Pre-Carnival Run

The day before Carnival always feels different in Notting Hill. The air is buzzing with anticipation, the streets are shifting into celebration mode, and the neighbourhood begins to transform. A couple of our Notting Hill Running Club members laced up for a pre-Carnival run to soak up the atmosphere, and it didn’t disappoint.

As we made our way through familiar streets, we passed by shops and premises boarded up in preparation for the festivities. Many of the boards were already covered in colourful graffiti and artwork, a classic sight that has become just as much a part of Carnival as the music and dancing. It’s a reminder of the area’s unique spirit: a little bit gritty, a lot creative, and always alive with culture.

For us at NHRC, this tradition resonates with our identity. Our branding and logo nod to these moments, the mix of energy, colour, and resilience that makes Notting Hill so distinctive. Running past these boards felt like running past part of our own story.

Most importantly, the run itself was a joy. The streets were buzzing, the community was out preparing, and we got to experience Notting Hill in that rare in-between stage, just before the Carnival kicks off.

Check out some of the sights we saw below!