More about: 7 Best Graffiti and Street Art Tours in London
London is a city of contrasts, where classic and modern coexist in perfect harmony. But beyond its museums and galleries, the British capital is also a giant open-air canvas, where urban art has become one of its most vibrant expressions. From murals by world-renowned artists to ephemeral graffiti that disappears in a matter of days, exploring London through its street art is a different and authentic way to discover the city. If you want to immerse yourself in this world of color, messages, and creativity, here are the best graffiti and urban art tours in London.
1. Shoreditch Street Art Tour: the epicenter of London graffiti
If there's one neighborhood that represents the heart of urban art in London, it's Shoreditch. On this tour, you'll walk through streets like Brick Lane, Hanbury Street, and Rivington Street, where every corner is an impromptu museum. Here you can see works by iconic artists such as Banksy, Stik, and Ben Eine, along with pieces by emerging creators who are constantly renewing the urban landscape. The tour usually lasts 2-3 hours and costs approximately £15-£25, depending on whether it is a group or private tour.
2. East London graffiti tour: giant murals and hidden messages
East London is one of the most dynamic areas for street art. This tour takes you through the neighborhoods of Hackney, Hoxton, and Bethnal Green, where murals tell stories of resistance, culture, and current events. In addition to traditional graffiti, you'll find large-scale works created with innovative techniques, from stencils to three-dimensional installations. This is the perfect tour for those who want to go beyond the aesthetics and understand the impact of urban art on the community. The tour lasts 2.5 hours and costs around £20-£30.
3. Tour of the East End: the birthplace of street art in London
The East End has been a haven for artists, immigrants, and alternative cultural movements for decades. This urban art tour takes you through neighborhoods such as Whitechapel and Spitalfields, where graffiti blends with the city's history. In addition to discovering impressive murals, you'll learn about the evolution of street art in London, from its most clandestine beginnings to its acceptance in galleries and exhibitions. This tour usually lasts 2-3 hours and costs around £18-£25.
4. Graffiti and street art tour with hands-on workshop
If you don't want to be just a spectator, this tour offers you the chance to create your own graffiti. After visiting some of the most iconic murals in Shoreditch and Hoxton, participants receive an introduction to graffiti techniques and can design their own artwork in an authorized space. It's an interactive experience and perfect for urban art lovers who want to experience it from the inside. The activity lasts 3-4 hours and costs approximately £35-£50, including materials.
5. Banksy Tour: on the trail of the world's most enigmatic artist
Banksy is undoubtedly the most famous urban artist in history, and although his identity remains a mystery, his works have left their mark on London. On this tour, you'll follow in his footsteps through neighborhoods such as Soho, South Bank, and Camden, where some of his most iconic pieces can still be seen. You'll also learn about the history of the works that have disappeared or been moved to museums and private collections. This is a must-see tour for fans of Banksy and art with a message. The tour lasts 2 hours and costs around £20-£30.
6. Nighttime urban art tour: London illuminated with color
If you want to see street art from a different perspective, some tours offer night tours, where the city's lighting highlights the details of the murals in a unique way. In addition, these tours include visits to venues and bars decorated with urban art, where you can discover new pieces while enjoying London's vibrant nightlife. The tours last 2-3 hours and prices range from £20 to £35, depending on whether drinks are included.
7. Graffiti and urban art photography tour
If you love photography, this tour is designed to capture the best images of London street art. With the help of an expert guide, you'll explore the most photogenic neighborhoods for urban art, learning how to best compose your images and play with light and color. It's a perfect option for those who want to take home a unique souvenir and improve their photography skills at the same time. The tour lasts 3 hours and costs around £30-£50, depending on the level of customization.
Graffiti and urban art tours in London are much more than a tour of pretty murals: they are a window into the culture, history, and voices that have shaped the city. From the colorful streets of Shoreditch to the hidden messages on the walls of the East End, each tour offers a unique perspective on art and its transformative power. Whether you're a graffiti enthusiast, a photographer in search of the perfect shot, or simply a curious traveler, these tours will show you a side of London that few tourists ever get to see . Where will your first stop be?