New Covent Garden Market: London's Premier Wholesale Hub for Flowers, Fruit & Vegetables
The UK’s largest wholesale fruit, vegetable, and flower market, bustling with early-morning trade and rich London heritage.
New Covent Garden Market in Nine Elms, London, is the UK’s largest wholesale market for fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Operating mainly in the early mornings, it supplies 40% of the fresh produce consumed outside homes in London and serves 75% of London florists. With over 200 businesses and 2,500 employees, it is a bustling centre for food and floral trade, offering a unique glimpse into London’s vibrant wholesale scene.
A brief summary to New Covent Garden Market
- Nine Elms Ln, London, Nine Elms, SW8 5BH, GB
- +442077202211
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-6 am
- Tuesday 12 am-6 am
- Wednesday 12 am-6 am
- Thursday 12 am-6 am
- Friday 12 am-6 am
- Saturday 12 am-6 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning (around 4am to 8am) to experience the market at its busiest and see the freshest produce and flowers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a working market environment with vehicle traffic and active loading.
- Enjoy a coffee and breakfast at one of the market’s cafés scattered throughout the site to keep energized during your visit.
- If arriving by vehicle, be aware of the £5 entry charge and consider an annual permit if visiting frequently.
- Check with wholesalers in advance if visiting on a Saturday, as not all are open that day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Vauxhall Station (Victoria Line), then a 15-minute walk across the Vauxhall Bridge towards Nine Elms Lane. Frequent bus routes also serve the area, with buses 44, 87, and 156 stopping nearby. Expect a total journey time of 30 to 45 minutes from central London. No entry fee for pedestrians.
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Car
Driving to New Covent Garden Market is possible with parking available on-site. There is a £5 vehicle entry charge payable at the main and flower market entrances. Parking is limited during peak early morning hours. Travel time varies from 20 to 40 minutes from central London depending on traffic.
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Cycling
The market offers several bicycle racks for visitors arriving by bike. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, with dedicated cycle lanes leading to Nine Elms. Travel time from central London is approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
New Covent Garden Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about New Covent Garden Market
A Historic Shift to Nine Elms
New Covent Garden Market’s origins trace back to the original Covent Garden Market, which was relocated to Nine Elms in the early 1970s. After the market and its trading rights were sold post-World War I, public sector involvement led to the establishment of the Covent Garden Market Authority in 1961. The new site at Nine Elms was acquired and constructed starting in 1971, with trading commencing there in November 1974. This move allowed the market to modernize and expand, becoming the largest wholesale market of its kind in the UK.A Thriving Centre of Wholesale Trade
Today, New Covent Garden Market is home to over 200 businesses employing more than 2,500 people. It supplies approximately 40% of the fresh fruit and vegetables eaten outside of London homes and caters to 75% of London florists. The market operates primarily as a wholesale hub, serving restaurants, cafés, schools, hospitals, florists, and retail markets. The Fruit & Vegetable Market wholesalers typically trade from midnight to 6am Monday to Saturday, while the Flower Market’s core trading hours are from 2am to 8am. The market’s main entrance remains open 24 hours, accommodating the continuous flow of trade.The Market Experience and Facilities
Though primarily a wholesale market, New Covent Garden Market welcomes visitors who want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of early morning trade. The site features numerous cafés scattered throughout the Fruit & Vegetable and Flower Markets, offering refreshments like bacon butties and coffee to early risers. There is also a Post Office on the West Bridge, providing postal services to traders and visitors alike. Vehicles entering the market are subject to a £5 entry charge, with options for annual permits for frequent users.Floral Splendour and Culinary Variety
The Flower Market is renowned for its stunning displays and wide variety of blooms, making it a favourite among London’s florists and a visually captivating destination for visitors. The produce is delivered overnight, ensuring freshness and a wide selection at dawn. The market’s industrial exterior reflects its working nature rather than a tourist façade, emphasizing function over form. The food and drink suppliers within the market also contribute to London’s culinary scene, supplying high-quality ingredients to top restaurants and food businesses.Access and Practical Information
New Covent Garden Market is located on Nine Elms Lane in London’s SW8 postcode. It is accessible 24 hours for pedestrians, with vehicle entry charges applicable during market hours. The market is busiest in the early morning hours, with trading generally concluding by 6am to 10am depending on the section. Visitors should note that the market is closed on Sundays and some wholesalers may not open on Saturdays. The market’s dynamic environment offers a unique insight into London’s food and flower supply chains.Community and Sustainability
The market plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and the wider London economy. It fosters a community of wholesalers, growers, and suppliers dedicated to quality and service. The Monday closure allows vendors a rest day, promoting sustainability and business longevity. With a commitment to efficient operations and customer service, New Covent Garden Market continues to evolve as a key wholesale destination with a rich heritage and vibrant present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vauxhall Bridge
1.2 km
Vauxhall Bridge: Historic iron origins meet modern steel, linking London’s south and north banks with art and engineering heritage.
Little Ben Clock
1.8 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Southbank House
1.9 km
Historic terracotta landmark in Lambeth, blending Victorian pottery heritage with modern creative workspaces.
Albert Bridge
1.9 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Historic Houses
2.1 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
2.2 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Cheyne Walk
2.2 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Royal Court
2.3 km
Discover the Royal Court, a historical landmark in London, embodying the rich heritage and regal history of the United Kingdom.
Belgrave Square
2.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Belgrave Square, a historic gem in London, surrounded by elegant architecture and lush gardens.
