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things to do in london

A Guide to Street Art in Shoreditch

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Hey there, urban explorers! Ready to dive into the vibrant world of street art in Shoreditch? Get ready for a graffiti-packed adventure that will leave you in awe. From mind-blowing murals to hidden gems down every alleyway, Shoreditch is a street art paradise waiting to be explored.

So, grab your walking shoes, your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the colourful world of Shoreditch street art. From breathtaking murals to hidden treasures, every corner of Shoreditch has a story to tell, and it’s waiting for you to explore.

Shoreditch Street Art Map:

Your perfect Shoreditch street art trail map is here!

Check it out below and get ready to embark on a visual treasure hunt. With so many masterpieces waiting to be discovered, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your walking shoes on and your camera fully charged.

Top Graffiti Streets in Shoreditch:

1. Fashion Street

If you’re all about up and coming artists, Fashion Street is your destination, showcasing some of the best new talent on the block. Keep an eye out for the signature style of the talented Mr. Cenz – his work will blow your mind and your Insta feed.

2. Sclater Street

Walking down Sclater Street is like stepping into a world where the walls come alive. The whole street is like an art gallery, showcasing the true spirit of Shoreditch with almost every corner covered in tags, collages and paintings in an overwhelming variety of styles.

3. Chance Street

Looking for the biggest murals in town? Look no further than Chance Street. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a giant rainbow canvas as you take in the massive works of art. A star of the show is Drench street artist Nerone’s giant mural bursting with colourful dreamlike flowers.

4. Grimsby Street

Grimsby Street is where the street art scene truly thrives. Every wall tells a story, and you’ll find yourself lost in the tales painted across these walls. The Great Wall of Grimsby, which can be found on the Needham’s Butchers building in Garibaldi Street, is home to a magnificent mural depicting much loved scenes in Grimsby.

5. Great Eastern Street

The vibrant energy of Great Eastern Street is mirrored in its eclectic street art. Every stroke and colour reflects the heartbeat of East London.

6. Pedley Street

Looking for a quieter street to immerse yourself in art? Pedley Street is your sanctuary – a place to let the creativity of the walls take centre stage. This spot is one not to miss, hosting a range of ever changing, diverse, totally blow your mind pieces.

7. Holywell Lane

Home to some seriously talented graffiti artists, Holywell Lane is a visual delight waiting to be explored. ‘Distraction, Destruction and Power Tools’ by the artist Fanakapan is located here and it’s a mega shiny, futuristic and thought provoking piece you will want to check off your street art tick list.

8. Redchurch Street

Redchurch Street is like a runway for street artists. Every inch of the walls showcases the talent and creativity of local artists. Get ready to go on an animalistic journey when you spot some of artist Malarky’s trademark characters or David Speed’s cute as a button ‘Red Dog’.

9. Shoreditch High Street Station

This station isn’t just a transit point – it’s a street art guide all on its own. You’ll find yourself lost in a tunnel of colours and creativity.

10. Whitby Street

Whitby Street is a canvas that tells stories. It might be on the smaller side, but this one reigns supreme featuring intricate details and bold statements, each piece of art has its own unique tale to tell. If you have a thing for French Pointillism, look out for Jimmy C’s striking portrait made from thousands of daubs of paint.

11. Old Truman Brewery

The Old Truman Brewery is a melting pot of creativity, and its walls are a canvas for artists from all around the world. The art here is as diverse as the city itself. You can literally walk all over Stella Artois’ smart street art of geometric shapes and contrasting colours, originally to help visitors safely social distance without the need for physical barriers.

12. Brick Lane

If you want to discover London’s best street art in one place, Brick Lane is your go to destination with a new piece around every corner, even adorning the bins! The walls of Brick Lane hold stories that span generations and cultures. The murals here are iconic, and the French artist’s pieces add a touch of International flair to the East London scene. Look out for French artist Zabou who has been infusing her prolific pieces around London since 2012. Don’t miss meandering down its alleyways and the little squares that shoot off of it – you might find some pretty supreme work by Banksy Fanakapan, and Mr Cenz.

