When it comes to street art Brick Lane London, no area compares to Brick Lane. Located in the heart of East London’s Shoreditch, Brick Lane is an ever-evolving outdoor gallery of murals, stencils, paste-ups, and graffiti created by world-renowned artists and local talent alike.
From Banksy to Ben Eine, Brick Lane’s walls speak volumes about London’s underground art scene, social commentary, and global creative energy. Whether you’re an art lover, photographer, or curious traveller, exploring street art in Brick Lane is a must-do London experience.
Where to Find Street Art in Brick Lane
The best way to explore Brick Lane’s street art is to walk the area slowly. While the main lane is full of colour, many of the best works are tucked away in side streets and alleys.
Top Street Art Locations Around Brick Lane:
| Spot | What You’ll See |
| Brick Lane itself | Large-scale murals, posters, stencils |
| Hanbury Street | Works by ROA, Dale Grimshaw, and Shepard Fairey |
| Scalter Street | Ever-changing graffiti walls |
| Fashion Street | Portrait art and political paste-ups |
| Pedley Street / Allen Gardens | Legal walls often used by top artists |
| Princelet Street | Hidden gems and stencil art |
| Cheshire Street | Quirky, humorous pieces and detailed paste-ups |
Famous Street Artists Featured in Brick Lane
Banksy
Although many of his original pieces have been removed or damaged, you may still find Banksy’s influence and tributes throughout Brick Lane.
Ben Eine
Known for his bold typography and colourful lettering—often spelling out messages across shop shutters and walls.
ROA
Belgian artist ROA’s black-and-white animal murals (rats, birds, and foxes) are a staple of East London street art.
Stik
Simple stick figures with deep emotion. His works on pedestrian walls and doorways explore urban loneliness and humanity.
Jimmy C (James Cochran)
Australian artist famous for his dot-pointillism portraits, often painted in alleyways near Fashion Street and Hanbury Street.
Best Times to Explore Brick Lane’s Street Art
- Early morning: Less crowded, good light for photography
- Weekdays: Fewer visitors than weekends
- Weekends: Great for experiencing live art, market energy, and murals-in-progress
Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the walls before they change!
Join a Street Art Tour in Brick Lane
Want to get the backstory behind the art? A guided tour can help you identify artists, decode messages, and find hidden gems you’d likely miss on your own.
Recommended Brick Lane Street Art Tours:
| Tour Name | Features |
| Alternative London Walking Tour | Led by local artists, covers art + history |
| Shoreditch Street Art Tours | In-depth artist insight, great for photographers |
| Free Tours by Foot | Donation-based walking tour of East London |
Tip: Many tours begin near Liverpool Street Station or Shoreditch High Street Overground.
What Else to Do Around Brick Lane
- Brick Lane Market (Sundays) – Vintage clothes, records, and bric-à-brac
- Beigel Bake – Iconic salt beef bagels and open 24/7
- Rough Trade East – One of the UK’s best independent record stores
- Truman Brewery – Home to art exhibitions, pop-ups, and events
- Indian restaurants – Some of London’s best curry houses line Brick Lane
How to Get to Brick Lane
- Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City lines)
- Overground: Shoreditch High Street (5-minute walk)
- Bus Routes: 8, 388, 135, 205
- Walking Distance: 10–15 minutes from Spitalfields Market or Old Street
Tips for Exploring Brick Lane’s Street Art
- Wear comfy shoes—you’ll be on your feet for at least 1–2 hours
- Bring a wide-angle lens if you’re into photography
- Don’t just look up—check doors, curbs, and street signs
- Be respectful: Avoid touching or tagging over art
- Come back often—the art is constantly changing
Conclusion
From hidden alleys to iconic murals, Brick Lane is the heart of London’s street art scene. Whether you’re here for a quick photo walk or a deep dive into the world of urban expression, the ever-changing walls of Brick Lane offer a raw, colourful, and unforgettable view of London’s creative soul.
FAQs
Q 1: Where is the best street art in Brick Lane?
The best street art is found along Hanbury Street, Pedley Street, Fashion Street, and the alleys around Princelet Street—but new pieces pop up daily!
Q 2: Is Brick Lane street art legal?
Some walls are legal or tolerated for graffiti (like Allen Gardens), while others are not. Many pieces are created with permission from business owners.
Q 3: Can I take a tour of Brick Lane street art?
Yes. Several guided walking tours are available daily, led by local artists or art historians. They offer deep insight into the artists and cultural context.
Q 4: Is street art still allowed in London?
Yes, but it depends on location. In areas like Shoreditch and Brick Lane, it is often supported by the community and part of the local identity.
Q 5: How often does street art change in Brick Lane?
Constantly! Some murals last weeks, others years. That’s part of what makes Brick Lane a living, breathing canvas.
Also read: Guardian.co.uk Soulmates: What Happened to the Iconic Dating Site?
