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The Vaults

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Urban

Walking, Photography

Year round

Photo: Robert Lamb via Geograph.org.uk

The Vaults is a set of railway arches beneath Waterloo station in London, reached along Leake Street, a road tunnel that has become the city's best-known legal wall for graffiti. The walls of the tunnel are painted and repainted constantly, so the artwork changes from week to week, sometimes from da...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

Cotto​, Mesón Don Felipe, Mar i Terra

Cricketers Hostel, Dover Castle Hostel, Astor Victoria Hostel

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is The Vaults?
Greater London contains this artistic underground world beneath a major transport hub. Walkers easily reach the site via a short stroll from nearby platforms.

What type of place is The Vaults?
The Vaults is a subterranean art and performance venue beneath Waterloo Station in London.

When is the best time to visit The Vaults?
Year-round availability means you can turn up whenever you fancy exploring the underground tunnels. Quiet Tuesday mornings offer the best chance to photograph the murals before the heavy post-work crowds arrive.

What can you do at The Vaults?
Strolling through the pedestrianised concrete tunnels allows you to admire ever-changing graffiti murals created by independent street artists. Visitors can also catch radical immersive theatre productions or grab a drink at the underground craft bars.

How long should I spend at The Vaults?
Allocating roughly an hour gives you plenty of time to explore the main art corridor and take some photos. Extending your stay makes sense if you plan to enjoy an alternative dining spot or watch a live performance.

Where do I park at The Vaults?
Motorists can use ten nearby spaces, which provide five day and five overnight slots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near The Vaults?
Cotto, Mesón Don Felipe, and Mar i Terra offer three dining choices in the immediate area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near The Vaults?
Cricketers Hostel, Dover Castle Hostel, and Astor Victoria Hostel provide three places to book a stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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