13. Princelet Street

Talented artists have left their mark on Princelet Street, turning it into an open-air gallery that celebrates creativity in all its forms.

14. Hanbury Street

When it comes to street art, Hanbury Street isn’t holding back. There’s so much art here that you’ll feel like you’re walking through a visual wonderland. Look out for Belgian street artist Roa’s stunning crane perched on the side wall of the local Indian restaurant, next to some seriously dynamic break dancer art.

15. King John Court

Graffiti art takes centre stage at King John Court. This is where you’ll find the biggest street art mural both in Shoreditch and the UK. Each piece is a glimpse into the artist’s imagination, waiting to be interpreted by your own creativity.

16. Ebor Street

Looking for large-scale murals that will leave you speechless? Ebor Street is where you’ll find these monumental works of art that dominate the landscape thanks to its very large and long wall. You can’t miss Ben Eine’s 45 metre long ‘Love, Love, Love’ art written in various typefaces. A simple message that Eine hopes will bring those who see it a little bit of happiness.

17. New Inn Yard

Inn Yard is a goldmine for those looking to find street art that’s off the beaten path. Get ready to be amazed by the creativity that flows through these walls.

18. Allen Gardens

Even the gardens of Shoreditch are in on the street art action. Allen Gardens is a hidden gem where art and nature come together in perfect harmony. This small park is a green space infused with some of the most dynamic street art in Shoreditch.

19. Shoreditch Graffiti Wall at Seven Stars Yard

Further along Brick Lane, you’ll find one of the most talked about Shoreditch streets, the Seven Stars Yard (aka Shoreditch graffiti wall). This area is a giant canvas that’s never the same, with artists constantly breathing new life into the space, making it a dynamic showcase of creativity. This pub’s car park has well and truly established itself as one of the most supreme street art spots in London with the walls having featured the best of the best of international street art talent including this mural by iconic London artist Sweet Toof.

Other Ways to Experience Shoreditch Street Art Culture:

Go on a Shoreditch street art tour:

Want to dive deeper into the Shoreditch street art scene? Join a Shoreditch street art tour and let the guides take you on a journey through the city’s creative heart. Discover hidden gems, learn about the stories behind the art, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that makes Shoreditch a street art haven.

Attend a paint and sip session:

Looking to master the art of fun? Join one of our paint and sip sessions and let your inner artist shine. No experience required – just a willingness to have a great time, create some art, and sip on your favourite drinks. It’s a casual and fun way to connect with friends and embrace your artistic side.

Keep an eye out for street art events:

Shoreditch is a hub of creativity, and there’s always something exciting happening. Keep your eyes peeled for street art events, exhibitions, and live art sessions. You never know when you might stumble upon an artist in action, turning a blank wall into a masterpiece.

Explore the Different Functions Offered by Pinot & Picasso’s Here!

Ready to explore more ways to experience creativity and art? Check out the variety of functions offered by Pinot & Picasso. Whether you’re planning a team-building event, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day, we’ve got you covered.

10 Reasons Why Creativity is Important In Our Everyday Lives

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Why creativity is important

Creativity engages the mind in a unique way and has the power to enrich various aspects of life in a so many positive ways. It fosters innovative problem-solving, enhances communication, encourages adaptability, and strengthens connections.

Moreover, creativity has profound effects on physical and mental health, contributing to overall happiness and well-being. Cultivating creativity is life enhancing and a great tool for success and fulfillment in so many areas, making it a valuable skill to nurture and incorporate into our daily routines.

Keep reading to find our 10 reasons why discovering your creative potential will have a positive impact on your well being and life satisfaction.

Why is Creativity Important?

