Sometimes only a wings and chips from Morley’s will do, and most Londoners know that exact feeling. It’s become an institution, and the London Museum is recognising that very fact as the chicken shop celebrates 40 years of slinging fried chicken to hungry passersby.
When the museum opens up, you’ll be able to gaze at the original red sign from the very first Morley’s over in Syndenham, which was founded in 1985 by Kannalingam “Indran” Selvendran.
In a ceremonious event this week, musicians Krept And Konan handed over the iconic original sign with Kannalingam Mahendran (brother of Kannalingam Selvendran) and his daughter Janani Nageswaran. The Morley’s logo is instantly recognisable, and is now set to be etched in history over in the exciting new museum display.
Speaking on the news, Shan Selvendran, Chief Executive Officer of Morley’s said: “Ever since our beginnings as a small family-run shop, it was always my father’s dream to make Morley’s a household name. Through his passion for community and flavour, he built a loyal presence in south London – laying the foundation for where we are today.
“Although his unexpected passing meant he wasn’t here to see just how far we’ve grown, Dad’s vision lives on – and it means the world to see our story being recognised by London Museum. Morley’s means so much to so many people – as part of their own lives and heritage – so this moment is also for everyone who has been a part of that journey.”
The London Museum is opening up in its new location in the historic Smithfield Market buildings in 2026, and feature the Morley’s sign in their Our Time section to celebrate displays around the city from living memory.
For its first 35 years, Morley’s was strictly refined to multiple locations south of the river, but can now be found stretched across the city and beyond, from Acton to Brighton, Brick Lane to Milton Keynes. Grab your favourite meal and then head over to check out the OG sign when the London Museum opens. Unless your meal comes after a night out…