Bury Park Luton

The official Bury Park, Luton website. BuryParkLuton.com is the first and only website to capitalise on Luton’s thriving, vibrant and multicultural society. Bringing you the best of Bury Park.

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The Urban Muslim Woman Show 2014 London Author: Sara K blog

In the beginning of April about Social Media & Self Esteem; I touched upon the negatives of social media and how it can affect us women. It was disheartening to see women not supporting or helping each other in their work or personal lives. 

In the blog, one of my tips was to surround yourself with positive people and networks that would motive, empower and inspire you.

Recently I’ve been connecting with some inspirational women on Twitter and came across some fantastic events for women.

The Urban Muslim Woman Show 2014 is a perfect example of a team of individuals delivering extraordinary and credible events to a niche Asian market in the UK. It’s much needed and well over due - we need women to get together, share their experiences and celebrate their hard work. Whether you’re a mum, sister, wife, daughter or business women etc… we should celebrate how far we’ve come as British Muslim women! 

I loved the fact an event such as, The Urban Muslim Woman Show 2014 takes place every year and encompasses the best of British Asian women in the event. The team at Saverah work very hard to cater to our needs, include activities we want to see and give us ladies the best day you could experience. It sounded like a perfect recipe for a great day out to me and made me want to attend. Where else can you find motivational talks especially applicable for Muslim Women. So for once we won’t be seen as Asian but Muslim too!

Its an exciting time for Muslim women as fashion business booms, we will see the Muslim fashion trends first hand! I don’t think anything as such even exists (correct me if l’m wrong)! Plus British Asian fashion stalls so just before Ramadan starts you can prepare for Eid rather than rushing during Ramadan when your busy catering for family, don’t have any time for yourself and just exhausted!

The event includes a fashion show, inspirational talks, fashion stalls to do early Eid shopping, opportunity to network and a 3 course luxury dinner! Women from all walks of life are more than welcome! Get your husband to look after the kids, bring your mum and friends along :)

The Urban Muslim Woman Show is on Saturday, 14th June 2014 (4pm onwards) at the versatile yet contemporary Novetel London West Hotel. If you need any more information on location or how to get there, please feel free to contact me :)

For more information or to book tickets, please visit www.urbanmuslimwoman.co.uk or view the event brouchure here >

Source: www.sarakblog.com

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Luton International Carnival 2014

The UK Centre for Carnival Arts is delighted to announce our new role as official organisers of Luton International Carnival 2014 which takes place on Sunday 25th May.

With spectacular colourful costumes, music from around the globe, street entertainers and international food to tickle your taste buds, it will be a truly unmissable day. Put the date in your diary and get ready to enjoy a fantastic free family day out, a truly multicultural event, outstanding carnival arts and great local entertainment!

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Luton Mela 2014

B4U PRESENTS LUTON MELA. Luton Mela will be taking place on Sunday 3rd august 2014. We are please to announce that our line up has been finalised. 

Our headline act will be Bilal Saaed. Other performers will include;

* Omer Nadeem * Manak-E * Zack knight * Sama blake * Khiza and soni-j * Shide boss * Waqar-X * Intenso  * Usman rehman * Arslan baig * Premi Johal * Sazia judge  * Biti * Bilawal Ali Baloch * Shaful khan  * Reya Mela hosted by Shy & Sunny. Plus many many more. This year promises to be the Biggest Ever Mela. For further information please contact Furhaad Ahmed on 07966-723454 or email [email protected] Make sure you arrive early to avoid disappointment. Invite your family and friends to come and enjoy the day. Watch this space for further details...

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Irmak Grill

I do love my Turkish and middle-eastern cuisine. My friends decided to take me for my 24th birthday and it was a nice surprise. The restaurant was in the town centre, Chapel Street - just opposite Venue Central. There's free car parking after six in the car park at the end of Chapel Street.

We walked in and the scent of the food strikes you - this foodie was hungry (I'm a fattie at heart). The cooking happens on ground floor and the waiter took us up to be seated on first floor.

I looked around and was pleasantly supraised, the decor was authentic and fresh. Some mood lighting :P  

Now lets get down to the real business... I don't normally bother with starters but l heard they were a must have at Irmak Grill so l had to try and taste for myself.

We didn't have to wait long. The starters were presented well on authentic Turkish wood (whatever you want to call it). The humus with freshly made served with naan and full of flavour. We all cleared that bowl and just needed more naan.

