In The Slow Lane

Sid The Snail

There is no doubt that the much-admired mural of the Giant Snail has become an iconic landmark in South Tottenham. Affectionally known as Sid the Snail (or for some he was called Brian the Snail inspired by The Magic Roundabout), he evokes loving memories for many growing up in the area or just passing through. 

(The Mural of Sid The Snail. Photograph © Jim Osley)

In existence for almost 50 years, the story of how Sid came to be painted on a mural has become part of local folklore. It is undisputed that this street art was created when the new estate was built. Some say it marked the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977, whilst others say it was completed a year earlier in 1976. 

For one family Sid the Snail marks the spot of their former home – number 3 Culvert Road – that was demolished like many of the houses and shops in the surrounding roads from 1972 onwards to make way for development of the new council housing estate c.1974. 

Who painted the mural, though, remains a mystery it seems. One claimed his friend painted it as a portrait of the snail that followed him all day. Others believed for years that their father painted it – he was of course telling his young children a yarn. Another says it was the architect of the estate.

Why the artist chose to paint a snail is also open to interpretation. Many claim the snail is a symbol of how slowly the contractors built the estate. 

Sid’s paintwork remains remarkably clean and fresh. Although mystery surrounds how that is even done, some recall in the early years that the caretaker of the estate maintained it.

Whether it is newly arrived residents, visitors or small children, people certainly enjoy Sid the Snail as a way-marker for directions or as a friendly face on their way to school or the tube, or a reassuring indicator they are almost home. 

Sid has been an enduring presence on his wall at the junction of Seven Sisters Road and Culvert Road for nearly half a century. He has made a lasting impact – the source of many stories and happy memories, he may well be the first taste of street art for some youngsters and could also be one of the oldest surviving murals in London from the 1970s. His fame has certainly spread reaching new audiences. In 2021, Sid appeared in the film 'Pirates', directed by DJ and broadcaster Reggie Yates, who described the Giant Snail mural of Sid as the 'Eiffel Tower' of north London. 

Sid the Snail can definitely raise a smile.

Further resources

Find out more about Sid on Inspring City

Photographs and short history of houses in St George’s Road prior to demolition, 1972