Explore the city, London experiences,
September 28 2024
Known for landmarks and a rich history, London might not conjure up images of tattoo studios at first. But do a little digging and you’ll see that the city’s arts and culture scene is perfectly suited for those who fancy some new ink.
If you’ve never had a tattoo before, remember that it’s for life! It needs to fit your vision and needs, and one stylist might be better than another. The good news is we’ve gathered the best tattoo shops London has to offer, so you’ll walk out with a masterpiece.
The history of tattoos in London dates back to the 17th century, with the first professional tattooist opening up shop in the 1880s. Sutherland Macdonald paved the way for other tattoo studios in London to crop up, boasting everything from fine lines to watercolours.
There are more than 30 London tattoo studios offering a range of styles, so you’re never far from getting inked. The majority of the London tattoo scene resides above the river, just a stone’s throw from our branches including Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly.
Prices in London tattoo shops vary depending on the size and the placement on the body. There are also a variety of styles to consider, and this will be reflected in the artist’s expertise and experience.
As a guideline, you can expect to pay under £100 for anything smaller than a credit card. Designs the size of your hand might set you back £250, while half arm sleeves may cost around £500.
The best tattoo artist in London comes down to personal preferences, but there are a few well-known names including Chad Koeplinger and Nikole Lower. We’ve gathered the best tattoo shops in London to help you decide on your next design.
Based near Finsbury Park, Parliament eschews the traditional tattoo experience and instead has regular guest artists to perfect your vision. These may offer gothic styles, Japanese art or religious and mediaeval influences.
The studio has been in place since 2014, located in a 19th century factory. Founders Scott Move and Nicola Mary Wyatt work with both resident tattooists and guests to offer the most diverse tattoo styles. You’ll need to book an appointment, but it will all be worth it to be inked up in this charming setting.
You can even choose a vegan option, though other specialist inks such as UV or white ink are not yet available. Head down to one of the best tattooists in London on Leeds Place, N4 3RF.
Frith Street Studio has gained quite the reputation as one of the top rated tattoo shops London has to offer. With a diverse selection of talented artists, each has their own unique speciality, including full tribal back designs, animals and cartoons.
There are no limits with Frith Street – whether it’s your first tattoo or your hundredth, you can choose from a small ankle motif to a whole Japanese body suit. Thanks to its flexible resident artists, walk-in appointments are available too – great if you’re feeling spontaneous.
You can find Frith Street Studio in the Basement at no. 18, close to our Bloomsbury Park branch.
Vagabond is widely regarded as one of the top tattoo shops in London for many reasons – including its signature Scandinavian style. Here you’ll find a beautifully designed wood panel effect ready and waiting to welcome you.
Like the décor, Vagabond specialises in clean, precise artwork. Head here if you’re particularly interested in small line work pieces with custom designs. Based on Hackney Road in East London, it’s a little further out from our other London hotels like Kensington Gardens. But while you’re there, you can show off your new ink in the trendy Shoreditch borough!
Pop along to Vagabond to be inspired by nature, blackwork and Japanese tattoos.
Here’s one of the most modern tattoo shops Central London has to offer. One by One, based in Soho, is a fan favourite of celebrities such as Travis Scott and Kanye West. Not only is it one of the best tattoo studios in the capital, but a concept store and all-round branding powerhouse.
The team at One by One have a long history of merch collaborations with key influencers, including art installations and pop-up store events. They’re also committed to sustainability by reducing plastic products and only using cruelty-free inks.
Come here if you want high-quality fineline, single needle or abstract colour work tattoos. Any size is possible, and you’ll even help the team plant trees. One by One is located on Berwick Street. You can book your appointment here.
This tattoo parlour in West London has the accolade of being the city’s oldest studio. It was founded in 1973 and has been decorating London’s residents ever since. With so much experience, the team have plenty to offer in terms of styles, all except portraits. Start small or scale them up all over your body with full lined and coloured sleeves.
Come here for a classic tattoo if you’re a body art enthusiast. It doesn’t stop there – George Bone also offers body piercing alongside eye-popping tattoo designs. You can find all the best of neotraditional and Japanese-inspired artwork on Boston Road in Hanwell.
From West London to Camden and Kings Cross, there are tattoo and piercing salons all over the city. Each one offers some of England’s finest in-house artists, giving you freedom to choose a custom or classic design. You might be getting inked to complete your trip, but your journey starts with a comfortable stay at the Thistle, ideal for recuperating in style.
