Today was a bit of a washout in terms of weather situations. I was hoping for better weather because I had my niece and nephew over to visit me. I wanted to take them around The Stow because I thought there were interesting things to see around where I live…also I wanted to cheer them up a little bit. But Mother Nature had other ideas.
We had a bit of a soggy walk to God’s Own Junkyard but I hoped it was interesting enough for them. I’ve been to GOJ several times now, it just being around the corner from me but I’m always so surprised at how close it really is.
God’s Own Junkyard is a collection of new, used, salvaged, and reclaimed neon signs that would look so very comfortable in movie sets and fairgrounds. I do like having a bit of a wander because every time I go, there’s always something new to see. I always say it’s a welcome and gloriously riotous assault on the senses and I thoroughly recommend going and having a look at the lights. There’s a little bit of everyone for everyone – cute, staid, functional, sexy, pious, naughty, kinky an downright raunchy.
If anything, once you’re done, you can head to the lovely cafe and have a drink (tea, coffee, soda, cocktail or cocktail – the menu is quite good!) and a bite to eat if you fancy it.
It’s free to visit and I think it’s certainly worth a visit but note that because of the content and subject of some of the signs, parents are warned that there will be potentially awkward conversations with the little ones. Younger audiences will need a responsible adult to accompany them around. Also, pictures from mobile phones are encouraged but bigger cameras are very much discouraged. But visit! It’s an experience worth having!
God’s Own Junkyard is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and is at the Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street, London, E17 9H. Remember to check the GOJ website for information on open dates and special events as they can be closed when things are happening.
Yellywelly 