UK Travel: Why the Notting Hill Carnival is one of Britain’s best

Any time is a good time to visit London, but it’s even more lively when the iconic Notting Hill Carnival comes to town.

With feathers, street parades and a party atmosphere, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in South America, not West London. But every year (barring a Covid-related hiatus) the famous Notting Hill Carnival brings a kaleidoscope of color to the UK capital. As one of the largest street carnivals in the world, it is second only to Rio’s Mardi Gras and attracts more than a million revelers. Traditionally held at the end of August to coincide with a UK Bank Holiday weekend, Britain’s favorite street party is back this year from 28-29 August.

Carnival time
A celebration of London’s West Indian communities and Caribbean culture, the festival includes everything from steel drums and reggae beats to countless food stalls. At Carni, as the locals call it, the smoky-sweet smell of exotic chicken fills the air, colorful feathers are the de rigueur costume, and you can hear the blare of sound systems blocks away. The centerpiece of the show is the grand parade of fancy floats, bands and dancers, which winds its way along more than 5km.

If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check ahead for train and subway station updates, as many roads are closed for the holiday. And if you’re going along with little ones in tow, the first day of the carnival is more relaxed and family-friendly than the main event on the second day.

What to see and do in Notting Hill
As well as carnivals, Notting Hill is a magnet for foodies, creatives and vintage hunters. The area’s famous Portbobello Street Market boasts a large array of antique and clothing stalls, as well as vintage fruit and vegetable vendors. Arrive on an empty stomach to make the most of the delicious array of international street food, including paella, bratwurst and churros.

With pastel-coloured shopfronts, historic pubs and brick townhouses, the charming streets are perfect for wandering and people-watching, and there’s often bread and live music to add to the buzzing atmosphere during market hours. Music fans should make a beeline for Rough Trade Records on Talbot Rd, while cooking fans will be spoiled for choice at Books for Cooks on Blemheim Crescent. On the same street, you will find the Notting Hill bookstore from the famous film.

For the quirky factor, don’t miss the Brand Museum. Here you’ll find posters, wraps, boxes, toys and everything under the consumer goods sun, from a plethora of classic brands including Brasso, Kellogs and Cadbury.

For more, see nhcarnival.org and visitlondon.com