The Original London Street Art Tour

If you’re heading to London and want to see a side of the city that’s often hidden behind royal palaces and historic landmarks, a street art tour could be just what you need. We’ve looked into The Original London Street Art Tour—a highly-rated experience that promises to take you off the beaten path and into the heart of East London’s creative scene.

What we love about this tour is its expert-guided approach—your guide isn’t just a storyteller but also a local artist, which really elevates the experience. Plus, the tour covers iconic spots like Brick Lane and Shoreditch, packed with murals, graffiti, and art pieces that tell stories beyond the surface.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts around two hours, which is perfect for a quick yet meaningful glimpse into this dynamic world. It’s also quite accessible, with a modest price tag of around $27.50. However, since it operates in all weather conditions, you’ll want to dress appropriately for whatever London throws at you.

If you’re someone who appreciates street art, enjoys learning about local culture, and prefers guided experiences to wandering aimlessly, this tour could be a great addition to your London itinerary.

• Guided by passionate local artists who provide insider insights
• Explores vibrant neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Brick Lane
• Includes well-known and hidden murals, with stories behind each piece
• Offers flexible timings with morning and afternoon options
• Affordable at around $27.50, offering good value for a two-hour tour
• Operates in all weather, so dress accordingly

Starting at Spitalfields Market

The tour kicks off at Old Spitalfields Market, a lively spot filled with history and character. Right from the start, your guide—often a local artist—begins pointing out examples of street art along Brushfield Street. This initial segment is about setting the scene and giving you a taste of what’s to come. It’s a laid-back start, with about 20 minutes of walking and chatting, and no entry fees—just pure visual storytelling.

Dive into Brick Lane’s Colorful Walls

Next stop is Brick Lane, an area renowned for its vibrant street art scene. Our guide took us along the bustling streets, stopping at murals that range from political statements to abstract works. The reviews mention that this part of the tour is particularly engaging, as the guide shares stories and meanings behind the art. Like one review said, “It is such a neat part of town with a varied history,” and you’ll learn all about graffiti, tagging, and the local roots of these works.

While Brick Lane is famous for its murals, some reviews noted that certain “better pieces” might be missed, especially if you’re familiar with the area. That’s a good reminder that this tour provides a curated, guided look rather than an exhaustive walk of every piece. But you’ll definitely come away with a deeper understanding of what makes the neighborhood’s street art so special.

Shoreditch High Street and Beyond

The last part of the tour takes you to Shoreditch High Street Station, where your guide clearly has a wealth of local knowledge. Expect more examples of street art, often with anecdotes about the artists or the cultural landscape. One reviewer loved how their guide, Eva, or Laura, shared personal insights that brought the art to life, making it more than just pictures on walls.

Throughout the tour, you’ll notice that guides are very passionate—many are artists themselves. This genuine enthusiasm makes the experience feel authentic and insightful. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide Josh was very knowledgeable and passionate about street art and its place in London.”

The real charm of The Original London Street Art Tour lies in its local artist guides. Having a guide who is part of the scene provides nuanced insights that you wouldn’t get from a generic tour. They can tell you about the meaning behind the murals, the techniques used, and even share stories about how the art interacts with gentrification and local culture.

The small group size—max 18 travelers—also enhances the experience, making it more interactive and personal. This is not a rushed or crowded affair; you can ask questions freely, take your time admiring each mural, and even snap photos without feeling overwhelmed.

Value for Money

At just over $27, this tour offers solid value—especially given the depth of knowledge and the chance to see some of London’s most creative street art. Multiple reviews praise guides like Josh, Eva, and Laura for their passion and expertise, which adds a lot to the experience.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, expect to dress accordingly, especially if it’s London and unpredictable weather. The walking is moderate in pace, but comfortable shoes are a must. The tour’s duration of roughly two hours is perfect for squeezing into a busy sightseeing schedule without feeling rushed.

While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mentioned that certain notable pieces might be missed or not explained in as much detail as they’d like. That’s to be expected with any curated tour—if you want to see every piece, you’ll need to explore on your own or join a longer, more comprehensive tour.

Also, it’s worth noting that children are allowed, but they must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical activity level is moderate—not suited for anyone with mobility issues or very young children.

If you’re into street art, urban culture, or just want an authentic look at London’s creative side, this tour is ideal. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, as the guides’ local artistry and stories add a layer of authenticity.

It’s especially suitable for those who want a short, engaging activity that fits easily into a day of sightseeing—no long hours or complex logistics involved. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, you’ll find this tour inspiring and fun.

This tour offers more than just a walk through streets filled with colorful murals; it’s a journey into the stories, politics, and personalities behind London’s art scene. Thanks to passionate guides who are artists themselves, you’re getting an insider’s perspective—something that’s hard to find elsewhere in a typical sightseeing itinerary.

The fact that it’s well-reviewed, at a reasonable price, and operates rain or shine makes it a solid choice for anyone curious about street art or wanting to see a different side of London. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for those who like their art with a bit of context.

For travelers who love discovering authentic neighborhoods and appreciate the stories behind public art, this tour is a definite highlight. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare to see London in a new, more colorful light.

• How long does the tour last?
  The tour runs for about 2 hours, which is a manageable amount of time to explore without feeling exhausted.

• What neighborhoods are included?
  The tour covers Spitalfields Markets, Brick Lane, and Shoreditch, known for their vibrant street art scenes.

• Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
  Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

• How many people are in each group?
  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

• What is the price?
  It costs around $27.54 per person, offering good value considering the guide’s expertise and the neighborhoods covered.

• Do I need to book in advance?
  Yes, it’s recommended to book about 26 days ahead to secure your spot, especially in peak travel times.

If you’re curious about London street art and want an insider’s view without wandering aimlessly, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a mix of art, culture, and local stories—perfect for anyone looking to see a different side of this sprawling city.