ActiveWestminster

Essential Improvement Works At Paddington Rec’s Rose Garden And Quiet Garden

Essential Improvement Works At Paddington Recreation Ground Commence
Monday 23rd June

A rolling programme of improvement works to lift, level and relay the York stone paving will begin on Monday 23 June 2025 at Paddington Recreation Ground.

To ensure these works are carried out safely and efficiently, one-third of the rose garden and quiet garden will be closed to the public at any one time. The rest of the space will remain open so you can continue to enjoy the park during the summer months.

What the Works Involve

Specialist teams will be restoring the York stone pathways to improve safety, accessibility and the overall look and feel of the gardens.

Project Duration

The works are expected to take approximately 9 weeks, depending on weather conditions.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while we carry out these essential improvements. We look forward to welcoming you back to a refreshed and enhanced garden space soon.

Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates.

Stay Safe This Weekend: Yellow Heat-Health and Wildfire Alerts Issued

Stay Safe This Weekend: Yellow Heat-Health And Wildfire Alerts Issued

As temperatures rise across the UK, a Yellow Heat-Health Alert and a Yellow Wildfire Alert have been issued from today and into the weekend. These warnings serve as an important reminder to take extra care, especially if you’re out and about enjoying parks, green spaces, or community activities in Westminster.

Heat-Health alert: What you need to know

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a Yellow Heat-Health Alert. High temperatures can affect anyone, but especially older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions.

Key resources to help you stay safe

Cool down and stay safe tips

  • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol during the hottest parts of the day
  • Wear loose, light clothing and use sun protection
  • Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat (11am–3pm)
  • Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains and using fans
  • Check in on neighbours, especially older adults and those living alone

Find a Cool Space: Use this interactive map of Cool Spaces in London or register your own venue as a cool refuge

Wildfire alert: Keep green spaces safe

The London Fire Brigade has also issued a Yellow Wildfire Alert, urging residents and visitors to take extra care in parks and open spaces where the ground is dry.

Wildfire prevention tips:

  • Avoid BBQs or open flames in parks, gardens, and green spaces
  • Dispose of cigarettes and glass bottles safely
  • Don’t leave litter – it can become fuel for fires
  • Report unattended fires immediately by calling 999

Visit the London Fire Brigade’s guidance page on wildfires for more information.

We’re working with London Resilience, London Fire Brigade, and partners across Westminster to help keep everyone safe.

Take care and look out for one another

Let’s all do our bit to stay cool, safe, and aware this weekend. Whether you’re heading to the park, leading a community session, or simply walking the dog – be weather-wise and help spread the word.

If you’re organising a community event or activity, consider:

  • Shifting activities to early morning or late evening

  • Providing shaded rest areas and access to drinking water

  • Sharing heat safety tips with attendees

Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the summer responsibly.

Reggae, Roots & Remembrance: Windrush 77 at Grand Junction

Celebrate the 77th Anniversary of Windrush with Reggae Stories at Grand Junction

Join us for a powerful evening of music, culture, and community as we mark the 77th anniversary of Windrush with a special concert –Reggae Stories. This vibrant showcase will honour the musical legacy and lived experiences of the Windrush Generation, whose influence continues to shape the sound and soul of Britain.

The Windrush Generation: Building Britain, Enriching Culture

The term Windrush refers to the generation of Caribbean migrants who arrived in the UK between 1948 and 1971, beginning with the arrival of the Empire Windrush ship on 22 June 1948. These individuals were invited to help rebuild Britain after World War II and have made an enormous contribution to British society, from the NHS and transport systems to culture, music, and the arts. Windrush Day (22 June) is a time to celebrate this legacy, while recognising the challenges many faced and the importance of remembering their stories.

Step Into the Rhythm of Windrush: Join the Celebration

Reggae Stories is an uplifting tribute to the voices that shaped a generation. Hosted in the stunning Grand Junction venue, the night features live performances from acclaimed artists including:

  • Omar
  • Lorna Gee
  • Reggae Choir …and more!

Expect unforgettable music, deep cultural storytelling, and a joyful celebration of Caribbean heritage through reggae and beyond.

