Best 10 London tattoo shops

Instead of skulls and daggers, think of flowers and Buddhas to get a sense of what Good Times Tattoo is all about. This place is excellent for abstract, spiritual, Japanese and Asian-inspired tattoos.

For custom colour work, head to Frith Street Tattoo, one of the most famous tattoo shops in Soho. Whether you’re looking for traditional Americana or a full Japanese body suit, these tattoo veterans are at the top of their game.

Discover contemporary reinterpretations of traditional designs at this east London tattoo shop. Vagabond Tattoo Studio’s artists deliver clean lines in a range of styles, including hand-poked work.

Find K-Ink Peckham among the community of art, yoga and music studios at Copeland Park & Bussey Building in south London. This friendly tattoo studio prides itself on being a safe and inclusive space, offering bespoke works of art alongside flash designs. 

Get inked by one of the best dotwork tattoo artists in London at Martha Smith’s studio. Formerly a resident at K-Ink Peckham, Martha Smith now has her own place in Hackney. Book ahead for intricate botanical pieces, animal designs and art reproductions.

Be tattooed by incredible guest tattoo artists from around the world at Sang Bleu Tattoo. Talented residents and international stars offer a wide range of classic tattoo styles, from the colourful designs of Javier Rodriguez to the detailed black and grey pieces from founder Maxime Plescia-Buchi.

Venture to north London and find a contemporary space with a roster of notable artists at Parliament Tattoo. Founded by Scott Move and Nicola Mary Wyatt, this family-run business is excellent for line and black work. By appointment only.

Check out Dharma's incredible range of tattoo designs in east London, from colourful takes on traditional styles to owner Yeshe's larger pieces.

Create a custom piece with the knowledge you’re in experienced hands at Diamond Jacks. One of the West End’s longest running tattoo parlours, the studio specialises in cover-ups and traditional pieces.

Play video games while you wait for your appointment at The Circle. This Soho tattoo studio boasts a lifestyle store that stocks everything from clothing to taxidermy, in addition to its roster of 16 resident artists. Try Kat Blackstone for geometric hand-poked and needlework tattoos.