Black Cultural Archives - London

Sharon

Went to the black cultural archives, whilst in Brixton. No charge to go in, but you can donate £5. We don't have anything like this in the West Midlands.

At the front of the building there is a monument dedicated with all the regiments from Africa, Ethiopia and many more black countries who took part in the war.

They have a book store, with a variety of books for adults and children. They sell pens, socks t-shirts and cloth bags and a map of the London underground labeled with historic famous black people.

They were exhibiting Bob Marley's life story to coincide with his movie I would think. There was a uniform near reception of a royal Air Force officer

They had one floor exhibiting. There was an upstairs, not sure why they don't use both floors to exhibit black culture. I was a little disappointed there is so much history about black people and their lives.

I've given it 4 stars, as it was my first time there. I'm hoping if I return there will be more to see! As the sign says "It is black history everyday" Let's see more inside next time.

Dean A.

I had a brilliant time at the archives. The lady who ran our session on Black Feminism was brilliant. She was extremely knowledgable and the perfect tour guide through history. I also learned a lot about black leaders in the ‘Stories of Black Leadership’ exhibition. 10/10, definitely worth seeing in person if you haven’t been.

Cartèlea H.

Where it all started… so many magical memories created here. Quality events, tasty food, and hospitable people. It’s also so nice here in the summer. Highly recommended if you want to learn (and educate yourself) on black history.✊🏽📚♥️

Epifania A.

Great place! Been there twice in one month, but have not made it to the exhibitions as yet. The cafe is so very zen, with stellar service, and food&drink to die for! The museum shop also has many gems. Basically, there is so much info on black cultural heritage and events, as well as good hospitality for all, when you get there. Love the place!

Xavier S.

Black Cultural Archives is an archive and heritage centre in Brixton, London,devoted to the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in Britain. Also known as BCA it was founded in 1981, by educationalist and historian Len Garrison and others.
BCA's mission is to record, preserve and celebrate the history of people of African descent in Britain. The BCA's new building in Brixton opened in 2014, enables access to the archive collection, provides dedicated learning spaces and mounts a program of exhibitions and events.

Robbie B.

Vital and rich public archive. Free entrance, donation welcome. During my visit, two contrasting exhibitions offered insight and beauty. I gained greater understanding and empathy for the lives of Black British people.

Sarah J.

I had some time to spare so came to find more about Brixton and the culture and immigration of black people into England. There was one room, detailing information but it was SO SMALL to read and you essentially had to wait if someone else was there. Perhaps the exhibitions are different (none on at time of visits) but I think it would be better with some curation and using that room for more.
Pros: free and the store had some good fictional and non fictional books.

Ade A.

Simply amazing experience! Great exhibits while the curator and staff are very knowledgeable providing a highly interactive experience. The facility is excellent, modern and very clean. The BCA provides an authentic experience of black cultural history . Pretty much overwhelmed by my last visit, so strong urge anyone to visit, since it's open to diversity.