The History of London's Irish Communities

This was a very poor population escaping famine and extreme deprivation in Ireland. Some areas of London became densely populated with poor Irish families.

Irish Role in the Success of London

This Irish population played an important role in the economic success of London, and Britain as a whole. The workforce they created built much of the infrastructure – railways, roads, canals, bridges and factories – that made Britain the most economically successful country in the world by the end of the 19th century.

Irish in London post-1950

The Irish performed this role again, alongside new populations from other parts of the world, when the 1950s post-war boom created a need for an expanded workforce in London and the rest of the country.

Irish people now not only worked in construction helping rebuild post-war London, but also staffed the hospitals, transport system and offices.

Kilburn: the Home of London's Irish

Kilburn became a hub for Irish people in London. Irish pubs and dancehalls flourished in the area, helping to maintain links with home as well as preserving the communities traditions. Gaelic sports, Irish dancing and traditional music are still practiced and kept alive today by a large community of second and third generation Irish people.

The Young Generation of London Irish

From the mid-1980s, the young generation of London Irish erupted onto the contemporary cultural scene with the success of bands like the Pogues. A new generation of modern Irish restaurants opened to acclaim – some like Richard Corrigan's The Lindsay House have won Michelin stars – and burgeoning interest in Irish culture and heritage in all its aspects.

Today, with the economic and cultural success of Ireland itself, and the peace process in Northern Ireland, the London Irish are confidently participating in all aspects of life in the capital and bringing an Irish twist to many aspects of its cultural and social life.

Did you Know?

● The world famous Foyle's bookshop began life in Kilburn before moving to its current home in Charing Cross Road in 1926.