Street sign reading 'Saffron Hill' with 'Camden' and 'EC1' above and below, mounted on a brick wall, with red flags featuring yellow stars hanging below.

Saffron

There are nine instances of this spice on London’s street signs; Saffron Hill in Farringdon and leads onto Saffron Street. Elsewhere, Saffron Avenue is in Limehouse; there’s a Saffron Close in both Golders Green and Croydon; Saffron Mews in Wimbledon; Saffron Road in Collier Row and Saffron Way in Surbiton. The name Saffron Hill derives from the fact that it was at one time part of an estate on which saffron grew.

A small pile of dried red saffron threads on a white background.

Saffron

Saffron is an expensive, delicate spice harvested from crocus flowers. The saffron threads have a pungent and distinctive aroma and flavour – slightly bitter, a little musty, and with a suggestion of something floral. Saffron is widely used to add colour and flavour to foods including risotto, paella, curries and stews.

Assorted spices in spoons and bowls on a dark surface, including turmeric, paprika, cumin, cardamom, and peppercorns.

More herbs & spices

Colored foam alphabet letters scattered on a surface.

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Street sign on a brick wall indicating Sage Way, addresses Nos 1-43 at Ampton Place.

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