Rush Common was a common land in the parish of Lambeth. The former common land was a triangle bounded by Brixton Hill, Effra Road and Josephine Avenue. It also continued in a salient down Brixton Hill reaching the parish of Streatham. It was enclosed by the Rush Common Act 1806. However, the legislation also prohibited building on some of the edges fronting public highway. The proscribed land reached a point outside 405 Brixton Road, just to the north of Brixton Station Road. There have been several encroachments on the land that were not permitted by legislation or prevented by private action. In 1821 land was used by the Commissioners for Building New Churches to construct St Matthew's Church. When the Brixton Tate Library was constructed the forecourt was part of the proscribed land and was used to provide public gardens which are now part of Windrush Square. Local government gained the ability to enforce the proscription of the land through the London County Council (General Powers) Act 1947. In the post-war period when land was acquired for council housing estates in the area, some of the proscribed land that had been private gardens and forecourts was turned into public open space.

A strip of green space between busy Brixton Hill & housing estates. A remnant of The Manor of Lambeth , later enclosed by Parliament. The pathway winds between trees & is a pleasant enough alternative to the pavement , especially on a sunny Spring day with daffodils & birds & squirrels despite some litter. Contains a children's playground.

A bit dirty and not the friendliest atmosphere

Honestly, you won't want to walk out of your way to visit Rush Common when you could go to beautiful Brockwell Park nwarby. But it has some nice mature trees, and daffodils in spring so if you're walking down Brixton Hill on a nice day, veer off and walk through this little oasis to escape from the traffic for a few minutes.

It is an okay piece of green. It does add to the atmosphere of Brixton Hill and makes it a greener place. This area is ideal for small walks, small dog walks, or a play space for small children. However, do take into consideration the fact this place is situated by a busy main road.