The Tailor-Made Guide to the Street Art Murals of London
- 7 hours ago
- 16 min read
Author: Barry Pickard
Hi, I'm Barry, the owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries and I have been designing bespoke self-guided tours for adventurous and curious travellers since 2015. I am a history graduate with a passion for travel.
I created this blog to inspire curious travellers and share the experiences behind my bespoke itinerary designs — giving you a flavour of what is possible, and the confidence to reach out and make it happen.
Contents
Where are the best street art murals in London? You’ve found them. Right here. In this guide.
Picture this: you’re standing at the entrance of a narrow East London alley, and the smell of fresh aerosol paint drifts toward you before you even round the corner. Then it hits you — a floor-to-ceiling explosion of colour, a face staring back at you in brushstrokes six metres high, the distant hiss and clank of an Overground train rolling overhead. This is London street art in its rawest, most electric form, and it’s completely free to experience.
I’m Barry Pickard, founder of Tailor-Made Itineraries, and I’ve been designing bespoke self-guided tours for independent travellers since 2015. Over the years, I’ve explored the street art of London extensively — from the curated mural corridors of Shoreditch and the ever-changing walls of Brick Lane, to the legendary graffiti tunnel in London under Waterloo Station and the community-driven trails of Ilford. I know these spots well, and more importantly, I know how to help you get the most out of them.
This post is your practical, first-hand guide to the street art murals of London. Whether you’re figuring out what to do in London England as a first-time visitor or you’re a seasoned traveller hunting for something beyond the usual tourist trail, this is one of the most rewarding — and affordable — ways to experience the city. Everything I share here is based on my own personal exploration, so you’re getting real recommendations from someone who’s actually walked these streets, not a list scraped from a travel aggregator.
Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through the very best locations, share my Tailor-Made Tips for making the most of each spot, and help you plan your time so nothing gets missed. Let’s get into it.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of the street art murals of London appeals to you, and if you’re already thinking about how to fit these locations into your time in London, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Regardless of this, please be advised that all opinions expressed in this blog post are genuine and authentically my own.
Overview of Street Art Murals in London
London’s street art scene is a constantly evolving, open-air gallery that reflects the city’s diversity, politics, and creative energy. What began in the late 20th century as underground graffiti culture—often associated with rebellion and anonymity—has grown into a globally recognised art movement, with internationally acclaimed artists like Banksy and Stik leaving their mark on the capital’s walls. Today, street art in London ranges from intricate large-scale commissions to spontaneous paste-ups and stencil work, often changing within days or even hours. Visiting London street art hotspots is as much about the thrill of discovery as it is about the art itself; works appear in unexpected corners, railway arches, and alleyways, creating a sense of impermanence that makes each visit unique. Exploring these areas offers not just visual inspiration but also insight into local communities, cultural shifts, and the ever-changing dialogue between artists and the city.
Grey Eagle Street
Grey Eagle Street is one of those lesser-known gems that rewards those willing to step slightly off the main tourist trail. Tucked away in Shoreditch, this narrow street has quietly established itself as a curated corridor for some of London’s most striking mural work. The walls here often feature large-scale, highly detailed pieces from both emerging and established artists, making it feel more like a deliberate outdoor gallery than a spontaneous graffiti spot. Unlike the chaotic layering seen in busier street art areas, the murals on Grey Eagle Street tend to be more preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship, colour palettes, and storytelling behind each piece without distraction.
What makes Grey Eagle Street particularly appealing is its more intimate and accessible atmosphere. You can take your time photographing murals, noticing finer details such as brushwork or hidden symbolism that might go unnoticed in busier locations. The street often showcases collaborations and commissioned works, reflecting a growing acceptance of street art as a legitimate art form within London’s creative industries. Its proximity to Shoreditch means it can be combined with nearby art stops, depending on how you structure your route, but it still retains a quieter charm that sets it apart.
Tailor-Made Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds—perfect for uninterrupted photography.
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Shoreditch High Street
Shoreditch High Street, and the side streets that branch off it, is the beating heart of London’s street art culture, where creativity spills across walls, shop shutters, and even street furniture. Walking along this bustling stretch and its surrounding side streets, you’ll encounter an ever-changing canvas filled with bold colours, political commentary, and playful designs. The area rose to prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s as artists transformed neglected urban spaces into vibrant works of art, and it remains a hub for both local talent and internationally recognised names. The sheer density of artwork here means there is always something new to discover, even if you’ve visited before.
Beyond the murals themselves, Shoreditch High Street offers a dynamic cultural experience. Street art here is intertwined with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and creative studios, making it an ideal place to spend several hours exploring. You’ll often find guided walking tours that provide deeper insight into individual artists, hidden pieces, and the stories behind the work. While the area can be busy, that energy adds to the experience—this is street art as a living, breathing part of the community, constantly evolving and responding to the world around it.
