VIBRANT COLOURS & INSTAGRAMABLE SCENES.
This is one of those markets that so many people know about but very few actually take the time to check it out. Columbia Road Flower Market is an experience you must try at least once if you live in London.
When you stroll up to the market you are immediately hit with an array of vibrant colours and instagramable scenes from the 50 or so flowers stalls lined up for your perusal. As you saunter down this oasis of flowers you will be sure to find a plant that catches your eye. Or find several versions of the particular flower you are looking for. The market is ideal for picking up some short term bouquets to brighten up your home. For those who are a little more green-fingered, there are some stalls which provide longer term purchases.
By Chmee2 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Aside from the superior flower stalls Columbia Road is also home to about 60 independent shops which add another layer to this brilliant market. Caressing the flower stalls from either side you will find unique little clothes boutiques, art galleries, vintage furniture and antique shops. There are also a host of food outlets including artisan stalls, cafes, pubs and restaurants. So you will be able to take a break from the hustle and bustle if you are feeling peckish.
“THERE ARE ALWAYS SOME GREAT DEALS TO BE HAD IN THE AFTERNOON”
My top tips for this market are to go early if you want to avoid the crowds. By about 9 am all the stalls are set up so you won’t miss out on any of the amazing products the market has to offer. I have been here on a warm summers day and will tell you that the market can get extremely busy if the weather is particularly nice. On a busy day you will be wedged amongst the groups of people in attendance – if this doesn’t sound like something you will cope with then avoid going during peak times (11am-1pm).
By Chmee2 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking for a bargain and feel in the mood to haggle with the traders, then definitely go later in the day. I will warn you that you may miss out on the best quality goods, but there are always some great deals to be had in the afternoon if you keep your eye out.
Columbia Road Flower Market is open every Sunday from 8am-3pm, the closing time really depends on how busy the market is and the weather.
If you have never been then it is definitely worth getting up that little bit earlier on a Sunday morning and heading down to the market. Personally, I don’t have much of an interest in gardening but I would still recommend this as a place to visit. It has an energetic atmosphere and I always find something interesting to buy.
Columbia Rd, London, E2 7RG
Columbiaroad.info
Nearest Tube Station: Hoxton
Article By: Gurpreet Singh
