Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2023
London's much-awaited Notting Hill Carnival, is back this August Bank Holiday. With its roots tracing back to the 1950's, this vibrant event celebrates the rich diversity of Caribbean culture, music, and art. Mark your calendars, as this year's carnival promises an unforgettable experience that blends tradition, creativity, and community spirit.
Day One: Children's Day (27th August)
Kickstarting the carnival weekend is Children's Day on Sunday, August 27th. The festivities begin with the spirited J'Ouvert, a pre-dawn revelry that takes place from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM at Sainsbury's Ladbroke Grove, W10 6HJ. The official opening ceremony follows shortly after, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, at MAS Judging Point on Great Western Road.
A highlight of the day is the Children’s Day Parade, a heart-warming display of youthful energy and creativity. The parade winds through the colourful streets of Notting Hill, showcasing imaginative costumes and infectious music. Alongside, the Dutty/Fun Mas groups add an extra dose of flair to the procession, infusing it with their playful and exuberant spirit.
As the sun graces the sky, the sound systems, scattered across the carnival route, bring the atmosphere alive. Live stages like Soca City at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park and Powis Square Stage offer non-stop entertainment from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, immersing visitors in the pulsating rhythms of Caribbean music.
Day Two: Adult's Parade (28th August)
On Monday, August 28th, the excitement continues with the Adult's Parade, taking to the streets with full force. Similar to the previous day, the carnival route becomes a stage for the rhythm-rich Sound Systems, which include illustrious names like Aba shanti I, Arts-A-Light sound, Channel One Sound System, G.I Roadshow, Gladdy Wax Sound System, and many more.
Live stages like Soca City Stage at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance and Powis Square Stage at Powis Square, W11 2AY, keep the energy flowing from noon till 7:00 PM. With a line up of talented performers, these stages become hubs of celebration, ensuring that every corner of the carnival is alive with music, dance, and joy.
Sound Systems
Aba shanti I
Arts-A-Light sound
Channel One Sound System
G.I Roadshow
Gladdy Wax Sound System
GT Flex Roadshow
KCC & The Rockin Crew
Killerwatt
King Tubby’s
Latin Rave Street Jam
Lord Gellys
Mark Ross The Boss (SJP)
Mastermind
Metro Glory (Science of Sound)
Pineappletribe
Platinum Soul Sound
Rampage Sound
Rapattack
Rough But Sweet Sound System
Saxon
Seduction Sound
Sir Lloyd
Solution Sound System
Volcano Sound
How To Get There
Tube
Please be aware for safety reasons some stations may close temporarily to prevent overcrowding. It may be worthwhile walking part of your journey or seeking an alternative route.
Ladbroke Grove - Station closed.
Latimer Road - Closes at 11.30pm.
Notting Hill Gate - 11am–7pm: Exit only. District/Circle lines will not stop. No interchange between Central line and District and Circle lines all day.
Westbourne Park - Exit only 11am–6pm. Closes at 11.30pm.
Holland Park - Closes at 6pm.
Royal Oak - Exit only 11am–6pm. Closes at 6pm.
Bayswater - Advisable 11am–7pm as Circle and District line trains will not stop at Notting Hill Gate.
Paddington - Advisable instead of Notting Hill Gate or Royal Oak (restricted entry).
High Street Kensington
Kensal Green
Queen’s Park
Queensway - Busier than usual mid-afternoon until early evening
Shepherd’s Bush (Central line) - Busier than usual mid-afternoon until early evening
London Overground
Queen’s Park
Kensal Rise
Kensal Green
Shepherd’s Bush - Sunday: no service until 11am.
Plan your journey at tfl.gov.uk.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The Notting Hill Carnival is committed to ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities. For disabled visitors, provisions such as disabled toilets and a wheelchair viewing platform are in place to enhance their carnival experience. This year, the platform offers seven spaces on the judging zone platform, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure a spot, interested individuals can apply via email at office@nhcarnival.org.
As the 27th and 28th of August approach, the anticipation for London's iconic Notting Hill Carnival continues to rise. The amalgamation of vibrant costumes, infectious music, and a strong sense of community spirit promises an unparalleled experience that transcends cultural boundaries. Whether you're a fervent reveler, a curious explorer, or a family looking for a memorable outing, the carnival welcomes all to immerse themselves in the rhythm of this awe-inspiring celebration. Get ready to dance, celebrate, and create lasting memories at the Notting Hill Carnival 2023.