Nestled just beneath Waterloo Station, the Leake Street Arches is an atmospheric network of railway arches and viaducts now world-famous as London’s longest legal graffiti gallery. It’s a living monument to urban art—open to everyone. Here, you can discover an ever-changing mural-scape, infused with street culture, creative spirit, and community buzz. What sets it apart from other London attractions is the blend of public art and repurposed historic architecture, now also home to quirky independent bars, restaurants, and performance spaces.
History of Leake Street Arches
Leake Street’s origins trace back to the days when its arches stored railway cargo and equipment for nearby Waterloo Station. In the early 20th century, the tunnels developed a reputation for secretive nightlife, with illegal drinking dens hiding among the shadows. For much of the late 20th century, Leake Street was largely neglected, used mainly as vehicle access to the Eurostar terminal at Waterloo.
The transformation began dramatically in 2008. After the Eurostar terminal moved to St. Pancras, the area quieted—until world-renowned street artist Banksy hosted the “Cans Festival,” formally inviting artists to transform Leake Street’s dark, forgotten tunnel into an open, legal canvas. Suddenly, Leake Street emerged as a mecca for graffiti artists and art lovers—the tunnel’s blank walls becoming a riot of color and creativity.
Attractions at Leake Street Arches
Live Street Art: Watch artists at work any day—bring your own spray paint to leave a mark (no permits required for most surfaces).
Cultural Events: Look for graffiti “jams,” street art festivals, pop-up art classes, and photography meetups.
Independent Bars & Cafés: Underneath the tracks, dine or relax in London’s quirkiest eateries (detailed below).
Flexible Event Spaces: Music nights, comedy shows, and open-mic events regularly fill the arches with energy.
Things to Do at Leake Street Arches
Explore Ever-Changing Street Art: Wander the tunnel, camera in hand, and enjoy everything from sprawling murals to political satire and clever tags.
Try Graffiti Yourself: Visitors are welcome to bring paint and contribute to the evolving art wall. Check etiquette—respect ongoing works.
Live Performances & Workshops: Look out for official art jams, music nights, and open art classes, especially at weekends.
Photography: The tunnel is one of London’s most photographed urban canvases—ideal for urban explorers, Instagrammers, and professional photographers alike.
Grab a Bite or Drink: Enjoy global cuisine in unique venues built into the arches, often accompanied by themed music and live entertainment.
Family Visits: Kids and teens love the color and spectacle—parents can supervise art-making or just enjoy the walk. Note: some bars may only allow adults in the evening.
Board Games Café: Test your skills at Draughts, London’s best-known board game café with food and drink options.
Leake Street Arches – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Tunnel: Open 24 hours; always free to enter, with artwork visible day or night.
Businesses: Most restaurants, bars, and cafés open from late morning through late evening; closing times vary (usually 10pm–midnight).
Best Time to Visit: Daytime hours (10am–6pm) for seeing the art in natural daylight, plus active street artists. Evenings are livelier (especially Thursday–Saturday), but the area feels edgier.
How Long to Spend at Leake Street Arches
Average visitors stay 30–90 minutes exploring the tunnel and galleries. Add more time for a meal, drink, or event—dine and linger for 2–3 hours if you join in board games, live music, or art workshops.
How to Get There
- By Rail:
- Waterloo Mainline: Immediate access—exit the station for direct access to Leake Street.
- By Bus: More than 20 bus routes serve Waterloo, including 1, 12, 59, 68, 76, 168, 171, 172, 176, 211, 341, 507, C10. Bus stops on York Road and Lower Marsh are closest.
- By Taxi: Black cabs and ride-shares drop on York Road or Lower Marsh. Less than 10 minutes from Westminster or the South Bank tourist area.
- By Boat:
- London Eye Pier or Westminster Pier (Thames Clippers services): 12–15 minutes’ walk across Westminster Bridge or along the South Bank.
- By Bike: Santander Cycles docking stations at Waterloo Road and Stamford Street; bike racks available.
- On Foot: Five-minute walk from the London Eye, Southbank Centre, or Westminster Bridge.
- By Car: Not recommended—very limited parking and significant congestion.
Eateries Nearby Leake Street Arches
Sample London’s vibrant food scene right in the arches or within five minutes’ walk:
| Name | Cuisine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Banh Bao Brothers | Vietnamese fusion | Innovative Vietnamese and signature cocktails; famous for bao buns. |
| Mamuśka! | Polish | Generous portions, pierogi, schnitzel, in a fun, casual setting. |
| Draughts Waterloo | Bistro/Board Games | Board game café with world beers, burgers, and veggie dishes. |
| The American Bar | American | Burgers, hot dogs, craft beers; family-friendly by day. |
| The Archduke | Contemporary European | Stylish brasserie with live jazz in the evenings; riverside views nearby. |
| Lower Marsh Market | Street food | Dozens of global food stalls (weekdays), just around the corner. |
Other Attractions Nearby Leake Street Arches
London Eye (12 min walk): Panoramic riverside views.
Southbank Centre (10 min): Concerts, exhibitions, street food.
Westminster & Big Ben (12 min): Iconic landmarks just across Westminster Bridge.
The Old Vic Theatre (7 min): Classic London theatre.
Trafalgar Square, National Gallery (20 min): Direct via Embankment.
The Vaults (same complex): Experimental theatre, immersive events, and art installations.
Imperial War Museum (14 min): Military history and exhibits.
Hidden beneath Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches is one of London’s most vibrant urban art spaces. Known as the city’s longest legal graffiti wall, Leake Street Arches attracts artists from around the world who transform its tunnels into a constantly evolving canvas of color and creativity. Beyond street art, the arches house a mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it a lively hub for nightlife and underground events. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or curious explorer, Leake Street Arches offers a unique blend of grit, expression, and community right in the heart of London.