When revisiting with family for Dad's birthday, Dad wanted to try everything including the keema pizza! It sounded boring and l wasn't too bothered but when it arrived l must say it looked quiet interesting, very different to what I'd never seen before (keema on Pizza) and l had to try for myself. The pizza was crispy, tasty freshly cooked lamb keema (just like mum's freshly made keema kebabs) and so delicious. I won't lie l went for 2 more slices whilst no-one was looking! ;) 

The chicken was tender and served with rice and bowl of chips. In addition, the sauce complimented the dishes well. 

I'd recommend giving it a try when thinking of eating out - plus with over 4500 likes of Facebook you need to try the cuisine.

28A Chapel St, Luton, LU1 2SE

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The Halal Sweet Shop

Have you ever been to a shop and noticed you can't have most the sweets as 85% of the treats you want to buy have gelatine? 

Not The Halal Sweet Shop, its sweetie heaven!

There's so much to pick from and if they don't have something you love - they order it in.

I love the simple yet colourful recor, reminds you of being a kid again. Going to the sweet shop after school, spending all your pockets money on sugary treats.

Each sweet reminds you of being young again and the different times in your lives you remember last eating the sweet.

It's not only for kids, we normally see all different ages and ethnic backgrounds in the shop. On their second fix of the day. Once your in the shop, you won't want to leave.

Finally, we have a halal sweet shop :)

Halal Sweet Shop 82 Leagrave Road Luton, LU4 8HZ

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Fabric shopping in Bury Park

As featured in most Asian fashion designers collections such as Gul Ahmed - this seasons trends include the come back of the velvet.

Memsaab’s window display had some simple velvet salwaar kameez, long kameezs and kurtas. Memsaab also sell the velvet silk style fabrics, as seen in the far left of the image.

We went for a wonder in the fabric shops to look for loose velvet fabrics. It was just our luck as look what we found…

Yes, velvet silk style fabrics in all different colours. Textile Centre had an array of fabrics! So many ideas were rushing through my mind. Sid couldn't image anything - she never did have an imagination so that’s were l come in :)

The secret to recreate my favourite Gul Ahmed purple garment, why not try creating a kaftan style coat and add ”vienna flanged piping cord” round the waist.

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Chicken & Pizza Junction

I can't resist finger licking chicken and chips. One of my favourites in Bury Park has to be Chicken & Pizza Junction. If you want tasty fried chicken - this is where visit.

What l love the most  even if they may not offer something you want, they will always check and see what they can to create you order.

They offer chicken and lamb donner kebabs, tandoori chicken, keema nan, chicken burgers, chicken& chips and lots more.

Why is it so great l hear you ask; At most takeaways they create too many dishes and non are up to scratch. However its the opposite in Chicken & Pizza Junctions case. As my family, friend and l have tried four to five different items on the menu and have enjoyed our takeaway.

Our favourites have to be;  The chips are nicely done - crispy and crunchy. The chicken  juicy and succulent.

You will be glad to hear aren't stingy with the sauce or salad unlike most takeaways. Even another takeaway we logged on has become stingy. No wonder they were our 2013 Facebook winning takeaway.

Don't be deceived, they've been round for awhile and a secret gem in Bury Park - they don't need the Peri Peri hype buzz. Unlike most they haven't let their success get the better of them. Their garlic and chillie chutney is delicious with food! I even end up saving the tubs for dinner. Plus they are more than happy to give you extra chutney free of charge.

Oh and another bonus  - they are normally open till late.

They also do free delivery for orders over £7. *Its always best to call ad check. Free delivery - Terms and conditions apply.

158 Dunstable Rd, Town Centre, Luton LU1 1EW 01582 424141

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Desserts at Ice Box

Whether its summer or winter you can't resist dessert. Ice Box doesn't just offer ice cream but waffles, crepes and a variety of cakes.

My personal favourite has to be the Ferro Rocher milkshake with cream. Ice Box don't scrimp of the Ferro's or cream and not too thick to drink either. The service is friendly and you can watch your shake being created as you wait. 

Ice cream lover or not Ice Box is in the heart of Luton and always a must visit with friends or family after having your dinner in Bury Park. 

It's always a popular in Ramadan after iftari :P

175 Dunstable Rd, Luton LU1 1BT

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Afifah's Timeless Hijab Fashion

Afifah is different to other hijab shops as it demonstrates creativity with a true touch of class in all its collections. They not only offer every day wear and hijab outfits for special occasions.

