By Alex Sprackling - The Cheeky Trickster. London Pickpocket Magician for hire.

Posted on August 1st 2025

I once stole a man’s tie without touching his collar.

He clapped, laughed, and shook my hand.

That’s the difference between what I do and what you’ll find on Oxford Street.

I’m a professional pickpocket magician. The kind you hire to steal from your guests (and then give it all back with a cheeky wink). But there’s another breed of thief wandering London that are not in it for the laughs.

And they’re good. Too good.

So, in the spirit of public service, I thought I’d share a few trade secrets. Because if you know how I would do it… you’ll know how to spot someone who’s doing it for real.

The Classic Distraction Technique

If someone bumps into you, drops something at your feet, or suddenly gets very passionate about directions, check your pockets.

Real pickpockets work in pairs or packs. One distracts, the other dips. You’ll often see this in action on Westminster Bridge. Those scam artists performing dodgy shell games or a sloppy monte ? That’s not just bad street theatre. It’s bait. While you’re watching the action (or getting roped into it), someone else is helping themselves to your wallet.

Alex’s Tip: Keep valuables zipped and close to your body. Backpacks on the front in busy spots might not be fashionable, but neither is losing your iPhone.

The Tube Shuffle

Peak hour. You're sardined between a dozen commuters. Someone’s holding a newspaper, standing too close, and fiddling with their coat. Sound familiar?

That newspaper’s not for reading; it’s a shield. And your bag is now one debit card lighter.

Alex’s Tip: Bags go in front, not on your back. Keep your hand on zips in crowded spaces.

Tourist Mode = Target Mode

Standing on the street, phone out, Google Maps upside down, suitcase open like a treasure chest? You’re basically ringing the dinner bell.

Alex’s Tip: If you need to check your route, step into a shop or against a wall. Keep the dazed wandering for the National Gallery.

What’s the Hurry?

Pickpockets love panic. That moment when you think you’ve dropped something - or worse, left something. You spin, you flail, you expose every pocket.

That panicked pat-down you do? A live-action map for anyone watching. You’re telling every nearby pickpocket exactly where the good stuff is.

Alex’s Tip: Breathe. Slow down. Do a quick pat-check before you step into a crowd. If something does go missing, move to the side to check properly. Don’t broadcast your valuables in the middle of a busy walkway.

Now, all that said…

If you’re going to get pickpocketed in London, make sure it’s by someone in a three-piece suit who gives your watch back with a round of applause.

Guests still talk about it months later. I once stole a Chelsea FC player’s watch (and gave it back with his jaw still hanging). If you want to see pickpocketing done the right way, with charm, consent, and comic timing, you know where to find me.

But out on the street? Stay sharp. Hold your bags close. Remember: if someone offers to show you a trick for free, make sure they don’t charge you afterwards.  

Fancy hiring a theatrical pickpocket for your wedding or corporate event? Get in touch.