Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2014

Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2014

If you are planning to visit next month’s Notting Hill Carnival, this guide will help you to prepare well for this truly amazing event. Let’s start with date and the parade route. On Sunday 24^th of August, the main parade will start at 9 am on Great Western Road, continue along Chepstow Road and Westbourne Grove, then down to Ladbroke Grove. The Carnival will continue on Monday 25^th of August (UK Bank Holiday), starting at 9 am, too.

How to reach Notting Hill

Public transport will be restricted and expect many congested routes. Plan your journey ahead on www.tfl.gov.uk . Useful tip is to arrive either early or later in the afternoon.

Tube: Notting Hill Gate

This station will be exit only between 11 am and 6 pm during both days.

Ladbroke Grove – station will be closed on both days

Royal Oak and Westbourne Park – Exit only between 11 am and 6 pm on both days

Bayswater, Paddington and Queensway will run as usual.

Other stations which could be used: High Street Kensington, Holland Park, Queens Park

Bus: Additional bus services will be running, however there will be no buses entering the Carnival areas on Sunday and Monday. Local night buses also will be diverted to different routes.

Bike: Be aware that Bike-docking stations in Chepstow Villas and Pembridge Road might be removed for Carnival.

Staying safe during Carnival

We have seen few riots and incidents during past years so pay attention to your safety and safety of others. Do not carry expensive items with you and always carry bags with secure zip. Police officers will be on hand in all areas of Carnival, if you see anything suspicious please, seek the help. Carry a bottle of water with you and apply sunscreen when needed.

Children’s Day

Sunday is a family-friendly day with smaller crowds and fun vibe. If you can, carry children in smaller baggies or in baby slings. Ear defenders for small babies might come handy.

Useful tips

It will be easier to use the public transport instead of driving a car. Your day will be more enjoyable in comfortable shoes. Do plan your toilet stops as big queues are very common and carry a hand sanitizer and some tissues.