I love neon lights and coloured lights; it's always something I've been fascinated with and even had my own neon signs made up for my kitchen-dining area. So, when I learned several years ago about God's Own Junkyard, a shop in Walthamstow (London) filled with neon lights, I knew that I had to go and check it out. After several years, I finally got to go check it out last weekend, and I was not disappointed.
God's Own Junkyard was owned by Chris Bracey for 37 years, and he created the neon artwork. His family now run the shop in Walthamstow, and the signs have been created from salvaged signs, displays, movie props, and other found objects. Bracey's work appeared in films such as "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", "Batman", "Bladerunner", "Eyes Wide Shut", and other films. His signs have also been purchased by high profile clients and celebrities.
The little shop/museum of neon art and signs is a treasure hidden inside an industrial estate near Wood Street in Walthamstow, London. It actually doesn't look like much would fit inside, but you would be surprised. There is so much that you really cannot see it all when you start to look around. I found it beautiful and amazing.
Also inside a part of the building is the "Rolling Scones Cafe", a little coffee shop selling cooked food, snacks, pastries, alchol, and drinks. I had a toasted cheese sandwich, a slice of chocolate cake, and I took a brownie away for later. The brownie was the best with just the right amount of gooey and sweetness, and finding a good brownie in England is a feat in itself. The cafe's tables and chairs are all set up amongst some of the neon artwork, so there is ample opportunity for selfies in front of the signs.
I cannot really say anything more about this place because I loved it, but I will let the photographs speak for themselves.
If you wish to visit, God's Own Junkyard is open from Friday to Sunday from mid morning until the early evening, but check the website out for more details and the address.
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