Columbia Road Flower Market London
London's iconic Sunday flower market, bursting with blooms and surrounded by unique boutiques. A vibrant East London experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest blooms, fewer crowds
Columbia Road Flower Market London
Best Time
Freshest blooms, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
London's iconic Sunday flower market, bursting with blooms and surrounded by unique boutiques. A vibrant East London experience.
"A Sunday morning spent at Columbia Road Flower Market is pure magic, a riot of color and life."
🎯 Arrive Before the Rush
Get there by 8-9 AM to avoid the biggest crowds and find the best selection.
💰 Bring Cash for Deals
Many vendors prefer cash, and it can help you snag better prices.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

A Sea of Blooms
Columbia Road
Wander through a vibrant kaleidoscope of fresh flowers, plants, and greenery. The sheer variety is breathtaking.

Independent Boutiques
Surrounding streets
Explore charming shops selling fashion, antiques, and homeware. A perfect complement to the floral frenzy.

Discounted Delights
Market stalls
As the day winds down, vendors slash prices. Grab a fantastic bargain on beautiful blooms.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early!
Cash is King (Mostly)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before the Rush
Get there by 8-9 AM to avoid the biggest crowds and find the best selection.
💰 Bring Cash for Deals
Many vendors prefer cash, and it can help you snag better prices.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Don't just focus on flowers; explore the unique shops lining the street.
🌿 Houseplant Bargains
Houseplant prices are also slashed towards the end of the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before the Rush
Get there by 8-9 AM to avoid the biggest crowds and find the best selection.
💰 Bring Cash for Deals
Many vendors prefer cash, and it can help you snag better prices.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Don't just focus on flowers; explore the unique shops lining the street.
🌿 Houseplant Bargains
Houseplant prices are also slashed towards the end of the day.
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Discover hidden cafes and bakeries for a delicious treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant atmosphere and incredible selection of flowers at Columbia Road Flower Market, calling it a quintessential London experience. Many highlight the joy of discovering unique boutiques and the thrill of snagging discounted blooms in the afternoon. However, the overwhelming crowds, especially later in the day, are a common point of contention, making early morning visits highly recommended for a more pleasant experience.
"Lively flower market that takes place every Sunday on Columbia Road. Lots of options to choose from, and I’d say the prices are decent too.
On the same road there are also lots of shops selling all sorts of things, from plant pots and ceramics, to vintage clothes, coffee shops and bakeries, books and antiques.
All in all it’s a great way to spend a few hours if you are in the area."
Patricia S
"Such a great experience!!! Whenever you need a fresh sight and want to feel lively, this is the place! Nice rows of cafes selling bagels and croissants and coffee to have while admiring and shopping for plants and flowers. Prices are reasonable. Some shops do cash only so keep some with you."
Shreya Dighe
"This Columbia Road Flower Market is one of my favorite markets that I've visited so far. It runs on Sundays from 8am to around 3pm and gets quite busy. There are many stalls selling a variety of potted plants, and it's great to see so many dog owners enjoying the atmosphere. The lively scene is enhanced by buskers performing throughout the market. In addition to flowers, there are also cafes & small shops nearby selling floral-related products and decorations. The staff in the shops are friendly and welcoming.
Overall, it’s a fantastic place to visit on a weekend, and I highly recommend it!!"
SY Kwong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is best reached by public transport. The nearest Tube stations are Bethnal Green (Central Line) and Hoxton (Overground), both about a 15-20 minute walk away. Buses also serve the area frequently.
Parking is extremely limited and often restricted on Sundays due to the market. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a ride-sharing service.
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off nearby, but be aware that roads around the market can get very congested, especially during peak hours.
Navigating the market with large luggage can be challenging due to the crowds. Consider using a luggage storage service if you're arriving in London and heading straight to the market.
The closest Tube stations are Bethnal Green (Central Line) and Hoxton (Overground). Both require a walk to reach the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Columbia Road Flower Market is free. You only pay for the flowers and goods you wish to purchase.
The market is open every Sunday from approximately 6 AM to 3 PM. However, the best selection is usually found in the morning.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim to arrive as early as possible, ideally between 6 AM and 9 AM.
Yes, vendors often slash prices for flowers and houseplants from around 2 PM onwards as they try to clear stock.
The market is on a cobbled street and can get very crowded, which may present challenges for those with mobility issues. It's best to visit early.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Beyond flowers and plants, you'll find a variety of independent shops selling fashion, antiques, homeware, gifts, and artisanal food products.
Yes, the surrounding streets are filled with charming cafes, bakeries, and restaurants offering everything from coffee and pastries to full meals.
Absolutely! Alongside cut flowers, there's a wide selection of houseplants available, and prices are often discounted later in the day.
You can find delicious treats like canelés at hidden coffee shops, and many cafes offer excellent brunch and lunch options.
Yes, the independent boutiques and shops lining Columbia Road are open on Sundays, offering a great shopping experience alongside the flower market.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the vibrant displays without too many distractions.
Focus on the colorful flower stalls, the charming shop fronts, and the general bustling atmosphere. The narrow street can create great leading lines.
Close-ups of intricate blooms, wide shots capturing the street's energy, and candid shots of shoppers and vendors can all make for compelling photographs.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the market's charm. However, if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it can offer more creative control.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls, especially if they are busy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sunday Ritual: Experiencing the Market
As the day progresses, the market becomes increasingly crowded, but this is also when the famous discounts begin. From around 2 PM, vendors start slashing prices, offering incredible deals on flowers and houseplants. This is the time for bargain hunters, though it means navigating through dense crowds. Even with the hustle and bustle, the market retains its charm, offering a unique glimpse into East London's vibrant community spirit.
Beyond the floral displays, the surrounding streets are lined with independent boutiques, antique shops, and quirky cafes. These shops offer a delightful contrast to the market's temporary nature, providing a chance to discover unique fashion, homeware, and vintage treasures. It's this blend of ephemeral beauty and enduring local character that makes Columbia Road Flower Market a must-visit destination.
Navigating the Crowds and Getting the Best Deals
For those seeking the best prices, the late afternoon, particularly between 2 PM and 3 PM, is the time to go. Vendors are eager to sell off their remaining stock, leading to significant discounts on both cut flowers and houseplants. While this period is the busiest, the savings can be substantial. It's also worth noting that having cash on hand can often lead to better deals, as some vendors may offer slight reductions for quick cash transactions.
If you're looking for an alternative to the Sunday rush, consider exploring the independent shops on Columbia Road on a Saturday. While the flower market isn't open, the boutiques offer a quieter shopping experience. For those interested in wholesale flower prices, the New Covent Garden Market in Vauxhall is an option, though it requires an earlier start and is a different experience altogether.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit