Leake Street: London's Ever-Changing Legal Graffiti Tunnel
Discover Leake Street, London’s iconic legal graffiti tunnel where street art thrives in a vibrant, ever-changing underground gallery beneath Waterloo Station.
Leake Street, known as the Banksy Tunnel, is a 300-meter-long legal graffiti tunnel beneath Waterloo Station in London. Since 2008, it has been a vibrant, dynamic canvas for street artists worldwide, where walls are continuously repainted with fresh murals, tags, and urban art. This underground gallery offers a unique glimpse into London's rebellious and creative spirit, blending history, community, and artistic freedom in a constantly evolving urban space.
A brief summary to Leake St
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colors and details of the ever-changing street art.
- Wear comfortable shoes and old clothes, as you might encounter fresh paint and will be walking through a long tunnel.
- Bring a camera to capture unique murals and the dynamic atmosphere, but be mindful that artworks change frequently.
- Explore the nearby Leake Street Arches for independent bars, restaurants, and entertainment to complement your visit.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting alone or after dark, as it is an urban area with varied foot traffic.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central London, take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines. The tunnel is directly accessible within a 5-minute walk from the station concourse. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Waterloo Station, including routes 59, 68, 171, and RV1. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with typical fares of £1.75 using contactless payment. The tunnel is a short walk from the nearest bus stops.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Black cabs and rideshare services like Uber can drop you off near Waterloo Station. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Expect fares from £8 to £20.
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Walking
If staying nearby on the South Bank or in central London, walking to Leake Street is feasible and enjoyable, taking 15 to 30 minutes from landmarks like the London Eye or Southbank Centre. The route is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly.
Leake St location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Leake St
From Forgotten Tunnel to Urban Canvas
Leake Street was once a disused road tunnel beneath the platforms of Waterloo Station, originally serving as part of the Eurostar terminal access. Before the 1920s, it was known as York Street and was used for railway cargo storage and other industrial purposes. By the early 2000s, it had become a neglected, dimly lit alleyway, closed to vehicular traffic after Eurostar moved to St. Pancras International in 2007. The tunnel’s transformation began in 2008 when the elusive street artist Banksy organized the Cans Festival, inviting artists to legally paint the walls. This event marked the birth of one of London’s few legal graffiti spaces, revitalizing the tunnel into a celebrated urban art hub.A Living, Breathing Gallery of Street Art
Leake Street is not a static gallery but a constantly evolving canvas. Artists from around the world freely express themselves here without permits or censorship, painting over older works to create a vibrant, ever-changing tapestry of murals, tags, and political statements. The tunnel’s walls showcase a wide range of styles—from intricate portraits to bold, abstract graffiti. Some iconic pieces are preserved behind glass as a tribute to their creators, while most artworks have a fleeting lifespan, replaced regularly by new creations. This fluidity makes every visit unique, reflecting the pulse of London’s street art scene in real time.Community and Culture Beneath the Tracks
Beyond its artistic significance, Leake Street serves as a social space where artists, locals, and visitors gather. The tunnel’s constant activity fosters a sense of safety and community in what was once a forbidding underpass. Street art workshops are common, welcoming novices to try spray-painting techniques. Nearby, the Leake Street Arches have been revitalized into a vibrant precinct of independent bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, blending urban culture with creative expression. This fusion of art, food, and nightlife makes the area a dynamic cultural hotspot on London’s South Bank.The Legacy of Banksy and Street Art Evolution
Banksy’s role in establishing Leake Street as a legal graffiti zone has had a lasting impact on London’s urban art landscape. The tunnel remains a training ground for emerging artists and a platform for social commentary. Unlike curated mural spaces, Leake Street embraces raw, democratic creativity, allowing all skill levels to contribute. This openness preserves the authentic spirit of graffiti as a rebellious, grassroots art form. The tunnel’s significance extends beyond London, symbolizing the importance of legal spaces for street art worldwide.Experiencing Leake Street Today
Visitors to Leake Street can expect a sensory-rich experience of color, texture, and urban energy. The tunnel is well-lit during the day, enhancing the vibrancy of the artworks. Sounds of spray cans, footsteps, and occasional conversations fill the air, creating an immersive atmosphere. Photography enthusiasts find endless inspiration in the kaleidoscope of styles and messages. The nearby arches offer a chance to relax with food and drink while soaking up the creative vibe. Leake Street remains a living testament to the power of art to reclaim and transform urban spaces.Preserving a Dynamic Urban Treasure
Efforts to document and celebrate Leake Street’s evolving art include projects like “100 Days of Leake Street,” which capture the rapid turnover of murals and graffiti. This short-term archaeology reveals layers of visual history beneath the surface, emphasizing the tunnel’s role as a cultural archive. Despite its unofficial status, Leake Street continues to thrive through community support and artistic passion, maintaining its reputation as London’s premier legal graffiti tunnel and a beacon for urban creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Lion
0.3 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Chindit Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Big Ben
0.7 km
Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and its famous bell, Big Ben, a timeless symbol of London's heritage and British culture.
Bridge St
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London at Bridge Street, where history meets modernity in a lively cultural hub.
Palace of Westminster
0.7 km
Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, an iconic symbol of British democracy and a must-visit landmark in London.
Lambeth Palace
0.7 km
Eight centuries of ecclesiastical power where the Church and Crown converge on the Thames
Whitehall Gardens
0.7 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.7 km
Experience the charm of London's Southbank Boardwalk, a serene escape with stunning river views, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.
Westminster Hall
0.7 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Royal Court
0.7 km
Discover the Royal Court, a historical landmark in London, embodying the rich heritage and regal history of the United Kingdom.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.8 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
The Cenotaph
0.8 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
King Charles Street
0.8 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.8 km
Explore the Sir Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of resilience and leadership in the heart of London’s historic landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.1 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.1 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.2 km
Historic Westminster Bridge Road links London’s iconic landmarks with vibrant South Bank culture and excellent transport connections.
South of the River
0.2 km
A prestigious, fully fitted office building with prime views opposite the Houses of Parliament in London’s thriving South Bank business district.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.3 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
The London Dungeon
0.3 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.3 km
Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.3 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.3 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
South Bank
0.3 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.3 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
Jubilee Gardens
0.4 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
Memorial wall
0.4 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
The Queen's Walk
0.4 km
Explore The Queen's Walk in London for stunning river views, rich history, and vibrant culture along the iconic Thames River promenade.
Essential places to dine
Troia Southbank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
OKAN South Bank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
The Archduke
0.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.4 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Strada Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.5 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Wahaca Southbank
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.8 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Bustronome London
0.9 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
The Garden
0.9 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.9 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.9 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Ekstedt at The Yard
1.0 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Sapori
1.1 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.3 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Browns of London
0.4 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
The Giftree London
0.4 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.4 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.5 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.8 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.8 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Sugar And Style
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.8 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Gifts of London
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.9 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.9 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Westminster Abbey Shop
1.0 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Crest of London Ltd
1.0 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.1 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Primo Bar, London
0.1 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.2 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.2 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Le Champagne Bar
0.4 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.5 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.5 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Understudy
0.7 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.8 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
0.9 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.9 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Lyaness
1.0 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Old Shades
1.0 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.1 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
0.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Heaven
1.0 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
1.0 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Ministry of Sound
1.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
TSQ Club
1.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Corsica Studios
1.4 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
1.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Café de Paris
1.5 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Luxe Club
1.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Street Art
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
