London: East End Street Art Tour and Spray Painting Workshop

If you’re curious about London’s street art scene, this East End Street Art Tour combined with a spray painting workshop offers a lively, hands-on glimpse into a vibrant world of creativity. This experience promises a mix of guided exploration and interactive art-making, perfect for those who love discovering urban culture and trying their hand at spray paint art.

What we really like about this tour is its balanced approach: you get to see some of the best murals and graffiti by internationally acclaimed artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairy, all explained by passionate guides who know the local scene inside out. Plus, the art workshop at the end provides a memorable, creative takeaway—your very own street art piece!

One small caveat is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point. That’s a minor detail, but worth keeping in mind if you’re staying outside central London. This experience suits art enthusiasts, curious travelers, and families with kids over 10 who want a mix of culture and creativity.

Key Points

• Authentic insight into London’s street art scene from passionate guides
• Hands-on spray painting workshop that leaves you with a personal art piece
• Visiting notable works by internationally recognized artists like Banksy and Invader
• Convenient short tour duration (about 3-4 hours) with a flexible schedule
• Affordable price point that offers good value considering the combination of tour and workshop
• No hotel transfer included, so plan your start point accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

This tour is a great way to combine cultural discovery with hands-on creativity. The guides are praised for their vast knowledge and ability to weave stories about the artists and the area’s history, making the streets come alive. Multiple reviews highlight how informative and engaging the guides are, with some guests noting they learned about different graffiti styles and the stories behind street art pieces.

The walking tour takes you through Shoreditch and Whitechapel, two of London’s most colorful neighborhoods, packed with murals, stencil art, and graffiti from artists around the world. You’ll see works by Banksy, ROA, Stik, Jimmy C, and others—each piece telling its own story and adding flavor to the area’s gritty vibe. The expert guide not only points out the highlights but also shares insider tidbits that deepen your understanding of this urban art form.

Once you’ve soaked in the street art atmosphere, you’ll head to a purpose-built studio for the 45-minute spray painting workshop. Here, you’ll learn basic spray techniques and craft your own piece of art. Many reviewers mention how much fun this part is. One says, “The spray painting experience was so funny,” and another notes they “loved trying out the cans of colors on the wall.” You don’t need to be an artist—beginners are welcome, and the studio provides all the materials.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at I Goat, a quirky meeting point outside Old Spitalfields Market, near Liverpool Street Station. This central location makes it straightforward for most travelers to find, and the guide will be waiting under a distinctive white goat statue. The tour then proceeds for around 2 hours through Shoreditch, exploring its murals, stencils, and graffiti.

Shoreditch is where London’s street art scene has flourished, and your guide will take you to some of the area’s best spots. Expect a lively walk through narrow alleyways, colorful walls, and bustling streets. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are often highlighted in reviews—one mentions their guide “Laura,” who’s described as excellent, funny, and passionate about her art.

Next, the group moves to Whitechapel, where you’ll participate in the spray painting workshop. Here, you’ll learn basic techniques, practice on a piece of card, and then create a unique work of your own. The workshop lasts about 45 minutes, and many reviewers say it’s a highlight, especially for families or those new to spray art. You can take your work home on a card or opt to buy a canvas bag or T-shirt to personalize.

The entire experience concludes back at the Alternative London Studio, after which you’re free to explore or head back on your own.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the combination of guided storytelling and hands-on activity. Guests repeatedly comment on the knowledgeability of their guides—quotes include “Gary was an excellent guide,” and “Natalie was very knowledgeable and friendly.” These guides aren’t just walking encyclopedias—they’re passionate artists and locals who genuinely want to share the stories behind the art.

Many reviews emphasize how approachable and welcoming the studio environment feels, making even complete beginners comfortable with spray painting. It’s a chance to understand the techniques behind street art—from layering to stencil cutting—and to practice in a supportive setting.

Another aspect worth noting is the value for money. At around $45.46 per person, this experience packs in about 3 to 4 hours of culture, learning, and creative fun. Given the quality of guides, the opportunity to see top-notch street art, and the chance to make your own piece, most agree it’s a great deal.

The small group setting adds to the experience, fostering more interaction and personalized attention. You’re less likely to feel like just a number, and guides can tailor some explanations to your interests.

Practical Details Worth Keeping in Mind

Since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll need to plan your arrival at the meeting point, which is conveniently located near Liverpool Street Station. The exact location is under the White Goat statue on Brushfield Street, outside Old Spitalfields Market, making it easy for most travelers staying in central London.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing some flexibility if your plans change. You can reserve your spot without paying upfront, which is helpful for spontaneous trips or uncertain schedules.

Children under 10 aren’t suitable for this tour, mainly because of the spray painting component, but older kids and teenagers often enjoy the creative aspect. The studio provides all necessary materials, so you don’t need to bring anything.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are key to the overall experience. Guests praise their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to connect with the group. Many mention their guides are artists themselves, adding a layer of authenticity to the storytelling.

The street art itself is a highlight—famous works that are often recognizable from international media, yet seen in their original context, make for a compelling visit. Some guests note that this journey offers a different perspective on London, revealing a side of the city that’s less about tourist sights and more about urban culture.

The studio experience is particularly appealing for those who want to try their hand at street art. Many say they felt encouraged and surprised by their own creations, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

The Sum Up

This East End Street Art Tour with a spray painting workshop offers a fantastic balance of educational insight, visual stimulation, and creative fun. If you appreciate urban art, enjoy storytelling about local culture, or want to try spray painting yourself, this experience will deliver.

It’s especially valuable for families, art lovers, or anyone curious about London’s underground scene. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable, which elevates the experience beyond just a walk and a workshop.

For the price, you receive a well-rounded experience that leaves you with memories, new knowledge, and your own piece of street art. Whether you’re in London for a few days or a local looking for a different perspective on your city, this tour can deepen your appreciation for London’s colorful, rebellious, and artistic streets.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet at the designated spot near Liverpool Street Station.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, including the guided walk and spray painting workshop.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not suitable for this experience, mainly due to the spray painting activity.

Do I need my own art supplies?
No, all materials for spray painting are provided, including a piece of card to work on.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
It’s best to wear casual, comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting slightly paint-splattered—though the studio provides aprons.

This experience offers a great way to see London’s street art up close, learn from passionate guides, and get creative yourself. It’s a worthwhile choice for those looking for an authentic, fun, and reasonably priced way to explore the city’s urban culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: