Thousands Protest Outside Heathrow Anti-Asylum Hotel as Tensions Escalate

HUNDREDS of demonstrators gathered outside the Crowne Plaza hotel on Stockley Road near Heathrow today in a large-scale anti-asylum protest. The demonstration, organised under the “Raise The Colours” banner, came in response to a recent Court of Appeal ruling allowing the government to continue housing asylum seekers in local hotels.

Unlike other news outlets relying solely on police statements, Hillingdon Vision reporters were on the scene and captured events firsthand. Despite claims by other news outlets Hillingdon Vision footage shows that despite other outlets claiming men where "masked" protestors who broke through the hotel’s perimeter fence were unmasked, with the gate left unlocked.

The streets outside the Crowne Plaza hotel near Heathrow erupted in tension today as between 500 and 1500 protestors gathered to voice opposition to the housing of asylum seekers in local hotels ( figuresdepending on who provided the info).

The event organised under the banner “Raise The Colours,” demonstrators turned out in force following a Court of Appeal decision that allows the government to continue relocating migrants into temporary accommodation in the area.

Large crowds gathered at the Hotel near Heathrow

Hillingdon Vision reporters were on the ground for the duration of the protest, capturing scenes that paint a fuller picture than official statements alone. Most protestors who breached the hotel’s perimeter fence were unmasked, with the gate reportedly left unlocked, while only one individual entering the building wore a mask.

The protest drew a wide cross-section of participants, from families to individuals dressed in striking attire — including a man in full St George costume — marching and chanting slogans demanding change to immigration policies. Despite the festive symbolism, the mood soon turned volatile.

Clashes between police and demonstrators intensified as officers pushed through the crowd. At least three protestors were seriously injured, and members of the press, clearly identified with jackets and press cards, were also shoved to the ground. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with both sides exhibiting aggressive behaviour.

protestors waved flags and set of red smoke flares

Inside the hotel, tensions escalated further. Some asylum seekers reportedly threw objects from windows, swearing and taunting those gathered outside. The confrontations were marked by objects being exchanged and chants growing increasingly hostile, creating a sense of unrest that persisted throughout the afternoon.

A protestor, speaking to our reporters, summarised the concerns driving today’s turnout:

"We’re worried because migrants have been committing crimes locally, they aren’t integrating, and yet they’re being treated better than our veterans. If we can afford to house migrants, we can afford to house British homeless people — it’s that simple. Give everyone the same resources. Don’t give homes to migrants while our British veterans are left sleeping on the streets, told they aren’t a priority."

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that additional officers were deployed to secure the area and maintain order, including cordons around nearby hotels such as the Novotel and Holiday Inn. Five arrests were made for offences including assault on an officer, affray, and violent disorder, while two officers suffered minor injuries.

In a statement, a police spokesperson said:

"Where peaceful protest crosses the line into criminality, including injuries to our officers, we will take immediate action. Around 500 protesters were in the area, but most have now dispersed. Further arrests will be made if necessary. Local residents and businesses can expect to see our continued presence and patrols in the area."

A large police presence was visible in the surrounding areas

By mid-afternoon, most demonstrators had left, leaving the hotels secure but the area still under police watch. The events today illustrate the challenge of policing high-intensity demonstrations where strong emotions, provocation, and authority collide. Across the UK, similar protests are taking place as communities grapple with questions of integration, public resources, and the treatment of vulnerable groups.