Balham is something of a south-west London hotspot. It offers a wide variety of restaurants, some cool cocktail bars and plenty of fun outdoor activities.
Balham’s location is boosted by its proximity to three of the capital’s commons/parks. The offerings of excellent schooling and community hubs make it an ideal location for young families, couples and working professionals. The markets, restaurants and bars round out the amenities and make it a solid rival to nearby neighbourhoods.
Are you looking for great things to do in Balham? Want to check out the best restaurants, bars and pubs, markets and attractions in this south London neighbourhood? If so, here is a list of our favourite things to do in Balham.
1. Hildreth street market
The Hildreth street market is a hidden gem located on Balham High Road. This street has recently become a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of alfresco dining options. If you prefer home cooking overeating out, the market also has organic, fresh and affordable fruit and vegetable stalls.
https://foursquare.com/v/hildreth-street-market/4bd84e47e914a593ebdc52fa
2. Hagen & Hyde
Hagen & Hyde, which is located on Balham High Street, brings entertainment to Balham every weekend with live music and DJ sets. They are famous for their cocktails and ales, as well as their hearty burgers. If you are looking for something a little quieter, the Monday night quiz sees teams battle it out.
https://www.designmynight.com/london/pubs/balham/hagen-hyde
3. Tooting Bec Commons
Balham is made popular by its proximity to 3 of the capital’s commons, Tooting Bec, Clapham and Wandsworth. However Tooting Bec is our number one recommendation. This common showcases magnificent oaks and grassland, but the tennis courts and historic spots round it out to a fully-fledged destination. Birdwatching, jogging along a tree avenue or picnicking in the grasslands are all popular things to do when visiting Tooting Bec commons.
http://tootingbeccommoncafe.co.uk/index.htm?gettinghereifr.htm
4. The Nightingale Pub
Built in 1853, the Nightingale offers a cozy and homely environment. Teamed with a fireplace, beer garden and conservatory, this pub is suitable for all seasons. A unique feature of this pub is their offerings of board games and artifacts. While having a beverage one can walk around looking at the artifacts depicting the brewery’s history or play board games with their fellow pub patrons.
https://www.designmynight.com/london/pubs/clapham/the-nightingale
5. The Banana Cabaret
This unassuming cabaret room located at The Bedford pub is known as the comedy hub of the area. It has been hosting weekend comedy shows for decades. The Banana Cabaret is the place to catch the next big name in comedy. Each year the Banana Cabaret hosts the annual Balham comedy festival, a must-see event.
https://www.bananacabaret.co.uk/
6. Bertie and Boo
Bertie and Boos is a popular neighbourhood café in Balham and is a favourite amongst young families. This colourful and exciting coffee shop opened in 2006, and aims to entertain the entire family. Here you can enjoy your latte at an old school desk or terrace. Further down Balham High Road, you’ll find Bertie & Boo’s Adventure Island, complete with soft-play area designed for a family day out.
https://foursquare.com/v/bertie-and-boo-coffee-shop/4addb16ef964a520576521e3