Welcome to My Helpful Guide to Balham, London SW12. Immerse yourself in this delightful southwest London locale, blessed with the plentiful green expanses of neighbouring Clapham, Tooting and Wandsworth Commons. Balham is cherished for these lush, green retreats and boasts many other amenities, including a leisure centre and library. Seek out a night of unstoppable laughter at Banana Cabaret Comedy Club or savour artisanal foods at the weekly Farmer’s Market. You’ll also want to indulge at the brunch spots, pizzerias, bakeries, ice cream parlours and superb restaurants. If you fancy shopping, you’ll enjoy the lifestyle and charity stores. Join me as I showcase the best that Balham has to offer.
Best Things To Do In Balham
Explore the picturesque Commons near Balham for leisure and nature. Visit Clapham Common to admire its three ponds, the classic Victorian bandstand, and tuck into brunch at the charming Pear Tree Café.
Wandsworth Common offers a variety of leisure options with its woods, lakes, heath, playgrounds and sports facilities, including the quaint Skylark Cafe.
The Tooting Commons, comprising Tooting Bec Common and Tooting Graveney Common, provide attractions like the Tooting Bec Lido and the Tooting Bec Stadium, respectively.
Laugh the night away at the Banana Cabaret, one of the UK’s enduring comedy clubs, ensuring a delightful evening for all. Whether discovering rising stars or enjoying performances by established comedy legends, your entertainment is guaranteed at The Bedford Pub.
Balham also offers a range of community amenities. At Balham Leisure Centre, indulge in gym workouts, swimming, or relaxing in the sauna. Alternatively, visit Balham Library to borrow a book or CD, enjoy complimentary internet access, or utilise study room facilities.
Best Places To Shop In Balham
Shop at the Farmers Market every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm at Henry Cavendish Primary School. Engage with local food producers offering fresh products, including eggs, cheese, fruits, vegetables, honey, etc.
Visit Waitrose for a range of premium groceries or Brindisa for a selection of Spanish meats and cheeses. For wallet-friendly shopping, Lidl offers an array of budget-friendly buys.
Discover enchanting gifts and unique finds at lifestyle shops like Lark, Oliver Bonas and Sam Ubhi. Additionally, Postmark provides a charming selection of greeting cards perfect for every occasion.
Unleash your creativity with resources from the Sewing and Craft Superstore. It’s a great place for fabric, haberdashery supplies and sewing machines, ensuring you have everything you need for your next crafting project.
Thrift lovers will appreciate the ample selection available at local charity shops in the area, including Royal Trinity Hospice, Fara and the British Heart Foundation.
Best Places To Eat In Balham
Balham has some cosy brunch spots, serving all your favourites, from classic egg dishes and pancakes to vegan and health-conscious options. Consider a delightful brunch at Milk, Brickwood, The Apple Blue, Meghan’s, or Joice Cafe.
Are you craving something sweet? Make a beeline for Jefferson’s, known for their homemade ice cream. For a selection of delicious cakes and pastries, Bluebird Bakery and Gail’s await.
For lunch and dinner, Balham’s restaurants will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy a pizza at Yard Sale, Franco Manca or Zia Lucia. Also, explore diverse cuisines at Ghurka’s (Nepalese), Taro (Japanese), Libano (Lebanese) and more.
If you’re meeting friends, pop into The Post Food Court. Once a post office, this spot has transformed into a street food venue.
Indulge in a classic Sunday lunch at one of Balham’s welcoming pubs. Secure a table at The Regent, The Devonshire, or The Bedford for a delightful weekend indulgence. For wine enthusiasts, Henny’s Wine Bar offers a relaxed environment to enjoy organic and biodynamic wines. Alternatively, explore a unique combination of literature and libation at Backstory, blending a bookstore with a wine bar with a pleasant pairing.
If you can afford to join a private members club, you’ll enjoy hanging out at Little House Balham. Amenities include a bar, a mezzanine snug for events and screenings, and Pen Yen restaurant.
A great place to hire for a party or event is The Exhibit. This venue boasts a cinema and karaoke hire.
Watch My Ten Things To Do In Balham Video
Helpful Information About Balham
To learn more about Balham’s fascinating history, read the Balham Wikipedia page. Surrounded by Wandsworth, Tooting, Streatham, Clapham and Brixton, Balham emerges as a lively neighbourhood in South London. With seamless connectivity through its underground and rail station, Balham is effortlessly accessible. During your explorations, wander through Balham High Road, Bedford Hill, and Hildreth Street, home to many enchanting shops and eateries. Enjoy your vibrant journey through Balham!
While you are in the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Best Things To Do In Balham:
Best Places To Shop In Balham:
Best Places To Eat In Balham:
Brunch At Milk Cafe Balham
Brunch At The Apple Blue Balham
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. Please check that the places I referenced in this article are still in business before you visit to avoid disappointment.
