This summer, the West End welcomes Mr Doodle
This summer, London's West End is set to become even more colourful as internationally acclaimed artist Mr Doodle brings his unmistakable creative universe to the heart of the capital.
Created by Art of London, Heart of London Business Alliance's consumer-facing cultural initiative, Mr Doodle's Doodle Discovery is a free public art trail inviting visitors to explore the West End through creativity, culture and imagination. Known globally for transforming everything from sketchbooks and buildings to entire rooms with his signature style, Mr Doodle (Sam Cox) has become one of the world's most recognisable contemporary artists. His work encourages people of all ages to embrace creativity and see everyday spaces in new ways.
Running from 28 July to 30 August, the experience will see five specially commissioned sculptures installed across Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and St James's Market, each covered in original artworks inspired by the people, places and iconic cultural landmarks that make the West End one of the world's most vibrant destinations.
- Month
- 1
- Sculptures
- 5
- to the Public
- Free
Discover the West End through art
Designed to encourage exploration, the trail takes visitors on a journey through some of London's most famous streets and public spaces, with each sculpture revealing a playful interpretation of the area's theatres, galleries, restaurants, heritage and communities.
Whether you're planning a family day out during the school holidays, meeting friends after work or rediscovering central London as a local, the trail offers a fresh way to experience the West End.
Along the route, visitors will find themselves surrounded by world-class cultural institutions, acclaimed theatres, independent cafés, flagship stores and renowned restaurants, making it easy to turn the trail into a full day of discovery.
Watch Mr Doodle create live
The trail launches with Doodle with Mr Doodle!, a special public event where visitors can take part in an interactive workshop led by the artist himself.
Participants will have the opportunity to contribute ideas and doodles that will inspire one of the sculptures before watching Mr Doodle complete the artwork live. The event celebrates the artist's belief that creativity should be accessible, participatory and fun for everyone.
And we want to give members the first opportunity to get these tickets. Available on 12th July at midday, click here and save the date.
Making culture accessible
The initiative reflects Art of London's ongoing mission to make arts and culture more accessible while celebrating the creativity that defines London's West End.
Recent research from Arts Council England found that 75% of parents believe visits to museums and galleries are important for family bonding and recreation. Free cultural experiences like Mr Doodle's Doodle Discovery help make those moments possible, inviting people to spend time together while exploring one of London's most culturally rich neighbourhoods.
Visitors will also be able to access a digital trail map by scanning QR codes on each sculpture, unlocking additional content and exclusive experiences along the route. Those who complete the trail can enter a prize draw to win a selection of family-friendly experiences from Art of London partners, including tickets to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, a family meal and Mr Doodle colouring books.
Celebrating London's cultural heart
Through Art of London, we continue to champion the businesses, cultural institutions and public spaces that make the West End a world-leading destination.
Projects like Mr Doodle's Doodle Discovery demonstrate how partnerships between artists, businesses and cultural organisations can transform public spaces, encourage exploration and create memorable experiences for visitors while supporting the area's vibrant economy.
Mr Doodle's Doodle Discovery runs from 28 July to 30 August 2026 across Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and St James's Market. Registration for the Doodle with Mr Doodle! launch event opens on 14 July, with the event taking place on 28 July.
Website: Art of London
Instagram: @theartofldn
Facebook: @theartofldn
TikTok: @theartofldn
News:
View allNews
West End investment remains strong, but policy must keep pace
Read more about West End investment remains strong, but policy must keep pace