Leake Street Arches: London’s Iconic Graffiti Tunnel and Urban Art Hub

A Canvas of Urban Creativity

Leake Street Arches, often called the Graffiti Tunnel, is a subterranean passage stretching approximately 300 metres beneath the tracks of Waterloo Station. Once part of the road entrance to the old Eurostar terminal, this tunnel has been transformed into London’s longest and most celebrated legal graffiti gallery. The walls and ceilings are covered in a constantly evolving array of murals, tags, and street art, inviting artists from around the world to leave their mark. This dynamic space celebrates urban creativity, social commentary, and artistic expression, making every visit a unique visual journey.

From Forgotten Railway to Cultural Hotspot

Historically, the Leake Street Arches served as storage for railway cargo and equipment. Over time, it gained a reputation as a place for informal gatherings and drinking dens. The transformation began in 2008 when street art pioneer Banksy curated the Cans Festival here, officially opening the tunnel as a legal space for graffiti. Since then, it has blossomed into a vibrant cultural hub, attracting artists, locals, and visitors eager to experience its raw, authentic atmosphere. The tunnel’s walls reflect the pulse of London’s street art scene, constantly refreshed with new works that range from intricate murals to bold, colorful tags.

Vibrant Social Scene and Events

Beyond the art, Leake Street Arches hosts a variety of independent bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues housed within the railway arches. Notable spots include Draughts, a board game café with an extensive collection of games across two floors, and Banh Bao Brothers, known for its Vietnamese cuisine and creative cocktails. The area also features event spaces like 26 Leake Street, which hosts club nights, live music, and private functions. Regular live graffiti sessions, workshops led by resident artists, and seasonal festivals add to the lively atmosphere, making the arches a place to both admire art and engage socially.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

The tunnel is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, providing unrestricted access to this urban gallery. Its location just a five-minute walk from Waterloo Station makes it easily accessible by train, tube, bus, bike, and even riverboat services. Visitors are encouraged to explore at their own pace, capturing photos or even contributing to the art with spray cans in hand. Graffiti workshops offer a chance to learn from experienced artists and create your own piece on a blank wall. Despite the constantly changing art, the space maintains a welcoming, vibrant, and safe environment for all ages.

Art That Never Stays Still

One of the defining features of Leake Street Arches is the ephemeral nature of its artwork. Murals and tags may last for months or be replaced within hours, reflecting the transient spirit of street art culture. This impermanence ensures the tunnel remains fresh and exciting, with new stories and styles emerging regularly. The space acts as a living gallery where creativity thrives in real time, offering visitors a glimpse into contemporary urban art movements and the voices behind them.

A Hub of Urban Culture and Expression

Leake Street Arches embodies the fusion of art, community, and nightlife in London’s South Bank area. It stands as a testament to the power of public art to reclaim and revitalize forgotten urban spaces. Whether you come to admire the murals, enjoy a meal or drink, participate in workshops, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the arches offer an immersive experience that captures the spirit of London’s creative underground.