Tailor-Made Tip: Turn off the main street into side alleys like Rivington Street and Redchurch Street—this is where some of the most impressive large-scale murals are hidden.
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Brick Lane
Brick Lane is synonymous with London street art, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and creativity. Famous for its vibrant markets and food scene, the street and its surrounding lanes are also home to some of the city’s most iconic and frequently updated murals. Artists are drawn here by the area’s reputation, resulting in a layered collage of styles—from intricate portraits and political statements to abstract works and quirky paste-ups. The walls along Brick Lane and its side streets act as a constantly changing exhibition, where new artwork often replaces the old in a matter of days.
What sets Brick Lane apart is its strong sense of cultural identity. Historically known for its diverse immigrant communities, particularly Bangladeshi culture, the area’s street art often reflects themes of social change, identity, and unity. Visiting Brick Lane is about more than just viewing murals—it’s about immersing yourself in a neighbourhood where art, food, and history intersect. On weekends, the area becomes especially lively with markets and street performers, creating an energetic backdrop to your exploration of the ever-evolving artwork.
Tailor-Made Tip: Combine mural spotting with a trip to the famous Old Truman Brewery Market.
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Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
Situated beneath Waterloo Station, the Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel—also known as the “Banksy Tunnel”—is one of London’s most unique street art experiences. Unlike most mural sites in the city, this tunnel is a legal graffiti space, meaning artists are free to paint and repaint the walls as they wish. The result is a constantly shifting kaleidoscope of colour and creativity, where no visit is ever the same. The tunnel gained international attention in 2008 when Banksy organised the “Cans Festival” here, inviting artists from around the world to transform the space into a vibrant showcase of urban art.
What makes Leake Street particularly exciting is its immersive, almost interactive atmosphere. As you walk through the tunnel, you may see artists actively creating new work, giving you a rare glimpse into the process behind the art. Layers of paint overlap, blend, and evolve, creating a textured visual history of countless contributions. The sound of trains overhead and the enclosed, slightly gritty environment add to the authenticity of the experience, making it feel raw and unfiltered compared to more curated street art locations.
Tailor-Made Tip: Bring a camera with good low-light capability—the tunnel’s lighting is atmospheric but can be challenging for photography.
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Ilford inColour
Ilford inColour offers a refreshing contrast to the more central London street art hubs, showcasing how mural projects can revitalise and celebrate local communities. This initiative was launched to transform Ilford’s urban landscape through large-scale, professionally commissioned murals created by a diverse group of artists. The works here often focus on themes of heritage, diversity, and identity, reflecting the rich cultural fabric of the area. Unlike spontaneous graffiti, the murals are thoughtfully planned and integrated into the community, turning everyday streets into vibrant visual storytelling spaces.
Exploring Ilford inColour feels more like a curated art trail than a traditional street art hunt. The murals are spread across the town centre, encouraging visitors to explore different neighbourhoods and discover hidden corners they might otherwise overlook. Each piece has a sense of permanence and purpose, with many artworks accompanied by narratives about the artist or the inspiration behind the design. This makes Ilford an ideal destination for those looking to experience street art in a more structured and meaningful way, away from the hustle of central London.
Tailor-Made Tip: The murals can be found on Cranbrook Road, opposite the train station, along the High Road and near the central library.
Banksy Limitless in London Exhibition
For those wanting to go beyond the streets and dive deeper into the world of one of the most famous (and elusive) street artists, the Banksy Limitless exhibition in London offers a completely different perspective on urban art. Unlike traditional mural hunting, this indoor experience brings together over a hundred works, installations, and immersive displays that explore Banksy’s themes of politics, identity, and social commentary. The exhibition blends original pieces with digital projections and recreated environments, allowing visitors to engage with the artwork in a more reflective setting—something that contrasts nicely with the raw, ever-changing nature of London’s outdoor street art scene.
One of the highlights of the visit was the interactive element, which made the experience particularly memorable. My son had the opportunity to use a stencil and spray cans to create his own Banksy-style design on a t-shirt—an activity that not only brought the techniques of street art to life but also gave a tangible souvenir to take away.
It’s this combination of education, creativity, and hands-on involvement that makes the exhibition appealing for both adults and families. While it doesn’t replace the thrill of discovering murals out in the city, it adds valuable context and appreciation for the artistry behind them.
Address: 79-85 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3LD.