Tickets & Community Discount

We’re delighted to offer ActiveWestminster communities a 25% discount on tickets! Use the code GJREGGAE25 at checkout or book directly here with the discount.

Event Date: Friday 20 June
Time: 7pm – until late
Venue: Grand Junction, W2 5TF

Come celebrate Windrush with rhythm, remembrance, and community.

Find out more about the Reggae Stories.

One Step at a Time with ActiveWestminster: Global Wellness Day 2025

One Step At A Time with ActiveWestminster: Global Wellness Day 2025

This Saturday 14 June, we’re joining the worldwide movement to celebrate Global Wellness Day, a day dedicated to living well, feeling better, and embracing healthier habits for life.

Global Wellness Day is a not-for-profit initiative celebrated across more than 170 countries with a simple but powerful message:
“One day can change your whole life.” This year’s theme is all about taking a moment to #ReconnectMagenta – reconnecting with yourself, others, and the world around you through movement, mindfulness and small lifestyle changes.

At ActiveWestminster, we believe in the power of community wellbeing and the small everyday choices that make a big difference – whether that’s joining a local walk, attending a fitness class, volunteering, or taking time to recharge in one of Westminster’s parks and open spaces.

7 Steps to a Healthier You

This year’s Global Wellness Day encourages everyone to embrace these 7 easy steps for a more balanced life:

  1. Walk for an hour
  2. Drink more water
  3. Avoid plastic bottles
  4. Eat healthy food
  5. Do a good deed
  6. Have a family dinner
  7. Sleep at 10pm

How You Can Get Involved

  • Join a local wellbeing walk
  • Explore free or low-cost activities with Everyone Active
  • Take a moment for mindfulness in one of our green spaces
  • Try something new with our ActiveWestminster programme

Ready to start your wellness journey? Let Global Wellness Day be the motivation to take a small step toward better wellbeing for your body, your mind, and your community.

Local Athlete And Champion Of The Future Retains World Muay Thai Title

Local Athlete and Champion of the Future Retains World Muay Thai Title

We’re delighted to share some fantastic news that highlights the power of community support and the impact of our youth development programmes.

Kimani Wilmott, one of our talented Champions of the Future athletes, has successfully defended his World Championship Muay Thai Kickboxing title in Thailand.

Kimani, a local Westminster resident, trains regularly at North Paddington Youth Club and has become a role model for young people in the area. His success is not only a testament to his dedication and hard work but also a reflection of the support provided by the Champions of the Future programme, which helped fund his journey to the Championships through a bursary, alongside community crowdfunding efforts.

This remarkable achievement underlines the importance of investing in young athletes and creating pathways for local talent to thrive on the world stage.

Kimani is one of many outstanding individuals supported by the Champions of the Future programme, and we look forward to celebrating more success stories like his in the future.

Congratulations, Kimani, you’ve made Westminster so very proud!

 

Step Into Summer: Become A Wellbeing Walk Leader During Great Outdoors Month

Step Into Summer: Become a Wellbeing Walk Leader During Great Outdoors Month

June is Great Outdoors Month – a perfect reminder to step outside, get active, and enjoy the green spaces across Westminster. In celebration, ActiveWestminster, in partnership with Everyone Active, is inviting local residents to become Wellbeing Walk Leaders and help others experience the physical and mental health benefits of walking outdoors.

As a Walk Leader, you’ll be trained to plan and guide safe, inclusive and enjoyable walks for residents and visitors. It’s a fantastic way to connect with your community, promote healthy living, and make the most of Westminster’s outdoor spaces — all while gaining valuable skills.

Upcoming FREE Training Sessions:

Everyone Active is offering fully funded online training sessions to get you certified and confident in leading your own group walks.

  • Tuesday 27 May – 6pm to 8pm
  • Wednesday 25 June – 1pm to 3pm
  • Thursday 10 July – 10am to 12pm
  • Monday 4 August – 1pm to 3pm

Leading the Way to a Healthier Community

Great Outdoors Month is all about celebrating nature and movement. Becoming a Walk Leader now is a great way to encourage others to spend more time outside, stay active, and feel good — all while helping build a more connected and healthier community.
 

Let’s walk together for health, for community, and for the joy of the outdoors

To find out more and sign up, email CarjezBryan@everyoneactive.com