East End London Instagrammable Street Art and Graffiti Tour

London’s East End has long been a hub for creativity and rebellion, and its street art scene is no exception. This 2-hour guided tour offers a fascinating peek into the area’s vibrant murals, graffiti, and hidden artistic treasures. Led by knowledgeable local guides, it promises a blend of history, culture, and Instagram-worthy photo spots—all for just $49 per person.

What makes this tour stand out is the way it combines eye-catching art with stories of the neighborhood’s past, including works by renowned artists like Banksy. If you’re seeking an authentic, street-level view of London’s creative pulse, this tour delivers. The only potential drawback is that the tour covers a lot of ground in a short time, which might be overwhelming for those wanting a more relaxed pace.

This experience is ideal for street art lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the modern culture of East London. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, you’ll find plenty to admire—and even create—along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic East London: Walk through neighborhoods often missed by travelers, full of hidden murals and graffiti.
• Photogenic Spots: Discover numerous Instagram-ready murals, from massive murals to tiny details.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about the stories behind the art, including graffiti wars, local community pieces, and famous artists.
• Creative Experience: Get the chance to make your own street art—an unforgettable hands-on activity.
• Expert Guides: Led by local guides with deep knowledge of the area’s art scene and history.
• Value for Money: At $49 for approximately 2 hours, this tour provides an engaging and visually stunning experience.

A Deep Dive into the Street Art Tour

Starting Point: Heneage Street and Hidden Murals

The tour kicks off in Heneage Street, where you’ll encounter massive murals tucked away in small backyards. One standout is by Phlegm, renowned for his long, slender creatures that seem to walk directly over your head, giving a sense of scale and whimsy. Across the street, FanakaPan’s work features his signature helium balloons, giving an animated, almost nostalgic feeling. The detail in these pieces, visible even from the street, hints at the skill and dedication of the artists.

This initial stop is perfect for snapping photos that will impress your followers. It also sets the tone for the rest of the tour—finding art in unexpected places.

Brick Lane: A Canvas of Diversity

Moving to Brick Lane, the tour shifts into a more lively, vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll see works by Dan Kitchener and Perspicere on smaller doors or panels. These pieces demand a closer look, encouraging you to step forward and appreciate the technical mastery behind them. One review notes that some works are “not so big in format but draw attention for their detail,” which is a reminder that size isn’t everything in street art.

Brick Lane’s walls are constantly changing, which means you’ll see a mix of old favorites and fresh pieces. It’s a street where every angle offers a new perspective, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Hidden Yards and Sticker Art

A quick detour takes you into The Seven Stars yard, a narrow, gritty space brimming with stickers—”an art form of their own,” as one guide put it. Here, you can participate by leaving a sticker or small piece of your own, adding a personal touch to the ever-evolving canvas. This part of the tour highlights how street art isn’t just about murals; stickers and small interventions are equally vital.

Princelet Street: A Community Connection

One of the most meaningful stops is at Princelet Street, home to Stik’s work dedicated to the Muslim community. Despite being defaced a few times, the piece has been repainted repeatedly, symbolizing resilience. It provides deeper insight into the neighborhood’s multicultural roots, especially its history of refugees and immigrants.

This part of the tour reveals how street art can serve as a form of community storytelling and resistance—an aspect appreciated by those interested in social history.

Hanbury Street: Two Iconic Works

Further along, Hanbury Street features two long-standing murals: a bird by ROA and an upside-down man by Martin Ron. According to one reviewer, these have been there for around 20 years, making them almost ancient in graffiti terms. The sheer scale and skill—like the man’s handstanding pose—are impressive. It’s easy to see why this stretch is a favorite for photo ops.

Broccoli Street Art and the Broccoli Lane

A quirky highlight is the “Broccoli” sculptures painted in rainbow colors, a playful trend started by Adrian Boswell. The street where they’re located was even renamed Broccoli Lane. Boswell’s gallery, where you can buy framed broccoli art, is evidence of how street art and commercial ventures now often coexist.

Graffiti Parks and Evolving Walls

Allen Gardens serves as a graffiti playground, with walls that change every few days. This is where you’ll see letters that are almost unreadable, yet their vibrant colors and abstract forms become mesmerizing. It’s a reminder that graffiti often pushes boundaries and definitions of art.

