A bustling town, Willesden Green boasts a rich tapestry of history, art and culture. Delve deeper to discover its staggering architecture heritage, rich cultural diversity and music pedigree, amongst other stories from the past that still touch our lives today.
The story of Willesden Green is one of a small medieval village and farmland on the outskirts of London, centred around an ancient pilgrimage site, which was transformed into a bustling industrialised town.
Today it is home to one of the most diverse populations in the UK.
Most of us don’t think too much about the architecture or buildings that are the backdrop to our day to day lives.
Yet it’s these buildings that reveal a rich history of life in the area with some dating back to Georgian era, that help us to understand the political, social and economic conditions of the past.
The town has long been a melting pot for different communities from around the world, with Irish, Jewish, Afro-Caribbean, South Asian and other nationalities, choosing to make Willesden Green their home.
With them, each community has contributed to the artistic and cultural diversity of the area, to the benefit of all who live here.
Willesden Green has a history of artists living and working in area, some of whom are celebrated in the Murals located at the heart of the high street.
Read more about the History Mural, the latest addition to the street art in the area.
Willesden Green and the local surroundings host a rich history of musical culture spanning over several decades and many genres.
Recognised as the home of Reggae in the UK, Willesden Green also attracted a wide range of artists including Pink Floyd and Paul McCartney to its recording studios.
Until the mid-19th century, the parish of Willesden was a rural village mainly inhabited by farmers that appeared far removed from the urban metropolis that was London.
Discover the history of its many parks and green spaces.
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