Notting Hill Carnival 2027

Notting Hill Carnival 2027 takes place in the streets of Notting Hill, west London, on 29 and 30 August 2027, over the August bank holiday weekend. Its organiser calls it "the greatest community-led event on the planet". The carnival celebrates Caribbean culture with parades, music and food, and is for anyone who wants to experience London's biggest street festival.

About Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival has its roots in London's Caribbean community. Today it is a huge community-led celebration of music, costume, dance and food. The official programme includes Mas bands (costumed masquerade groups), steel bands, Brazilian bands, soca and calypso, sound systems, live stages and food and drink stalls.

The carnival takes place in the streets of west London rather than in one venue. Parade routes and the judging zone run through the Notting Hill area. It is a respectful celebration of heritage and community, and visitors are asked to enjoy it in that spirit, follow stewards' instructions and look after the local neighbourhood.

The carnival is organised by Notting Hill Carnival Ltd. Updates, schedules and community information are published on the official Notting Hill Carnival website.

Notting Hill Carnival 2027 dates and venue

The official Notting Hill Carnival 2027 dates are 29 and 30 August 2027. According to the official website, the weekend is structured like this:

• Saturday 28 August 2027 – Steel Band Competition Day: the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition. This day is for ticket holders only.
• Sunday 29 August 2027 – Families and Children's Day: free to all. It includes J'ouvert, the Children's Parade and Carnival, adults' "Dutty Mas" and the judging zone.
• Monday 30 August 2027 – Adults Day: free to all, with the Adults Parade, Carnival and judging zone.

The location is the streets of Notting Hill and surrounding areas in west London. Detailed routes and times for each day are published by the organiser before the event.

How to get to London for Notting Hill Carnival

London has several international airports:

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – west of the city and the closest major airport to Notting Hill
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – south of London, with fast rail links to the centre
• London Stansted (STN) and London Luton (LTN) – north of London

On carnival days, public transport is the best way to reach the area. Some nearby Underground stations may close or work as exit-only during the event, so check Transport for London travel information on the day. Do not plan to drive to Notting Hill. Check the official entry requirements for the United Kingdom before travel.

Where to stay

Staying right in Notting Hill is possible but limited, and the streets are very crowded during carnival. Good options include:

• Paddington and Bayswater – close to Notting Hill and well connected to Heathrow
• Kensington – a short journey to the carnival area
• Central London – a wide choice of accommodation with Underground links to west London
• Shepherd's Bush and Hammersmith – west London areas with good transport links

The August bank holiday is a busy time in London, so book early. A stay a little further from the parade route is often quieter and easier.

Planning a group trip to Notting Hill Carnival

A group tour to Notting Hill Carnival can be combined with a wider London city break. Practical advice for agencies:

• Tickets: the Sunday and Monday carnival days are free to all. The Saturday Panorama steel band competition needs tickets. The official website has a "Tickets & Shop" section for official tickets.
• Safety and meeting points: crowds are very large. Agree clear meeting points, keep groups small and share emergency contact details.
• Timing: book flights and hotel rooms early, because the bank holiday weekend is popular.
• Package ideas: a Notting Hill Carnival travel package could include flights, central London accommodation, a guided introduction to the carnival's history, a Panorama ticket for Saturday and free time on Sunday and Monday.
• Practical items: advise clients to wear comfortable shoes, carry little, use cashless payment where possible and drink enough water.

Frequently asked questions

When is Notting Hill Carnival 2027?

Notting Hill Carnival 2027 takes place on Sunday 29 and Monday 30 August 2027, the August bank holiday weekend. The official website also lists the Panorama steel band competition on Saturday 28 August 2027.

Where is Notting Hill Carnival held?

The carnival is held in the streets of Notting Hill and nearby areas in west London. There is no single venue. Parades, sound systems, live stages and food stalls spread across the neighbourhood.

Do I need tickets for Notting Hill Carnival?

No tickets are needed for the main carnival days on Sunday and Monday, which are free to all. The Saturday UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition is for ticket holders only. Use the official website to buy tickets.

What is the nearest airport to Notting Hill?

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the nearest major airport to Notting Hill. London Gatwick, Stansted and Luton also serve the city. Use public transport to reach the carnival area.

Is Notting Hill Carnival open to the public?

Yes. The Sunday Families and Children's Day and the Monday Adults Day are free and open to everyone. Visitors should follow stewards' and police instructions and respect the local community.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to Notting Hill Carnival 2027 in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.