An Illustrated Tour of Columbia Road Flower...

Every Sunday, a quaint Victorian street in East London transforms into the capital’s most popular Sunday market. A long-standing local favourite, Columbia Road Flower Market draws in crowds looking to get a great shot of its vibrant floral displays or bag some bargain blooms.

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Columbia Road has hosted a market of some variety since the late 19th century. The first iteration was in 1868, when a striking Victorian market building was built to house local traders and their food stalls, catering to poor local families. After its demolition in the 1950s, a Saturday trading market took its place, which in turn gave way to a Sunday flower market as the area’s Jewish population grew. The market has since blossomed into the hotspot it is today, where visitors can barter with market stall vendors for everything from houseplants and fresh bouquets to succulents and seeds.

Step out of the market crowds and you’ll find 60 independent shops lining Columbia Road, including art galleries, antique stores, homeware boutiques and even an old-school sweet shop.

Columbia Road Flower Market is open from 8am to 3pm every Sunday, come rain or shine.

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

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