HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Covent Garden goes back to its roots this week when the inaugural Flower Festival celebrates the area's tradition as London's premier flower, fruit and vegetable market. The market dates from the middle of the 17th- century when the Earl of Bedford was granted the right to hold a market for "flowers, fruits, roots and herbs". And so it all began. But everything hasn't always been rosy in the Garden. As the area prospered, congestion increased, driving the wealthier residents out to be replaced by the traders and an assortment of underworld characters. Matters came to a head in the early 19th-century, only to be resolved with the demolishing of the traders' booths and the building of Charles Fowler's covered central market.

This week's event promises huge floral decorations, feature gardens, themed exhibitions and flower and plant sales. Meanwhile, at the original flower market building, now home to the London Transport Museum, related events include a historical tour of the building, and an exploration of London Transport's historic poster collection. For children, there's a flower trail and an origami flower-making workshop. 22-28 Jun around Covt Gdn, London WC2, details from Transport Museum on 0171-379 6344