Best pubs and bars in Brixton Village

Brixton Village is known for its eclectic, vibrant atmosphere and is fast becoming the place for budget eating and drinking in South London. 

Here’s our quick guide to the best drinking establishments in Brixton Village – with a little help from our in-house experts...

The Effra

If you’re looking for an old-school type pub get yourself down to The Effra. Brixtonians regularly frequent this joint – there’s a very local and community feel to this watering hole. Check out the framed collections of cigarette cards, the horseshoe bar and of course there’s the fantastic live jazz music – you can listen to this while watching football. We’ve got it first-hand that this pub’s great if you’re looking for a traditional place to drink in Brixton with an upbeat atmosphere – and the lovely food is also a bonus.

Tip: This is one of the more authentic pubs in Brixton – so get yourself along there if you want an insight into multicultural local life.

Hootananny

This fabulous drinking venue has a lot to offer. With its lively atmosphere and delicious food menu, this Scottish pub has a Sports Bar, live music room and some nice little touches – such as Scottish newspapers used as wallpaper. As well as this, you’ll spot the odd barman sporting a kilt! Some say Hootananny has the best beer garden in London – it’s certainly big and busy.

Tip: Get in there early. The extended opening-hours means there are queues around the block to get in after the rest of pub life has closed down. 

White Horse

A very popular boozer on Brixton Hill, White Horse is great fun at the weekends, with DJs and a 3am licence.  Serving home-made food, it has an interesting history: it’s one of the oldest pub sites in Brixton and used to be an early 18^thcentury inn, frequented by those travelling on the Brighton Road for its accommodation and stables. White Horse is one of Brixton’s well-loved party venues and has a lively yet chilled-out vibe.

Tip: Get yourself down here on a Sunday for live jazz and folk music and a delicious Sunday Roast.

Dogstar

Originally the world’s first DJ bar when it opened nearly 20 years ago, the Dogstar’s been going strong ever since. A Brixton institution, the bar has sustained a big following over the years. Situated in a large, three-floored building on a street corner; the Dogstar’s not just about DJs. Featuring live music; craft markets; quizzes; film nights and even comedy; famous acts have included: Hot Chip, Daddy G from Massive Attack and The Streets.

Tip: Don’t miss the ballroom upstairs which promotes the widest variety of music – from disco to soul to Drum n’ Bass to Rock n’Roll.

Duke of Edinburgh

Found nestling between Brixton and Clapham North, Duke of Edinburgh boasts one of the largest beer gardens south of the river. This pub can accommodate a large crowd and has a BBQ pit outside. Inside you can watch sport, play pool and drink a fine array of beers - Sunday roasts are also a favourite here. The down-to-earth, unpretentious atmosphere makes this boozer a hit with the locals.

Tip: If you go to a gig at Brixton Academy, why not visit Duke of Edinburgh before or afterwards for a beverage? It’s just a stone’s throw away!

We know we’ve got your taste buds watering – so why not get yourself along to one of these drinking hotspots? You won’t be disappointed...