LOMO Returns to Maltby Street: A Two-Day Celebration of Motorcycle Film, Photography, and Global Two-Wheeled Culture

As the UK’s vibrant summer motorcycle season hits its stride, riders and enthusiasts across the capital are preparing for a unique cultural highlight. The London Motorcycle Film & Photography Festival (LOMO) is set to return to the iconic railway arches of Maltby Street on 28 and 29 August 2026. Transforming The Old Timber Store into a hub of creativity and community, LOMO promises a meticulously curated two-day immersion into the art, adventure, and ethos of the motorcycle world.

In an era where digital consumption often happens in isolation, LOMO offers a refreshing, tactile alternative. This is not a cinema screening in the traditional sense; it is a community-focused gathering designed to foster connection, spark inspiration, and celebrate the diverse stories that fuel our collective passion for two wheels.

Celebrating the Art of the Ride

Motorcycling is far more than a method of transport; it is a lifestyle defined by travel, mechanics, design, and, above all, the people who occupy the saddle. LOMO’s primary mission is to document and celebrate these facets through the lenses of international independent filmmakers and photographers.

By moving away from large-scale corporate trade shows, LOMO creates an intimate atmosphere within the historic, atmospheric walls of The Old Timber Store. The venue, nestled under the brick arches of Maltby Street, provides a rugged, industrial backdrop that perfectly complements the aesthetic of modern and classic motorcycle culture. It is a space where the roar of the city outside fades, replaced by the visceral, emotive narratives projected on screen and the still, powerful stories captured in print.

A Curated Cinematic Journey

The heart of the festival lies in its carefully selected film programme. This year, the organisers have scoured the globe to source exceptional short films that capture the spirit of motorcycling. From adrenaline-fuelled off-road adventures in remote landscapes to the quiet, introspective beauty of restoring a vintage machine in a home garage, the selection offers a panoramic view of the two-wheeled world.

Of particular note is the inclusion of several films highly regarded within the international motorcycle film circuit, alongside a prestigious selection of works shortlisted by VAHNA—an organisation renowned for its commitment to documenting the authentic soul of the motorcycle lifestyle. While the full list of titles remains a closely guarded secret until the event, attendees can expect a high-calibre programme that challenges, entertains, and moves its audience.

“Our goal is to showcase the human stories behind the machines,” says the festival organising team. “Whether it’s a documentary about a record-breaking salt flat attempt or a quiet piece on a solo trip across Europe, we want our audience to see themselves reflected on the screen. The community response to this approach has been overwhelming.”

Visual Storytelling: The Exhibition

Complementing the cinematic experience is a dedicated photography exhibition. Recognising that some stories are best told in a single frame, LOMO has invited three acclaimed photographers to exhibit their work. These artists have spent years documenting the nuances of life on two wheels, capturing the grit of the workshop, the camaraderie of group riding, and the sheer freedom of the open road.

Visitors will be invited to wander through the gallery space between screening sessions, allowing for a slower, more contemplative appreciation of the craft. It is a rare opportunity to engage with the creators themselves, discuss technical approaches, and share the personal journeys that led to the images on display.

Building Community Through Shared Experience

At Bikerbase, we understand that motorcycling is inherently social. LOMO embodies this philosophy by ensuring the festival is not just about watching, but about interacting. With food and drinks available on-site, the festival becomes a meeting point—a place to grab a coffee or a meal, catch up with old friends, meet fellow enthusiasts from across the country, and strike up conversations with the filmmakers and photographers whose work has brought everyone together.

The festival’s structure is designed for accessibility, featuring three distinct screening sessions across the weekend:

• Friday Evening: A perfect way to kick off the Bank Holiday weekend, featuring an opening night atmosphere and early access to the exhibition.
• Saturday Matinee: Ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed daytime experience.
• Saturday Evening: The festival’s grand finale, featuring prime cuts of the programme and a vibrant, high-energy social atmosphere.

Supporting a Greater Cause

Beyond the art and the bikes, LOMO maintains a commitment to social responsibility. This year, the festival is proud to support two charitable organisations. By integrating philanthropy into the event, LOMO highlights the generous and supportive nature of the motorcycle community, reminding us all that the spirit of riding extends well beyond the boundaries of the road.

Furthermore, a carefully selected group of motorcycle brands—companies that share the festival’s ethos of quality, authenticity, and community-led innovation—have partnered with LOMO to help bring this vision to life. Their contribution ensures that the festival remains a premium experience for every attendee, from seasoned veterans of the custom scene to those simply curious about the culture.

Join Us at Maltby Street

Whether you are a seasoned adventurer, a custom bike builder, a collector of vintage classics, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the machine, LOMO offers an environment that feels like home. Located in one of London’s most distinctive and characterful areas, it is the perfect destination to spend a few hours surrounded by like-minded individuals, captivating stories, and world-class visual art.

We encourage all readers of Bikerbase to secure their tickets in advance. Given the intimate nature of the venue and the festival’s growing popularity, sessions are expected to sell out.

Event Details

• Event: LOMO – London Motorcycle Film & Photography Festival
• Dates: 28–29 August 2026
• Location: The Old Timber Store, Arch 52, Ropewalk, Maltby Street, London SE1 3PA
• Tickets and Further Information: Visit www.lomofilmfest.com to view the full schedule, learn more about our charitable partners, and book your tickets.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the stories that define the ride. We look forward to seeing you at Maltby Street for a weekend of film, photography, and the enduring spirit of motorcycling.

Photos within this article taken by the fantastic Roberto Garagarza