Merton Pride 2025 – Together We Made History
30th August 2025 was a special day for Merton. For the very first time, rainbow flags filled the Wandle Trail and Merton Abbey Mills as more than 500 people came together to march and celebrate inclusion and the power of communities.










Who knew a warm-up could be so glamourous – Drag Pilates by Strong Pilates
Coming together as a community – Morden Hall Park was the perfect spot to assemble before our march
© Gabriela Astanoae
Ready to march! More than 500 participants joined the march led by the Mayor of Merton: an amazing turnout for an inaugural Pride event.
A Green Pride – Our parade started at the beautiful Morden Hall Park and followed the River Wandle to Merton Abbey Mills.
© Gabriela Astanoae
The Colliers Wood Chorus kicked of the Pride Show at Merton Abbey Mills.
© Gabriela Astanoae
Dance in Progress brought Bollywood vibes to Merton Pride
© Gabriela Astanoae
Pixie Polite got the crowd dancing to ‘New York, New York’ (or Merton Merton…) and singing along to this year’s anthem ‘Pink Pony Club’.
© Gabriela Astanoae
Nyongbella, from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, brought sparkle to the stage.
© MichaelTomlinsonPhotography
The Wimbledon Rock Choir closed an unforgettable day.
© MichaelTomlinsonPhotography
Thank you to our volunteers for your energy and enthusiasm.
Reflections
The feedback we got from participants confirms that Merton Pride resonated with residents. People told us it felt welcoming, inclusive, and family-friendly.
The march was so much fun and then all the acts in the square were brilliant. It was just such an inclusive, beautiful day. I can’t wait to do it all again next year!
Having pride in my hometown borough is so important to both building community and visibility to those outside of it!’
I grew up in Merton and currently live here, and if nothing else seeing the number of LGBTQ+ people who actually live in my local area was nice in affirming that you're not as alone as you can sometimes think.
The whole day was planned very well. There were lots of great activities like the pilates and face painting for the children. The event catered for all ages and was inclusive.
An event like this really helps Merton shine as an inclusive borough- It's more accessible than going to an event up in London, and really works to build solidarity and confidence locally- So great this is taking place!
Having been to several of the larger Pride events around the country, it was great to be able to go to a local one within walking distance. I really felt the local community coming together at Morden Hall - with a host of recognisable local businesses having stalls.
It means a lot to me to be visible in my own area and feel acceptance especially with my disabled friends that can't make it to London Pride.
For us at Merton Plus, Merton Pride was a powerful reminder of what volunteers and communities can achieve. It sent a clear message about inclusion, and about the kind of borough we want to be: one rooted in dignity, kindness, and equality for all.
Whether you joined us in 2025 or are planning to come for the first time this year, Merton Pride is for you. Together, we are building something powerful and fabulous. ️🌈✊