The UK has been home to Indian and wider Asian communities for decades. Today, many cities offer a strong sense of culture, faith, food, and community life—along with practical benefits like affordability, good schools, and easy access to mandirs, gurudwaras, mosques, and temples. If you’re planning to move within the UK (or arriving from abroad), here’s a guide to some of the best places for Indian and Asian families to live.
1. Leicester – The Heart of Indian Life in the UK
Leicester is often considered the most Asian-friendly city in the UK.
Why Leicester?
- One of the highest Indian populations outside London
- Affordable house prices and rents compared to London
- Strong Gujarati, Punjabi, and South Indian communities
Faith & Culture
- Many mandirs, including BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Several large gurudwaras
- Mosques, Jain temples, and community centres
Lifestyle
- Excellent Indian food scene (Golden Mile is famous)
- Good schools and universities
- Walkable city with strong public transport
Best for: Families, first-time buyers, retirees, and those wanting strong community support
Useful Links
- Leicester City Council: https://www.leicester.gov.uk
- Golden Mile (Belgrave Road): https://www.visitleicester.info/things-to-do/golden-mile-belgrave-road
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Leicester: https://www.baps.org/Global-Network/Europe/Leicester.aspx
2. London – Community Choice by Area
London has the largest Asian population in the UK, but choosing the right area is key.
Best Asian-Friendly Areas in London
Southall (West London)
- Known as “Little India”
- Easy access to mandirs and gurudwaras
- Punjabi and North Indian majority
Wembley & Harrow
- Large Gujarati and South Indian populations
- BAPS Mandir Neasden nearby
- Good schools and family-friendly neighbourhoods
Ilford & East Ham (East London)
- Strong Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities
- Affordable (for London)
- Many mosques, temples, and Asian shops
Hounslow & Hayes
- Diverse Asian population
- Close to Heathrow (good for travel)
- Many faith centres and Indian grocery stores
Affordability:
- London is expensive overall, but outer West and East London offer better value
Best for: Professionals, business owners, and those who want career opportunities plus community life
Useful London Resources
- Transport for London (travel & commute): https://tfl.gov.uk
- UK Government housing & local services: https://www.gov.uk/browse/housing-local-services
3. Birmingham – Affordable & Diverse
Birmingham has one of the largest Asian populations in the UK, with strong Indian and Pakistani communities.
Why Birmingham?
- Lower housing costs than London
- Good job opportunities
- Central UK location
Faith & Culture
- Many gurudwaras, mandirs, and mosques
- Active community organisations
Popular Areas
- Handsworth
- Smethwick
- Solihull (more suburban and family-focused)
Best for: Families looking for space, affordability, and diversity
Useful Links
- Birmingham City Council: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk
- Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha: https://gnnsj.org.uk
4. Slough – Small City, Strong Community
Slough is a popular choice for Indian families working in London but wanting more affordable housing.
Highlights
- Large Indian and Sikh population
- Several mandirs and gurudwaras
- Direct trains to London Paddington
Cost of Living
- Cheaper than London
- Good balance between work and family life
Best for: Commuters, families, and professionals
Useful Links
- Slough Borough Council: https://www.slough.gov.uk
- Slough Hindu Temple: https://www.sloughhindumandir.org
5. Wolverhampton – Quiet & Affordable
Wolverhampton is emerging as a strong choice for Asian families seeking affordability.
Why Consider Wolverhampton?
- Very affordable housing
- Established Sikh and Hindu communities
- Large gurudwaras and temples
Lifestyle
- Slower pace of life
- Good for raising children
Best for: Those prioritising affordability and community over city buzz
Useful Links
- Wolverhampton City Council: https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk
- Guru Nanak Gurudwara Wolverhampton: https://gngw.org.uk
6. Manchester – Growing Asian Hub
Manchester’s Asian community is growing rapidly, especially among young professionals.
Key Areas
- Rusholme
- Oldham
- Stockport
Why Manchester?
- Better affordability than London
- Strong job market
- Increasing number of mandirs, mosques, and gurudwaras
Best for: Young families, professionals, and students
Useful Links
- Manchester City Council: https://www.manchester.gov.uk
- Manchester Hindu Society: https://manchesterhindusamaj.org
Helpful UK-Wide Resources
- Rightmove (rent & house prices): https://www.rightmove.co.uk
- Zoopla (property comparison): https://www.zoopla.co.uk
- Ofsted (school ratings): https://www.gov.uk/ofsted
- NHS (healthcare): https://www.nhs.uk
What to Look for When Choosing an Area
When deciding where to live, consider:
- Affordability: Rent, house prices, council tax
- Faith Access: Mandir, gurudwara, mosque within easy travel
- Schools: Ofsted ratings and cultural inclusivity
- Community: Local shops, festivals, and support networks
- Transport: Trains, buses, and motorway access
Final Thoughts
The UK offers many welcoming places for Indian and Asian families. Whether you prefer the strong cultural identity of Leicester, the career opportunities of London, or the affordability of Birmingham and Wolverhampton, there’s a community that will feel like home.
Choosing the right place isn’t just about housing—it’s about belonging, faith, food, and future. With the right location, Asian life in the UK can be both comfortable and fulfilling.
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