Notting Hill & Bayswater
$$$PremiumWalk to the route
- 10–20 minutes' walk to the route
- Very crowded, with nearby stations exit-only on carnival afternoons
- Book months ahead
London
Every year on the Sunday and Monday of the August bank holiday weekend.
Europe's biggest street party: steel pan, sound systems and mas through west London. Here's where to stay, with live prices for your dates.
The route loops through Westbourne Park, Ladbroke Grove and Kensal Road. Nearby stations close or go exit-only, so a base you can walk from matters most.
Walk to the route
Walkable and good value
West of the route
Big hotel choice south of the route
Prices are live for your dates and guests. Tap a pin to see the stay on the booking site.
Book the full stretch and you won't miss a thing.
SatAug 28
The UK National Panorama steel band competition on Saturday evening, recently at Emslie Horniman's Pleasance. Ticketed.
SunAug 29
J'Ouvert from about 6am to 9am, then the children's parade from 10.30am. Sound systems play until 7pm.
MonAug 30
The main parade from about 10.30am, starting on Great Western Road. Music stops at 7pm.
TueAug 31
Stations are back to normal. Allow time for Heathrow trains from Paddington.
The official schedule and route map are published on nhcarnival.org shortly before carnival.
Lock in a free-cancellation stay now while there's choice, then keep an eye out for something better.
Festival rates, cleaning fees and minimum stays add up. Compare the total for your nights, not the nightly rate.
Ask rental hosts about AC in the bedrooms, backup water and secure parking before you book.
Roads close and taxis surge on the big days. Being close to the main events saves hours.
Hotels within walking distance of the route sell out months before the bank holiday weekend. Free-cancellation options let you book now and change your mind later.
Every year on the Sunday and Monday of the late-August bank holiday weekend. Sunday is the children's and family day, Monday is the main adults' parade, and Panorama is on the Saturday night. The next one is Sun–Mon, Aug 29–30, 2027.
Yes, the street carnival is free. Panorama on Saturday and grandstand seats at the judging zone need tickets.
Notting Hill or Bayswater to walk to the route. Paddington for Heathrow trains and good value, about 20 minutes' walk away. Shepherd's Bush or Kensington for more choice at lower prices.
Take the Heathrow Express (about 15 minutes) or the Elizabeth line to Paddington, then walk. Stations nearer the route close or go exit-only on carnival days.
Crowds are huge and police presence is heavy. Agree a meeting point, carry little, keep your phone secure and plan your walk out before the 7pm rush.