Looking Back to Look Forward: 40 Years of Chinatown in Central London

October 2025 marks 40 years since Westminster City Council officially designated London’s Chinatown — a vibrant neighbourhood that continues to evolve while holding deep cultural and historical significance.

Looking Back to Look Forward: 40 Years of Chinatown in Central London is a year-long festival (October 2025 – September 2026) that invites everyone to reflect on Chinatown’s layered past and imagine its future. Working with business communities, researchers, writers, community organisers, and those with strong connections to the area, we’ll explore key questions: Who has Chinatown been for — and who is it for now? How have Chinatown and London shaped one another over the decades? What did the COVID-19 pandemic reveal about the challenges facing the neighbourhood? And what might the future hold for Chinatown?

Led by Chinatown Collective CIC, in partnership with Kakilang and the HOMELandS Research Centre at the University of Westminster, the festival programme includes: 

Chinatown Stories: The Community-Led Walking Tour - 40th Anniversary Edition

Join us for a special anniversary edition of our walking tour to discover the fascinating stories and characters behind this iconic district and gain a whole new perspective on London’s Chinatown!

Dates: Sun 26 Oct, Wed 29 Oct, Sun 30 Nov 2025. 

Book your tickets here. 

Shared Paths: Kakilang X Chinatown Collective CO-COMMISSION AWARD

Kakilang x Chinatown Collective are co-commissioning a Chinatown Artist Tour for the 2026 season. We’re looking for ESEA artists to reimagine Chinatown’s past, present, and future — uncover hidden histories, challenge stereotypes, and offer new ways to experience this iconic space. This project is partially supported by the Westminster City Council Ward Budget Programme. 

Application Deadline: 5 November 2025

Find out more about the open call and project schedule here. 

A year-long display inside the Gerrard Street telephone box, sharing stories and images marking the 40th anniversary. Stay tuned for our reveal! #ChinatownCalling

A public talk on the history of London’s two Chinatowns— more details coming soon.

And more in the mix — stay tuned!

All proceeds from ticket sales go directly toward supporting festival activities. Join us to explore, reflect on, and reimagine the meaning of Chinatown for generations to come.