The United Kingdom is a popular destination among Muslim travelers and is home to a large percentage of Muslims; with majority of them living in England and Wales. Islam is considered to be the second largest religion in the country, with most cities having pockets of Muslim-concentrated areas. The Muslim community consists of many ethnicities, but majority is of British-Asian origin.
Most cities in the UK have prayer facilities; however, locating halal food might be harder in certain areas. Muslim travelers planning on visiting the UK will be spoilt for choice, as most of the cities are Muslim-friendly and have adequate facilities. Following are a few of the top Muslim-friendly destinations in the United Kingdom, compiled by HalalTrip.
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London, the capital of England, is one of the most visited cities in the world and is home to the largest Muslim population in the country; with Muslims of different ethnicities living in its many boroughs. This cosmopolitan city draws visitors from around the globe, including Muslims. London has a lot to offer its many visitors, with a vast array of attractions, museums, galleries, parks and some fantastic shopping.
Muslim travelers visiting London will be able to find prayer facilities without difficulty, as the city is home to a number of mosques, Islamic centers and prayer rooms. Locating halal food in London too, is not difficult, as visitor will be able to find an array of halal restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
Bradford, located in northern England, is another city with a sizeable Muslim population of 30.5%. Muslim travelers visiting this city can locate mosques without a problem, as the city is home to over 70 prayer facilities.
The city of Bradford is popularly known as the curry capital of Britain as it is home to many Asian curry houses. Those looking for halal restaurants will be spoilt for choice, as the city has many Muslim owned restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Not to be missed when in Bradford is its city park, which contains United Kingdom’s largest man made water feature.
Luton is a large town located north of London and is another Muslim-friendly destination in the UK. It is home to a diverse ethnic mix of people, with a sizeable Muslim population of 32.9%; consisting mainly of Asian descent.
Luton has a wide selection of restaurants spread across the town; however, Muslim travelers can find a concentration of Asian halal restaurants in Bury Park. The town is home to over 20 mosques so Muslim travelers will be able to locate prayer facilities in Luton quite easily.
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Birmingham, the second most populous city after London is an ethnically and culturally diverse city. Home to a considerable number of Muslims (29.9%) the city offers its Muslim visitors halal-friendly facilities. With over 150 mosques spread across Birmingham, Muslim travelers will be able to find a mosque to offer their prayers at quite easily.
Halal food is also easy to locate; with most halal restaurants serving South Asian, Mediterranean and Arabic food. The Cadbury World, situated close by, is a must-visit when in Birmingham.
Blackburn has the largest population of Muslims in the UK, with 35% of the total city population being a Muslim from different origins, located just outside of London, making it another good destination for Muslims travelers visiting the country.
With more than 40 mosques spread across Blackburn, Muslim travelers will have easy access to prayer facilities when required. Locating halal restaurants will also not be as difficult; as there are many halal restaurants catering to Blackburn’s local Muslim community.
West Yorkshire, UK's Dewsbury is a small yet welcoming city that with Muslim-friendly amenities, making it a must visit travel destination for Muslims. Dewsbury, which has a multicultural population, is home to a number of Muslims where Islam is one of the major religion. It is also home to exquisite and hospitable mosques that serve as places for the Muslim community. Additionally, guests may enjoy the wide variety of delectable halal cuisine options that are offered at eateries and retail establishments all around the city.
One of its most well-liked attractions is Dewsbury Market and Dewsbury Arcade, where guests may peruse an extensive selection of clothes, antiques, and regional specialties. In addition, the city is well known for its magnificent old buildings, such as Dewsbury Minster.
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Glasgow, a bustling Scottish city, provides a warm atmosphere for Muslim tourists with a variety of Muslim-friendly amenities. Home to most Muslims in the Scotland, there are several mosques in the city where believers can pray and have spiritual discussions. Glasgow also has a plethora of shops and restaurants serving delectable halal food, accommodating a wide range of dietary requirements. Large Muslim populations may be found in areas like Pollokshields and Govanhill, which give tourists an idea of the city's diverse population.
However, Glasgow has plenty to offer beyond its facilities that are welcoming to Muslims. From famous buildings like the Glasgow Cathedral and the Glasgow Necropolis to the busy alleys of the Merchant City district, visitors should discover the city's rich history and lively culture. The elite collections at places like the will appeal to art connoisseurs.
Located in the center of England, Leicester is a dynamic city known for its rich history and ethnic culture. Leicester, which has a flourishing Muslim community with 23.5% of the population, provides a variety of Muslim-friendly amenities, such as mosques for prayer and contemplation and an abundance of halal food options at its numerous markets and restaurants.
Leicester's sights are intriguing, but its cultural variety is even more of a reason to visit. History fans may learn more about the mysterious monarch and the Battle of Bosworth at the city's well-known King Richard III Visitor Center. Furthermore, Leicester's National Space Centre showcases the marvels of space research and offers an incredible experience. For individuals who want to spend some time in nature, Bradgate Park provides peaceful strolls and stunning views.
Manchester, a thriving city in northwest England, has a number of amenities that are welcoming to the Muslim population. With 22.3% of Muslim populations, there are many eateries and stores give a large assortment of delectable halal cuisine to suit a variety of preferences, mosques strewn across the city offer places for prayer and spiritual connection. Places such as Rusholme, also referred to as the Curry Mile, are popular with Muslims both as tourists and locals due to their lively environment and plenty of halal restaurants.
But Manchester has much more to offer than only facilities that are welcoming to Muslims. The city's lively environment, rich industrial legacy, and thriving cultural scene attract a lot of visitors. Famous sites including the Manchester Museum, which has an enormous collection of antiquities dating back thousands of years, and the historic Manchester architecture for visitors to enjoy.
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Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, offers a range of services that cater to Muslims when they visit. With the second highest population of Muslims in the city, there are several mosques in the city, offering spaces for prayer and introspection, and there are many of halal food alternatives in its varied culinary scene, so guests may eat well all during their vacation. Known for its diverse populations and selection of halal restaurants, neighborhoods like Leith and Southside enhance Edinburgh's standing as an inclusive travel destination. However, Edinburgh has plenty to offer beyond its amenities that are welcoming to Muslims.
The city's breathtaking architecture, extensive history, and lively cultural scene entice tourists to visit. Famous sites that highlight the city's rich history include the Edinburgh Castle, which is positioned atop Castle Rock and provides stunning views of the city, and the Royal Mile, a pedestrian promenade dotted with buildings dating back centuries and brimming with activity. The world's biggest arts event, Edinburgh event Fringe, takes place every year and draws visitors and artists from all over the world, showcasing the vibrant arts sector in the city.
Here are popular and underrated destinations that Muslim travelers should visit when in the UK. These cities have a sizeable Muslim population; therefore offering their Muslim visitors many Muslim-friendly facilities and welcoming them with a worry-free travel. Each of these cities has prayer facilities and halal restaurants that tourists could use. The availability of these facilities is sure to make holidaying in the UK an enjoyable experience for Muslim travelers.
