London is a city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to get hands-on with creative workshops and classes. Whether you’re interested in street art, culinary delights, or artistic pursuits, London offers a wide range of experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing. For example, the Street Art Tour and Spray Painting Workshop in London gives travelers the chance to not only see vibrant murals but also to create their own graffiti art. It’s a fantastic way to experience a different side of London’s artistic scene, especially in trendy neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Hoxton.
If culinary arts are more your style, the Borough Market Food Tour & Baking Class combines tasting British street food with making your own donuts—an experience that’s as tasty as it is fun. Whatever your interest, these workshops provide authentic, personalized ways to connect with London’s creative pulse.
1. Street Art Tour and Spray Painting Workshop in London
This 3-hour experience offers a chance to explore London’s vibrant street art scene in Hoxton and Shoreditch. Unlike typical tours that just look at murals, this one lets you get your hands dirty—spray painting walls and practicing stenciling techniques. The workshop is held at a dedicated space by Alternative London, where you can unleash your creativity in a supportive environment. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 89 reviews, visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the fun, interactive nature of the activity. It’s especially suited for artistic, creative travelers who want to leave with their own spray-painted masterpiece. The tour’s value lies in its mix of cultural exploration and hands-on art-making, making it a rare London experience that combines education with fun.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice if you want to see the city’s street art and try spray painting yourself. It’s an engaging, memorable activity that fits well with a day of exploring London’s edgy neighborhoods.
2. Street Art Walking Tour and Workshop in London
Spanning roughly 4 hours, this walking tour and workshop takes you through East London’s Hackney and Shoreditch, famed for their street art. Your guide will share insider stories about the area’s evolving art scene, while pointing out notable murals created by international artists. After an exploration of the streets, you’ll head to a studio for a spray painting workshop where you’ll learn to make your own stencils and apply spray paint techniques. With a 5.0 rating from 56 reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see lesser-known parts of London. It’s ideal for families, art lovers, or anyone wanting a deeper dive into London’s urban art scene.
Bottom Line: This tour combines a guided exploration of East London’s street art with a practical workshop, making it a rich, hands-on cultural experience.
3. London: Exclusive Borough Market Food Tour & Baking Class
For about 2.5 hours, learn about British street food with this guided Borough Market Food Tour. You’ll sample three different market specialties and learn about the history of London’s oldest food market. Then, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on baking class where you’ll create a Crème Brûlée donut—a viral sensation—guided by expert bakers. You’ll enjoy your freshly baked donuts with coffee and take home two more. With stellar reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and the delicious food, this experience is a perfect choice for foodies and baking enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Combining tasting and making, this activity offers a delightful glimpse into London’s culinary scene with a memorable baking element.
4. London: Acrylic Painting Taster Class with Materials
This 2-hour class at Sunny Art Academy is perfect for beginners wanting to try acrylic painting. You’ll receive personalized guidance from an experienced tutor, choosing your own subject to paint in a relaxed, inspiring environment. All materials are provided, making it easy for even first-timers to get started. Although this experience has only one review, it scores a perfect 5.0, indicating a highly satisfying introduction to acrylic art. It’s ideal for creative travelers eager to explore their artistic side without committing to a longer course.
Bottom Line: A brief, friendly introduction to painting that’s great for those curious about art or looking for a calming, creative activity.
5. Blake & Defoe’s London: Literary Tour & Writing Workshop
In just 1.5 hours, this literary tour led by an award-winning novelist takes you through London’s literary landmarks. Visit William Blake’s grave, follow in the footsteps of Defoe’s Moll Flanders, and even craft a poetic response to street poetry at The Barbican. The guide’s background in creative writing adds depth, making this experience engaging for literature lovers and budding writers. The reviews reflect appreciation for the thoughtful route and stimulating exercises. It’s a good fit for those interested in literature, poetry, or history, with the chance to dive into London’s poetic and narrative heritage.
Bottom Line: A short but meaningful journey through London’s literary past, perfect for bookworms and creative writers.
6. London: Essential Oil Candle Making Workshop
This 1.5-hour workshop introduces you to natural essential oils and wax, guiding you to create your own bespoke scented candle. It’s a relaxing, informative session that emphasizes natural ingredients, where you’ll learn about scent benefits and care tips. The 4.6 rating suggests most attendees find it enjoyable and worthwhile. It’s an excellent choice if you’re after a calming, sensory experience and want to bring home a personalized candle. Suitable for beginners and those curious about natural products, it offers a peaceful break from busy sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for relaxation and sensory pleasure, with a practical keepsake to take home.
