There has been a market in Columbia Road since the 19th century - but it was not always a flower and plant market. Nowadays, a visit to Columbia Road flower market is a must for any keen gardener or flower arranger... and even the not-so-keen will be inspired to get gardening, even if it only means snapping up a couple of marigolds for a window box. The market is a great place for browsing for indoor and outdoor plants, as well as all the paraphernalia that goes along with them - pots, tools and garden ornaments.

With its raucous sellers yelling their latest specials ("two for a paaand!") and its trendy shops and cafés selling rusty antiques and lattés, it makes a great day out, though it can get very crowded, so if you're a tad claustrophobic, you may want to get there early.

Address: Columbia Rd, E1, London
Getting there: Bus routes 26, 48, 55, 8,and D3 stop near the market. The nearest Underground station is Old Street. Note that parking restrictions are now in operation around the area. Pay and display ticket machines are located on some streets - others are resident-only parking. Parking attendants issue penalty tickets so park legally!
Opening times: Sundays, 8am - 2pm
Telephone: 020 7377 8963