Back to Top
Lionel's Tattoo Studio, the first walk-in tattoo establishment in Oxford, was founded by Lionel in 1973. His initial professional studio was located above a ladies' hair salon in St Clements. At that time, most tattooing was conducted on a walk-in basis, with larger pieces reserved for appointments on Sundays or during evenings after regular hours. Currently, Lionel’s Tattoo Studio holds the distinction of being the oldest tattoo shop in Oxford, guided by a long-standing philosophy. Since its inception in 1973, we have maintained that the studio should provide a welcoming atmosphere, fostering friendly discussions about every tattoo we create for our clients. Whether you desire a small design or an extensive full-body suit, we are dedicated to assisting you in selecting the perfect tattoo. The studio is now under the management of Lionel's son, Barnaby, with Curly also on staff, specializing in tribal-style tattoos. While most of our work is scheduled by appointment, we still accommodate walk-in tattoos when possible, either between clients or in the event of cancellations. For those interested in getting a tattoo today, please call 01865 716877 to inquire about availability.
Barnaby and Curly can be reached on -
01865 716877.
Monday - Saturday 10am-4pm
Appointments and walk ins welcome
weekday evenings available by appointment
Contact us
Lionel's Tattoo Studio
389 Cowley Road
Oxford
OX4 2BS
Email Artwork to tattoobarny
Studio Appointments 01865 716877
How To Find Us
Lionel's Tattoo Studio a short history
Lionel started tattooing in 1973, working from home at weekends and in the evenings, tattooing friends for free. Back in those days, tattooing was a very hard occupation to get into, the old tattooers were very secretive and it wasn't easy to get tattooing equipment.
Lionel’s first tattoo machines were a couple of old brass machines bought from Tony Malo an old Oxford tattooist from the 60s. By the early 1970’s Tony had stopped tattooing and had a second-hand shop in Oxford.
These first brass machines were not perfect, so Lionel got down to stripping them and getting more parts made by a couple of toolmakers he was tattooing. His uncle, also a tool maker, made some brass tubes as well. Some parts were made at the old Oxford Pressed Steel body plant in Oxford.
Soon, Lionel had a set of good tattoo machines, and business began to pick up he opened his first studio in 1975 in St Clements, Oxford. He later moved to his Cowley Road address, where the studio remains today, and now owns the oldest tattoo shop in Oxford
Lionel has retired from tattooing now, but he still builds machines for collectors the world over. ...read-more
Tattooing of Minors Act 1969 Chapter 24 - You cannot obtain a tattoo under the age of 18 - NOT even with your parents permission!
