Join us as we commemorate 60 incredible years since Harrow became a London borough in 1965.
Celebrating the 60th Anniversary is one of 30 flagship actions set out in our corporate plan to put residents first. The milestone marks a significant moment in our history, and we're excited to share it with you through a series of events and activities taking place across the borough.
A journey of transformation
Harrow has undergone remarkable transformations over 60 years. From The Who performing at Churchill Hall and the bustling Kodak factory in Wealdstone to today's culturally diverse community, award-winning parks, and excellent schools. Harrow has continually evolved while preserving its unique character.
Celebrating our vibrant community
Running now until the end of the year, there are a series of events and activities that celebrate our rich history, identity and vibrant community we are today. These include cultural exhibitions, performances, heritage projects, and community-led initiatives, offering an opportunity for all to get involved. More details below.
Programme highlights
- Now & Then – A Digital Exhibition
On now until 31 August, Headstone Manor & Museum, part of museum entry
Compare the Harrow of yesteryear and the modern day with archive and contemporary photos captured by local photographers.
- What Harrow Means to You: Community Exhibition
On now until 24 July, Harrow Arts Centre, free
Residents reflect on their connection to Harrow through art, photography, poetry and more.
- Harrow 2085
9 & 11 June, libraries & webinar
Schools’ webinar and craft activities imagining a sustainable, futuristic Harrow.
- Teddy Bears Picnic: Harrow Special
30 June, 9.30am, under 5s, Headstone Manor & Museum, as part of museum entry
Children and their favourite teddy bears are invited to enjoy a fun-filled picnic in a charming setting. This family event weaves in Harrow's history into storytelling, games, and crafts.
- Making Harrow Home: Celebrating 60 years of diversity
8 July – 31 August, Headstone Manor & Museum, part of museum entry
This exhibition will trace the fascinating demographic changes in Harrow over the decades, celebrating the diversity that makes our borough a home for so many today.
- The Manor in London: The history of Headstone Manor and the area since 1965 – Exhibition
17 June - 31 August, Headstone Manor & Museum, part of museum entry
Come and see what it was like living in the Manor in the decades leading up to the 1980s and discover hidden findings during renovations.
- Harrow 60 Music Celebration Concert
10 July, Harrow Arts Centre
Enjoy a vibrant evening of live music with world premieres. Featuring orchestral works by Harrow Music Service and a rap performance by rising star SLAYR, who started his music education at Norbury Primary.
- Tuesday Talk: Shaping Harrow
15 July, 2pm, ages 18+, Headstone Manor & Museum, £3
This informative talk explores the significant local government changes that shaped the area, culminating in the 1960s restructuring.
- Harrow Heritage Walks
28 July – 1 September
Family-friendly treasure hunts with maps to explore Harrow’s history and hidden gems. More details coming soon.
- Harrow: Past, Present, Future - Touring Exhibition
Libraries and leisure centre
A pop-up touring exhibition that explores Harrow’s historical artefacts, modern stories, and creative visions for the future. More details coming soon.
- Life in the 1960s - exhibition
4 – 29 August, Harrow Arts Centre, & Greenhill Art Pod, Greenhill Place, Harrow Town Centre, HA1 2EB
Artwork from young artists aged 0-21, who reflect on the life of the elder generations and their memories of work, play, school, music, dance.
- Mini Museum: Tiny Time Travellers
14 August, 10am, 11.15am & 1pm, Headstone Manor & Museum, for under 5’s, from £2.50
Little one’s can explore the Metropolitan Line, the Kodak Factory, Whitefriars Glass, and the borough’s rich industrial heritage, bringing history to life for young learners.
- The Boiler House Festival – Harrow at 60
Saturdays in August, Harrow Arts Centre
Fringe theatre festival celebrating Harrow, with performances every weekend in August.
- Headstone Village Show – Harrow’s Diamond Anniversary Special
Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 12 – 5pm, Headstone Manor & Museum, from £2.50
The annual show goes 1960s-themed to celebrate Harrow’s Diamond Anniversary, with performances, cultural food stalls, pop-up exhibitions, and more.
- BFI Replay: 60 Years of Screen Stories
Throughout September – December, Harrow Libraries
Explore 60 years of British history with the British Film Institute's free video streaming service at Harrow libraries. Enjoy music, films, TV programmes and literature from 1965.
Join the Celebrations
Everyone is encouraged to take part in the festivities! Keep an eye on this page or follow us on social media for updates on how to get involved. This celebration is not just about looking back but also about strengthening our community bonds and shaping Harrow's future together.