Things to Do in Balham: A Comprehensive Guide

Located in the London Borough of Wandsworth, Balham is a thriving suburb in the heart of South West London. With its vibrant atmosphere, plethora of shops, eateries and an array of exciting activities, it’s easy to see why Balham is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for a day out or a weekend away, there’s something for everyone in Balham.

A Brief History of Balham

Balham has been inhabited since the Iron Age and is believed to have been part of the Celtic settlement known as “Bremen’. In 1213, it became part of the Manor of Battersea and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. In the 19th century, it was part of the rural area around Streatham Common and was known for its market gardens. During the Victorian period, it developed into a residential suburb and a popular destination for theatre-goers. Today, Balham remains an important suburb within the London Borough of Wandsworth, with a population of around 17,000 people.

What to See and Do in Balham

Balham is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a fun-filled day out in the heart of London. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Balham:

Explore Balham’s Historic Streets

Take a stroll down Balham’s historic streets and explore the area’s rich history. There are plenty of interesting places to discover, from The Bedford, an 18th-century pub and restaurant, to Streatham Hill Theatre which opened in 1879. You can also find beautiful Victorian homes, from villas to terraced houses, as well as Georgian buildings like the Museum Building.

Shopping and Dining in Balham

From high-end boutiques to vintage stores, you’ll find something for everyone in Balham’s bustling shopping district. There’s also a wide selection of restaurants, cafes and bars to explore. Be sure to check out The Windmill pub and The Balham Bowls Club for some delicious pub grub and a few games of bowling.

Visit Balham Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, head to Balham Park. This peaceful park is a great place to take a walk or have a picnic. It also features a children’s playground, tennis courts and some lovely flower gardens.

Take a Food Tour

Take your taste buds on a culinary adventure with one of Balham’s food tours. You’ll get to sample some of the area’s best dishes, from classic British pub grub to delicious international cuisine. You’ll also get to explore some of the area’s most iconic landmarks as you make your way around Balham.

Go on the Balham Brewery Tour

If you’re a fan of craft beer, then you’ll want to check out the Balham Brewery Tour. You’ll get to see how beer is made, sample some delicious craft beer and explore some of the area’s hidden gems. Plus, you’ll also get to learn about the history of brewing in Balham.

Spend Time at Tooting Common

Tooting Common is one of the largest open spaces in South West London and is a great place to spend an afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, explore the nature trails or just sit back and relax on one of the many benches scattered throughout the park.

Explore the Art Scene

Balham is home to a thriving art scene with plenty of galleries and art spaces worth exploring. Check out The ArtHouse Gallery for up-and-coming artists or head to The Exhibitions Gallery for some inspiring pieces from local and international artists.

Popular Tours in Balham

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore all that Balham has to offer, then why not take one of these popular tours:

The Hidden Gems Tour

Discover the hidden gems of Balham on this fascinating walking tour. You’ll explore the area’s lesser-known spots and learn about its history and culture from an experienced guide. From secret gardens to quirky shops, you’ll be sure to find something new and exciting on this tour. Book the Hidden Gems Tour here.

The Pubs & Breweries Tour

Explore Balham’s vibrant drinking scene on this lively tour. You’ll get to sample some delicious craft beers and ciders at some of the area’s most popular pubs and breweries. Plus, you’ll get to learn all about the history of brewing in Balham from your knowledgeable guide. Book the Pubs & Breweries Tour here.

The Art & Culture Tour

Discover Balham’s vibrant art and culture scene on this exciting tour. You’ll explore some of the area’s most iconic galleries and art spaces as well as visit some lesser-known spots like The ArtHouse Gallery. Plus, you’ll get to learn about the history of art in Balham from your experienced guide. Book the Art & Culture Tour here.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a day out or a weekend away, there’s something for everyone in Balham. From exploring its historic streets to taking a food tour or going on one of its popular tours, you’re sure to have an amazing time in this vibrant suburb. So why not plan your visit today?