1. Helps with Personal Expression

Creativity and personal expression are intimately connected, forming a powerful symbiotic relationship. Creativity facilitates and enhances personal expression through allowing individuals to discover and nurture their own unique voice. Engaging in creative activities can lead to self-discovery. Through the process of creating, individuals explore their interests, values, and beliefs. It encourages introspection, helping people understand themselves on a deeper level.

smile creative girl

2. Helps Improve Mental Health

Creativity can have numerous positive effects on mental health and overall well-being. Engaging in creative ideas or activities, whether it’s painting, writing, music, or any other form of expression, can act as a form of meditation. Focusing on the creative process allows individuals to temporarily disconnect from stressors, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Creating something tangible and meaningful provides a sense of achievement, which can positively impact one’s self-worth.

3. Improves Critical Thinking Skills

Incorporating creative thinking into educational and professional environments can significantly enhance critical thinking skills. By encouraging creativity, individuals are better equipped to approach problems with open minds, consider diverse perspectives, and evaluate options critically, leading to more effective and informed decision-making.

4. Problem Solving

When you need to solve problems, it’s easy to get stuck in the same thought patterns but creativity helps you break out of these patterns. Creative thinking encourages thinking beyond conventional boundaries and helps you consider out-of-the-box solutions that might not be immediately apparent. Creativity boosts innovative ideas which can lead to breakthroughs in problem-solving and produce an amazing new creative solution!

5. Provides a Different Perspective

Fostering creativity allows us to look at the big picture from different angles, offering a unique and diverse perspective. By encouraging creative thinking, people can break free from conventional patterns, explore unconventional ideas, and approach problems from various angles, leading to fresh insights and points of view.

2 people smiling

6. Helps Build Relationships and Connections

Creativity brings people together and has the power to foster meaningful connections between individuals through shared experiences, inspiration, collaboration and community building. It opens doors to authentic and meaningful connections by enabling individuals to express themselves, understand others, collaborate effectively, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of human experiences. Whether it’s through art, music, literature, or any other form of creative expression, people can forge lasting connections that enrich their lives and the lives of those around them.

7. Enhances Productivity

Creativity challenges the mundane and combats stagnation both personally and professionally. It promotes overall efficiency by encouraging you to be a creative thinker, produce innovative solutions and improve self esteem. Creative play allows us to launch into tasks more passionately, which often translates to increased efficiency!

8. Helps with Business Success

Creative thinking encourages thinking beyond conventional boundaries and opens up space for original ideas and innovative solutions in the workplace. Creativity also boosts productivity and fosters professional development and growth. Promoting business creativity and a workplace culture that values and nurtures creativity, organisations can significantly enhance productivity while fostering a more engaging and satisfying work environment for their employees.

9. It is a Useful Skill to Have

Creative people can attest to creativity being a very valuable skill to have and encourage creativity self expression amongst all ages and walks of life! It helps with processing emotions, decision making, generating new ideas and enhancing other talents and skills you already have. Creativity can be applied to a wide range of applications in various aspects of life, making it not only a useful skill to have, but an essential one to foster!

10. Fosters Emotional Intelligence

Creativity provides a channel for understanding and expressing emotions, empathising with others and developing essential social and emotional skills. Through creative endeavours, individuals can cultivate emotional intelligence, leading to improved relationships, effective communication, and overall emotional well-being.

Easy Ways to Incorporate Creativity into Your Everyday Life:

1. Art Classes

Art classes are highly beneficial as they allow us to experience all the benefits listed above in a fun and engaging environment! Creative classes provide a structured and supportive environment for us to unleash our creative side and learn new skills, all while fostering social connections and community spirit.



2. Start an Art Journal

An art journal serves as a versatile and therapeutic tool for personal expression, creativity, and self-reflection. It provides a safe space to express emotions, reduces stress, fosters creativity, and acts as a visual diary. Art journaling can help process complex emotions, set intentions, document experiences, and serve as a source of inspiration.

