Columbia Road Flower Market wins a national award for the second year running

Every Sunday morning, Columbia Road disappears under buckets of tulips, armfuls of eucalyptus and the cheerful calls of traders. Now one of London's most photographed markets has another reason to celebrate: a second national award in two years.

In February 2026, Columbia Road Flower Market was named Best Market Attraction at the Great British Market Awards, organised by the National Association of British Market Authorities. It was the only London retail market to receive an award at the ceremony.

The win follows success in 2025, when Columbia Road was named Best Small Outdoor Market at the same awards. Judges that year also recognised the market's efforts to cut carbon emissions, including a partnership with the Zero Emission Network and neighbouring boroughs to deliver Christmas trees to residents' homes by e-cargo bike.

The market's history stretches back more than 150 years. Its origins date to 1869, when it opened as a covered food hall. It began as a Saturday market, later moving to Sundays to serve local Jewish traders and the growing community. Over time it became a flower market, supplying greenery for the small gardens of nearby homes, with plants brought in from gardens in Hackney and Islington.

Family is at the heart of Columbia Road. Trader Shane Harnett is part of the fifth generation of his family to trade at the market, which they have done for more than 100 years, and the family grows the plants it sells at its own nursery. "We're very proud to win this award," he said in 2025, crediting his fellow traders and council staff.

Another long serving stallholder, Ross, has traded on the street for 35 years. "It's always a good vibe on a Sunday morning," he said. Councillor Abu Talha Choudhury called the market "one of Tower Hamlets' most loved destinations", while Councillor Shafi Ahmed described it as "a jewel in the crown".

The surrounding street has grown with the market, and many small businesses now open to serve the visitors who arrive each week.

Columbia Road Flower Market is open every Sunday from 8am to 3pm. For more information and directions, visit columbiaroad.info.