London is, we think, one of the most wonderful cities in the world! Dynamic, diverse and cosmopolitan, it is a city that welcomes people from all over the world. As such, it is a vibrant and thriving place. Home to world renowned museums and art galleries (most of them free), offering cuisines from all over the world, an eclectic nightlife, and being a city steeped in history, London is a city that many people fall in love with. 

It is, of course, a big city. One of the lovely things about L’Arche London is that we are based in a lovely, relatively quiet part of South London (but only ten minutes by train into Central London). What’s most wonderful about our local area, and the wider community of West Norwood, is the incredible diversity and the sense of togetherness.

West Norwood is home to lots of independent cafes and art galleries. A Picturehouse Cinema is on our doorstep and down the road from the Community is Brockwell Park, which has a beautiful outdoor Lido, gym, tennis courts, a café and walled gardens. It also hosts the weekly (free) 5k ParkRun on a Saturday morning.

L’Arche London itself is a very diverse and international Community, with assistants coming from all over the world. West Norwood offers a space where people can be accepted and celebrated for their diversity and difference.

People with learning disabilities in L’Arche London feel welcomed by our local community. Cafes, shops and pubs offer a friendly and welcoming space for people to socialise and spend time with friends.

We have excellent links with our local churches and work with them to host special events and celebrations, such as Community retreat days, Easter and Christmas celebrations, and Community parties (and we do throw a good party in L’Arche London).

We have also been fortunate to be hosted by Lambeth Palace for several Community Retreat celebrations and have welcomed volunteers from the St Anselm Community over the last couple of years, who have brought much joy and life to L’Arche London.