London Central Mosque is one of the city’s most famous Islamic places of worship. Situated on the edge of Regent’s Park; the prominent white building is topped with a beautiful golden dome and an 140-foot high minaret that can be seen through the treetops.
The mosque can accommodate over 5,000 worshippers in its grand prayer hall, and is decorated with intricate mosaics, marble floors and pretty impressive chandelier (which was once the largest in the UK).
The history of the London Central Mosque
London Central Mosque is joined to the Islamic Cultural Centre which was opened in 1944, when the acquisition of the site was first authorised. The mosque wasn’t actually designed until 1973, when English architect, Sir Frederick Gibberd’s design was selected from hundreds of applicants during an international competition. Construction started in 1974 and the mosque was completed and opened to the public in 1977.
The construction of London Central Mosque took over two years to complete, costing around £6 million in total – £2 million of which was in the form of a generous donation from H.M King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Over the years, the mosque has received various donations and contributions towards the extension and renovations of the mosque and the Islamic Cultural Centre. The landmark mosque was given Grade II* listed status 2018, in recognition of its historic, cultural and architectural importance.
The Islamic Cultural Centre
The Islamic Cultural Centre boasts one of the largest and oldest Islamic reference libraries, with a rich selection of historic books and journals in both English and Arabic. The library holds more than 25,000 books, and copies of the Quran in 30 different languages.
The centre also holds an Islamic exhibition – the first of its kind in the UK. Occupying over 60 metres of wall space; the exhibition provides visitors with a visual journey through the Islamic faith.
Find out more and plan your visit to the London Central Mosque here.
📍 146 Park Road, NW8 7RG.