God's Own Junkyard, Walthamstow - A Neon Wonder
Last week I took a trip to my hometown Walthamstow, in East London, to the incredibly wondrous God's Own Junkyard... a collection of some of the most colourful and exciting neon sign and film props, that you've ever seen. I can't recommend this place enough (I've been telling everyone I know about it, and have also been back once already this week) it's a feast for the eyes, and when you first walk into the old warehouse (that's just on a regular industrial estate, nothing out of the ordinary) you get almost a magical feeling, not knowing where to look first, as there is just so much colour, and you can't help but wonder about the stories behind each light.
Chris Bracey, owner and superbly talented designer, someone who was well known in creative circles, sadly passed away last year, but it's lovely to see all his pieces and collected signs gathered together in one place for all to enjoy. It really is a hidden gem of a place for anyone, not just people interested in art and design, and the 'junkyard' attracts visitors from all over the world. Chris has an amazing portfolio of work and has designed neon pieces for many well known fashion designers, films such as Batman, and pieces for Jay-Z, Lady GaGa and Tim Burton, who are also collectors of his work.
Where to find God's Own Junkyard
Gods Own Junkyard
Unit 12
Ravenswood Industrial Estate
Shernhall Street
Walthamstow
London
E17 9HQ
Neon Exhibition
Free to get in, the God’s Own Junkroom showroom also boasts a fab cafe and bar 'The Rolling Scones Cafe', situated just at the back of the warehouse and it's a great place to sit and enjoy a cup of tea (in cute mismatched vintage cups and saucers) and a slice of homemade cake (I sampled the cherry cake which unintentially matched my cherry jumper and was delicious by the way) :) The staff were super friendly and warm, and again the cafe is filled with beautiful neon colour, where you can sit and take it all in.
You can also buy prints and cards of the neon signs, which are a great take home souvenir, as well as mugs and t-shirts for sale...but it's all brilliantly laid out, so you can just wander round and soak it all in to the cool 80s soundtrack playing.
A must visit when you're in Walthamstow, or just take a trip anyway, as you won't be disappointed!
GOD’S OWN JUNKYARD OPENING HOURS: Friday - 11am to 9pm, Saturday - 11am to 9pm Sunday - 11am to 6pm
NEAREST TUBE: Walthamstow Central, Victoria Line
FOOD & DRINK: The Rolling Scones Cafe is open for food and drinks all weekend.
ENTRY IS FREE
WEBSITE: godsownjunkyard.co.uk
GOD’S OWN JUNKYARD INSTAGRAM @godsownjunkyard