering Latin, Caribbean, and other genres. The Ritzy Cinema offers both mainstream and art-house cinema, and you can eat and drink there too.

Food

Brixton is a good place to eat out. At night the Covered Market hosts Brixton Village, a collection of over twenty international eating places with an informal and cosmopolitan feel. Around the central area there is a huge choice of cuisine, with sit-down and take-away restaurants featuring food from all round the world.

Thinking of a move to Brixton? Are you looking for properties for rent in Brixton? Get the inside scoop on the history about Brixton, and find out more on House Bulletin.