The family run business Afifah in the heart of Bury Park specialises in stylish yet modest hijabs and fashion accessories.

The exclusive handmade hijabs are designed so their audience don’t have to compromise on Islamic values. They try to appeal and accommodate to the Muslim clothing trends of the west.

What we love about Afifah is they listen to their customers who come from all over the UK. As a result of feedback they made the decision to launch their services online. With the lack of retail stores available offering similar products and services in their own home towns, Afifah attracts many customers.

We definitely believe whether you wear a hijab or not Afifah always offers some lovely pieces you can wear as maxi dresses. They always have some wonderful embodied pieces or roached classes that will never go out of season.  

Watch out few weeks before Eid, they always have some elegant, simple yet stunning pieces. It’s really true when they say less is more – its 100% true in Afifah’s case.

Let's hope they keep creating little gems for us!

172 Dunstable Rd, Town Centre, Luton LU1 1BT www.afifah-hijabs.co.uk

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Senorita Bangles

We are loving Senorita's bangles, mix an match to suit any outfit. Whether you have a traditional outfit or western piece - these bangles suit any look.

You can always wear just the one gold beaded bangle with casual outfits and add more if your going our for a meal in the evening.  

You can not only find bangles and accessories but sandals to suit any budget. Senorita have various colours to compliment any dress. 

273 Dunstable Rd, Luton, Bedford LU4 8BS 01582 753833

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We love Saxon Road, Peri Peri Original

The fast food of the moment - Saxon Road, Peri Peri.

They have been recognised by 'rate your peri peri' and they were voted no.1 in a poll on Facebook with 82% of the votes as the best Peri Peri in Luton.  

It's always buzzing, 11am till evening. The phone doesn't stop ringing for orders, having said that your not having to wait long to order your food. It can take up to 15 minutes but once the food arrives, you know it was worth the wait. They may get your order wrong on the odd occasion (it's understandable as they receive so many orders) but l noticed they always go above and beyond to make sure they do their best to make sure you're happy.Plus unlike western shops if you forget a penny or two they don't refuse to give you your food.

You really get a sense of a big family of young dedicated lads working together to serve customers to the best of their ability. 

Even for a female being serviced they just get on with it without a second glance - which is a big thumbs up for the Muslim ladies wanting a take away without the uncomfortable awkwardness of males serving. 

My brother recommended it, l thought 'OH GREAT, NOT ANOTHER PERI PERI, NO THANKS!'. He told me to at least try it, so l did and l must say l was surprised... since that day l visit at least 3 to 4 times a week.

The best element of Saxon Road, Peri Peri is not just the service but the portion sizes. They don't hold back with that well-known amazing sauce or chips and most importantly the chicken.

The burgers are always cooked perfectly, l haven't had a burnt one as of yet. The fluffy warm buns, with the perfect size chicken sitting in the burger bread and always wrapped perfectly.

It has great healthy options - the salads are always fresh and with a good mix of veg. 

You can always eat in, although if your a female you might want to take away if your eating alone. I always like to call in to ask the staff, who are extremely helpful and let me know if its busy to eat in at lunch times. Although in a few minutes Saxon Road, Peri Peri can get really busy. 

The shop floor is clean, tidy and used plates are never left out for long even when it's buzzing at lunch time or 6ish. 

For a busy fast food joint they really do a great job!

What l particularly love about this Peri Peri is the location, unlike many takeaways in Bury Park - you won't have an issue with parking. On street parking '2 hours no return' and co-op opposite the shop 'only for 2 hours'. 

I have been to many Peri Peri's in the South East of England and seen most places fail to deliver the best service and food. The food is average however, I admire Saxon Road, Peri Peri for sticking to the PP Original ethos and delivering a high standard of food.  

'We strive to serve our customers with the best freshly made to order meals using only the best quality ingredients. We try to ensure that each customer receives prompt, professional, friendly and a courteous service. 

We only use the best ingredients, we have have worked hard for many years to create a delicious, succulent and a mouth watering menu to cater for all our customers. We have perfected our recipe for great tasting chicken and re-invented the concept of fast food for the masses. Our Flamed Grilled menu caters for the health conscious, our menu provides essential proteins and nutrients that are required for an every day diet.  We value the different taste buds and offer beginners with Lemon & Herb, Mild for the adventurous, Hot for the brave and Extra Hot for the insane amongst you! 

Every customer who chooses Peri Peri Original leaves happy… enjoy your experience !' - www.periperioriginal.co.uk.

