London Central Mosque & Islamic Cultural Centre

A Landmark of Faith and Architecture

The London Central Mosque, also known as the Regents Park Mosque, stands as a distinguished symbol of Islamic presence in the heart of London. Completed in 1977 and designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd, its most striking feature is the large golden dome that crowns the building, visible from various points around Regent’s Park. The mosque’s main prayer hall is vast, capable of accommodating over 5,000 worshippers, with a dedicated balcony area for women. Inside, visitors encounter a grand chandelier and an expansive carpet that enhance the serene and reverent atmosphere.

Historical Roots and Community Gift

The mosque’s origins trace back to early 20th-century efforts to establish a central place of worship for Muslims in London. In 1940, during World War II, the British government gifted a prime 2.3-acre site adjacent to Hanover Gate in Regent’s Park to the Muslim community of Great Britain, symbolizing recognition and support. Construction began decades later, culminating in the current building funded significantly by a donation from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. The mosque remains a focal point for British Muslims and a beacon of Islamic culture and faith.

A Hub for Education and Interfaith Engagement

Beyond its religious role, the mosque functions as a vibrant cultural and educational centre. It houses a weekend school educating over 350 students in Arabic language and Islamic studies, welcoming learners from diverse backgrounds. The interfaith department actively promotes dialogue and understanding by collaborating with more than 30 organizations, hosting scriptural reasoning events and peace initiatives. These efforts foster coexistence and mutual respect within London’s multicultural society.

Services and Facilities for Worshippers and Visitors

The mosque operates daily from 10 AM to 9 PM, with extended prayer hours during the last ten days of Ramadan. It offers facilities for all five daily prayers, Jummah congregational prayers, and special prayers like Tahajjud during Ramadan nights. Women have a designated prayer area, though it is smaller and may require sharing during peak times. Additional amenities include a spacious ablution area, toilets, a bookshop, and a cafeteria serving Arabic meals, enhancing the visitor experience.

Marriage and Community Support

The Islamic Cultural Centre within the mosque provides marriage services, including Nikah ceremonies, and hosts a commission addressing religious matters such as inheritance, divorce, and arbitration. This makes it a vital institution for the British Muslim community’s social and spiritual needs. Regular weekly lectures and youth programs, such as the Hikmah Youth Forum and Arabic Cultural Saloon, offer intellectual and cultural enrichment.

Welcoming Visitors and Respectful Practices

Visitors interested in Islam are warmly welcomed, with guidance provided for modest dress codes—covering arms and legs and headscarves for women in prayer areas. The mosque encourages respectful behavior and offers information to help visitors navigate the large complex. It stands not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark promoting peace, education, and community cohesion in London.