A few Sundays ago, I found myself weaving through the buzzing, fragrant chaos of Columbia Road Flower Market, one of London’s most iconic Sunday rituals and, quite honestly, as an ex-florist still one of my absolute favourites.
No matter how many times I go, the energy of the street never fails to bring a smile to my face. As a shopkeeper myself, there’s something oddly comforting and nostalgic in hearing the unmistakable sound of market sellers belting out "Two for a tenner!" in that proper cockney accent. It instantly whisks me back to my uni days in East London, when a trip to Columbia Road meant armfuls of eucalyptus, pockets full of pastries, and the promise of a lazy Sunday.
There’s a unique charm to this market that goes beyond the rows of seasonal blooms spilling out onto the pavement, though the flowers are, of course, a major part of the magic. It’s in the rhythm of the street: the buzz of people, the laughter, the smells, and the soundtrack of live street music from singers tucked into corners and doorways, providing the perfect backdrop.
And then there’s of course... the food. Whether it’s a cheeky bargain beigel no doubt from Brick lane, a sweet treat you didn’t know you needed (but absolutely do), or the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the crowds, Columbia Road feeds my soul in every sense... I think Tom even enjoyed it too (although crowds is not really his idea of a chilled Sunday)
If you’ve never been, make a morning of it. Get there early, grab a coffee, soak in the flowers, and maybe just maybe let the sound of “two for a tenner!” become part of your Sunday soundtrack too.
