This neighbourhood sits nestled in the western part of Brixton, just en route to Clapham. Positioned between two increasingly trendy parts of town, the area has attracted many young professionals and artists. Lined with attractive Georgian and Victorian terraced houses, and larger blocks of council flats, there are still some relatively affordable options in the area, although prices are quickly rising. Even if you’re not considering moving, it’s a neighbourhood worth visiting. Before catching a concert at the O2 Academy, there are plenty of great places to grab a bite or drink, like O Cantinho De Portugal, The Queens Head, or The Phoenix. If you’re still energised after the show, Cafe Cairo is a must for North African themed club music.

Brixton dates back to the 11th century, when it was known as Brixistane, meaning “the stone of Brightsige.” Communities in the area used to meet at the stone. It wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution came though that Brixton really began to develop. The arrival of the railway led to the construction of buildings and homes on the previously agricultural land. Many middle-class families moved into the large expensive houses that had been popping up. However, by the beginning of the 20th century, much of the middle class residents moved out and were replaced by working Londoners. At the same time, the large houses were subdivided and became popular amongst theatre employees that worked in the West End. This shift was extremely influential in establishing Brixton as an important community for the arts - a reputation it still has today.

David Bowie’s birthplace can be found in the neighbourhood. Having grown up in the area, most Londoners associate Brixton with the late music icon.

The neighbourhood is a popular destination for young Londoners looking for good nightlife. With multiple music venues and clubs, the area can become a bit loud at night. However, many locals love the liveliness that this area provides.

Brixton Central, which is close proximity to the neighbourhood, has been rapidly growing as a result of increasing interest in the town centre’s development and economic activity, especially as it continues to attract young professionals to the area. Lambeth Council has received a number of applications for denser, high-rise developments in the area, including a 19-storey office block on Pope’s Road, which has now been amended to include more community facilities and green space. The developer of the old Olive Morris House site, now renamed Brixtoncentric, has also completed the development and placed the final set of houses for sale in the market. What many of these developments have in common, however, is a shared concern in the Brixton community that they encourage gentrification, high-end private developments and blatantly disregard the area’s character.

As for the Stockwell area specifically, attention has been placed by the council of the regeneration of Stockwell Park Estate, which has now been completed. The redevelopment delivered 177 homes in total. Of these 41 are for affordable rent and 40 rented apartments for Active Elderly, while twenty are for shared ownership and 76 apartments for private sale. The scheme, which received over £4.2 million of funding from the Greater London Authority (GLA), marks the final stages of the wider £200 million regeneration of the Stockwell Park. This investment has gone towards building new homes, refurbishing and improving existing homes and upgrading community spaces on the estate.