London has one of Europe’s largest Muslim communities. Halal food is easy to find, especially around Edgware Road, Whitechapel and in many chain restaurants.
In December, Dhuhr is around midday and Maghrib before 4pm. Combine prayers sensibly on long sightseeing days.
Prayer rooms
Heathrow has multi-faith prayer rooms in each terminal. Elsewhere, ask at information desks in larger shopping centres and museums, or use a quiet corner of a park.
Friday prayers
Jumu’ah at the Central Mosque and East London Mosque is very busy; arrive early, and both run more than one congregation.
Visiting a mosque
Cover shoulders and knees; women cover their hair. Shoes off at the door.
Good to know
Ask about halal
Many restaurants serve halal chicken or lamb but not halal beef, or cook alongside pork. Ask staff, and look for certification in the window or on the menu.
Alcohol
Most restaurants and pubs serve alcohol. Fully alcohol-free places are fewer; the Edgware Road and Whitechapel restaurants are the easiest choice.
Seafood and vegetarian
Fish restaurants, Indian vegetarian kitchens and Lebanese mezze are good fall-backs when halal meat is unclear.
Winter markets
Christmas market food often includes pork sausages and mulled wine; stick to hot chocolate, churros and roasted chestnuts.