10 Best Places In London To See Extraordinary Street Art
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From thought-provoking messages to jaw-dropping murals, the city's streets and buildings have become the canvas for local and international artists alike.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the top 10 places in London where you can witness extraordinary street art in all its glory.
1. Camden - The Eclectic Hub of Creativity
Address: Camden High St, Camden Town, London NW1 7BT
Camden is not only popular among students for its unique fashion, music, and art contributions, but it has also become a hotspot for street art enthusiasts.
The lively and colourful streets of Camden are adorned with numerous vibrant murals and graffiti artworks, with a constant rotation of new pieces for visitors to enjoy.
One such masterpiece is the AeroArts mural near the Buck Head Pub, which showcases a vivid graffiti piece created by the community workshop. They also offer educational workshops for those interested in learning the art of graffiti.
Camden is also home to Banksy's 'Designated Graffiti Area' within Cargo Beer Garden on Rivington Street. This iconic piece has transformed the street into a mecca for street artists, inspiring many others to showcase their work alongside Banksy's creation.
2. Shoreditch - The Epicentre of Street Art
Address: Rivington St, London EC2A 3AY
Shoreditch is undoubtedly the epicentre of London's street art scene, boasting some of the most iconic and cherished artworks in the city. One such piece is Banksy's 'Designated Graffiti Area' on Rivington Street, which has been attracting artists and tourists alike since 2003.
As you explore the streets of Shoreditch, you will come across countless murals and graffiti pieces that showcase the incredible talent of local and international artists.
Some must-visit spots include Princelet Street, Hanbury Street, Corbet Place, Brick Lane, Dray Walk, Wheeler Street, Pedley Street, Grimsby Street, Bethnal Green Road, Sclater Street, Whitby Street, Chance Street, and Ebor Street.
3. Brick Lane - A Street Art Haven
Address: Brick Ln, Spitalfields, London E1 6QR
Brick Lane is another renowned location for street art in London, with over 800 commissioned murals that cater to every taste. This bustling area is home to Banksy's 2008 French Maid, as well as numerous other pieces by local and international artists.
One striking mural in Brick Lane is by British street artist Carleen De Sozer, known for her vibrant Afrofuturism style. This beautiful piece is located at the Seven Stars car park and is a must-see for any street art lover.
4. Brixton - A Lively and Multicultural Canvas
Address: 463 A23, London SW9 8BN
Brixton, a culturally diverse and lively neighbourhood, is home to some of the most compelling urban art in London.
The area's rich Afro-Caribbean heritage has inspired many artists to create stunning murals and graffiti pieces that showcase the vibrant spirit of Brixton.
One of the most iconic artworks in Brixton is the David Bowie memorial by Jimmy C on Tunstall Road. This mesmerising portrait of the legendary musician has become a major landmark in the area since its creation in 2013, paying homage to Bowie's long-lasting connection with Brixton.
5. Leake Street Tunnel - A Graffiti Wonderland
Address: Leake St, Bishop's, London SE1 7NN
The Leake Street Tunnel, also known as the Banksy Tunnel, is a graffiti hotspot that houses some of the most impressive street art in London. This old train tunnel has been transformed into a graffiti wonderland, where artists of all skill levels can showcase their work.
Located just a stone's throw from Waterloo Station, the Leake Street Tunnel offers a unique and ever-changing display of colourful murals created by both local and international artists. Whether you are a seasoned graffiti artist or just starting out, this underground space invites everyone to leave their mark.
6. The Fourth Plinth - A Unique Art Installation in Trafalgar Square
Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5NJ
The Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square is an unusual yet fascinating spot to witness innovative street art in London. While the other three plinths showcase historic figures, the fourth remained empty for over 150 years due to a lack of funding.
In 1999, the Fourth Plinth began hosting temporary art installations by various artists, breathing new life into the once-empty space. The latest installation, Heather Phillipson's 'THE END', features a cherry on cream with two parasites, making it a must-see when visiting Trafalgar Square.
7. Dalston - A Lesser-Known Street Art Gem
Address: Dalston Ln, Dalston, London E8 3DE
Dalston may not be as well-known as other street art hotspots, but it offers a unique and authentic experience for those seeking to explore London's vibrant urban art scene without the crowds.
One of the most iconic murals in Dalston is the Hackney Peace Carnival by artists Mick Jones and Ray Walker. This classic London mural, located at 3 Dalston Lane, depicts carnival-goers marching for peace against nuclear warfare. The mural was restored to its former glory in 2014, making it a must-visit spot for street art enthusiasts.
8. Hackney Wick - A Tribute to Tradition and Growth
Address: Hackney Bridge, Units 1-28, ECHO BUILDING, E Bay Ln, E15 2SJ
Hackney Wick is home to some of the most stunning murals in London, showcasing the area's rich industrial past and modern-day growth. One such piece is by local artist Busk, who unveiled a tribute to Hackney Wick during the London Mural Festival in September 2020.
The mural features an artist holding a paintbrush in front of Busk's classic graffiti lettering, symbolizing the area's artistic transformation and resilience.
9. Dulwich Outdoor Gallery - A Fusion of Classic and Urban Art
Address: Post Office, 84 Dulwich Village, London SE21 7AJ
The Dulwich Outdoor Gallery is a unique art space where street artists draw inspiration from 17th and 18th-century Baroque masterpieces housed at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. This fusion of classic and urban art has resulted in a stunning collection of murals, showcasing the incredible talent of both local and international artists.
Some notable works at the Dulwich Outdoor Gallery include pieces by renowned street artists Stik, Faith47, and Conor Harrington. These artworks not only pay homage to the classical art period but also reflect the artists' signature styles, making this outdoor gallery a must-visit for art lovers.
10. Hackney Road, Bethnal Green - A Vibrant East London Experience
Address: Bethnal Green Rd, London E2 0AH
Hackney Road in Bethnal Green is another popular location for street art, offering a diverse and vibrant East London experience. With numerous tour groups exploring the area, it has become a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
One of the most eye-catching murals in the area is a multi-coloured winking feline by street artist Irony. Located on Clare Street, this vibrant piece is a perfect example of the creative talent that London's street art scene has to offer.
In conclusion, London's extraordinary street art scene is an essential part of its cultural fabric. Whether you are a seasoned street art enthusiast or a curious traveller, these top 10 locations offer a diverse and unforgettable experience of the city's urban art landscape. So, grab your camera and embark on a street art exploration that will leave you in awe of the incredible talent and creativity that London has to offer.