3. Practice Mindful Art

Applying the benefits of mindfulness to creativity enables us to explore emotions and thoughts in a new, imaginative and calm way. Mindful art often induces a natural flow state where you focus on your breath, thoughts, emotions and sensations while creating. Using creativity to explore these feelings in a fun and stress free way allows us to externalise our internal struggles, making them tangible. This process often leads to a sense of catharsis and can contribute significantly to healing and improving emotional well-being. Visit our mindful sessions HERE

Explore the Different Functions Offered by Pinot & Picasso’s Here!

What is Mindful Art? – The Benefits and Engaging Activities

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Mindful Art Painting

What is Mindful Art? - The Benefits and Engaging Activities

In today’s fast-paced, technologically-driven world, the need for mindfulness has become increasingly crucial for our self care, inviting us to slow down, breathe and be present.

Worried you aren’t much of a Picasso? The great news is there’s no artistic experience required! Mindful art is all about the process, not the end product! Creative expression is a fundamental aspect of being human and engaging in fun, mindfulness based art activities is a valuable and accessible tool for anyone looking to enhance their well-being and enrich their lives!

Mindful art combines the benefits of mindfulness and creative expression, offering a pathway to self-discovery and healing, along with stress and anxiety reduction There are various types of mindfulness based art therapy you can explore, each offering a range of benefits.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the creative process. It involves paying deliberate and non-judgmental attention to your thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise. Mindfulness allows us to cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion and invites us to be gentle and kind to our inner critic.

The beauty of mindfulness is you can practice mindfulness anywhere, anytime. It may be as simple as taking a deep breath, smelling the aroma of your morning coffee or savouring the taste of that crispy bacon. Listening to the birds chirping outside your window or looking up at the sky and taking in the wonder and serenity of the vast cloudscape above you.

What is Mindful Art?

Put simply, mindful art is a creative form of meditation. Applying the benefits of mindfulness to artistic endeavors enables us to explore emotions and thoughts in a calm, gentle and fun way.

Mindful art often induces a natural flow state where you are encouraged to focus on your breath, thoughts, emotions and sensations while creating. Using art activities to explore these feelings in a fun and stress free way allows us to externalise our internal struggles, making them tangible. This process often leads to a sense of catharsis and can contribute significantly to healing and improving emotional well-being.

Pinot & Picasso Mindful Art

Benefits of Mindful Art:

Creative expression can be profoundly healing, serving as a form of therapy, allowing individuals to process complex feelings and experiences.

Helps with reducing stress:

You focus on the process and the being in the present moment, meaning outside stress, duties and concerns go out the window during creating. The calming effects and enjoyment also put us in a more relaxed state, decreasing everyday stressors.

Helps increase self awareness and self acceptance:

Creating from a judgement free mindset fosters a sense of self acceptance, empowerment and gratitude.

Enables emotional healing:

Art making allows us to turn inward and express ourselves in gentle way, offering clarity and insight into feelings and thoughts and the processing of difficult emotions.

Boosts creative thinking:

Surrendering to the flow of making art without overthinking or self-criticism allows a true, authentic freedom of creative expression to emerge. This can reveal new curiosity help unlock

Mindful Art Activities:

There are many fun and mindful art practices to explore using various art materials that are appropriate and beneficial for children and adults. Many children find a level of peace and relaxation in art as it focuses their minds and helps them look at the world around them in a more engaged way.

Attend a mindful art studio HERE!

Collage journaling:

Collage journaling is a versatile style of art making that combines images, text, drawings, and other art elements to express thoughts and emotions in a visual format. expressive means to This form of self-expression is highly personal and allows you to explore and document your inner thoughts.

Meditative colouring:

Portable and convenient, meditative colouring is accessible for everyone and might take adults down memory lane! The designs in meditative colouring books are specifically created to be complex, encouraging individuals to pay attention to small details while filling your pages with all the hues of the rainbow, whether it be with pencils, markers, or crayons.

