Who we are
Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick is a faith-led, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to practising and sharing the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. As a place of worship, learning, and service, the Gurdwara welcomes everyone irrespective of background or belief upholding Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of equality, compassion, and contribution to society.
With a weekly congregation of around 10,000, GNG is one of the UK’s most vibrant centres of Sikh faith and community life.
Our Story
Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick opened its doors in 1961, when the Sikh community purchased a former church on Smethwick High Street. It was the first Gurdwara in the UK and Europe acquired solely for Sikh worship, becoming a spiritual home for new arrivals from Punjab and a centre for building community life. From these beginnings, the Gurdwara has continued to grow alongside the community it serves.
Over the decades, the site has been transformed through major redevelopments, now housing nine halls, two langar halls, classrooms, a gym, and a library the largest of its kind in a UK Gurdwara. It has pioneered initiatives such as the Shaheedi Tournaments (since 1963) and commissioned the Lions of the Great War memorial in 2018.Â
Our Core Values
Learn more about our values and our story.
Who are we?
Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick is the first and largest Gurdwara in the UK, established in 1961. We are a faith-led, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to practising and sharing the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. With a weekly congregation of around 10,000, we are both a spiritual home and a community hub that welcomes everyone.
What do we believe?
Our guiding principles come from Guru Nanak Dev Ji: equality, compassion, and service. We believe that all people, regardless of faith or background, are equal in the eyes of Waheguru. Through prayer, learning, and seva (selfless service), we strive to live by these values and contribute positively to society.
What can I expect when I visit?
Visitors are warmly welcomed at the Gurdwara. You’ll be asked to cover your head and remove your shoes before entering. Inside, you can experience the peace of the Darbar Sahib (main prayer hall), listen to kirtan (sung prayer), and share a free vegetarian meal in the langar hall. Everyone is invited to take part, whether you come to pray, learn, or simply observe.
How can I get involved?
There are many ways to be part of the life of the Gurdwara. You can volunteer in the langar kitchen, join seva projects, support educational programmes, or help with community events. Whatever your skills or time, there is always a role for you in serving others.
How can I connect with the church?
Stay connected by visiting us in person, following our community announcements, or joining our events and programmes. You can also reach out through our office, website, or social media channels. The Gurdwara is here not only as a place of worship, but also as a centre of support, learning, and friendship.
Join us this Sunday
Our community makes us unique. They have an energy that reverberates around them. Their mission in life is to ensure the wonder in the world is not overlooked.