Large-Scale and Famous Works

Moving to Ebor Street, you’ll encounter large portraits by Neon that appear as if painted with a delicate mist, and Ben Eine’s large, bold letters. His signature style, with consistent font themes, makes his work instantly recognizable. The tour highlights how some artists prefer clarity and readability, contrasting with the more cryptic styles elsewhere.

Banksy and the Secret Spot

No street art tour in London feels complete without mentioning Banksy. On Rivington Street, you’ll see some of his original works behind glass panels—carefully protected but still accessible to view. The guide emphasizes that these are “some of his old works”, offering a chance to reflect on his influence.

Otto Schade, Thierry Noir, and the Art of Collaboration

The tour takes a moment to appreciate Otto Schade’s ribbon-like murals and Thierry Noir’s iconic, colorful heads, both illustrating the diversity of styles in East London. Walls that feature multiple artists collaborating show how street art is as much about dialogue as it is about individual expression.

Cultural Landmarks and Final Highlights

A playful stop is at the William Shakespeare bench, where you can sit next to a graffiti depiction of Romeo and Juliet—an unexpected but charming intersection of old and new. The tour ends near Shoreditch High Street, just before the landscape shifts to modern skyscrapers, with a final discussion about the “Graffiti Wars”, revealing the sometimes tense but creative rivalry that shapes street art.

Practical Details & What You’ll Get

This tour, priced at $49, offers excellent value given the depth of art and stories packed into two hours. Led by a local London guide, it is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience. The mobile ticket format makes it easy to join, with the tour starting at 80 Whitechapel High Street and concluding near Liverpool Street Station—both accessible by public transportation.

The tour also includes a hands-on opportunity to create your own street art, allowing you to leave with a personal masterpiece—or at least a memorable souvenir. The pace is brisk but manageable, focusing on quality over quantity, with frequent stops that allow for photos, questions, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

What We Loved

• The diversity of art styles and locations, from tiny stickers to large murals.
• The storytelling behind each piece—learning about graffiti wars, community symbols, and iconic artists.
• The opportunity to make your own art, turning sightseeing into a creative experience.
• The knowledgeable guides, who share local insights that you might not find in guidebooks.
• The balance of art, history, and culture, making it suitable for a wide range of interests.

A Few Considerations

• The tour covers many stops in just two hours, so it’s quite fast-paced.
• Some artworks, especially the older or more protected ones, might be harder to see in detail.
• As with any street art tour, ongoing changes mean some murals may be replaced or altered, so your experience might vary slightly from what others see.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This street art tour is perfect if you want to get an authentic and visually stunning taste of East London’s creative side without spending a fortune. It’s especially suited for photo enthusiasts and culture vultures who enjoy stories behind the art. If you’re interested in social commentary through street art, or simply love wandering through colorful, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also ideal for those wanting to create their own art, making the experience interactive and memorable. However, if you prefer a slow, relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, the brisk itinerary might feel rushed.

The Sum Up

The East End London Instagrammable Street Art and Graffiti Tour offers a compelling blend of visual delights, cultural stories, and hands-on creativity. With its well-informed guides and focus on authentic, local art, it provides a genuine window into the vibrant underground scene that shapes East London’s identity. At just $49, the tour delivers excellent value for a rich, engaging experience that appeals to both casual travelers and dedicated street art fans.

Whether you’re after stunning photos, insights into the neighborhood’s history, or a chance to try your hand at creating art, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a fantastic way to explore London’s modern cultural landscape, especially if you prefer your sightseeing with a splash of creativity and community.

FAQs

Does the tour require booking in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 91 days ahead, indicating high demand. Booking early is recommended to secure your spot.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering multiple neighborhoods and stops along the way.

Is the ticket price of $49 per person good value?
Given the number of stops, insights, and the opportunity to create your own art, it offers a lot of value for a guided walking experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for a wide age range, though very young children might find the pace a bit quick.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at 80 Whitechapel High Street, with the end near Liverpool Street Station—both easily accessible via public transport.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The stops are highly photogenic, and guides often point out the best angles for capturing murals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Refunds are processed if canceled in time.

Can I make my own street art during the tour?
Yes, a hands-on activity is included, giving you the chance to leave your own mark on East London’s walls.

Are the artworks protected or behind glass?
Some, like Banksy’s, are behind glass panels for protection but still visible for viewing and discussion.

This street art tour in East London blends culture, creativity, and community in a way that offers a genuine taste of the city’s modern soul. Whether you’re capturing photos or creating your own masterpiece, it’s a creative journey worth taking.