7. London: Graffiti Workshop and Street Art Tour
This 2-hour activity offers a guided street art tour followed by an opportunity to learn how to create your own tag with help from a graffiti artist. You’ll see pieces by established artists and learn about the history of graffiti in London. It’s a fun, energetic experience, suitable for younger travelers or adventurous souls eager to get their hands dirty with spray paint. With a 4.7 rating, it’s highly recommended for a different kind of urban art experience beyond just admiring murals.
Bottom Line: A lively, interactive graffiti activity perfect for those wanting to try street art in a supportive environment.
8. London: Guided Painting Class with Materials
In this 2-hour class, you’ll be guided step-by-step by a resident artist to create your own masterpiece. The class atmosphere is relaxed, and high-quality materials are provided. The reviews praise the encouraging guidance and the ability to produce a work to be proud of, making it suitable for beginners and more experienced painters alike. This is especially a good option if you want to learn techniques and leave with a finished painting.
Bottom Line: A supportive, creative environment that helps you produce a custom artwork to take home.
9. London: Photography Masterclass – Private Photo Lesson
This 3-hour private photo tour along the Thames is perfect for photographers of all levels. Led by a pro, you’ll explore iconic sights like Big Ben and hidden alleyways, learning techniques to improve your shots. The experience is customizable, letting you focus on landscape, architecture, or street photography. With 4.6-star reviews, many mention how it helps them see London anew. It’s especially suited for travelers with a decent camera eager to boost their skills.
Bottom Line: A personalized photography lesson that turns a sightseeing walk into a creative photo shoot.
10. Mexican Cooking Class in London
In this 3-hour hands-on class, learn to make Baja fish tacos, ceviche, and salsa from scratch with personalized instruction. Vegetarian options are available, emphasizing authentic Mexican flavors. Attendees praise the friendly guidance and the opportunity to recreate dishes at home using printed recipes. It’s ideal for food lovers who want to expand their culinary skills, especially in Mexican cuisine.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, interactive cooking experience suited for curious cooks and foodies alike.
11. Orpington: Silver Ring Making Workshop
Spending 2.5 hours in this jewelry workshop, you’ll learn how to size, form, and texture a sterling silver ring. Guided by a professional jewelry maker, you’ll try soldering and piercing to craft a personal piece of jewelry. The 4.5 rating indicates most find this a rewarding creative activity. It’s perfect for jewelry lovers or anyone wanting a tangible keepsake from their trip.
Bottom Line: A hands-on jewelry workshop that results in a unique silver ring you made yourself.
12. Covent Garden: Drawing Class with a Professional Artist
This 2-hour drawing class offers a chance to learn foundations of drawing in a small, focused setting. Led by a professional artist, you’ll work on a subject of your choice with personalized support. Though reviews are not listed, the class is well-suited for beginners or intermediate artists wanting to refine their skills. The intimate size (no more than 10 students) ensures tailored guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to improve fundamental drawing skills with expert help.
13. London Cooking Class and British Royal Tasting Menu Dinner
This 3-hour class offers a rare chance to learn how to make Royal favorites, followed by a shared 4-course dinner with champagne. Led by a chef related to King Charles III, the small group experience (max six) is intimate and personalized. While no ratings are listed, the experience appeals to foodies interested in royal cuisine and cultural history.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, behind-the-scenes culinary experience blending royal dishes with a social dinner.
14. London: Dim Sum and Bao Cooking Class with Wine
In this 3-hour hands-on class, learn the art of wrapping dim sum and bao, guided by professional chefs. The class includes authentic seasoning tips and the chance to enjoy a glass of wine while cooking. Attendees leave with recipes and leftovers, making it both a fun experience and practical. Perfect for culinary explorers wanting to master Chinese cuisine.
Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful class that combines cooking expertise with a relaxed atmosphere and great wine.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in London
When selecting a workshop, consider your interests, budget, and available time. For a visual art experience, the Acrylic Painting Taster Class offers quick intro lessons, while the Guided Painting Class provides more support. Food lovers will appreciate the Borough Market & Baking or the Dim Sum & Bao class, especially if you want to learn new recipes. For those interested in street art, the Street Art Tour & Workshop and the Graffiti Workshop are perfect for hands-on creativity.
Timing, group size, and whether you want a tasting, making, or learning experience should guide your choice. Book early, especially for popular activities like the Borough Market Food & Baking, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
London’s workshops and classes offer a wonderful way to engage with the city’s culture and creativity. From street art and painting to culinary adventures and jewelry making, there’s something for every curious traveler. For those eager to try something new, the Street Art Tour and Spray Painting Workshop stands out as a top pick, thanks to its blend of exploration and hands-on art. The Borough Market Food Tour & Baking Class is perfect for foodies seeking delicious, authentic experiences, while the Guided Painting Class can satisfy those craving artistic expression.
No matter your interest, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to learn and create in London. Dive into these workshops for a memorable, enriching addition to your trip.