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Other Street Art Areas of London
Beyond the well-known hubs of Shoreditch and Brick Lane, London is rich with lesser-explored London art street districts that are firmly on the radar for my future visits to London. Camden is a standout, where bold murals blend seamlessly with the area’s alternative culture and music heritage, while Hackney Wick offers a more industrial backdrop with large-scale works scattered among warehouses and canals. Peckham has emerged as a rising hotspot, showcasing community-driven art and vibrant, contemporary pieces that reflect the neighbourhood’s evolving identity. Meanwhile, Brixton combines striking murals with powerful cultural and political storytelling, often celebrating its Afro-Caribbean roots.
Here’s what most visitors get wrong:
How to Plan Your Time: London Street Art Murals
One of the biggest surprises when exploring London’s street art is just how spread out it is—yet at the same time, how naturally certain areas group together. Shoreditch, Grey Eagle Street, and Brick Lane form a dense cluster in East London, making them ideal for a focused half-day of mural spotting on foot. In contrast, Leake Street sits in central London near Waterloo, while Ilford inColour requires a short but worthwhile journey out of the centre. On paper it looks straightforward, but once you begin factoring in walking routes, constantly changing artwork, and the temptation to stop (often), timing your day becomes far less obvious.
The real challenge isn’t finding the murals—it’s sequencing them in a way that feels effortless rather than rushed. Do you prioritise the highest concentration of art, or mix in quieter, curated spaces? How much time should you allow in areas where murals change daily? And how do you avoid doubling back or missing standout pieces hidden just off the main streets? These are the small details that can make the difference between a good visit and a truly memorable one—and they’re not always easy to plan without prior knowledge of the area.
If you’d prefer to skip the guesswork and make the most of your time, I design bespoke self-guided itineraries tailored around your interests, pace, and travel style. Whether you have half a day or several days in London, I can create a personalised route that brings these murals together seamlessly. https://www.tailormadeitineraries.com/contact to start planning your Tailor-Made London street art experience.
If you enjoy this kind of curated travel insight, you can subscribe to receive future guides and inspiration.
Getting There: Nearest Stations
London’s street art hotspots are well connected by public transport making it possible to explore several areas in a single day with the right planning. Many of the mural locations are clustered in East London, meaning you can often walk between them if you plan your route carefully.
Grey Eagle Street and Shoreditch High Street are both best accessed via Shoreditch High Street Overground Station, with Liverpool Street Station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) also within a short walking distance. For Brick Lane, the nearest stations are Aldgate East (District and Hammersmith & City lines) and Whitechapel (Elizabeth, District, and Hammersmith & City lines), both just a few minutes’ walk away.
The Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel is located directly beneath Waterloo Station, one of London’s major transport hubs, served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines, as well as National Rail services.
For Ilford inColour, take the Elizabeth Line to Ilford Station, which places you right in the heart of the mural trail. While slightly further out than the other locations, it is still quick and straightforward to reach from central London.
Quick Questions Answered
What is street art? Street art is a form of visual expression created in public spaces, often with the intent to engage, provoke, or beautify. It includes murals, stencils, stickers, sculptures, and more, and can be legal or illicit depending on context.
Is London graffiti the same as street art? London graffiti and London street art are related but distinct. Traditional London graffiti often focuses on lettering, tags, and crew names, and is frequently unauthorised. Street art in London tends to be more image-based and narrative-driven, and is sometimes commissioned or produced with property owner consent. However, the line between the two continues to blur — particularly in spaces like the Leake Street graffiti tunnel, where both forms coexist and evolve side by side.
What qualifies as a mural? A mural is a large-scale artwork, often designed to transform public or interior spaces with visual storytelling, cultural expression, or community identity. Murals are painted or affixed directly onto surfaces (they are not movable canvases), and are usually designed with their location in mind, integrating with the architecture or environment.
Is painting on public walls illegal in the UK? Yes, painting on public walls without permission is generally illegal in the UK and is considered criminal damage or vandalism. However, if you have the property owner's consent, it can be entirely legal.
Who owns the rights to the mural? The artist typically owns the copyright to the mural, while the property owner owns the physical wall it's painted on—unless a contract states otherwise.
Do mural artists need insurance? Yes, mural artists in the UK typically need insurance—especially public liability insurance—to protect themselves from claims related to injury, property damage, or accidents during installation or exhibition.
Is London street art free to visit? Yes, most street art in London is completely free to view, making it one of the best free things to do in London. Murals are located in public spaces such as streets, alleys, and tunnels, making them accessible at any time without an entrance fee.
Can you take photos of street art in London? Yes, photographing street art in London is allowed and encouraged.
Is street art safe to visit in London? Yes, most street art areas in London are safe to explore, particularly during daylight hours and in busy areas like Shoreditch and Brick Lane. As with any city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings.
