London is a second home for many Nigerians, and with vibrant hubs across the city, it’s easy to find a slice of home in the UK capital. With strong community ties, London’s Nigerian neighborhoods buzz with authentic dining spots, African markets, and cultural events. Whether you’re a visitor or resident, here’s a guide to experiencing “Little Lagos” in London—where to eat, shop, and celebrate all things Nigerian!
Key Nigerian Neighborhoods in London
Peckham is often called “Little Lagos,” and with good reason. This South London neighborhood is alive with Nigerian markets, grocery stores, and restaurants, especially along Rye Lane. Here, you’ll find everything from shops selling fresh plantains and imported spices to bustling restaurants serving up traditional Nigerian dishes. Peckham’s Nigerian community is one of the largest in London, and its markets are the heart of its appeal. Peckham is so popular with Nigerians that it’s also known as the 37th State of Nigeria.
Moving across the River Thames, Dalston in Hackney is another hotspot for Nigerian culture. Known for its eclectic artsy vibe, Dalston’s Nigerian influence is found in its African supermarkets, street vendors, and events celebrating Nigerian art and music. Other pockets of Nigerian life can be found in Lewisham and Woolwich, where the community continues to grow. These neighborhoods have a mix of family-run shops, takeaways, and Nigerian-run businesses that add to London’s vibrant diversity.
The Best Nigerian Restaurants in London
London’s Nigerian food scene is not only popular with Nigerians; Londoners of all backgrounds are fans of jollof rice, pounded yam, and spicy suya. One standout is 805 Restaurant on Old Kent Road, known for dishes like efo riro (a rich spinach stew) and its signature jollof rice. This restaurant is beloved by families and often buzzing with groups celebrating special occasions.
For a modern twist, Enish Nigerian Restaurant offers traditional meals in a trendy, contemporary setting, with locations in places like Lewisham and Finchley. Enish serves up all the classics, from amala to pepper soup, and adds to the dining experience with a lineup of Nigerian-inspired cocktails. Another must-try spot is Obalende Suya Express in Dalston, which serves up suya and other Nigerian street food favorites.
Nigerian Grocery Stores and Markets
Whether you’re stocking up on ingredients or just craving a taste of home, London’s Nigerian markets have everything you need. Ayoka African Market on Rye Lane in Peckham has a wide range of Nigerian ingredients, from dried fish and yam to hard-to-find spices. If you’re in Dalston, Wazobia Cash and Carry has an impressive selection, and you’ll often find traditional Nigerian products like garri, palm oil, and chin chin.
If you’re after fresh, seasonal produce, Brixton Market is another multicultural hub that offers plenty of options. Here, you’ll find Caribbean and African ingredients side-by-side, giving you plenty of choices for your next home-cooked Nigerian meal.
Nigerian Festivals and Cultural Events in London
Every October, Nigerian Independence Day is celebrated across London, and nowhere is the party quite as lively as in Peckham and Trafalgar Square, where events like food stalls, music performances, and parades bring the city to life. This is an excellent time for Nigerians in London to connect with one another and celebrate their shared heritage.
Another highlight is the Africa on the Square festival in Trafalgar Square, a multicultural event celebrating African music, food, and fashion. Nigerians turn out in full force to showcase their culture through dance performances, craft stalls, and mouth-watering food from Nigeria. For those visiting in August, the Nigerian Carnival UK is a fantastic event that showcases Nigerian music and dance, complete with parades and cultural exhibitions.
Spiritual Centers and Religious Gatherings
London is home to several spiritual centers that cater to Nigerian communities. For Nigerian Christians, Jesus House in Brent Cross and the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) are two prominent places of worship, offering a home-away-from-home for the Nigerian faithful. RCCG has branches across London, from Woolwich to Peckham, and each center is actively involved in community support and religious events.
For Nigerian Muslims, East London Mosque in Whitechapel and London Central Mosque near Regent’s Park are popular. Both offer prayer services and social gatherings, giving London-based Nigerians a community space where they can connect and worship together.
Community Groups and Media for Nigerians in London
CANUK (Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom) is a fantastic resource for Nigerians who want to connect with their community. From social gatherings to seminars, CANUK organizes events and offers support to Nigerians settling in London. They also host networking events, making it easier to meet other Nigerians living in the city.
For those who want to keep up with news from home, BEN Television offers Nigerian news and entertainment, covering everything from politics to Nollywood. Newspapers like Nigerian Watch provide news coverage both on local issues and updates from Nigeria, and these can be found in several shops and community centers around London.
London: Nigeria Away from Nigeria
With its vibrant Nigerian neighborhoods, bustling markets, and calendar of cultural events, London is truly a home away from home for many Nigerians. Whether you’re enjoying jollof rice at 805, shopping for spices in Peckham, or celebrating Independence Day in Trafalgar Square, the Nigerian community adds a colourful layer to London’s cultural landscape.