This Winter, we’ve seen an increase in the number of people using our community centre and services due to rising food, fuel, and energy costs. As a community association that exists to ensure that our community have access to the services they need, we knew we had to do something.

So, with the help of Camden Council, we’ve teamed up with our pals at The Pirate Castle and The London Irish Centre to create Cosy Castles – a joint initiative providing free hot soup, warm spaces, activities, advice & support and much-needed amenities to help local people stay cosy and connected over the coming months.

Here at Castlehaven, we’ll be serving free vegan/vegetarian hot soup and bread (made on-site by our fantastic chef Milon) to the families and young people who attend our free afterschool sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.

We’re also extending our Men-Only session on Mondays to 11:00 am – 1:00 pm so that attendees can relax, play games, access free WIFI and chat with neighbours over a cuppa and a bowl of soup as well as launching a new Women-Only session on Tuesdays from 12:00 – 2:00 pm. (Everyone is welcome at Castlehaven, and we commit to creating safe, inclusive spaces for all).

We’ll also invite guest speakers from other organisations to discuss subjects such as arts & culture, health & well-being and tips for dealing with the cost-of-living crisis. In addition, on Tuesday mornings, a trained advisor from The London Irish Centre will be here at Castlehaven to book one-to-one sessions to discuss benefits and housing issues. To book a session, please email info@castlehaven.org.uk or call 0207 485 3386

The brilliant team at The Pirate Castle will also provide hot soup and drinks to the young people who attend their afterschool and weekend sessions and those who attend their paddleboard sessions on Wednesday afternoons. The local community will also be able to use their warm club room and hot showers equipped with body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and hairdryers.

In addition, The Pirate Castle will offer free places (subject to availability) to young people, families, and those over 50 who cannot afford the concessionary rate of paddle sports activities. Learn more about the Pirate Castle and its mission to promote life chances, learning and healthy living through canal-based and community activities here.

Cosy Castles Timetable

Cosy Castles is designed to help local people this Winter. Our goal is to provide warmth, nourishment, and friendly spaces for our neighbours in need. For more information about our warm spaces and free/low-cost activities, please email info@castlehaven.org.uk or call 0207 485 3386