Ever wanted to know more about the history of Carnival and the Notting Hill area but were afraid to ask? Or do you know someone who’s interested in Carnival but isn’t sure what it’s all about? If so, a guided walk around Notting Hill’s streets just before they burst into magnificent and noisy life over the bank holiday weekend is an ideal way to set the scene.
The walk, organised by Simply Cultura, takes place on Thursday 24 August. The starting point is Westbourne Park tube station (be there by 6.30pm) and it ends an hour later at The Tabernacle, Powis Square (Carnival Village), where there’ll be a chance to enjoy a Caribbean meal and drinks. To bring the evening to a memorably climactic conclusion, at 8.30pm participants will be able to watch Mangrove Steel Orchestra in rehearsal.
The guide for the walk is Arthur Torrington CBE, director of the Windrush Foundation, ably assisted by Ansel Wong, of Elimu Mas Association. No doubt there will be plenty of opportunity for engaging in stimulating conversation and debate with fellow walkers!
Jenny Campbell of Simply Cultura told Soca News: “It’s the first time we’ve done a walk. The aim is to bring much more of a positive outlook on Carnival, showing people the things that go on throughout the year.”
If this walk proves a success, others may follow and perhaps the concept will be extended to schools and groups of overseas tourists. Campbell added: “I’ve been approached by various tour operators, who are very interested in it.”
- The cost is £40 before 22 Aug, £45 thereafter. For information and booking, go to: eventbrite.com/e/the-road-to-the-notting-hill-carnival-tickets
