Brixton's cycling heart stops beating, rent spikes squeeze Tooting's market soul, but Clapham's nightlife pulses stronger than ever with weird and wacky nights out. Ups and downs of life I guess.

🇬🇧 SW News

Brixton Cycles Closes for Good

Brixton Cycles, a beloved community bike shop, has announced its permanent closure due to rising costs and financial struggles. After years of fixing bikes and helping local spandex lovers, the shop has shut its doors. Great news if you hate cyclists though. Source

Tooting Market Rent Hikes

Traders at Tooting Market are worried rent increases are forcing out small businesses. Long-time stallholder Ernest Nelson-Homiah was locked out after refusing a 75% hike. Locals fear gentrification and COLC rent increases. The market owners say the rises reflect investment in the site. Classic landlord behaviour. Source

Train Delays After Streatham Incident

A person was hit by a train near Streatham, causing major disruptions to services towards London Bridge. Emergency crews attended the scene, leading to cancellations and delays. Authorities were unsure whether it was suicide or bad luck. Source

New 34-Storey Tower Planned for Battersea

HTA Design and Concrete Amsterdam have unveiled plans for a 34-storey tower near London Heliport, replacing vacant buildings. Nest Battersea will feature 147 flats, with a third designated affordable, plus commercial space. Sustainable design includes solar panels and recycled materials. Parts of Battersea are quickly becoming one of the most affluent areas in London. Source 

🎉 Upcoming Events

Free Comedy Improv Workshop in Clapham

Looking to boost confidence and finally become funny? Join Totally Unscripted’s free improv workshop on Tuesday, 8th April at Omnibus Theatre. No performance required—just fun, low-pressure exercises to explore that comedian pipedream you have. Source

R&B Ball pit at Up Aquum

Seductive Saturdays returns to Aquum Clapham on April 5th with old-school R&B and hip-hop vibes. The three-level venue, complete with rooftop space and giant ball-pit, promises a lively night from 9pm to 4am. Smart casual dress code applies, with special birthday packages. R & Ballpit. Source

Caribbean Beats Take Over Lit

Bashment Clapham brings vibrant Caribbean flavours to Lit Clapham on 19 April. Enjoy a night of dancehall, afrobeats, soca and more with DJs Daggastar and Spookz. This five-hour music celebration runs from 10pm until 3am, with early entry recommended for the full experience. Source

Glowing Art Meets Pub Culture

The Four Thieves in Clapham hosts Neon Naked Life Drawing on 12 April, offering a vibrant twist on traditional art classes. Models transformed into living sculptures with UV lights and reactive body paints create a trippy, creative atmosphere from 8-9:30pm. Source

Eight-Hour Party Marathon Returns

RESET hits LIT Clapham on April 11th with an extended 10pm-6am session featuring an impressive lineup including Marcus Nasty and live performances from Dre Virgo and I-Kid The 9th Letter. The event promises a nostalgic musical journey with MCs Mr Kaos and NSE hosting. Source

✨ Hidden Gems

(Click each title to see them on Google Maps)

Nuki's Thai Restaurant @ Trinity Road

Nuki's Thai Kitchen on Trinity Road offers authentic Thai cuisine in a cosy setting. Favourites include the Crispy Duck Pad Thai and Panang Curry. Guests praise the friendly service and fresh ingredients.

Monkey Leaf

Monkey Leaf is a vibrant family-run restaurant in Streatham that has quickly become a local favourite. Opened in 2022, it charms diners with fresh, high-quality dishes, inventive cocktails and a jungle-inspired ambience that provides a delightful escape in SW London.

Banana Tree Battersea

Rogue choice as a chain, I know. But this one is particularly well rated and just a nice spot. Banana Tree Battersea, serves an enticing mix of Vietnamese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Singaporean and Thai dishes. Plus 2 for 1 cocktails. çam on!