There’s nothing quite like the joy that seeing hundreds of bright flowers brings us. So whether you would like to buy a bunch of flowers, pot some plants, or just enjoy the bustling vibe in general, visiting one of London’s flower markets is a blooming great way to spend a day. So here’s a rundown of nine of the best of them:
1. Columbia Road Flower Market
This Sunday-only flower market is arguably one of London’s most famous and is also one of the best in town. Located in East London, Columbia Road Flower Market is legendary for good reason – here you’ll find the busy street packed with multi-colour stalls of fresh flowers, and you will be surprised by the sheer variety of flowers and plants here.
This market is historical and certainly feels that way with its gorgeous architecture. Behind the stalls, you will find charming shops with all sorts of wares. Need a pot for your new plant? You won’t have to go far!
📍 You’ll find the Columbia Road Flower Market at Columbia Road, Shoreditch, E2 7RG.
🚇 Nearest station is Hoxton.
2. Borough Market
Borough Market might not be the first place that springs to mind when it comes to flower shopping. Instead, it’s considered much more of a foodie destination. Here, stalls sell delicious street food, and plenty of drinks to wash them down. However, the historic market (it’s been around for 1,000 years) does house an incredible flower-y destination. The Gated Garden has had a permanent stall at Borough Market since 2013 – so they definitely know what they’re doing.
The joy of Borough Markets is how much it offers beyond just buying a bouquet. It’s a great place to hang out with your mates, take a date, or even wander around solo. You’ve got everything you might need in close range, which makes for a fantastic day out.
📍 You’ll find the Borough Market at 8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL.
🚇 Nearest station is London Bridge.
3. New Covent Garden Flower Market
Now, disclaimer for those who aren’t aware. This flower market isn’t actually, y’know, in Covent Garden. Instead, the operation moved over to Nine Elms back in 1974. But they kept the name. We would too, to be fair. It just has that certain je ne sais quoi, after all.
Do not be fooled by the warehouses that backdrop the New Covent Garden Flower Market. Here you will find flower wholesalers who are known for being the absolute best of the best. This market is where many London florists come to buy their stock. So, you can probably imagine how amazing the flowers are that they sell. It is worth mentioning, though, that you can only buy wholesale. If you need some of their flowers though, you can buy a bunch and split the price with friends, at which point it comes out to be very affordable. You will want to have an early night before you visit, as it’s open super early, but it’s a small price to pay when the reward is so bloomin’ beautiful.
📍 You’ll find the New Covent Garden Flower Market at Nine Elms Lane, SW8 5BH.
🚇 Nearest station is Battersea Power Station.
4. Berwick Street Market
This market does not exclusively sell flowers, but it is home to Ronnie’s Flowers – London’s oldest flower market stall. This stall is worth passing by even if you aren’t interested in buying flowers because of its historical status. This spot is one of London’s most iconic – dating all the way back to 1778 – and you’ll find yourself completely taken by the stunning blooms on sale here. Berwick Street Market is pretty small. In fact, it’s hardly even included on maps of London. But it is so quintessential that it is entirely worth mentioning.
The namesake Ronnie, from Ronnie’s Flowers, sadly passed away earlier this year. His family is taking time to process the loss, so the future of the flower stand is unclear for now.
📍 You’ll find the Berwick Street Market at Berwick Street, Soho, W1 0PH.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
5. New Spitalfields Market
Not to be confused with the Old Spitalfields Market in Shoreditch, the New Spitalfields Market offers unique produce options and, you guessed it, flowers. This is another one of the best markets in London, from which London’s flower shops source their flowers. The only thing that might make you do a double-take is that it opens at midnight and continues through to the wee hours. Late-night flower purchases, anyone?
However, it’s well worth the early start as the flowers sold here are well-renowned for their quality. You’ll also find amazing potted plants here if that’s what you’re into. This market comes with the highest of recommendations as it’s the place to be if you want to get the best fresh produce around.
📍 You’ll find the New Spitalfields Market at 23 Sherrin Road, E10 5SQ.
🚇 Nearest station is Leytonstone.
6. Flower Warehouse
Flower Warehouse is one of those places that is an absolute must if you are into flowers or plants. Priding itself on providing affordable options, the Flower Warehouse is another place to go if you’d like great plants or flowers for an extremely reasonable price.
Upon approaching, you’ll find the walls lined with hanging plants and a cool vibe. The friendly owners are often noted by those who visit the place. They are always happy to offer advice when it comes down to the care of the plants you might buy here. There’s nothing like getting new plants and having the opportunity to chat about them with knowledgeable experts.
📍 You’ll find the Flower Warehouse at 517A Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9BU.
🚇 Nearest station is Cambridge Heath.
7. Broadway Market
This Saturday street market has quite a lot to offer. They also have flowers! If you’re looking to make a day out of going to a cool market filled with all sorts of exciting wares but are also partial to some flowers, this is the place to go. With delicious food, unique crafts, and other splendid products, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re really wanting to buy some flowers, but your friends are more interested in homemade crafts or trinkets, then Broadway Market is a must-visit destination.
As well as the market, the street is lined with more than 70 shops, cafés, restaurants and bars, so there’s plenty to experience here. You can have a look at all the wares and then duck into one of the restaurants for a satisfying lunch. Or simply hit up one of the many food stands that fill the streets!
The majority of the stands will fill the streets of Broadway Market on Saturdays, but you’ll find plenty of stands (and fewer people!) on Sundays too – particularly in the summer months!
📍 You’ll find Broadway Market at London Fields, E8 4PH.
🚇 Nearest station is London Fields.
8. Mare Street Market
Mare Street Market is one of the slightly less well-known markets, but it’s slowly starting to boom in popularity thanks to its IG-worthy interiors. The market hosts a variety of independent businesses and has a mini flower market too. You’ll find seasonal flowers here that can be bought by stem or bouquet. So, no matter what you are after, you’ll more than likely find it here.
The small flower market has a lot to offer. They sell indoor plants of vibrant greens and a stunning selection of flowers. You can then settle in for a drink or a bite to eat at one of the on-site independent producers!
📍 You’ll find Mare Street Market at 117 Mare Street, E8 4RU.
🚇 Nearest station is London Fields.
9. Chiswick Flower Market
Now, last on this flower market in London roundup (but certainly not least), is the Chiswick Flower Market. This market is only open every first Sunday of the month, making it a bit of a privilege to go. The market has so many different kinds of flowers, plants and garden supplies. Not only that, but they also sell yummy drinks and snacks. So, if you get a bit peckish or would like to have a refreshing drink while you’re shopping, then Chiswick Flower Market is the place to go.
You definitely do not want to miss out on this wonderful weekend market. With so many plant varieties as well as flowers, you are truly spoiled for choice. You might even have live music accompanying your shopping. It doesn’t really get better than that.
📍 You’ll find the Chiswick Flower Market at Old Market Place, Chiswick High Road, Chiswick, W4 2DR.
🚇 Nearest station is Turnham Green.
All of these options are amazing for different reasons, so we hope that you’ve discovered a flower market in London that you’d like to visit as a result of this roundup. Happy shopping!