Black History in London

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the rich and complex stories of Black communities, whose contributions have shaped societies across the globe. This year, the theme is Reclaiming Narratives. It is so important to highlight the importance of taking control of stories that have been misrepresented or overlooked throughout history. London is a city with a deep and diverse Black history; reclaiming the narrative means to shed light onto history that runs to the core of the city and has for too long been left untold.

Brixton Black Cultural Archives & Windrush Square:

A key part of London’s Black history is the Windrush generation, who arrived in the city after World War II. They helped rebuild London, but their contributions were often ignored or dismissed. The recent Windrush Scandal, where many Black British citizens faced deportation due to government failures, highlights how vital it is to reclaim the narrative and acknowledge the impact they have had on London. Windrush Square, located in Brixton, celebrates the contributions of the Windrush Generation and the rich cultural heritage of the Black British community.

The Black Cultural Archives, also located in Brixton, celebrates and preserves the histories of Caribbean and African people in the UK. When you visit, you really get to see how the Windrush generation’s story is being reclaimed and honoured — shared by the very people who lived it.

Museum of London Docklands (West India Quay):

Black people have been part of London’s history for centuries, yet their contributions are often left out of the mainstream narrative. For example, John Blanke, a Black trumpeter at the court of Henry VIII in the 1500s, played a role in shaping British culture long before the modern era—something that's rarely mentioned in history books. His story illustrates that Black Londoners have been active in this city for much longer than many realise.

This is exactly what reclaiming the narrative is about—finally giving figures like John Blanke the recognition they deserve. To explore more of this hidden history, don’t miss the ‘London, Sugar, and Slavery’ exhibition at the Museum of London Docklands. It dives into the history of the slave trade and how it’s connected to London’s wealth and prosperity. The museum is just a short journey from our campus, and entry is completely free, so why not hop on the DLR from East India!

Notting Hill:

Notting Hill is a key area for London’s Afro-Caribbean community. The annual Notting Hill Carnival, started in 1966, celebrates Caribbean culture and is one of Europe’s biggest street festivals. It’s a great example of reclaiming space and proudly showcasing Black identity in the heart of London.

The historic Mangrove Restaurant was also central to the area. In the 1960s, it became a meeting point for Black activists, and the famous Mangrove Nine trial in 1970 highlighted the community's fight against police harassment. Visiting Notting Hill, you can explore the area’s history of activism and celebration—why not stop by the Mangrove and experience the culture firsthand?

Chrisp Street Market:

For students based in East India, a visit to Chrisp Street Market in nearby Poplar is a fantastic way to engage with local Black and multicultural communities. As one of London’s oldest purpose-built markets, it’s home to a range of African and Caribbean shops, food stalls, and small businesses. Supporting these Black-owned businesses helps celebrate and sustain the cultural diversity of the area—an important part of reclaiming today’s narratives.