God's Own Junkyard: The Hidden Neon Paradise In Walthamstow

All signs point to Walthamstow's neon paradise, God's Own Junkyard.

Alex Landon - Editor • 29 September, 2023

If you’ve been searching for something to brighten up your home, look no further. God’s Own Junkyard is a psychedelic paradise of neon lights and vintage signs, all hidden inside an unassuming warehouse in deepest darkest Walthamstow. Although having said that, all this neon means Walthamstow is dark no more!

The story of God’s Own Junkyard is a fascinating one. Late owner Chris Bracey, the ‘Neon Man’, got his start by making signs for Soho’s strip clubs and brothels. Soon, his talents were spotted by Hollywood, and he began fashioning props for directors such as Stanley Kubrick, Tim Burton, and Christopher Nolan.

You can spend hours peeking and prying at the bright artwork on offer. Thankfully, if you get hungry, God’s Own Junkyard operate its own on-site café: The Rolling Scones.

But it isn’t just former film props that you’ll find littering the place. Religious statues, disco balls, and retro signs adorn the walls. Or simply find themselves piled high on the floor. Seriously, there are thousands of signs crammed in here. Like this winner:

A post shared by God's Own Junkyard (@godsownjunkyard)

Excitingly, God’s Own Junkyard’s neon creations are for buying as well as ogling. You might want to come flush with cash though, because they are not cheap. (Hey, they’ve got to pay the electricity bill somehow.)

But you’re not yet out of luck, because signs are also available for rent. To hire one which says ‘Love Dust’ will only cost you £150 per week. Just don’t tell us why you need it…

A post shared by God's Own Junkyard (@godsownjunkyard)

Their Instagram feed is, as expected, a pretty wonderful sight to behold. So too is the gallery on their website, which features some brilliantly odd signs. My personal favourite is the one which simply reads ‘James Blunt’.

What can I say, God’s Own Junkyard – 🎶 you’re beautiful, it’s true.🎶

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