Welcome to our blog about Balham, a vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of London. Balham is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants and bars, and its close proximity to some of London’s most popular attractions.
The purpose of this blog is to provide readers with a comprehensive guide to Balham, including information on the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore. We’ll also be sharing our top recommendations for things to do in the area, as well as tips for getting around and making the most of your time in Balham.
Whether you’re a local resident looking for new places to discover or a tourist visiting London for the first time, we hope that this blog will be a valuable resource for exploring all that Balham has to offer. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best of Balham!
Explore Tooting Bec Common
Tooting Bec Common is a beautiful green space located in Balham, offering a range of recreational opportunities for visitors. The common spans over 200 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species.
One of the most popular activities at Tooting Bec Common is picnicking. With plenty of open space and benches available, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic with friends and family. Visitors can also enjoy jogging or cycling on the many paths and trails throughout the common, offering a great way to stay active while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
One of the most iconic features of Tooting Bec Common is the Tooting Bec Lido. This outdoor swimming pool is open during the summer months and offers a refreshing way to cool off on a hot day. The lido is one of the largest open-air swimming pools in the UK, measuring over 90 meters in length, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
In addition to its recreational opportunities, Tooting Bec Common also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, fairs, and concerts. Visitors can check the common’s website for upcoming events and plan their visit accordingly.
Visit The Exhibit Balham
Exhibit Balham is a popular entertainment venue located in the heart of Balham. This multi-purpose space offers a diverse range of entertainment options, including cinema, live performances, and comedy shows.
The cinema at Exhibit Balham showcases a mix of blockbuster hits and indie films, providing a unique and varied movie-going experience for visitors. In addition to traditional cinema offerings, Exhibit Balham also hosts special screenings, such as sing-along events and movie marathons.
For those looking for live entertainment, Exhibit Balham offers a range of performances, including music, theatre, and comedy shows. The venue has hosted well-known comedians and musicians, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Exhibit Balham also offers a variety of themed nights and special events throughout the year. From quiz nights to silent discos, there’s always something exciting happening at this entertainment hotspot.
Shop and Stroll on Hildreth Street Market
Hildreth Street Market is a charming local market located in Balham, offering a unique shopping and strolling experience for visitors. The market is known for its variety of stalls, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods and vintage items.
One of the highlights of Hildreth Street Market is the fresh produce available from local farmers and vendors. Visitors can find a range of fruits, vegetables, and other specialty food items, making it the perfect spot for foodies looking to explore the local cuisine.
In addition to fresh produce, the market also offers a variety of artisanal goods, including handmade jewelry, clothing, and home decor items. Visitors can find unique and one-of-a-kind items that make for great souvenirs or gifts.
For those interested in vintage items, Hildreth Street Market also has a selection of antique and vintage stalls. Visitors can browse through a range of vintage clothing, furniture, and other unique items, making it the perfect destination for vintage enthusiasts.
Indulge in Balham’s Culinary Scene
Balham’s culinary scene is one of the neighborhood’s main attractions, offering a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries for visitors to explore. From traditional British fare to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Balham.
One of the most popular dining spots in Balham is The Exhibit, which offers a range of classic British dishes as well as international cuisine. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and a rooftop bar, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Another popular dining spot is Lamberts, which is known for its modern British cuisine and intimate ambiance. The restaurant offers a range of dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and has a carefully curated wine list to complement the menu.
For those looking for something more casual, Milk has become a popular spot for brunch and coffee. The cafe offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes, and has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Discover the Bedford
The Bedford is a historic pub and live music venue located in the heart of Balham. The venue has a rich history dating back to the 1930s, and has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
One of the main draws of The Bedford is its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of events. The venue hosts live music performances, comedy shows, and club nights throughout the week, making it a hub for entertainment in Balham.
The Bedford has hosted a number of notable artists and events over the years, including Ed Sheeran, Paolo Nutini, and James Bay. The venue has also been a regular spot for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talents, making it a popular destination for music lovers and industry professionals alike.
In addition to live music, The Bedford also hosts regular comedy nights, featuring both established and emerging comedians. The venue’s comedy shows have become a popular spot for locals to enjoy a night out and have a good laugh.
Here are some taxi services that operate in Balham and a little information about each of them:
- 1. Addison Lee – Addison Lee is a well-known taxi service in London, offering a range of vehicles from standard cars to luxury options. They operate 24/7 and offer fixed pricing, making it a reliable and convenient option for tourists.
- 2. Uber – Uber is a popular ride-sharing service that operates in Balham and throughout London. The app-based service offers a range of vehicle options and pricing based on demand, making it a flexible and affordable option for tourists.
- 3. Balham Taxis (https://www.balham-taxis.co.uk) – Balham Cars is a local taxi service that offers 24/7 service, including airport transfers and long-distance journeys. They offer competitive pricing and a range of vehicle options to suit different needs.
- 4. Sherbets Minicabs – Sherbets Minicabs is a family-run taxi service that operates in Balham and the surrounding areas. They offer a range of services, including airport transfers, and pride themselves on their friendly and reliable service.
- 5. Station Cars – Station Cars is a local taxi service that offers 24/7 service in Balham and the surrounding areas. They offer a range of vehicles, including minivans for larger groups, and pride themselves on their punctuality and professionalism.
Overall, there are plenty of taxi services available in Balham to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer a well-known service like Addison Lee or a local option like Balham Cars, there are plenty of reliable and convenient options for tourists to choose from.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Balham is a vibrant and charming neighborhood in South London, offering a unique and diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here’s a recap of the top five things to do in Balham:
1. Visit the Balham Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
2. Take a stroll through Tooting Bec Common for a relaxing day in nature.
3. Catch a movie or live performance at Exhibit Balham for a fun night out.
4. Shop and explore the stalls at Hildreth Street Market for unique finds.
5. Take a ride with one of the many taxi services in Balham to explore the surrounding areas.
We encourage readers to visit Balham and experience its unique offerings for themselves. With its lively atmosphere, friendly locals, and charming streets, Balham is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore London beyond the typical tourist spots.
