Best Things To Do In/Around Loughborough Junction

While most people might be tempted to walk down to central Brixton or further into Camberwell to eat, drink and enjoy an evening out, the area around Loughborough Junction has more than enough to offer. Being a train line hub has meant lots of empty railway arches for taking, and there’s a wide range of businesses who’ve set up shop within them. Here’s my favourite things to do, and places to eat and drink in what I like to call ‘LoJo’.

All Day Breakfast at Sem’s Cafe

Sem’s Cafe is a staple in Loughborough Junction, no matter what you can always count on the breakfast menu at Sem’s Cafe. They are also the go-to place for some scrumptious jacket potatoes – one of the few places that offer it nearby.

Get Coffee & Snacks At Four Boroughs

Four Boroughs is serving up great lattes and wraps tucked away in the Coldharbour Works courtyard. A favourite of cyclists, this place also sells a variety of wines, sodas and coffee paraphernalia to enjoy at home. 

Mexican Feast At Jalisco Loughborough Junction 

For some of the best Mexican food in the area, check out Jalisco, the sister branch of the larger venue in Brixton Village Market. Here you’ll have your pick of everything from chicken burritos to beef tacos and hibiscus margaritas to die for. This place is dangerously close to my flat, for both my wallet and waistline!

Veggie / Vegan Lunch At Platform Cafe

It’s not actually on the Loughborough Junction station platform as the name suggests, but just around the corner by Wyck Gardens. This community cafe serves delicious vegan and vegetarian lunch meals that you can take away or eat outside (the lasagne is my fave) – if the weather allows it!

Rewind At Loughborough Farm

Loughborough Farm is a community garden meets urban farm where you can volunteer to get your hands in the soil. They also organise seasonal workshops and community events. 

Pre-Commute Coffee At Federation Coffee

Federation Coffee is actually on the Loughborough Junction station platform and is known for fuelling commuters with great hot cups of joe in the early mornings. It’s the second branch of the independent coffee shop, the other one being further down the road in Brixton Village Market. 

Have A Brew At One Of The Taprooms

Loughborough Junction is lucky to have two tap rooms nearby. Clarkshaws Brewery & Taproom is the original taproom in the area and is open during selected months. The other spot is Friendship Adventure Brewery & Taproom, where in addition to beer you can also go there for quiz nights, comedy shows, and even yoga. 

Movies At Whirled Cinema

Don’t expect the newest superhero movie at this small-scale cinema located in one of the train arches, but if you are after an evening of indie movies that show once in a while, check out what’s showing in this cosy hideaway. 

Sunday Roast at The Cambria

Want to spend your lazy Sunday afternoon eating a delicious roast dinner that you haven’t had to cook for yourself? Head to the Cambria for an impeccable roast, with yorkshire puddings that will leave you wanting more weeklong.

Stock up at the Fodal Chinese Supermarket

Hidden down an industrial road (Belinda Road) in one of the arches is a great little Chinese supermarket, with an impressive range of imported dry and frozen goods. You can also order via their website and on Deliveroo.

Coffee & Co-Work Space At Caya

Caya is great for everything from their Mocha to their hot toasties, cinnamon buns and red velvet cake. It’s also a co-work space so if you’re bored of your four walls, head to Caya. The lovely atmosphere and staff make it the place to sip at your coffee, chill or be productive.

On the same strip, you’ll also find hairdressers and nail salons. I can recommend BlueTit if you’re looking for a haircut or other hair treatment and AMA Nails if you need a (free from) manicure. 

Get your sweat on at Miguel’s Boxing & Fitness Gym

This iconic boxing and fitness complex, situated in one of the railway arches welcomes both beginners and advanced athletes alike, with a range of training courses and more on offer.

Scale the walls at Blocfit

This climbing/bouldering gym offers great facilities, equipment and a range of walls adapted for strength and ability.