Gurdwara Karamsar Temple

You would never guess that this ornate building was once a Labour Party Hall before becoming a Sikh place of worship; undergoing extensive renovations to accommodate growing numbers of attendees. The temple’s façade was carved in India and transported to the UK to be reassembled; its pink sandstone walls and domes stand out among the surrounding buildings. The inside is rather less lavish, however the large foyer with a skylight three storeys up is well worth a peak. As well as daily prayer sessions, the temple now has a licence to hold weddings, additionally there are summer schools for children as well as Panjabi, music and tabla lessons. Visitors are welcome on weekends between 1 and 5 pm and regular tours take place – remember to cover bare arms and legs and remove your shoes in the foyer. There is a bookshop and refreshments on site, as well as parking.