Brixton Skating Rink remembered
A look back at a long gone entertainment venue
(Updated 17th October 2008)

Opened in 1910, Brixton Skating Rink was situated in Effra Road and was a popular venue until it closed around 1965.

Located on the corner of Effra Road (opposite the George Canning/Hobgoblin/Hootenanny), the site is now occupied by Allied Carpets.

The end apparently came swiftly, with the site being bought by a developer and the rink promptly closed with little public consultation.



Brixton Rink, 1914
This advertisement from the Brixton Free Press features an Edwardian couple roller skating at the Brixton Rink, Effra Road.

Contemporary reports say that dance bands played at the skating rink, with a William Robert Fuller (b.1889) a regular performer there. He could play the Trumpet, Cornet, Piano, Organ, Violin, One string fiddle, Mandolin and the Swanee Whistle! (source).



Brixton Rink, 1914
Some sketches from a Fancy Dress Carnival at the rink in 1914.





Brixton Rink, 1920
A 1920 view showing the perimeter seating and over-head bunting.



Brixton Rink, c. 1950s
Stylish advertising poster from - we're guessing - the early 1950s.


Do you remember the Skating Rink?
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(Images 1-3: Lambeth Archives)


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