- Image via Wikipedia
Still not sure about what to do this Bank Holiday weekend? If you’re coming to or staying in London you might want to head towards the West End and and enjoy a weekend of Caribbean fun at the Notting Hill Carnival.
The Carnival is a tradition that dates back to the Mid-60s, taking place over 2 days (Sunday and Monday) on the August Bank Holiday weekend. It is often (incorrectly) referred to as the Jamaican Carnival, but its roots are in fact to be found in the “Trini” community, which have been populating the area since the 50s.
What to expect
Music and food
Music and food are the two things I’m looking forward to the most. I am hugely into Caribbean sounds, mostly Ska and Rocksteady. There’s going to be plenty of that, as well as Calypso, Soca and some Samba too. There’s going to be plenty of soundsystems around the area, so make sure you “shop around” and find the best one for you.
The food is amazing: you will find plenty of stalls around, with Jerk Chicken being probably the most traditional option. Curried Goat and Rice and Peas are also to be tried, so make sure you taste a bit of everything. Remember, it’s always best to share with friends, you get to try more stuff!
Safety
Yes, there have been a few incidents in the past. No one can guarantee there’s nothing happening this year, so make sure you use some common sense while going to the Carnival. Avoid bringing a lot of cash with you, and do not show off cameras, phones and the usual 2.0 gadgeteria: pickpockets are going to be around, despite the police presence.
Getting there
Make sure you get to Notting Hill by public transport, and take your time because the area is going to be very crowded. Some tube stations immediately surrounding the Carnival are going to be either closed (such as Ladbroke Grove) or will have a reduced service (for example there is not going to be the any changing between the Circle and the Central lines at Notting Hill Gate). Buses serving the area will most likely be diverted. The obvious suggestion is to check the TFL website for the dedicated page. They should know better than me.
If you’re coming from outside London, it’s probably worth staying for the whole weekend, possibly getting to London on the Saturday before the Carnival. Obviously it’s great if you have friends around (and maybe crash at theirs), but if you don’t then check VoucherCodes, they have a discount on Travelodge hotels (Notting Hill Gate tube is about mid-way between 2 of their hotels, so you might give it a go).
Alternatives
On the same weekend, if you’re further North in England, you could go to the Leeds West Indian Carnival, which has also been running for a similar amount of time. Also, there’s the Summer Madness festival at the Isle of Whight: there’s a great lineup and I happen to have two tickets I’m selling.
(edit: check also out my friend Kat’s post over at WeekendNotes)