Statue of George V
2.3 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Westminster Abbey
2.3 km
Discover the timeless beauty and rich history of Westminster Abbey, a must-visit landmark in London for every traveler seeking to explore British heritage.
St Simon Zelotes
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of St Simon Zelotes, an architectural marvel and serene Anglican church in London, perfect for peaceful reflection.
St Margaret's Church
2.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St Margaret's Church, a hidden gem in the heart of London near Westminster Abbey.
Palace of Westminster
2.4 km
Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, an iconic symbol of British democracy and a must-visit landmark in London.
St Luke's & Christ Church
2.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St Luke's & Christ Church, a hidden gem in the heart of London, perfect for reflection and cultural immersion.
Unmissable attractions to see
Battersea Power Station
0.4 km
Discover Battersea Power Station, where iconic history meets vibrant riverside living with shops, dining, culture, and year-round events.
St Saviours Church
0.9 km
Discover the soaring Gothic spire and rich Victorian heritage of St Saviour's Church, a timeless landmark in the heart of Pimlico, London.
Chelsea Bridge
0.9 km
A striking self-anchored suspension bridge over the Thames, linking Chelsea and Battersea with historic charm and dazzling night illumination.
Thomas Cubitt statue
0.9 km
Honoring Thomas Cubitt, the visionary master builder who shaped Pimlico and Belgravia’s elegant streets and iconic London landmarks.
St George Wharf
0.9 km
Experience vibrant riverside living in London’s iconic St George Wharf, blending modern architecture, stunning Thames views, and unbeatable connectivity.
National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road
1.2 km
Discover the extraordinary hand-carved artistry and cultural legacy within the modest Georgian home of Khadambi Asalache in London.
Battersea Park
1.3 km
Explore Battersea Park, a 200-acre Victorian riverside oasis blending history, nature, and vibrant leisure on the Thames in London.
The London Peace Pagoda
1.4 km
A serene Buddhist stupa in Battersea Park symbolizing peace, spirituality, and cultural harmony beside the River Thames in London.
Tate Britain
1.4 km
Discover 500 years of British art at Tate Britain, home to Turner’s masterpieces and iconic works from the Pre-Raphaelites to contemporary artists.
Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens
1.5 km
Historic London park on the site of the famed 18th-century Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, blending cultural heritage with modern green space.
Royal Hospital Chelsea
1.5 km
Historic home and sanctuary for British Army veterans, blending stunning 17th-century architecture with a living military heritage in London.
Golden Tours, Bulleid Way Departure Point
1.5 km
Explore the best of London with Golden Tours at Bulleid Way, offering diverse guided tours and experiences for every traveler.
National Army Museum
1.6 km
Explore the rich history and personal stories of the British Army through interactive galleries and engaging exhibits in Chelsea’s premier military museum.
Big Bus Tours London
1.6 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks at your own pace with Big Bus Tours’ flexible hop-on hop-off routes and panoramic open-top buses.
Go Ape Battersea
1.7 km
Experience London's ultimate treetop adventure with thrilling ziplines and high ropes courses set in scenic Battersea Park.
Essential places to dine
Brunswick House
1.0 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
Sapori
1.8 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Osteria dell'Angolo
1.8 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
1.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.9 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Ma La Sichuan
1.9 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Colosseo Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
2.0 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
The English Grill
2.0 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Rabbit
2.1 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Caxton Grill
2.1 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
2.2 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
The Jam
2.5 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
The Grenadier
2.6 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
2.8 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.3 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
The Unique Maps Co.
1.8 km
Discover rare vintage maps and bespoke cartographic art crafted with passion in London’s Unique Maps Co. workshop.
Cool Britannia
2.1 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
2.1 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
2.2 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Westminster Abbey Shop
2.2 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Sloane St
2.4 km
Experience London’s luxury shopping and elegant lifestyle along iconic Sloane Street, home to world-class fashion, fine dining, and prestigious residences.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
2.4 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
2.5 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Rococo Chocolates King's Road
2.6 km
Discover handcrafted British chocolates and immersive workshops at Rococo Chocolates, a refined artisan boutique on London's iconic King's Road.
Browns of London
2.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Brixton Village
2.7 km
London's most diverse market where over 100 independent traders from 50+ nations create culinary and cultural magic.
Harrods
2.7 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The Giftree London
2.7 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
2.7 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.1 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Morpeth Arms
1.2 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
The Landor
1.8 km
A lively Clapham pub with a heated beer garden, great sports atmosphere, and a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites.
SIXTY/FOUR Cocktail Bar
1.9 km
A stylish Clapham hotspot offering creative cocktails, rooftop vibes, and soulful house tunes in a cozy, intimate setting.
All Bar One Victoria
1.9 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Bbar
2.0 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
2.0 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Adam & Eve
2.2 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Blue Boar Pub
2.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
2.3 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
2.4 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Bar Social
2.4 km
Lively Battersea cocktail bar with award-winning drinks, private event spaces, and late-night dancing on Lavender Hill.
Sugar Cane Bar
2.4 km
Escape to a vibrant tropical tiki bar in Clapham with exotic cocktails, lively music, and private huts for unforgettable nights out.
Trinity Arms
2.5 km
Historic Young’s pub in Brixton offering traditional British fare, real ales, and a cozy atmosphere on a charming London square.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
2.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fire Nightclub
1.2 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Lightbox London
1.2 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
1.3 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Union
1.3 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Phonox
2.4 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
The Clapham Grand
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.9 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.9 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Dolce Night Club , London
3.0 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
3.0 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
The Scotch of St James
3.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tabu London
3.1 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
TSQ Club
3.1 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
