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The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the most iconic and colourful events in the UK calendar, drawing millions of visitors to the streets of West London every August bank holiday. As Europe’s largest street festival, it’s a celebration of London's vibrant Caribbean culture, music, and community. Whether you’re a repeat Carnival goer or you're planning your first visit, this guide will help you make the most of Notting Hill Carnival 2025.
Jump to the section for you:
- What is Notting Hill Carnival?
- When is Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
- What are the Notting Hill Carnival times?
- The Notting Hill Carnival Parade Route 2025
- Where to Stay Near Notting Hill
- The Best Food at Carnival
All You Need To Know About The Notting Hill Carnival 2025
What is the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
The Notting Hill Carnival is a three-day annual street festival in London that celebrates Afro-Caribbean heritage, music, and food. It began in 1966 as a small community event and has since evolved into a global spectacle featuring:
- Buzzing parades
- Pulsating music
- Delicious Caribbean food
The Notting Hill Carnival highlights include the Mas Bands parade, steel drum performances, and sound systems blasting everything from reggae to soca.
What's the History Behind The Notting Hill Carnival?
The Notting Hill Carnival began in 1959 as an event organised by Trinidadian activist Claudia Jones to bring Caribbean communities together amidst racial tensions in post-war London. By the mid-1960s, the event moved outdoors, incorporating:
- Traditional steel bands
- Calypso music
- Stunning costumes inspired by Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival
Today, the Notting Hill Carnival attracts over a million visitors and is now one of the world's biggest arts events.
When is the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
Mark your calendars! Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will take place over the August bank holiday weekend:
- Saturday, 23rd August 2025: Steel Band Competition
- Sunday, 24th August 2025: Family Day – a more relaxed vibe, perfect for partygoers with kids.
- Monday, 25th August 2025: Grand Parade – the main carnival event, with dazzling costumes and energetic performances.
What are the Notting Hill Carnival Times 2025?
Here’s your day-by-day rundown for the Notting Hill Carnival 2025:
- Saturday, 23rd August 2025 (Steel Band Competition): Kicks off at 11:00 AM and wraps up by 7:00 PM.
- Sunday, 24th August 2025 (Family Day): A relaxed start from noon, with events running until 7:00 PM.
- Monday, 25th August 2025 (Grand Parade): The main attraction starts bright and early at 10:00 AM, with festivities winding down by 8:00 PM.
But don’t pack up too soon—the afterparties and sound systems keep the vibe alive long into the night, especially on Monday!
Where is the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
The heart of the action is in the streets of Notting Hill, with the main events taking place along:
- Notting Hill
- Westbourne Grove
- Westbourne Park
- Kensal Road.
- Ladbroke Grove
What is the Route for the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
The standout of the Notting Hill Carnival has always been the parade, which winds its way through the streets of Notting Hill, creating a vibrant spectacle of music, dance, and dazzling costumes. The route typically includes:
- Great Western Road – The starting point of the parade.
- Chepstow Road – A key stretch featuring live performances.
- Westbourne Grove – A bustling area filled with food stalls and spectators.
- Ladbroke Grove – The iconic finishing point where the celebrations peak.
The parade takes place on both Sunday (Family Day) and Monday (Grand Parade), with Monday offering the most raucous experience. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the route.
Our Top Tips for Attending the Notting Hill Carnival 2025
Because we want you to have the best possible time at the Notting Hill Carnival 2025, here are our top tips that will help you have the most fun possible:
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure a good spot for the parades.
- Travel Smart: Public transport is your best bet, as many roads will be closed. Aim for stations like Ladbroke Grove or Notting Hill Gate.
- Stay Safe: Keep your belongings secure and stick with your group.
- Dress Comfortably: The Notting Hill Carnival is all about dancing, so wear comfy shoes and light clothing.
- Bring Cash: Some food stalls and vendors may not accept card payments.
Where to Stay Near Notting Hill
Accommodation fills up fast during Carnival weekend, so book early. Here are some of our picks of the best hotels near the Notting Hill Carnival 2025:
- The Laslett (Boutique, 5 mins walk): A stylish hotel blending modern amenities with Notting Hill charm.
- Park Grand London Lancaster Gate (Mid-range, 15 mins walk): Offers a comfortable stay close to the action.
- Kensington Gardens Apartments (Budget, 20 mins walk): Self-catering apartments perfect for groups.
The Best Food at Carnival
Carnival food is as much a part of the experience as the music and parades. Don’t miss these must-try dishes to fuel you up for your day of dancing:
- Jerk Chicken: Smoky, spicy, and served with rice and peas.
- Roti: A soft, flaky flatbread filled with curried meats or vegetables.
- Ackee and Saltfish: Jamaica’s national dish, a savoury mix of ackee fruit and salted cod
- Festival: Sweet, fried dumplings that pair perfectly with spicy dishes.
- Rum Punch: The ultimate Carnival drink – sweet, fruity, and potent.
Will You Visit the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?
Have we convinced you to head to London to experience the magic of the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 in person? We don't blame you. Great food, extravagant costumes and an unrivalled sense of community and cultural pride make for the perfect street party.
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