Image: from Southwark News X@Southwark_News
By Emma Cole | Staff Writer with Agencies
On Sunday, November 16, 2025, a royal visit to Rotherhithe, London, saw King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway attend a special Remembrance Sunday service at St Olav’s Church. The occasion was to mark the 80th anniversary of Norway’s liberation from Nazi occupation, a pivotal moment in the country’s history during World War II.
The King and Queen paid their respects to fallen Norwegian veterans who fought against Nazi forces during the war. A particularly poignant moment occurred when King Harald V laid a poppy wreath at the base of a bust of his grandfather, King Haakon VII. King Haakon fled to London in 1940 when Norway was invaded by Nazi Germany, and his leadership in exile was a symbol of resistance during the occupation. This year marks 80 years since the surrender of Germany on May 8, 1945, and the subsequent liberation of Norway.
St Olav’s Church: A Hub of Norwegian Heritage in London
St Olav’s Church, located on Albion Street in Rotherhithe, has long been a central point for the Norwegian community in London. Built in 1926, the church originally served as a place of worship and fellowship for the growing number of Norwegians living in the city, particularly sailors arriving at the nearby Surrey Docks. Over the years, it has become a place of cultural significance, offering a space for remembrance and community events.
The church’s role as a cultural hub is evident as it prepares for its annual Norwegian Christmas Fair, which will run from November 21-23, 2025. The fair, a beloved tradition for both Norwegians in London and visitors alike, will offer a wide range of activities. Visitors will be able to enjoy authentic Norwegian cuisine, purchase Nordic gifts, and take part in musical performances and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Norwegian Christmas Fair Details
The Norwegian Christmas Fair will run for three days:
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Friday, November 21: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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Saturday, November 22: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Sunday, November 23: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
This festive event brings together families, friends, and members of the Norwegian diaspora in London, creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests can experience a taste of Norway’s Christmas traditions and heritage.
A Significant Moment for Norwegian-British Relations
The royal visit to St Olav’s Church serves as a reminder of the long-standing ties between Norway and the United Kingdom, particularly the shared history of World War II. The 80th anniversary of Norway’s liberation holds particular significance, not just for Norwegians but for those who remember the sacrifices made by all those who fought for freedom during the war.
For the Norwegian royal family, the visit also highlighted the ongoing importance of cultural preservation and community connections, especially within the context of international diplomacy and remembrance.
The Norwegian Christmas Fair at St Olav’s Church promises to be a fitting conclusion to a year of reflection and celebration of Norway’s resilience and the enduring spirit of those who contributed to the country’s liberation from Nazi occupation.