What is the best time of year to see street art in London? Street art in London can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions — longer daylight hours, better light for photography, and a more energetic street atmosphere.
Who are some famous street artists in London? London has produced some of the world’s most influential street artists in London. Stik is a beloved London street artist whose minimalist murals appear across the city. D*Face, Zabou, and Roa are among the many other celebrated London street artists whose work has helped define the London art street scene.
Is exploring London street art a good activity for families? Yes, exploring street art is one of the most family-friendly activities in London, making it ideal for those wondering about fun things to do in London with children.
Conclusion
Exploring the street art murals of London is, without question, one of the most exhilarating and accessible things to see in London. From the curated mural corridors of Grey Eagle Street to the raw creative energy of the graffiti tunnel in London beneath Waterloo Station, and from the ever-changing walls of Brick Lane to the community-led colour of Ilford inColour, these locations offer something genuinely memorable for every independent traveller. The best part? They’re among the finest free activities in London, costing you nothing beyond your travel card and a few hours of your time. London graffiti and London street art aren’t just backdrops for photographs — they’re living records of the city’s identity, politics, and creativity, refreshed constantly by the London street artists who call this city home. Whether you’re a first-timer working out fun things to do in London or a returning visitor looking to experience something new, I hope this guide has given you the confidence and the inspiration to hit the streets and see it for yourself.
Have you visited any of these street art locations in London? Which was your favourite — or did you discover a hidden gem not on this list? Drop a comment below and let me know — I’d love to hear about your experience!
Where to Stay in London, UK
London offers a vast and varied accommodation scene to suit every style of traveller, from luxury five-star hotels and boutique design stays to budget-friendly chains and serviced apartments. Where you choose to stay often depends on your itinerary—central areas like Shoreditch and Waterloo are perfect for first-time visitors wanting easy access to major attractions, while neighbourhoods like Camden and Ilford offer a more local feel (often at better value). Thanks to London’s excellent public transport network, even staying slightly further out rarely limits your access to key sights, making it easy to balance budget, convenience, and atmosphere.
Hotels near Shoreditch (Street Art & Culture Hub)
Shoreditch is one of the best places to stay if street art is high on your London itinerary. Known for its creative energy, nightlife, and independent food scene, this area is packed with trendy hotels that reflect its artistic spirit.
The CitizenM London Shoreditch is a popular choice, offering sleek, modern rooms with smart technology and a central location just minutes from key mural hotspots. For a more design-led stay, One Hundred Shoreditch combines contemporary interiors with a rooftop terrace and easy access to Brick Lane. If you’re after something slightly more boutique, The Hoxton, Shoreditch delivers stylish comfort and a lively atmosphere that mirrors the neighbourhood itself.
These hotels place you right in the heart of London’s street art scene, meaning you can step outside and start exploring murals almost immediately.
Hotels near Waterloo (Leake Street & Central Access)
Waterloo is one of the most well-connected areas in London, making it an excellent base for both sightseeing and visiting the Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel. Staying here means you’re within walking distance of the South Bank, the London Eye, and several major transport links.
The Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is a standout option, offering comfortable rooms—many with iconic city views—just a short walk from Waterloo Station. Nearby, the Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo is a great mid-range choice with modern amenities and good value for money.
This area works particularly well if you want a balance of street art exploration and classic London landmarks.
Hotels near Ilford (Ilford inColour & Value Stay)
Ilford is a fantastic option if you’re looking to explore the Ilford inColour mural trail while keeping accommodation costs lower than central London. With the Elizabeth Line providing fast connections into the city, it’s a practical and increasingly popular base.
The Best Western Greater London Hotel provides stylish interiors and good transport access. If you prefer apartment-style accommodation, there are also a growing number of serviced apartments in the area, perfect for longer stays or those wanting extra space.
Staying in Ilford allows you to experience a different side of London while still remaining well connected to the main street art districts.
Hotels near Camden (Alternative & Creative Scene)
Camden is a great choice for travellers who enjoy an alternative, music-inspired atmosphere alongside vibrant street art. Known for its markets, canals, and eclectic character, the area offers a mix of accommodation options with a distinct personality.
The Camden Enterprise Hotel combines boutique style with a fantastic location overlooking Camden High Street. For something a little more contemporary, Holiday Inn London Camden Lock offers reliable comfort right by the canal and market area.
Camden’s unique vibe and growing street art presence make it an ideal base for travellers looking to explore beyond the more traditional mural hotspots.
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on street art murals around the world and how to visit these locations, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of the street art murals of London appeals to you, and if you’re already thinking about how to fit these locations into your time in London, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries create one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
London Street Art Map
