Exploring London’s Street Art Scene on a Budget: A Guide for Backpackers
London is a city of contrasts, and one of its most vibrant yet often overlooked features is its street art scene. From colourful murals and intricate graffiti to thought-provoking installations, London’s streets are an open-air gallery showcasing the work of local and international artists. For those staying at London Backpackers in Hendon, you’re perfectly situated to explore some of the best and most iconic street art in the city — all without spending a penny.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, an art lover, or just someone curious about urban culture, London’s street art scene offers plenty of free, accessible, and exciting experiences. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the best areas to explore street art, how to get there from Hendon, and where to grab a cheap bite along the way.
Shoreditch: London’s Street Art Hub
Fun Fact:
Shoreditch is considered the heart of London’s street art scene, home to some of the world’s most famous graffiti and mural artists, including Banksy, Stik, and Ben Eine. The area is constantly evolving, with new artwork popping up on a regular basis.
What to See:
• The Redchurch Street Murals:
Start your journey in Shoreditch at Redchurch Street, where the walls are covered in vibrant murals by both established and up-and-coming street artists. Don’t forget to check out the nearby alleyways, where you’ll often find hidden gems.
• Brick Lane and the Surrounding Area:
Famous for its ever-changing graffiti, Brick Lane is another hotspot. From intricate stencils to huge, eye-catching murals, the street art here is constantly evolving. Keep an eye out for works by Banksy, though his pieces are often short-lived!
• Allen Gardens:
A quieter spot, this green space in the middle of Shoreditch is home to a range of unique graffiti, perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still taking in the art.
Photography Tips:
• The streets of Shoreditch are a photographer’s paradise. Make sure to bring a camera with good low-light performance, as many murals are tucked into alleyways or shaded areas.
• The contrast between the vibrant colours of the artwork and the gritty, urban backdrop makes for striking photographs.
Getting There from London Backpackers in Hendon:
• By Tube: From Hendon Central, take the Northern Line southbound and get off at Old Street Station (approximately 35 minutes). From there, it’s a short walk to Shoreditch, where the street art is everywhere.
Camden: Eclectic Art in an Iconic Area
Fun Fact:
Camden is known for its eclectic, bohemian vibe, and its street art scene is no different. The area is home to a mix of political murals, abstract graffiti, and pop-culture-inspired pieces that reflect Camden’s alternative spirit.
What to See:
• Camden Lock and Stables Market:
As you explore the markets, keep an eye out for walls and hidden corners adorned with vibrant street art. You’ll find pieces ranging from famous pop culture references to deep, thought-provoking messages.
• The Camden Mural Trail:
A walk around Camden’s streets reveals a continuous display of artistic expression. The Camden Mural Trail takes you past some of the area’s most striking pieces, including Tina Turner, Amy Winehouse, and David Bowie tributes.
Photography Tips:
• Camden’s street art often incorporates elements of the local culture, so look for murals that tie into the area’s punk and alternative history.
• There are also many quirky art installations in the area, perfect for capturing the spirit of Camden.
Getting There from London Backpackers in Hendon:
• By Tube: From Hendon Central, take the Northern Line southbound and get off at Camden Town Station (approximately 30 minutes). The street art is scattered throughout the area, especially around the markets and surrounding streets.
Brixton: A Cultural Melting Pot of Art
Fun Fact:
Brixton has a rich history of activism and cultural diversity, which is reflected in its vibrant street art scene. The area has seen a boom in public murals that tackle social issues, celebrate culture, and depict the local community.
What to See:
• The Brixton Village Murals:
Start at Brixton Village (formerly known as Market Row), where the walls are adorned with murals that celebrate Caribbean heritage and the local community.
• Electric Avenue:
You’ll find a number of murals on Electric Avenue, a nod to the area’s working-class roots and the famous song by Eddie Grant. The street art here often reflects Brixton’s rich musical heritage, including reggae and punk influences.
• The Ritzy Cinema:
Known for its large, bold murals, the area around the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton is another must-see for street art lovers.
Photography Tips:
• Brixton offers a lot of rich textures and vibrant colours, so bring a wide-angle lens to capture the whole mural or a zoom lens to capture details.
• Look for artwork that incorporates local history or social messages — it can add an extra layer of meaning to your photos.
Getting There from London Backpackers in Hendon:
• By Tube: From Hendon Central, take the Northern Line southbound and get off at Brixton Station (around 40 minutes). Brixton’s street art is scattered throughout the area, but you can start your journey at the markets or near the Ritzy Cinema.
Southbank: The Creative Heart of London
Fun Fact:
Southbank, home to the Southbank Centre and Tate Modern, has a long history of art and culture. Its streets and bridges are adorned with murals and stencils, including works from famous street artists like Banksy and Stik.
What to See:
• Southbank’s Skate Park:
One of the best places to see street art in London is at the Southbank Skate Park, where the walls are covered with layers of graffiti and art. It’s an ever-evolving piece of urban art.
• The Southbank Centre:
Around the Southbank Centre, you’ll find large, creative murals and temporary installations, often created for special events or cultural exhibitions.
Photography Tips:
• The Southbank Skate Park offers the opportunity to capture both art and action. You can snap photos of skateboarders alongside the colourful murals.
• Look out for temporary art installations on the Southbank Centre’s exterior, which often change based on the exhibitions taking place.
Getting There from London Backpackers in Hendon:
• By Tube: From Hendon Central, take the Northern Line southbound to Waterloo Station (around 35 minutes). The Southbank area is just a short walk from the station.
Where to Eat on a Budget
While exploring London’s street art scene, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Luckily, London is home to many budget-friendly eateries where you can grab a bite without breaking the bank.
Dishoom (Covent Garden):
For a delicious and affordable taste of India, head to Dishoom in Covent Garden. Their breakfast menu is cheap, and their vegetarian options are particularly popular.
Price Range: £8-£15.
Borough Market (Southbank):
This iconic food market near Southbank offers a wide range of international street food at affordable prices, from tasty burgers to fresh falafel.
Price Range: £5-£10.
Pieminister (Camden Market):
If you’re near Camden, don’t miss Pieminister, where you can get a hearty pie for a reasonable price. Try their vegetarian options like the “Wild Shroom” pie for a tasty treat.
Price Range: £6-£9.
London’s street art scene offers a fascinating journey into the city’s creative and rebellious spirit. From the murals of Shoreditch to the vibrant artwork in Brixton, the city’s streets serve as an open-air canvas for both established and emerging artists. Best of all, exploring these sites is completely free!
Staying at London Backpackers in Hendon gives you the perfect base to dive into this urban art adventure, with easy access to some of the city’s most iconic street art neighbourhoods. So, grab your camera, hop on the tube, and start your journey into London’s hidden artistic treasures — it’s a creative adventure you won’t forget!
