Little Portugal, London facts for kids

Little Portugal is an area in South London, specifically between Vauxhall, Stockwell and Brixton where there is a large Portuguese community. To some extent, the area geographically corresponds with the South Lambeth area.

History

Many families from Portugal first settled in the area during the 1960s and 1970s. Many worked in the catering and hospitality trade, with some women gaining a reputation as efficient and courteous domestic servants. Later, others, with their savings, started to open restaurants on the South Lambeth Road.

Modern community

There are estimated to be some 27,000 Portuguese in this part of London, which makes it one of the largest communities within the Portuguese British population. There is also a sizable Brazilian community residing in Little Portugal as well.

Many London Portuguese can trace their origins to Madeira.