New Covent Garden Flower Market
About New Covent Garden Flower Market
Britain's largest wholesale flower market, where florists and early risers browse cut flowers, foliage and plants from growers across the UK and the world at dawn.
History
London's flower trade grew up in the original Covent Garden market in the West End, made famous by Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady. As traffic and space became impossible, the fruit, vegetable and flower market moved to Nine Elms in 1974.
The flower market moved into a new purpose-built hall as part of the redevelopment of the Nine Elms site, and it remains the main source of flowers for London's florists, hotels and event designers.
What to Expect
Expect aisles of buckets, cold air and an astonishing range of colour at an hour when the city is still dark. Arrive early for the widest choice; by mid-morning traders are packing up. Prices are wholesale and the public can buy, though some traders sell by the bunch or box, so bring cash and a plan.
Known For
Highlights
- Hundreds of flower varieties
- Potted plants and trees
- Wedding and event flowers
- Ribbons and vases
- Market café
- Fruit & veg market next door
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the public buy at New Covent Garden Flower Market?
- Yes, the flower market is open to the public, although it is primarily a trade market and some items are sold in wholesale quantities.
- When is the flower market open?
- It usually trades from around 04:00 to 10:00, Monday to Saturday.
- How do I get to New Covent Garden Flower Market?
- Vauxhall station is the closest, around a 10-minute walk. Nine Elms on the Northern line is also nearby.
More London Markets
Columbia Road Flower Market
A much-loved Sunday street market in East London where traders sell cut flowers, plants and bulbs along a narrow Victorian street lined with independent shops.
Borough Market
London's most celebrated food market beside London Bridge, packed with fresh produce, artisan cheese, bakers and street food stalls under its Victorian iron and glass roof.
Camden Market
A sprawling canal-side market with hundreds of shops and stalls selling vintage fashion, crafts, music and street food from around the world, open seven days a week.