O2 Academy Brixton

Brixton Academy is a world-famous concert destination that has hosted the biggest names in music during its nearly half a century of operation – and it’s a safe bet to say that those it hasn’t hosted yet have it on their bucket list.

Opened in 1929 as a cinema, this Brixton icon was reborn in 1983 and has both seen and made music history since then, with legendary acts such as The Smiths playing their last live show here or, conversely, Madonna choosing it for her return to the stage in 2000. Over the decades, the 5,000-capacity venue has featured shows from the biggest music stars in the world, from Rihanna and Lady Gaga to Coldplay and The Strokes, and across a wide array of genres, often for memorable runs of several gigs in a row when demand is high enough.

It’s not just the impressive programming power that sets this venue apart, however. Situated in a Grade II listed building, Brixton Academy boasts several characteristics that seem tailormade for a concert hall. These include the instantly recognisable front of the building, with queues snaking around the building come showtime, the sloping floors that ensure a good view of the stage, a high, arched ceiling that gives provides an arena-style ambiance, and the gorgeous stage design inspired by the Rialto bridge in Venice, with statues and greenery setting the mood regardless of the onstage setup. With crowds of international concertgoers regularly making the pilgrimage here, O2 Academy Brixton is considered to be one of the most significant music venues in the world.