The Circle

This Soho parlour was opened in February 2012 by experienced inker Math and business partner Ashley Jagdeo – unusually, Ashley doesn't do tattoos himself (although he's certainly been under the needle a fair bit), but came to the venture with a vast knowledge of the art, and perhaps just as importantly, a massive passion for it. The idea was to set up an un-intimidating, friendly hangout rather than an in-club for tattoo snobs. But that's not to say the artistry comes second to service- every tattoo is designed from scratch, with proficiency in graphic, traditional, fine black line and grey, Polynesian and dot work. During the Olympics, Team GB women's basketball team hit The Circle en masse for bespoke designs to commemorate the epic event, and the parlour has a cult following amongst celebrities and fashion types. Prices range from the store minimum of £70, while larger pieces are priced £100 per hour.  While you should go in looking for a design you'll love forever, you might also be reassured to learn The Circle are just as good at taking away bad ink work through their excellent lasering service. See their tumblr (thecirclelondon.tumblr.com)for design inspiration