Thousands Join 'Unite the Kingdom' Rally in London as Counter Protest Gains Momentum
London, Sep 13, 2025 – Central London witnessed tens of thousands of demonstrators on Saturday as far-right activist Tommy Robinson led the “Unite the Kingdom” rally, while anti-racism groups held a counter march titled “March Against Fascism”.
The large-scale demonstrations saw streets around Waterloo, Whitehall, and Parliament Square filled with protesters carrying Union Jacks, St George’s Crosses, Scottish Saltires, and Welsh flags.
The 'Unite the Kingdom' Rally
Protesters marching under the Unite the Kingdom banner moved towards Whitehall, where speeches were scheduled by figures including Steve Bannon, Donald Trump’s former strategist.
Slogans on flags included “Stop the Boats”, “Send Them Home”, and “Unite the Kingdom”. Some demonstrators also carried anti-transgender banners, while one man held a wooden cross inscribed with “RIP Charlie Kirk”, referring to the US activist killed earlier this week.
A stage was erected in Whitehall, where hundreds had already gathered by early afternoon, with music and chants in support of Robinson.
The Counter Protest – March Against Fascism
Meanwhile, around 500 people joined the Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) counter protest near Russell Square.
Protesters carried signs such as “Women Against the Far Right”, “Oppose Tommy Robinson”, and “Refugees Welcome”. They later planned to march towards Parliament Square, only a short distance from the Robinson rally.
Prominent MPs Diane Abbott and Zarah Sultana were expected to deliver speeches at the counter-demonstration.
Heavy Police Presence
The Metropolitan Police deployed around 1,000 officers, supported by 500 reinforcements from other forces across the UK, including Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Devon & Cornwall.
Barriers were installed to create a "sterile zone" separating the two protests. Despite tensions, the police confirmed they would not use live facial recognition technology during the rallies.
Commander Clair Haynes assured communities, particularly London’s Muslim population, of police vigilance against hate crimes. She stated:
“Officers will take a firm line on behaviour that is discriminatory or that crosses the line from protest into hate crime.”
Timings & Restrictions
The Met announced that the Unite the Kingdom rally would conclude by 6:00 PM, while the March Against Fascism counter protest would end by 4:00 PM, aligning with organizers’ plans.
Key Takeaways
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Tens of thousands joined Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally.
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Around 500 counter-protesters marched under March Against Fascism.
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Strong police presence with over 1,500 officers deployed.
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Authorities urged calm, promising action against hate crimes.
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