Introduction Nestled in the heart of Walthamstow, East London, God’s Own Junkyard is a unique and visually stunning art gallery that offers an immersive experience into the world of neon signs, salvaged lighting, and vintage memorabilia. Known for its vibrant display of neon art, this quirky gallery was founded by the late Chris Bracey, often referred to as the “Neon Man” for his expertise in crafting mesmerizing neon signs for everything from Soho’s iconic strip clubs to major Hollywood films.
History and Legacy God’s Own Junkyard owes its origins to Chris Bracey’s father, Richard Bracey, who began working with neon signage in post-WWII London. Richard initially produced signs for circuses, amusement parks, and entertainment venues, eventually passing the business down to his son. Chris took over the family business in the 1970s and transformed it into something much larger. He gained fame for designing provocative and eye-catching signs for nearly all of London’s West End nightclubs and later expanded his influence by working on film sets. Some of his most notable works were created for films like Batman, Eyes Wide Shut, Tomb Raider, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. After Chris’s passing in 2014, his sons continue to manage God’s Own Junkyard, keeping the neon legacy alive.
What to Expect at God’s Own Junkyard When you step into God’s Own Junkyard, you are greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, lights, and shapes. The walls are adorned with thousands of neon signs, each one more dazzling than the next. The pieces are a mixture of original designs created by Chris Bracey, salvaged signs from defunct businesses, and reclaimed neon pieces from film sets. Visitors often describe the space as a visual overload in the best possible way—a vibrant, glowing tribute to pop culture, nostalgia, and the artistry of neon.
Many of the pieces at God’s Own Junkyard are for sale, and the gallery also offers rentals for film shoots, events, and commercial displays. In addition to the neon art, the venue hosts an array of eclectic objects, including vintage fairground lights, circus props, religious statues illuminated by neon, and quirky installations that blend the surreal with the nostalgic. From glowing crosses to neon lips and retro advertisements, the range of artwork is truly astonishing.
Notable Pieces While every piece at God’s Own Junkyard has its charm, some have gained particular fame. The neon sign used in Eyes Wide Shut is one of the gallery’s most well-known exhibits, alongside pieces from Batman and Tomb Raider. One particularly striking piece is a large, glowing pair of red lips, a nod to Chris Bracey’s talent for creating art that mixes humor with allure. There are also many Soho-inspired signs that evoke the heyday of the area’s nightlife, making God’s Own Junkyard feel like a neon museum of London’s cultural history.
The Rolling Scones Café In addition to the visual feast, God’s Own Junkyard offers visitors the chance to relax at the Rolling Scones Café, which is nestled right inside the gallery. The café serves a variety of snacks, meals, coffee, and alcoholic beverages, and it’s the perfect spot to sit and take in the electrifying atmosphere. The seating area is surrounded by neon lights, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy cafés in London. On sunny days, visitors can also enjoy the quaint garden out back.
Events and Private Hire God’s Own Junkyard is a popular venue for events, including weddings, corporate functions, and photoshoots. The glowing ambiance creates a surreal backdrop that elevates any occasion. Additionally, the gallery frequently collaborates with local artists and hosts special exhibitions, making it a hub for the Walthamstow creative community. Given the gallery’s popularity, it’s advisable to check their website for any closures due to private events.
What’s Around God’s Own Junkyard? The gallery is located in the Ravenswood Industrial Estate, an area that has become known for its creative and independent businesses. Nearby, you’ll find local breweries, taprooms, and street food vendors, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon in the area. The estate is also home to other quirky venues and offers outdoor seating areas where visitors can relax, enjoy food and drinks, and soak up the artistic vibes of the neighborhood(Travel and Squeak).
For those who want to explore further, Walthamstow Village is just a short walk away. It’s one of London’s oldest villages and offers a picturesque setting with pedestrianized streets lined with independent shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants. Walthamstow Village is perfect for those looking to take a break from the busy London streets and enjoy a more relaxed, community-driven atmosphere.
Visiting Information God’s Own Junkyard is typically open from Friday to Sunday, making it a perfect weekend destination. Entrance is free, but donations are welcome to help keep the lights glowing. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, explore the vibrant maze of neon lights, and capture the stunning artwork through photos. While professional cameras are not allowed, smartphone photography is encouraged, and the venue has become one of London’s most popular Instagram spots.
Conclusion God’s Own Junkyard is more than just an art gallery—it’s a sensory experience that blends pop culture, art, and history in a unique and electrifying way. Whether you’re a fan of neon art, looking for a cool spot to snap photos, or simply want to explore one of London’s hidden gems, God’s Own Junkyard offers something for everyone. Its legacy, deeply rooted in London’s artistic and cultural history, continues to shine brightly, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike
