Notting Hill Carnival reaches its peak on Monday, with more than 100 roads closed across the west London district to host Europe’s largest street party. The closures, which began on Sunday, will remain in force until early Tuesday, with only pre-authorised vehicles and emergency services permitted to drive into the carnival zone.
Road closures and restrictions
Road closures apply from 6am on Sunday, August 30, to 6am on Tuesday, September 1, while parking restrictions came into effect from 11.59pm on Saturday, August 29. Even residents will be denied access to driving in the area.
For the first time in its history, Notting Hill Gate will be closed to motorists, except buses on Sunday and Monday. Traffic will be diverted via Addison Road, Kensington High Street, and Kensington Church Street.
Tube station closures and travel advice
There will also be widespread disruption across the Underground network, with Ladbroke Grove closed all day on Monday and several other stations operating as exit-only from 11am. This includes Notting Hill Gate, Westbourne Park, Holland Park, Queensway, and Royal Oak.
Notting Hill Gate will have no entry from 11am to 6pm, with District and Circle lines not stopping. Holland Park closes at 3pm, while Queensway and Royal Oak close at 6pm. Latimer Road may close for short periods throughout the day, and Shepherds Bush will have no ticket facilities or down escalator after 4pm.
Bus diversions and special services
Several bus routes are affected by the closures, including 7, 18, 23, 27, 28, 31, 36, 52, 70, 228, 295, 302, 316, and 328, plus night buses N7, N27, N28, and N31. TfL operates special bus routes to get revellers as close to the carnival perimeter as possible, including 148X to Victoria and Vauxhall, 7X to East Acton, 36X to Harrow Road, 18X to Stonebridge Park, and 6X to Harrow Road.
Carnival-goers are advised to check before travelling, as TfL regularly closes stations if they become too busy during carnival periods.
