Tipped as the new trendy hangout, Brixton’s exciting array of affordable eateries, bars, vintage boutiques and markets compounds arty East and sophisticated West; making it a more than desirable location to visit.

The rise of Brixton from its lowly Southern status has been long-awaited. It all began with a light sprinkling of savoury establishments; the Effra, Franco Manca’s and Rosie’s began to dilute a dismal (but surprisingly extensive) collection of fried chicken shops and hair salons. But this spring saw the “pop up” of the vivacious Village, following the great revamp of the archaic arcade. The transformation has turned old bargain basements into new vintage boutiques and kebab shops into quirky cafes.

The new additions to the scene succeed in capturing the cosmopolitan character of infamous Electric Avenue; the cuisine is as varied as it is affordable, with international eateries serving Pakistani, Portuguese and Chinese street foods. Breads etc embraces novelty, encompassing a sort of bread fondue; toasters adorn tables and brunchers are served a selection of breads and toppings.

Eateries such as WAG Free (wheat and gluten free) and Ms Cupcake’s vegan bakery offer guilt-free indulgence whilst almost all opt for organic, responsibly sourced ingredients. And the more wholesome cuisine is attracting a more wholesome crowd; the unsavoury has been ousted along with the GM fiends and a somewhat holier congregation surrounds St. Matthew’s Church.

Evening entertainment has also come along leaps and bounds. The previously derelict Fridge has reopened as Brixton Electric and joins refurbished Clubhouse in hosting an array of contemporary music nights. Top quality live music is still available in The Effra and Hootenanny’s, and The Grand Union and Duke of Edinburg boast two of the best beer gardens in the capital.