London might be home to Carnival, but Manchester has Caribbean culture in abundance. We take a tour to some of the city's key locations flying the Island's flags.
With Carnival just round the comer, London might spring to mind as the home of Caribbean culture in the UK. Truth is, Caribbean culture has made its home all over the UK, with Manchester being one of the cities it is strongest. We took a tour of Manny with Jamaican creative director, DJ and city native AK who was stepping in the PUMA H-Street ‘Jamaica Inspired Pack’, showing us some of the key places where the culture started and continues to thrive to this day.
West Indian Sport & Social Club
First stop was the West Indian Sports and Social Club. Established in 1953, it was one of the earliest places that Caribbean people arriving in Manchester established their community. It was the space for weddings, birthdays, christenings (AK’s included), music events and numerous games of dominoes – still serving the community to this day. Historic pictures from the early days adorn the entrance walls and sound system speakers stand ready for action in the main hall. You can feel the significance of this place as soon as you step in.
Jerk Junction
Next up was Jerk Junction, the city’s premier Caribbean food joint. Barbecue barrel smoking outside, music vibing inside, the scran and energy at this place is second to none. Whether it’s jerk chicken, curry goat, or chickpea curry, the mix-and-match menu let’s you grab a taste of it all. If you’re in the city and looking for authentic flavours, look no further.
Marvin & Charles Barbershop
After that, we slid through for a trim at Marvin & Charles Barbers in Old Trafford. You might think football when you hear that area, but the locals think Marvin & Charles. They’ve been cutting hair on the same road in their community now for over 20 years, having inherited the barbers from Marvin’s uncle Joe who had been there for 20 years previous. They’ve won awards for their four decades of community service, establishing the shop not just as a barbers, but a hub for the area where everyone is welcome.
Richie & Nickie Liquor Store
Final stop was legendary off licence Richie & Nickie, The Moss Side store stocks Caribbean bits you’ll struggle to find anywhere else – fresh sugar cane, soursop, sorrel and seamoss juice, hard dough bread, and Island spices and seasonings from floor to ceiling. The husband and wife owned store also stocks more spirits than you thought existed, and the biggest bottle of Wray’s we’ve ever seen. Whether you’re trying to get your yard food cook on at home, or prepping for a night out at a dancehall party, it’s got you covered.
AK wears the PUMA H-Street ‘Jamaica Inspired Pack’. Available to cop from size? on 25/08/2025 via https://www.size.co.uk/brand/puma/
City Guide: @ak_gramm
Images: @aaronpaulwalker_
#BasementApproved
