Tens of thousands of people are participating in a far-right demonstration in London against refugees on Saturday.

In recent years, several protests against asylum seekers have been held around the country.

Huge protests in London

1. The riots in the summer of 2024

Following the knife attack in Southport on 29 July 2024, in which three children were killed, false information was spread that the perpetrator was an asylum seeker or a Muslim. This triggered violent protests and riots in several English cities. Shops owned by immigrants were attacked, hotels where asylum seekers were staying were vandalised.

2. Protests against asylum accommodation in 2025

In 2025, protests have flared up again. They have been particularly directed at asylum accommodation and hotels where asylum seekers are accommodated. Protesters have demanded that the use of hotel accommodation be stopped and have criticized the lack of information provided to the local community. In several cases, the protests have degenerated and the police have arrested protesters.

3. Counter-demonstrations

In many places, counter-demonstrations have been organized by groups that stand up against racism and for refugee rights. Trade unions, among others, have openly criticized the increased hate speech and called for a more moderate political debate.

4. Epicenter: Epping

Epping in Essex became the epicentre of the conflicts in 2025. Asylum seekers were prevented by protesters from entering the Bell Hotel, where they were staying. Counter-demonstrations have been held. Police have had to intervene when the demonstrations have turned violent. A court temporarily stopped asylum seekers from being placed in the hotel, but the decision was overturned by the Court of Appeal.

5. The government has promised reforms

The government has promised to reform the asylum system, including by speeding up the asylum process and reducing the number of asylum seekers staying in hotels. Asylum rights organizations have previously criticized the long processing times.