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How to Celebrate UK Black History Month

ASMALLWORLD

Welcome to UK Black History Month. This insightful period is celebrated at different times across the globe, with the UK and Ireland choosing the month of October. Discover our editors’ favourite upcoming events below.

London

Kick-start the month with Reclaiming History: Untold Stories of Britain's Diverse Heritage on Tuesday 1 October, led by BAFTA-winning filmmaker and writer David Olusoga. The evening promises to be filled with insightful topics of conversation about black heritage and history in the UK. 

Brighton and Hove

Enjoy some light entertainment from triple BAFTA award-winning comedian Mo Gilligan with his show ‘In the Moment’ on Wednesday 9 October. With a slew of awards under his belt, not to mention two sell-out national tours and London 02 Arena shows, Gilligan is leading the way with his original writing and performance style. 'In the Moment’ promises to be an illuminating show in Brighton, a seaside city famed for its creativity which is easily accessible via train from London. 

MO GILLIGAN

© Thomas Morgan

Edinburgh, Scotland

Learn about the artist Jacob Epstein with an exclusive talk led by Dr Rochelle Rowe on Friday 18 October, titled ‘The Black Woman Modernist Muse in Jacob Epstein’s Art, 1915-1959'. This promises to be an eye-opening talk about the sculptor’s history and his famed creations and why he is relevant today. 

Round off the Scottish leg of Black History Month 2024 by listening to the fusion of Guinean-Gaelic music by Afro Celt Sound System (ACSS). With instruments ranging from the hurdy-gurdy to synthesisers and uillean pipes, ACSS has built a reputation for its unique performances and musical talent. 

JACOB EPSTEIN’S ‘FIRST PORTRAIT OF ROMA OF BARBADOS’

Courtesy of Black History Month Scotland © Fitzwilliam Museum

With numerous Black History Month events scheduled across the country, there’s plenty to do and see throughout the month. As an ASMALLWORLD Member you will have access to a number of fantastic hotels in the heart of the action, such as the Westin London City, just a 20-minute walk away from the ‘Reclaiming History’ talk venue. With its convenient location beside the Thames and Tate Modern, the Westin is in a prime location from which to explore the city. Afterwards, make your way over to the onsite spa, champagne bar, or one of the two elegant restaurants.

If you’re venturing up north, enjoy a luxurious retreat at the Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux. Nestled in East Lothian, just an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, here you can enjoy a peaceful stay, relax in the beautiful Edwardian-era interiors or try your hand at some golf. And you can still have the option of discovering the Scottish capital. 

WESTIN LONDON CITY

Courtesy of Marriott International

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