Serbian Speaking Brokers

The term “British Serbs” refers to residents in the UK of Serbian heritage, including first-generation immigrants and their UK-born descendants. Migration began after the Second World War, with later increases during the Yugoslav conflicts of the 1990s. People moved for education, employment, or to join family. Others sought safety during times of unrest in the Balkans.

Population Size and Demographic Trends

The 2011 Census recorded around 70,000 Serbian-born residents living in England and Wales.
By 2021, estimates suggest the wider Serbian-heritage population in the UK reached between 80,000 and 100,000.
This includes second- and third-generation individuals and those of mixed Balkan backgrounds who speak Serbian at home.

Many also originate from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia but identify culturally with the Serbian language.
The largest Serbian-speaking communities are found in London, the South East, and the Midlands, with smaller numbers in the North and Scotland.

Key UK Regions with Serbian-Speaking Communities

North and West London

London hosts the UK’s largest Serbian-speaking population, especially in Westminster, Ealing, Hammersmith, Fulham, Acton, and Shepherd’s Bush.
These areas have Serbian restaurants, grocery stores, and community centres.
The Serbian Orthodox Church of St. Sava in Notting Hill, founded in the 1950s, remains a major place for worship and social events.

North London boroughs like Barnet, Enfield, and Haringey also have strong Serbian-speaking communities.
Residents work in healthcare, construction, hospitality, and business.
Annual events such as Vidovdan (St Vitus Day) and Serbian Christmas on 7 January attract large gatherings every year.

South East England (Outside London)

Serbian-speaking residents are found in Watford, Slough, Reading, and Milton Keynes.
These towns appeal to commuters due to strong transport links to London.
Community centres here run cultural events, language classes, and youth activities.

The Serbian Orthodox Church of St. Lazar in Birmingham and St. Nicholas Church in Corby serve families across the Midlands and South East.
They offer worship, social events, and Serbian-language education.

The Midlands

The West Midlands has a well-established Serbian-speaking population, especially in Birmingham, Coventry, and Leicester.
Many moved here after the 1990s, joining existing family networks and work communities.
Local churches and cultural groups offer dance, music, and language education.

Folk dance groups and sports teams play a vital role in preserving Serbian identity among younger generations.

Northern England and Scotland

Serbian-speaking families in Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield maintain their heritage through regional clubs and local associations.
These groups arrange Orthodox holiday celebrations, charity events, and film nights throughout the year.

In Scotland, Serbian communities are most active in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Cultural organisations host language classes, community gatherings, and national day celebrations.

Community Infrastructure and Cultural Identity

Serbian-speaking communities in the UK have developed strong infrastructure to support their language, culture, and values.
Churches, weekend schools, folklore groups, and cultural associations help preserve history and traditions.

Many families raise children to speak both Serbian and English fluently, ensuring continuity across generations.
Public celebrations such as Orthodox Christmas, Easter, and national holidays keep cultural pride alive.

Cultural hubs also help new arrivals settle by offering guidance on housing, employment, and education.
These centres strengthen community identity while helping families integrate into British society.