London has a number of incredible museums to visit, whether it is the Natural History Museum, Tate Britain, the Science Museum or any other one of the many. I can guarantee you that there is none like this one.
Imagine walking into a hidden world full of nothing but lights. Well, that’s exactly what this one is.
Hidden in an industrial estate in Walthamstow, east London, is God’s Own Junkyard, a museum full of neon lights. I’ve visited this spot a number of times, but I still can’t get enough of it.
As soon as you walk through the tiny entrance, you are transported to another planet. Every single corner turned is just a mesmerising sight.
While you might not have visited the museum, you most likely have seen some of its neon lights.
Gods Own Junkyard founder Chris Bracey spent years making neon art for the likes of David La Chapelle, an American photographer and director, giving him the name of the ‘Neon Man’ in both London and Los Angeles.
Using found objects, waste and lights, Chris Bracey spent 37 years transforming things that people might have viewed as junk into incredible neon art that has featured behind some of the world’s biggest stars in huge films, including Johnny Depp in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Jack Nicholson in Batman.
Now you have the chance to see those spectacular displays and more all in one place. The Neon Wonderland has been open to the public since 2004 and every weekend, visitors can explore it for free.
The museum not only boasts its numerous art pieces but also features The Rolling Stones cafe and bar, a lovely ‘Build your own Bracelet’ station, as well as CDs, DVDs and games for sale for as little as £2.
The quirky museum is the perfect spot for a chilled day out that anyone can enjoy. On top of that, it’s something you can enjoy without shelling out a load of money and of course, the art work makes the best back drop for photos.
If you haven’t got yourself down to this hidden gem before, you don’t want to miss out, and I bet your first trip won’t be your last.