Hand Colouring In With Pencils

Breathwork painting:

Breath work painting combines the therapeutic benefits of engaging in slow, conscious breathing with intentional breaths during the act of painting. This cultivates a heightened sense of awareness, allowing you to connect with your inner self on a profound level and aims to promote emotional release and alleviate anxiety.

Hand painting brush on canvas pinot & picasso blog

Mindful origami:

Mindful origami combines the ancient art of paper folding with the principles of mindfulness. It offers a way for individuals to cultivate presence through the meditative process of folding paper and for forming intricate designs.

mindful origami

Photography meditation:

Also known as contemplative photography, this mindful practice involves using a camera or a smartphone to capture images intentionally. The focus is on exploring one’s surroundings with a fresh perspective, appreciating the inherent beauty of nature and the present moment.

Body and finger painting:

Body and finger painting offers a unique tactile and sensory experience beneficial to all ages and abilities. Whether using the body as canvas (non-toxic paints please!) or feeling the smooth texture and squishing movement of paint under your fingers, these methods engage the senses in a fun and interactive way.

What is the Difference Between Art Therapy and Mindful Art?

Art therapy and mindful art both use creative expression for therapeutic purposes but they have distinct differences in their approaches and goals.

While mindful art is practised in an informal setting (at home or in an art class) and can be a self-directed practice, art therapy occurs in a clinical setting with a qualified art therapist. The therapist is trained to interpret the artwork, providing insights and facilitating discussion about the artwork and its emotional significance. 

Explore the Different Functions Offered by Pinot & Picasso.

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

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12-Non-Touristy-Things-to-do-in-London

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London – Pinot & Picasso

Things we don’t want to look like in London? An obvious tourist. Visiting London can be so much fun, and while most tourists visit the famous landmarks, you can find a hidden gem if you look in the right place.

We’re going to uncover the best non-touristy things to do in London where you can avoid tourist crowds at places like the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. You will see there is a diverse range of fun activities and attractions that give you the taste of London you crave.

 

1. Visit Hampstead Heath

A real hidden gem is Hampstead Heath, a woodland and meadow tucked away in north London. Hampstead Heath is a popular spot among locals and is among places in London recommended to tourists. With over 800 acres to explore, there are many non touristy things to do in Hampstead Heath.

Take in the London skyline with a picnic on Parliament Hill. This viewpoint on Parliament Hill will have you spotting famous landmarks from Canary Wharf to central London.

Cool off at one of the many swimming ponds around Hampstead Heath or watch locals play sport around the gardens. It’s a great place to relax, read a book and even ride horses.

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

2. Check Out a London Street Market

What London is best known locally for is its markets. Many local businesses flock to the streets on weekends, and even during the week, to sell products and goods adored by many.

Vintage shopping is a hobby for most in London, and many locals would agree that Shoreditch and Brick Lane are one of the best places in London to get some retro threads. Brick Lane Market is filled with local vendors and vintage jewels.

Just around the corner, you’ll find the blooming Columbia Road Flower Market. This market occurs every Sunday from 10am selling the most beautiful flowers and plants that are perfect for gifting to a loved one, or even spoiling yourself.

For some delicious street food, Camden Market is the place to go. Not only will you treat your taste buds, but you can shop til you drop, enjoy some live music and experiences across four unique quarters. There’s even a canal with river boats!

 

3. Visit an Art Gallery or a Museum

To truly experience London, it’s great to get a taste of the culture and history of a powerful nation. In the city centre, you can uncover the history of the world at the British Museum (it’s hard to miss!). While this comes under touristy things, it is worth the visit.

For more historic hidden gems, we recommend heading to the Sir John Soane’s Museum. John Soane was one of England’s greatest architects of the Regency era.

For a greater understanding of life in England over time, the Geffrye Museum (now known as the Museum of the Home) has eye-opening events and exhibitions to view.

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

4. Check Out Some Street Art at Leake Street Tunnel

One of the fun non touristy things to do in London is tucked away near London Bridge and central London. Introducing the Leake Street Arches.

