Alena Malash

A Journey Through Belarusian Culture

in London

London is a city where many cultures meet and influence each other. The Belarusian

community may not be very large, but it has created important cultural spaces across the city. If

we follow them step by step, we can see how Belarusian culture lives and develops in London

today.

We can begin our journey in North London, in the area of North Finchley. Here stands the

Church of St Cyril of Turau and All the Patron Saints of the Belarusian People. Built in 2016, the

church follows traditional Belarusian wooden architecture and is the only wooden church built in

London since the Great Fire of 1666. For many Belarusians, this place is not only about religion,

but also about community, memory and belonging.

Right next to the church, the story continues at the Francis Skaryna Belarusian Library and

Museum. This unique institution is the only library outside Belarus fully dedicated to Belarusian

culture and history. Inside, visitors can find rare books, archives and historical materials that tell

the story of Belarus and its people in exile. The library often becomes a meeting point for

discussions, readings and cultural exchange.

From this quiet cultural corner in North London, we can move further into the city, where

Belarusian culture takes a more public and artistic form. In central London, the Belarus Free

Theatre represents a modern and powerful voice of Belarusian culture. Originally founded in

Minsk as an independent theatre group, it was forced to continue its work in exile. Today,

London is its main base. Through performances, the theatre speaks about freedom, identity and

human rights, using art as a form of expression and resistance.

After experiencing Belarusian culture through history and theatre, the journey naturally leads to

something more everyday — food. In areas such as Soho and Notting Hill, the restaurant ZIMA

offers a taste of Eastern Europe. While it is not strictly Belarusian, its menu reflects the wider

cultural region to which Belarus belongs. Traditional dishes like dumplings, cabbage rolls and

salads are presented in a modern style, allowing visitors to connect with the culture through

flavour and atmosphere.

By the end of this journey, it becomes clear that Belarusian culture in London is not located in

just one place. It moves from a wooden church and a quiet library, to a bold theatre stage, and

finally to a shared table in a busy restaurant. Together, these spaces show how Belarusians

keep their cultural identity alive while becoming part of London’s diverse and multicultural life.

Chikako Sano

Japan’s Convenience Store Culture

24/7

When it comes to convenience, people in Japan have always been obsessed with making day-

to-day life easy. One of their most famous ideas is a convenience store, which is essential for

daily life. There are tens of thousands of convenience stores in Japan, so you can find one

almost everywhere.

The interesting thing is that they are open 24 hours a day. There are attractive items as far as

the eye can see. They sell food, drinks, and daily necessities. You might be bewildered about

which one to buy. No matter how late you go back home, you can stop by the store and grab

some food on the way.

They sell region-limited products. Although Japan is small, but there are 46 regions and each

has its own local specialties. So, many convenience stores sell them. It’s worthwhile to give

them a try. You need to keep your ear to the ground so that you don’t miss any of them. Even if

you stop by just for a moment, you never get bored. I’m sure you will find yourself getting

excited in a jiffy.

If you get to travel to Japan, you will definitely be hooked on convenience stores and you might

pass for Japanese if you get used to going there.

There aren't any Japanese convenience stores in London, but there are counterparts that have

a similar vibe called “S Mart” in Queensway (18 Queensway, London W2 3RX) and Natural

Natural in Ealing (21 Station Parade, Uxbridge Rd, London W5 3LD). If you’re intrigued, it’s

worth checking out. There are a lot of things that catch your eye, so all you have to do is go with

your gut feeling.

Aisha Monteiro

Discovering Italy in London 🇮🇹

London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, and it offers a surprisingly rich Italian

experience — without ever leaving the UK. From historic neighborhoods to authentic cuisine

and world-class art, you can immerse yourself in Italian culture right in the heart of the city.

A Walk Through Little Italy

Start your journey in Clerkenwell, often referred to as London’s “Little Italy.” This charming area

has been home to the Italian community since the 19th century and still carries traces of its

heritage today. As you walk through its quiet streets, you’ll feel a subtle Mediterranean

atmosphere mixed with London’s unique character.

Authentic Italian Cuisine

No Italian experience would be complete without exceptional food.

In Clerkenwell, La Casetta offers a warm and traditional dining atmosphere where you can

enjoy a truly authentic culinary experience.

For pasta lovers, Padella is a must-visit. Highly rated (4.7 stars from over 9,000 reviews), it is

famous for its fresh, handmade pasta and simple yet refined flavors.

Across London, you’ll also find countless places serving authentic pizza, fresh pasta, creamy

tiramisu, and rich Italian espresso — bringing a taste of Rome, Milan, or Naples to the British

capital.

Italian Art and Culture

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art, which

showcases masterpieces by major 20th-century Italian artists. It is a hidden gem that offers an

intimate look at modern Italian creativity

.

For lovers of classical music and performance, the Royal Opera House regularly features

Italian operas and ballets, including works by legendary composers such as Giuseppe Verdi

and Giacomo Puccini. Experiencing Italian opera in such a prestigious venue is truly

unforgettable.

To deepen your cultural exploration, the Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Londra offers

exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events throughout the year, strengthening the

connection between Italy and the UK.

A Taste of Italy, Without Leaving London

London proves that you don’t need to travel to Italy to experience its beauty, flavor, and artistic

heritage. Whether through food, art, music, or community history, the city offers a refined and

authentic Italian atmosphere abroad.

In London, Italy is not just a memory, it's a living experience.