Step into the world of Dave the Rave — a well-known figure in London’s nostalgic scene. Dave isn't your average collector — he’s a dedicated lover of neon signs that once illuminated pubs across the UK. For years, Dave has been hunting through market stalls, chasing rare neon signs. He often shares stories about how he got hooked on neon lights — it all started with a flickering "Open" sign above a fish and chip shop in Bethnal Green. That ignited a fascination that would soon become a lifestyle.
Dave’s collection is now one-of-a-kind. He stores his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with buzzing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the faded charm of their heyday. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the archivist. As Dave puts it, neon signs are "the heartbeat of the city." They’re not just lights, they’re artifacts of a once-glorious cityscape.
Dave doesn't just collect for himself. He’s also been featured in design expos, lending pieces for public viewing. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s passion even more admirable is how he’s restoring history. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the true art of gas-filled glass tubes. "You can’t replicate that hum or flicker with modern lights," he often says.
He’s also training younger artists and makers, helping to keep the neon spirit alive. His workshop hosts classes in retro light design. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a known figure. People affectionately call him when they spot neon signs being ripped down. He’s the number one collector of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into urban exploration or neon signs just love the glow of neon, Dave’s journey is one to follow. And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it.
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Dave’s collection is now one-of-a-kind. He stores his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with buzzing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the faded charm of their heyday. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the archivist. As Dave puts it, neon signs are "the heartbeat of the city." They’re not just lights, they’re artifacts of a once-glorious cityscape.Dave doesn't just collect for himself. He’s also been featured in design expos, lending pieces for public viewing. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s passion even more admirable is how he’s restoring history. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the true art of gas-filled glass tubes. "You can’t replicate that hum or flicker with modern lights," he often says.
He’s also training younger artists and makers, helping to keep the neon spirit alive. His workshop hosts classes in retro light design. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a known figure. People affectionately call him when they spot neon signs being ripped down. He’s the number one collector of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into urban exploration or neon signs just love the glow of neon, Dave’s journey is one to follow. And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it.
"