This one is a nice one to add to our collection of takeaways to put us on the map for the best fast food in the UK!

It will be hard to find a Peri Peri outside of Luton that can compete with this one. I'm still searching for any that can come close to beating it! Any suggestions, let us know via email. 

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Bury Park Fashion

In the heart of Luton, a vibrant and thriving community has grown over the past 20 years. It has become a great place to visit, to shop, eat or just hang out.

When you walk around Lutons' Asian High Street, Bury Park, you will see people of different ages, wearing everything from jeans and club wear to stylish saris and Punjabi suits (and a smile!). In fact, Luton has turned into a pretty trendy place, one thing, my friends and I would never have imagined ourselves saying ten years ago and the place and the people have developed a real identity.

Anybody who comes to Bury Park will soon discover that it has a wide range of colourful and stylish boutiques to rival the usual places, people flock to for their Asian shopping like Southall. In the heart of Bury Park there are many fashion retailers such as Memsaab, Punjab and Fabeeha particularly caught my eye. The three shops have a great range of outfits to suit any budget and any occasion, and cater for all the family. Punjab’s new collection had my mouth watering even before I had my delicious meal! The fabulous saris, funky trouser suits, unique skirt suit designs and lenghas were enough to tempt me to persuade my best friend to get married! I noticed that there were a variety of people purchasing the outfits here, not only the traditional Asian Grandma to the trendiest Asian Luton girl but also Afro-Carribean & middle class Luton Caucasian ladies, definitely not something I would've seen ten years ago! There are plenty of nice places to eat and shop. One of my favourites was Mirpur Grill restaurant , surprisingly, one of the few sit down, family restaurants in Bury Park. The food is so delicious, even your Granny would be too busy eating to claim she could make the same thing at home with one small aubergine. Slightly further up from Punjab, is Kashish, a fashion house which focuses on stylish contemporary fashion, including both smart and casual wear. The shop has everything you could possibly want for any classy occasion from real pashminas to classy Punjabi suits. The only thing spoilt in this shop is you! The outfits are arranged in a rainbow affect, a complete palette of colours, and the men are not left out either! However no outfit is complete without the perfect pair of shoes. If you like your footwear to have an Eastern look, you don't need to go far as Senorita and Memsaab sell beautiful asian diamante shoes at affordable prices with matching accessories all under one roof. I noticed how well groomed all the ladies around Bury Park were, I finally, realised why when I saw Klassix Beauty Salon. Klassix combines the latest Western Beauty treatments with the ancient beauty secrets of the East, including Eyebrow threading and facials. Chatting to her whilst having a mehndi design applied to my hand I discovered there is a whole new breed of highly qualified second and third generation Asian professionals in Luton.

Looking (even more) gorgeous, full stomach and bags full of shopping it was now time for me to get my train back to London, I must admit, I was a bit reluctant to leave.

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Luton Mela 2013

The Luton Mela is held every summer - copied from the long-standing traditions of South Asia - strengthens communities by bringing people together in a festival atmosphere where everyone can enjoy food, music and dance.

Luton Mela started in 2000 and one of the UK’s largest South Asian festivals, taking place over a weekend during late summer. 

The Mela is organised by a group of volunteers from Luton’s Asian communities with the explicitly stated aim “to bring harmony within the community through arts, whilst representing the artistry of a diverse community.” The Mela takes place in Wardown Park and features local, national and international artistes, children’s activities, arts, as well as an array of food stands. Admission is free and in 2010 the event attracted around 15,000 people. 

The wait is finally over & here is the line-up for Luton Mela 2013.

Luton Mela 2013 is taking place on Sunday 8th of September 2013 at 12 till 7 PM at Wardown Park, Old Bedford Road. 

Acts include; Des-C (full band), Nafees, Bonafide, Hypnotize Crew, Sama Blake, Arslan Baig, Khiza & Soni-J, Adil Hashmi, Freezy, S.I.B, Ohsin Mehta, Amar Singh and Juz-D.

Dance performance By Ish Dance Fusion Group Plus many many more… For further information please contact furhaad ahmed on 07966 723454 or email: [email protected] Make sure you arrive early to avoid disappointment. Invite your family and friends to come and enjoy the day.

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Welcome to Bury Park, Luton

We have created this blog to help individuals find out more about the shops, businesses and services in Bury Park and surrounding areas. 

From South Asian food, fashion and wedding services we want to bring you the best of Bury Park.