London has continuously been considered a recreation playground of
many travellers especially Nigerians. However, the city is typically
defined by several ethnic neighbourhoods such as British, Chinese,
Nigerians, Latinos and many others. There are some neighbourhoods in
London, which have been settled largely by Nigerians; and you will find
high concentration of Naija people living in these areas.
We scouted round London for neighbourhoods that have high
concentration of Nigerians and we found some amazing areas, which have
the genuine Nigerian appearance – reminiscent of Nigeria, with its
restaurants, stores, foodstuff and everything ‘Naija’ you can think of.
So, we present to you the 10 top Nigerian neighbourhoods in London:
1. Peckham
Photo by
Livvy Adjei on Flickr
Peckham has become a centre of Nigerian-British life and culture in
London. Peckham is somewhat called, “mini Lagos” because there is
nothing in Lagos that you will not find in this area. Peckham is located
within the London Borough of Southwark and you will find a large
population of Nigerians living here. The neighbourhood features Nigerian
restaurants, stores and shops filled with Nigerian-made imports
including food stuffs.
Insider Tip: For delicious Nigerian delicacies, head to
Lolak Afrique restaurant, where you will find a variety of Nigerian cuisine. If you ever miss Suya, visit Obalende Suya
Restaurant and get Suya meat grilled over fire and seasoned with very hot spices.
2. Thamesmead
Located in the London Boroughs of Greenwich and Bexley, Thamesmead is
one neighbourhood that is well integrated with many Nigerians. The
district is bustling with plethora of ethnic restaurants, which offer a
large variety of boiled, fried and cooked Nigerian delicacies. There is
an array of shops and stores, owned by Nigerians, such as
Ade’s Cash and Carry,
John and Biola Supermarket and many more. These stores specialize in Nigerian imports, foods and other things you can find in any supermarket in Nigeria.
3. Abbey Wood
When you visit Abbey Wood, you will feel like you are in
Nigeria. Abbey Wood is a district of South East London and located south
of Thamesmead. In this neighbourhood, you get to meet ‘loud’ Nigerians
on the street, speak your language and familiarize with each other.
Abbey Wood has a reputation for Nigeria residents, along with great
Naija restaurants and stores.
4. Woolwich
Photo Source: Maurice on Flickr
Woolwich has always played home to some Nigerian residents in London.
The district is home to some Nigerian businesses, churches, shops and
restaurants. You will never believe you are actually in London when you
are in this area. You might want to visit
Tasty African restaurant for Nigerian delicacies especially their puff puff.
5. Deptford
Deptford is made up of relatively beautiful buildings and streets,
and is considered a notable neighborhood for some Nigerians. Located in
South-East London, on the south bank of River Thames; Deptford functions
as home to several Nigerian stores filled with imports and produce from
Nigeria. If you love Nigerian foods, you should probably visit Tomi’s
Kitchen, where you will find the finest Nigerian beers, palm wine and
delicacies.
6. Lewisham
Lewisham offers housing developments for its residents, the
neighbourhood is perfect for families and that is why most Nigerians in
London prefer living here. Dedicated Nigerian business owners have made
Lewisham more Nigerian, a fascinating focal point for businesses such as
Covenant Cargo,
Wotas and many others. If you are craving for Nigerian foods, you should visit
Enish Nigerian Restaurant and Grill for delicious home-made foods.
7. Erith
Erith is perhaps best known as home of several ethnicities including
Nigerians. The area comes alive with its wide selection of bars and
restaurants, which attracts residents and visitors. Nigerian culinary
setting is well represented in restaurants such as
Eko Wine Bar and Restaurant,
Anedo Restaurant and Bar and many others.
8. Old Kent Road
Old Kent Road is a road that forms part of Watling Street in South
East London. This neighbourhood is home to some Nigerian mosques and
churches, and of course, stores that sell produce from Nigeria.
Nigerians seem to have infused life into the neighbourhood, with a
variety of Nigerian restaurants and bars such as
805 restaurant,
Presidential Suya and
Wazobia restaurant. This neighbourhood is really a place to visit!
9. Camberwell
Crawberwell offers amazing restaurants, bakeries, stores and
supermarkets that honour Nigerian culture and lifestyle. The area is
teeming with entertainment venues, bars and clubs where you can mingle
with Nigerian people and reminisce about home. If you are craving for
authentic Nigerian foods, you should visit
Emukay,
Cannan restaurant,
Legacy African Restaurant and many more.
10. Brixton
Brixton Market | Photo Cropped from
Google Street View
For years, Nigerian immigrants have been setting up businesses and
stores in Brixton. If you are looking for a place to get Nigerian
groceries, where you can buy Yam, pepper, Okro, vegetables and perhaps
even Garri, you should visit Brixton Market. This area is also speckled
with small shops where residents can get everything Nigerian from
produce to Nigerian clothing – Ankara and Lace materials. Nigerian
restaurants are not hard to find as Brixton is surrounded with a variety
of neighbourhood cafés.
Have you lived or visited any of these neighbourhoods? Share your experience with us in the comment below:
Source: Travel Start
Now I know where I will settle in London. #tongueout
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