Finding the perfect floral gift can be a minefield. With countless online services promising next-day delivery, subscriptions, and luxurious arrangements, how do you know which bouquet will truly impress? Fear not, as an expert with years of product testing experience has done the hard work for you.
Putting the UK's Top Florists to the Test
The reviewer, a self-confessed flower lover, has rigorously tested 31 different arrangements across multiple seasons, including Valentine's and Mother's Day. Each delivery was carefully monitored for freshness, longevity, and overall impact in a typical home environment. The goal was to find the best blooms for your buck, from budget-friendly bunches to extravagant centrepieces, with a keen eye on sustainability and British-grown options.
A crucial note for pet owners: always check if flowers are toxic before sending. Lilies, for example, are poisonous to cats and dogs.
The Top Five Flower Delivery Services Revealed
Best Overall: Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer has revitalised its floral offering and now provides a five-day freshness guarantee. Tested bouquets, including a vibrant mix of roses, lisianthus, and antirrhinum, arrived with many stems in bud, ensuring a longer display. The £45 bouquet remained fresh for an impressive two weeks. M&S aims to source British seasonal flowers and uses sustainable packaging. Delivery is free with a next-day option.
Best on a Budget: Scilly Flowers
For astonishing value, look to Scilly Flowers. Stems are grown naturally on the Isles of Scilly. A tested bouquet of five bunches of spray carnations cost just £28.50. The farm employs sustainable practices like solar power. The simple, joyful arrangements last well, with buds opening gradually. Availability can be limited as flowers sell out quickly.
Best Subscription: Freddie's Flowers
Freddie's Flowers offers a creative experience, sending flowers in a flat-lay box for you to arrange. The seasonal 'Showstopper' box (£41) contained dramatic gladioli, roses, and kangaroo paw. Subscriptions can be made lily-free for pet safety. While delivery days are postcode-dependent, the service offers excellent value and is B Corp certified.
Best for Same-Day: Interflora
When time is of the essence, Interflora connects you with a local florist for same-day delivery if ordered before 3pm. A tested luxury pink bouquet (£90) was crafted by a local florist, ensuring freshness and a personal touch. The arrangement lasted ten days. Be aware that delivery fees start from £10 for same-day service.
Best Letterbox Flowers: Bloom & Wild
The ideal solution for recipients who may be out, Bloom & Wild's letterbox flowers arrive 'sleeping' in bud. The tested 'Maren' bouquet (£35) was a textural delight and lasted around 16 days. The service offers a wide range of trend-led designs with free next-day delivery and is also B Corp certified.
Honourable Mentions and Key Buying Advice
Other notable services include Flowerbx for stunning, single-variety centrepieces (though prices are high) and Petalon, which donates 100% of its profits to UK conservation projects and focuses on British-grown blooms.
For longer-lasting flowers, always use a clean vase, trim stems at a 45-degree angle, and use the provided flower food. Keep them away from heat sources and fruit bowls. Opting for seasonal, British-grown flowers is the most sustainable choice and often ensures better longevity.
This expert review, originally published in February 2025 and updated in December 2025, provides trustworthy, independent advice to help you make a brilliant floral choice for any occasion.
