We are a group of people who live in London with a common interest: castells. Castellers of London was born in 2015 with the aim of promoting the Catalan tradition of "castells", in the London area. Our core values are teamwork, cooperation and solidarity. Our drive is to grow stronger and to build a greater community. The group has around 70 members of all ages and backgrounds.
Castells, Catalan for castlers (but best translates as Human Towers) is a cultural practice which has its origin in Valls, in Catalunya. It began at the start of the 19th Century,when rival groups of people used to compete in constructing different kinds of Human Towers. In 2010, castells were declared "Intangible Heritage of Humanity" by the UNESCO. Each person that takes part in a castell is called a Casteller. Everyone has a position in castells: big or small, strong or slim, young or old... there is a role for you!
We have a safety first policy, and castells rarely fall. But even if this happens, they tend to fall in "slow motion", as members grab each other tightly, slowing the fall by 40%. In addition, the base of the tower acst as a cushion and absorbs about 60% of the energy of the impact. Serious injuries are rare, and they don't happen any more seriously than in other physical activities. Children participating in castells have about 50% less injuries than in other activities like football, rugby, karate, or just playing at the school.
It's not only about Castells! We organise a variety of activities beyond building towers, and we engage with other organisations to make big things happen! Expert social activities such as workshops, food events, days'out climbing, weekend trips, race challenges, picnics, etc. Don't miss out!
⏰ Sundays 3pm to 6pm
The OBC
3 Webb Street
London, SE1 4RP
🚇 (London Bridge Tube Station)