7 ways to stay safe at Notting Hill Carnival

The famous Notting Hill Carnival returns this weekend. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the summer, where you can expect to see steel bands, flamboyant costumes and experience great food and entertainment.

It takes place this year on August 25th and 26th, this Sunday and the upcoming Bank Holiday Monday. And most of the festival’s two-million-plus revellers will have a safe and enjoyable visit to London. Make sure YOUR carnival experience is as positive as it can be with our 7 safety tips.

1. Night tube? Taxi? Bus? Plan your route home before you set off

Lots of people will be travelling to and from London during the two days of Carnival. Public transport may be busier than normal. To stay safe, try not to be tempted to take an unlicenced taxi or to walk home via an unfamiliar route.

This web page has the latest information on the Tube, Overground and bus services, and you can plan your journey on the Transport for London journey planner website page, as well as follow their updates on X at @TfL.

2. Those landmarks can come in handy! Set a meeting point

With all that dancing and jumping about, you might lose family or friends in the crowd. So agree a meeting point before the festivities start and then you can reunite if you get separated.

3. Blocked up? Stay clear!

As Carnival is a busy event, roads sometimes get congested or blocked. To minimise your chance of getting pickpocketed, wait for crowds to clear before you go ahead.

4. If you’re not a Pearly King, leave the bling at home

Just bring the essentials – some cash, keys, sunscreen and an old mobile phone. Leave expensive jewellery, camera gear and electronic devices at home if you can - flashy items can tempt opportunistic thieves.

5. Be alcohol aware

If you choose to drink, be aware of your cup, can or bottle – always keep it in your sight.

Punch is a popular alcoholic drink at Carnival; the alcohol content of this homemade drink can vary. If your group is planning to drive later that day then make sure you have a designated driver.

6. Know your Carnival details

Keeping safe is much easier if you know which facilities are in the area and where you can go to take a breather or get some help.

This web page gives details of the schedules for each day, as well as maps and lots of other useful information. It's probably worth looking at before you go, as mobile signals at Carnival can be patchy.

7. Little Carnival goers: stay safe with children at Carnival

Sunday is Family Day at Carnival, and is the best day to visit Notting Hill with children.

Arrive early - you don’t want your children getting separated from you in the crowds! Make sure your children know that if they do get separated from you, they can talk to one of the many Police Officers that will be in attendance.

Finally, if you know of anyone planning to commit a crime at Notting Hill Carnival, or have any information about crime during the event itself, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or complete our anonymous online form, here on our website.