The Best Hotels Near Brixton, London

The Victoria Line runs through the heart of the city, and Victoria Station itself is just four stops from Brixton. Sitting opposite the station is Z Hotel, the Victoria branch of a hotel chain that promises affordable luxury. The biggest treat of all arguably comes between 5–8pm every evening: a complimentary selection of cheese and wine that you can nibble and sip to your heart’s content. It’s also a great way to link up with fellow travellers before you head out for the night or bed down for a dreamy night’s sleep.

Safestay Elephant and Castle is a hotel–hostel hybrid, with a good mix of both shared and private en suite rooms. If you’re keen to meet up with like-minded travellers, hang around in the evenings for one of the weekly events. There are live rock nights and yoga classes to add some balance. In-house eatery Bar 60 does a daily happy hour too, with a range of pizzas on the menu and a reasonably priced breakfast that will set you up for the day ahead. Elsewhere, the local and much-loved food market Mercato Metrapolitano is a popular choice for a lively drink and bite to eat, before continuing the revelry in Brixton, just a short bus ride away.

Ruby Lucy was born with affordable luxury in mind and is an offering that includes all the typical amenities of a deluxe hotel without the pretentious pomp, coming in at a much leaner price. You’ll find a 24/7 bar in lieu of a hotel restaurant, cosy rooms with space for everything you need – and personality and soul by the bucketload. The bar has a rock ‘n’ roll-meets-circus vibe, with a carousel adorning one roof, guitars lining the walls and chandeliers hanging over the bar. Rooms flaunt a minimalist design, complete with novel features such as in-room Marshall amps, deep-stained wood panelled walls and industrial fixtures. All these free events and stylish touches create a seductive personality that leaves a lasting impression.

Overlooking the green expanse of Clapham Common, the Windmill is a particularly special spot to stay in summer and late spring when the common comes alive with city dwellers soaking up the sun. A slice of countryside charm within the city, the hotel offers rooms with roll-top baths, shearling throws, mahogany furniture and tartan textiles. When you’re hungry, head downstairs to the hotel’s gastropub. Serving seasonal food, it’s a great place to add fuel to your engine before a day of non-stop sightseeing – try the classic Full English or the smashed avocado on toast washed down with a bloody mary cocktail.

This boutique, family-run hotel has the air of a private home thanks to its highly personal service. Located in one of London’s oldest districts, the property sits just two houses up from Winston Churchill’s former residence – and is just a short stroll from Victoria Station, just a few stops on the tube from Brixton. But the historic location belies the newly renovated rooms found inside. Think slick furniture, smart TVs, glass-enclosed bathrooms and designer beds with a massage function. They’ll even throw in a smartphone loaded with 4G data to use for the duration of your stay, and hot tea and cheeky cocktails are just a tap away thanks to iPad-enabled room service.