God's Own Junkyard

Venturing into God’s Own Junkyard is akin to stepping into a vibrant, neon-lit wonderland, a place where artistry and nostalgia collide in the most fascinating way. Nestled in an unassuming location in Walthamstow, London, this large warehouse-style museum is a trove of neon signs, vintage memorabilia, and movie props that Chris Bracey, the ‘Neon Man,’ passionately amassed over a lifetime. It’s a testament to his dedication to the craft of neon artistry.

The journey to God’s Own Junkyard might seem a bit off the beaten path, but it’s an experience well worth the trek. As you meander through this neon maze, you’re greeted with eclectic sounds from iconic bands like The Doors and Rolling Stones, adding to the immersive atmosphere. It’s a visual feast, with every corner offering something new to discover, from signs of old strip clubs to quotes from famous songs, all glowing in a myriad of colors.

The Rolling Scones Café, situated within the premises, offers a delightful stop for refreshments. Whether you’re in the mood for a full English breakfast or just a coffee paired with a homemade cake (the creme egg cheesecake is a must-try!), the café provides a cozy spot to relax amidst the neon glow.

Visitors can also bring a piece of this magical place home, as the gift shop offers a range of souvenirs, from custom-made t-shirts to prints and postcards. For those looking to add a unique touch to their events or decor, the Junkyard also offers the option to buy or rent their original neon creations.

The only caveat to this otherwise enchanting experience is its location, which might be a bit far from central London attractions. This makes it more suited for locals or those on their second or third visit to London, rather than first-timers with limited time. Moreover, professional photography is restricted without prior permission, which is something to keep in mind for avid photographers.

In summary, God’s Own Junkyard is more than just a gallery; it’s a unique cultural experience, a celebration of neon art that transcends the ordinary. Its eclectic collection, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly staff make it a must-visit for those seeking something uniquely London, away from the typical tourist paths. It’s a place that not only showcases neon art but also serves as a vibrant community hub, making it a 4.5-star...

God’s Own Junkyard, Walthamstow

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow is truly a hidden gem and a unique day out in London! The moment you step into this industrial warehouse, you’re greeted by a dazzling explosion of neon lights and signs, many of which have featured in iconic movies and TV shows worldwide. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a set straight out of Hollywood.

Positives: The collection of neon art here is nothing short of spectacular, with so many pieces that you’ll recognize from the big screen. It’s like a treasure hunt for film buffs—spotting your favorite signs is half the fun! This place is also a dream come true for anyone looking for the perfect selfie backdrop; every corner is Instagram-worthy. The staff are friendly and passionate about the space, always ready to share fun facts about the collection. Plus, there’s a cozy little café on-site that offers great coffee and snacks, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Cons: The experience is best enjoyed in about 1-1.5 hours, so if you’re traveling from far away, it might be a good idea to plan other activities nearby to make the most of your journey. The space can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, which might make it a bit overwhelming if you’re sensitive to bright lights or have migraines. Also, the narrow walkways and closely packed props can be challenging for those with mobility issues, so accessibility could be improved.

Pro Tip: We visited on a weekday morning, and it was pleasantly quiet—highly recommend visiting off-peak if you can. We traveled from Mayfair, taking the tube from Green Park to Walthamstow Central (Victoria line all the way), followed by a short, easy walk to the venue. If you’re making the trip, it’s worth researching what else is in the area to round out your day in Walthamstow.

All in all, God’s Own Junkyard is a must-visit for anyone looking to see something truly different in London. Just be prepared for a sensory overload, and plan your visit during quieter times for the...

This place has been on my list of places to go since I moved to London. My boyfriend and I travelled from South West London to visit- I must say it wasn't really worth it. Don't get me wrong, the lights are cool, but I'd recommend it more to people that are very local. Definitely wasn't worth the time we spent travelling.

We didn't order from the cafe so can't comment on that.

The reason I'm giving this place 1 star is because I was so appalled by the disrespect towards Christianity. I'm not a very strict Christian but I was shocked when I saw some of the displays and wanted to leave. Even if you are not religious, I'm sure you can appreciate that the displays are offensive. I really doubt that the owners of this place would have similar displays of other religious figures, however it seems that when it comes to Christianity you can be offensive as you want.

There was a strange little nook which had a statue of Jesus holding guns, and other religious memorabilia placed amongst skulls. A few statues of Mary- not offensive on their own but just seemed really out of place amongst the other signs. One Mary statue was dressed in Louie Vuitton clothes. Possibly the most offensive of all was a little seating area, full of 'adult' neon signs, and hanging from the wall were lots of crucifixes with Jesus. I was very upset with the placement of the crucifixes, but was even more shocked when I saw an upside down crucifix with the number '666' and pictures of baphomet amongst the Christian crucifixes. A blatant display of satanism and hugely offensive to Christians.

I hope that the establishment will listen to this criticism, I can see from the reviews that I was not the only one offended by this. I certainly won't...