On a charmingly old-fashioned square backing the main drag of Brixton you'll find this Young's pub. It's primed for slightly more peaceful pre-gig pints, even if it doesn't quite live up to its old-timey setting. It does, however, have all the components of a reliable boozer – a heated patio out front for smokers, a horseshoe bar for perching and plush armchairs to settle into for longer sessions – although its adorably rugged pub carpet has been ditched, presumably in favour of getting with the times. Staff aren't the sharpest, particularly when the bar is heaving (as it will be for any evening visit later on in the week), but that's hardly an issue when you're popping in for a swifty before hitting the Academy. They pour a few enticing Young’s Ales as well as continental lagers.