Finding a Home in London as an Asian Expat or Immigrant
London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. From the vibrant markets of South Asia to the flavors of East Asia London has a place for everyone. For many Asian expats and immigrants finding the right neighborhood is about more than just housing. It is about community food schools places of worship and a sense of belonging.
If you are moving to London or thinking about relocating within the city this guide explores the best neighborhoods for Asian communities. Whether you are looking for great Asian supermarkets authentic restaurants cultural hubs or family-friendly areas this is your ultimate guide to where Asian people should live in London.
1 East Ham The Heart of the South Asian Community
Why live here: East Ham is one of the best areas in London for South Asians especially those from India Pakistan and Bangladesh. The streets are lined with South Asian grocery stores halal butchers and restaurants serving authentic dishes from every region.
Amenities: The famous Green Street is home to some of the best South Asian shopping in London with clothing stores selling sarees lehengas and shalwar kameez. Boleyn Cinema is a hotspot for Bollywood films while Plashet Park offers a green escape.
Transport Links: East Ham Station on the District and Hammersmith & City lines provides direct access to central London. Buses connect to Stratford Ilford and other major areas.
Community: East Ham has a strong Indian Bangladeshi and Pakistani community with many mosques temples and gurdwaras making it an ideal place for those who want to stay connected to their culture.
2 Wembley A Thriving Indian and Sri Lankan Hub
Why live here: Wembley is known for its large Indian and Sri Lankan communities. It is one of the best places in London for Indian festivals especially Diwali and Navratri which are celebrated with grand events.
Amenities: Ealing Road is famous for its Indian shops and restaurants. Wembley Central has some of the best South Asian grocery stores like Quality Foods and Patel Brothers. Neasden Temple is a must-visit for the Hindu community while Wembley Park is home to the iconic Wembley Stadium.
Transport Links: Wembley Central and Wembley Park Stations provide access to Bakerloo Metropolitan and Jubilee lines. Easy access to Heathrow Airport via the Piccadilly Line.
Community: This area is perfect for Indian Sri Lankan and Tamil communities who want to be near their places of worship and cultural events.
3 Southall The Little India of London
Why live here: Southall is one of the most famous Asian neighborhoods in London often called Little India because of its large Punjabi and Sikh population. The streets are full of Punjabi restaurants clothing stores and markets.
Amenities: Broadway Road is the heart of Southall lined with Punjabi and Pakistani restaurants like Meera’s Village Karahi King and Gifto’s Lahore Karahi. Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara is one of the largest Sikh temples in Europe. Southall Park and Minet Country Park provide green spaces for families.
Transport Links: Southall Station is part of the Elizabeth Line providing a fast connection to Central London. Multiple bus routes connect to Ealing Heathrow and Hounslow.
Community: Perfect for Punjabis Sikhs and Muslims looking for a culturally rich environment with everything they need within walking distance.
4 Ilford A Diverse and Growing Asian Community
Why live here: Ilford is home to a mixed South Asian and East Asian community including Indians Pakistanis Bengalis and Chinese. It is an affordable alternative to Central London with excellent schools and transport links.
Amenities: Ilford Lane is packed with halal food options clothing shops and supermarkets like Tesco Asda and multiple Asian grocery stores. Valentines Park is a beautiful place for walks and family outings. Ilford Exchange Shopping Centre offers a variety of stores.
Transport Links: Ilford Station is on the Elizabeth Line connecting to Liverpool Street in 15 minutes. Easy access to the M11 and A406 for driving outside London.
Community: A mix of professionals students and families from diverse Asian backgrounds making it a great place for integration and community support.
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5 Hounslow A Hub for Indian and Afghan Communities
Why live here: Hounslow is a great choice for those working near Heathrow Airport and is home to a large Indian Afghan and Middle Eastern community.
Amenities: Hounslow West is packed with Indian and Afghan restaurants and bakeries. Lampton Park is great for families and Hounslow High Street has a mix of local and high-street stores. The Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in nearby Southall is one of the most important Sikh temples in the UK.
Transport Links: Hounslow Central and Hounslow West Stations provide Piccadilly Line access to Heathrow and Central London. Great road connections via M4 and A4.
Community: Ideal for Indian Afghan and Pakistani families looking for an affordable area with a strong cultural presence.
6 Canary Wharf The Best Place for Asian Professionals
Why live here: For young professionals from China India Japan and other Asian countries Canary Wharf is the best place to live. It is a financial hub with luxury apartments and world-class amenities.
Amenities: High-end shopping at Canary Wharf Shopping Centre fine dining at Roka and Gaucho and green spaces like Jubilee Park make it an attractive area. The Museum of London Docklands offers insights into the city’s history.
Transport Links: Canary Wharf Station on the Jubilee Line and Elizabeth Line connects to Central London in minutes. DLR provides quick access to East London and Stratford.
Community: Perfect for Asian professionals working in banking finance and tech.
7 Stratford The Best for Students and Young Families
Why live here: Stratford is a fast-growing area with modern housing a vibrant shopping scene and a mix of communities from South Asia China and the Middle East.
Amenities: Westfield Stratford City is one of the biggest shopping malls in Europe. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offers plenty of sports and recreational activities. University of East London and Queen Mary University are nearby.
Transport Links: Stratford Station is a major transport hub with connections to Central London via Central and Jubilee Lines. High-speed rail services to other parts of the UK.
Community: A diverse and growing community with a mix of students professionals and families.
Final Thoughts The Best Neighborhoods for Asians in London
London is a city where every culture finds a home. Whether you are looking for a strong Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Chinese or other Asian community these neighborhoods offer great options.
Best for Families
- Southall
- Ilford
- Hounslow
Best for Professionals
- Canary Wharf
- Stratford
Best for Cultural Experience
- Wembley
- East Ham
- Southall
Looking for a Home
Check out Rightmove Zoopla or Spotahome for the best rental and purchase options.
Which London neighborhood do you love the most Let us know in the comments.