National Curry Week
Britain’s Spicy Affair!
From humble spice roots to the nation’s favourite takeaway, curry has become woven into Britain’s culinary culture. During National Curry Week (6–13 October 2025), let’s celebrate how curry conquered the UK’s palate and what makes it so beloved today.
A Brief History of National Curry Week
Founded in 1998 by journalist and curry enthusiast Peter Grove, National Curry Week was created to honour Britain’s love of curry, celebrate the Indian and South Asian restaurant industry, and raise funds for poverty-focused charities.
Now in its 27th year, the week encourages everyone to enjoy and appreciate one of the most loved and unifying dishes in British dining.
How Curry Became the UK’s Favourite Dish
The term curry comes from the Tamil word karil, meaning “spiced sauce”. British sailors and traders brought this flavour discovery home centuries ago, and over time, curry evolved into something uniquely British. A delicious blend of Indian techniques and British tastes.
The Dilli in Haslemere
The first recorded curry house in the UK, the Hindoostanee Coffee House, opened in 1810, and today, there are estimated to be more than 12,000 South Asian restaurants across the country including The Dilli in Haslemere (pictured).
From creamy kormas and tikka masalas to fiery vindaloos, curry has long captured Britain’s heart (and taste buds). In fact, surveys still show chicken tikka masala topping the list as the nation’s most popular dish. .
Chicken Bhuna at The Folly
Curry & the British Palate
Churchill once jokingly said “as long as there is lime and bitters in the world, I will never be poor” — but many Brits might now say “as long as there is chicken tikka masala, I will never be bored.” Curry has been referred to as the UK’s adopted national dish.
Among the most popular curries in Britain are Chicken Tikka Masala, Korma, Jalfrezi, Madras, Bhuna (chicken Bhuna pictured from The Folly Wine Bar in Petersfield) and Balti.
Spice tolerance in Britain has also shifted: milder curries (korma, tikka masala) remain perennial favourites but medium and hot curries (madras, vindaloo) attract enthusiasts looking for more kick.
According to a 2024 poll of 2,000 UK adults, 43% said Tikka Masala is their favourite curry (often for being milder).
Despite the love for spice, many say hotter curries (e.g. vindaloo, phaal) rank lower in mass popularity.
Why We Celebrate National Curry Week
National Curry Week is about more than food. It’s about culture, connection and giving back. It reminds us that some of our best dishes are born from shared traditions and the movement of people and flavours across the world.
So, whether you’re cooking a homemade curry, exploring new spices or supporting your local curry house, this week is all about celebrating diversity through food.
Curry in Britain isn’t just a meal, it’s a love story between nations, centuries and tastebuds. This National Curry Week, grab your spoon, fire up the spices and enjoy a dish that truly represents the warmth of shared flavour.
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