The Leake Street Tunnel was formerly railway arches and now is a street art gallery. With graffiti walls and hidden paintings, this rejuvenated site is now a thriving community of restaurants, bars and entertainment. The Leake Street Arches really celebrates urban culture in central London.

 

5. Attend a Paint and Sip Session with Pinot & Picasso

We consider this hidden gem to be a local favourite. Avoid non touristy places in London by treating yourself to an arty party at Pinot & Picasso. Enjoy a fun night out with your travel partners with a paint and sip session where you transform a blank canvas to a colourful masterpiece.

Head east from central London to the Pinot & Picasso Shoreditch studio where you’ll be greeted by a talented artist who will guide you step-by-step through your chosen artwork – you will need to purchase tickets before attending! Get ready to unwind from doing touristy things by purchasing a bevvy and snacks from the studio bar. Master the art of fun with Pinot & Picasso in London!

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

6. Head to Shoreditch High Street For a Drink or Two

Once you’re finished exploring London, head to east London and the streets of Shoreditch and cheers to this great city. Shoreditch High Street has an abundance of vibing places to get you in a good mood. From a local pub to live music venues, you can find all the places only locals visit in London.

 

7. Visit the Houses in St Luke’s Mews

One of the non touristy things to do in London is walking along the cobblestone streets in Notting Hill and admiring the houses in St Luke’s Mews. This part of Notting Hill is the location of famous scenes in the Christmas classic ‘Love Actually’.

These beautiful homes in St Luke’s Mews will have you wishing to stay in west London longer and maybe become a local.

 

8. Go on a Picnic to One of London’s Many Parks

One of the best things about London is the amount of green spaces. When you visit London, it’s best to know which parks are unknown to masses of tourists.

Hyde Park is a famous landmark and definitely worth the visit during quieter times of the day. For hidden gems, Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park will give you unmatched views on the London skyline that are perfect for sunrise through to sunset. Another park with skyline views is Greenwich Park that looks back over Canary Wharf in south east London.

Bushy Park in Richmond is the second largest Royal Park in all of London. It’s best known for its unique waterways, beautiful gardens and fallow deer that roam the space.

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

9. Take a Canal Boat Ride Down Regent’s Canal

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Camden along Regent’s Canal. Regent’s Canal will have you feeling like you’re out of London. You can hop on one of the colourful boats from Little Venice and see the sights of Regent’s Park including London Zoo.

The highlight of this canal ride is passing through Camden Town and seeing their unique stalls and shops. This is the perfect place to hop off and walk through Camden Market.

 

10. Go For Afternoon Tea

What’s synonymous with the UK? Afternoon tea, of course! There are plenty of classy and affordable options for an afternoon tea in the city centre.

Treat yourself to a high tea full of sweet and savoury treats – why not add a little champagne? Many high tea venues offer afternoon tea for the little ones too, so you can make it a family event.

12 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

11. Go on a Bike Ride at Richmond Park

Head out to west London to Richmond – made famous through the hit TV series Ted Lasso – and see the beautiful gardens and greenery in Richmond Park. The wide open spaces and watching fallow deer roam throughout the park is a nice way to give yourself a time out from the hustle and bustle of central London.

It’s London off the beaten track when you ride a bike in Richmond Park. You can even do some off-road cycling along the Tasman Trail if you’re looking for something more exhilarating.

 

12. Check out the Royal Botanical Garden

While you’re in south west London, more specifically in Richmond, you can’t visit without stopping by the stunning Kew Gardens. This Royal Botanical Garden is home to over 50,000 plants and florals including tropical plants and a Victorian Glasshouse.

Kew Gardens is perfect for plant lovers and those who need a time out for the busy streets of central London.

Find a Pinot & Picasso Studio Near You!

A paint and sip session is one of the fun non touristy things to do in London. Why not ignite your creative spark and create a masterpiece destined for The Louvre today. 

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