Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a selection of the most Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any other queries, please feel free to contact us



1. What can I expect to experience?

Nottinghill Carnival is oneof the world's largest, most audacious and professionally managed street parties. You can expect Cultural, musical and artistic skills that have flourished for many years within our Carnival community. The essence of the Notting Hill Carnival is embodied by the five Artistic Arenas - Calypso, Mas (masquerade), Pan (steel bands) and the Mobile and Static Sound Systems, all combining to make this event unlike any other in the world.

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2. Is it suitable for Kids to visit both days of the carnival parade?

The kiddie parade is generally held on the Sunday, we do not advise kids to attend the Monday parade, due to the extent of the attendance.

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3. How many people usually attend the Notting Hill Carnival?

There was an estimated attendance of 2.5million visitors in 2008 with an audience as varied as it is extensive has been predicted. 90% of the attending audiences are based within the UK, with an estimated 140,000 coming from the rest of Europe.

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4. Is the Carnival safe to visit alone?

We do not advise people to visit the carnival alone; you should always arrange to meet friends and family before entering the Carnival area.

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5. Do I have to bring money to the parade?

You do not necessarily have to bring money with you however; you may want to partake in the delicious delicacies and to purchase a souvenir or two. We do not advise however to carry too much cash or credit cards. Please keep aware, pickpockets will be attracted to large crowds.

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6. How should I dress?

We always advise people to dress comfortably, Flat shoes are always recommended in case of an emergency and also to avoid any mishaps.

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7. What type of food is usually available?

The Caribbean is an extremely diverse region with an eclectic cuisine built on many influences, including French, Spanish, Dutch, British and African. The range of dishes on offer reflects this diversity and include roti, an Indo-Caribbean dish served with meat or vegetables; jerked meats (chicken/pork), heavily seasoned with an extremely hot marinade; rice & peas; curry goat; and Jamaican patties, light pastry filled with savoury meat, chicken or mixed vegetables.

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8. Is transport easily accessible during and after the parade?

Regular routes of transport will be affect due to the size of the parade, when travelling you should allow extra time for your journey as congestion is sometimes unavoidable, and transport delays and station closures are likely during the carnival weekend.

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9. If you are traveling a short distance it may be easier to walk

London buses will run additional buses during the Carnival weekend. Buses will not enter the Carnival area from the first bus on Sunday morning until 3am Tuesday 26 August. Bus stops within or adjacent to the Carnival area will carry displays about diversions or disruptions.

To plan your journey and for the latest travel information during carnival weekend visit Journey Planner or call 020 7222 1234.

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