London’s Hidden Neon Wonderland – God’s Own Junkyard
Did you know that Europe’s largest neon sign collection is in London and free to visit? Tucked away in an industrial estate in Walthamstow, God’s Own Junkyard is a neon Nirvana where you can easily spend hours without noticing it.
@urbanadventurerldn ? God’s Own Junkyard is Europe’s largest neon sign collection and completely free to visit | They have an amazing café within: The Rolling Scones Café serving cocktails, breakfast, lunch and dinner ???? #godsownjunkjard #godsownjunkyardwalthamstow #neonsigns #dayoutwithfriends
God’s Own Junkyard
Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ
Photo: Urban Adventurer
God’s Own Junkyard is an art gallery and “funky art store” as they describe themselves on Google, however, they are much more than that.
The story began with Richard Bracey who started his company, called ‘Electro Signs’ in the 1950s. He was making signs for funfairs, cafés, and strip clubs not just in London, but also in South-East England.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Richard’s son, Chris Bracey, who was a graphic designer, took over the business in the 1970s, but he was not just making neon signs but also started collecting those that were otherwise would have been thrown away.
In 1978, Chris Bracey established his neon museum and named it ‘God’s Own Junkyard’ after a book by Peter Blake: ‘God’s Own Junkyard: The Planned Deterioration of America’s Landscape’.
Breaking in Hollywood
Photo: Urban Adventurer
You might not have known, but God’s Own Junkyard have provided neon signs for the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, such as Charley and the Chocolate Factory, Eyes Wide Shut, Blade Runner, and The Avengers (spot the STARK sign above the café counter).
They worked with Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen and Vogue Magazine has also done photo shoots among the neon signs. Fashion brands, such as Urban Outfitters also love the place for photo shoots.
The Rolling Scones Café
Photo: Urban Adventurer
God’s Own Junkyard is not just an Instagram heaven where you can take tons of photos and leave.
They have an amazing café within, called ‘The Rolling Scones Café’ serving coffee, cocktails, mocktails, beers and wines as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner options, burgers, sandwiches, and cakes (their halloumi burger is fantastic!)
Photo: Urban Adventurer
So, why not enjoy some food and drink in London’s only one neon sign café?
The Shop
God’s Own Junkyard also have a lovely little gift shop where they’re selling postcards, pin badges, T-shirts, mugs, and more.
There is also a book that tells the story of Chris Bracey and how this amazing place was born. ‘Steel Dogs’ is available in the gift shop, or you can also order it from Amazon.
Events & Renting the Neon Signs
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The neon signs here are not just to admire. They available to buy or rent. You can find a catalogue of the signs here.
Can’t find what you are looking for? They can design and fabricate almost any imaginable neon signs. Just drop them an email or give them a call to discuss about your ideas.
The venue is available for rent for private events or photo shoots. So, if you’re on the hunt for the quirkiest venue for your wedding photoshoot or planning an unforgettable private event, look no further. Just drop them an email or give them a call to discuss it further.
Ready for your next adventure? Did you know that there is a 2D candy store in London? Candy Baba brings you a fully immersive 2D monochrome world with photo opportunities and your favourite sweets from your childhood.