The Original London Street Art Tour

The Original London Street Art Tour offers a fantastic way to see a side of London many visitors overlook. For just over $27 per person, you’ll spend roughly two hours walking through some of the most colourful, politically charged, and visually striking murals in East London. Led by knowledgeable guides—many of whom are artists themselves—the tour takes you from Old Spitalfields Market to Brick Lane, and finally Shoreditch High Street Station, uncovering hidden gems and iconic works along the way.

What we love most is how the guides bring the art to life with stories about the artists and the meanings behind the murals. We also appreciate the flexible scheduling, with both morning and afternoon tours available, making it easy to fit into most itineraries. The small group size—capped at 18—means you get plenty of personal attention and the chance to ask questions.

A possible consideration is that you should be prepared for all weather conditions; the tour operates rain or shine. Also, if you’re already familiar with the area, some might feel they’ve seen much of the street art before, though the guided insights often reveal new perspectives.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want more than just a casual stroll—those interested in contemporary culture, street art, or urban stories will find it especially rewarding. Families with children can join as long as kids are accompanied by adults, and everyone should have a moderate level of physical fitness to comfortably navigate the walking route.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, often artists themselves, adding depth to the experience.
• Authentic Insight: Learn the stories, meanings, and cultural significance behind street murals.
• Flexible Schedule: Available morning or afternoon, fitting various travel plans.
• Small Group: Limited to 18 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Accessible and Weatherproof: Operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
• Affordable: Excellent value considering the depth of information and unique access to hidden art.

Exploring East London’s Street Art Scene

London is famous for its history, royalty, and landmarks, but the city also hosts a thriving underground art scene that’s often overshadowed by its more traditional attractions. The Original London Street Art Tour unlocks this vibrant world, revealing colorful murals, political statements, and artistic experiments painted on the walls of Shoreditch, Brick Lane, and Spitalfields.

This tour is conducted by guides who are not just knowledgeable but genuinely enthusiastic—many are active artists in their own right. Their insights turn what might be just eye-catching graffiti into stories of social commentary, personal expression, and aesthetic innovation.

The tour starts at Old Spitalfields Market, a lively spot known for its trendy shops and food stalls. Here, your guide introduces you to the basics of street art, pointing out early examples and setting the stage for what’s ahead. You’ll soon walk along Brushfield Street and then into the heart of Brick Lane, a street famous for its multicultural vibe and ever-changing walls.

Brick Lane’s murals range from witty political messages to colorful portraits, often infused with commentary on gentrification, social justice, or local culture. You’ll learn about the artists behind the works and their intentions—something that makes the art much more meaningful than just pretty pictures on a wall. A quote from reviews captures this well: “Laura was our guide and she was super knowledgeable and passionate about art!”

From Brick Lane, the tour continues to Shoreditch, a hub of creative energy. The streets here are a canvas for street artists, and your guide will point out hidden gems as well as well-known pieces. One reviewer highlights, “Josh was very knowledgeable and passionate about street art and its place in London,” illustrating that the guides really enhance the experience with their stories and expertise.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Old Spitalfields Market:
The tour begins at this bustling market where you’ll get a taste of East London’s lively atmosphere. The guide points out some of the earliest examples of street art, setting a historical context. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but one that primes you for what’s to come. The free admission means no extra costs here, making it a smart way to start.

Brick Lane:
Spending about 30 minutes wandering the streets here, you’ll see some of the most iconic murals. One review remarks, “It is such a neat part of town with a varied history. You will learn all about graffiti, tagging, and local history,” emphasizing how much this area offers beyond just visual art. The guide will highlight both famous pieces and lesser-known works, sharing anecdotes that add depth to each mural.

Shoreditch High Street Station:
The final stop involves about 20 minutes of exploration around the station. Here, guides will point out more examples and tell stories about the evolving street art scene. Expect unique perspectives, including insights into the political and cultural messages conveyed by the art. As one reviewer noted, “Eva, who is an artist herself, told us so much interesting things about the meaning of the arts and the artists,” which really enriches the experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Guides:
Many reviews praise the guides, highlighting their passion and insider knowledge. “Josh was super knowledgeable and down to earth,” says one traveler. The guides’ background as artists themselves, like Eva, really helps you see the murals through a lens of technical skill and artistic intent.

Learn the Stories Behind the Murals:
Street art isn’t just about graffiti; it’s a form of expression that often carries political or social messages. The guides share these stories, transforming your walk into a cultural lesson. You’ll understand why some murals are controversial and what they say about London’s social landscape today.

Discover Hidden Gems:
While some murals are well-known, many are tucked away in alleyways or on less obvious walls. The guided route ensures you see these hidden treasures, many of which you might overlook on your own. One review mentions missing some pieces when exploring alone, but the guide ensures you get the full picture.

Affordable and Well-Organized:
At $27.54, the tour offers great value for a deep, authentic experience. The small group size (up to 18 people) means you’re not lost in a crowd, and you can ask questions freely. The fact that it runs rain or shine means you should dress appropriately, but it’s a practical way to explore regardless of weather.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers interested in modern urban culture, street art, or social commentary. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a superficial glance at London’s walls—those who enjoy stories and context. Families with older children can join, provided the kids are accompanied by adults, making it a fun educational outing.

If you already know the area well and are familiar with street art, some murals might be familiar, but even seasoned graffiti enthusiasts have raved about guides like Josh and Eva, who bring fresh insights and anecdotes.

For visitors seeking an active, engaging, and culturally rich activity, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, local artistry, and discovering offbeat neighborhoods.

The Sum Up

The Original London Street Art Tour offers a lively, insightful look into East London’s vibrant street art scene. For just over $27, you get a two-hour walk through some of the most colorful and politically charged murals in the city, guided by passionate experts who bring the walls to life with stories and context.

It’s a fantastic experience for those who love discovering the stories behind the artwork, or simply want to see a different side of London beyond the iconic landmarks. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch that makes the experience memorable. Plus, the ability to explore in all weather makes it a reliable option for any day.

Whether you’re a street art enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone who enjoys discovering authentic local culture, this tour will deepen your appreciation for London’s modern urban canvases. It’s a chance to see the city’s walls as a form of expression that reflects its social pulse—an experience that’s both fun and enlightening.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key areas of East London’s street art scene.

What areas does the tour visit?
It visits Old Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane, and Shoreditch High Street Station, focusing on street art in these neighborhoods.

Is there an option for different times of day?
Yes, you can choose between morning or afternoon tours, making it flexible for most schedules.

What is the price?
The tour costs $27.54 per person, offering good value for a guided cultural experience.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult, though the tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly for rain or shine.

What makes guides special?
Many guides are artists themselves, adding personal insights and stories that enrich the walk.

Can I see famous murals or hidden ones?
Both are included; guides highlight well-known murals and hidden gems you might miss on your own.

Is this suitable for someone already familiar with street art?
Yes, guides often provide new perspectives and stories, making it interesting even for seasoned enthusiasts.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward online, usually 26 days in advance, and tickets are mobile for convenience.

In short, if you’re eager to experience London’s street art scene with engaging guides and a small group, this tour delivers a colorful, cultural, and memorable journey through East London’s murals. It’s a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and authentic urban culture that will leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s creative pulse.