One of the most famous locations in the UK to find street art and graffiti. Brick Lane is synonymous with the street art and graffiti scene in London.
For this virtual tour, Stuart from Inspiring City and host of our podcast, Art Related Noise, shares his top 5 street art stops along Brick Lane.
Seven Stars Yard
A prime location for street art on Brick Lane is the yard of the former Seven Stars pub. Although it looks quite bedraggled now, a pub has actually stood on the site since the 1700's. Now the alley next to it which leads to the yard at the back is accessible to the public.
Here you will see some of the very best paste up art in the area. Artists from all over come to paste their latest works to the walls in the area. From big to small names it is an opportunity to see an eclectic mix of artwork haphazardly place on the walls. This is a place for exploration. In the yard itself, the walls create a series of makeshift canvases and the back of the old pub is usually covered.
Princelet Street
One of the most famous pieces in the area can be found on Princelet Street. From the street artist Stik, it is called 'A Couple Holding Hands' and it speaks to community unity and cohesion. This artwork is long standing and despite suffering the occasional tagging, it keeps getting repaired and replaced.
Hanbury Street
Great artworks from international big names ROA and Martin Ron tower over Hanbury Street. This is one of the very best places to see street art in the area. The walls are well curated and the work here is often of high quality. Look closely at some of the smaller pieces too. Head up and down the street to explore and see what you can find. You'll be able to discover sculpture, paste ups, stencil art, stickers and big set pieces.
Truman Brewery
The heart of Brick Lane is the Truman Brewery. Steeped in history it has been the beating heart of the lane for years. Now it is known as an arts and commercial venue. It's courtyard contains art from the likes of Vhils, Shepherd Fairey and even a kind of strange Banksy. You can read more about the art pieces in the Truman Brewery here.
Pedley Street and Allen Gardens
The area around Pedley Street is a must see. Now just a small alley at one point it was an actual street, The junction with Brick Lane is one of the very best spots to see street art on the lane. The work here changes frequently but it is always high quality. Head a little bit further down into the green park space known as Allen Gardens and you will see more graffiti based work. It is on the walls all around so be sure to explore.
Check out our Brighton street art tour and Manchester street art tour.