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Canberra Glassworks

4.4
·737 reviews·Kingston, Australia

Witness the mesmerizing art of glassmaking, from fiery demonstrations to hands-on workshops, creating unique masterpieces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

See artists at work & markets

CrowdMedium
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main work space

Canberra Glassworks

Best Time

Weekends

See artists at work & markets

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the mesmerizing art of glassmaking, from fiery demonstrations to hands-on workshops, creating unique masterpieces.

4.4
(737 reviews)

"A wonderful, unique experience that I would highly recommend. A must do!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Watch the magic happen!

Don't miss the live glassblowing from the viewing area – it's truly impressive to see the artists at work.

🎟️ Donation-based entry

Entry to the gallery and viewing areas is by donation, making it an accessible cultural experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Glassblowing Demonstrations

Live Glassblowing Demonstrations

Viewing Area

Witness skilled artists transform molten glass into stunning art pieces right before your eyes. It's mesmerizing!

Make Your Own Glass Art Workshop

Make Your Own Glass Art Workshop

Workshop Studios

Get hands-on and create your own unique glass piece, like a spring vase or a bird, with expert guidance.

Exquisite Glass Art Exhibits

Exquisite Glass Art Exhibits

Gallery Spaces

Explore a diverse collection of contemporary glass art created by talented local and international artists.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Glassblowing Experience

Want to try your hand at glassmaking? Book a workshop in advance, especially for popular classes like 'make your own spring vase'. Instructors are praised for being brilliant and supportive, making it a unique, hands-on experience. Reddit

Combine with Kingston Foreshore

Located near the Old Bus Depot Markets and Kingston Foreshore, Canberra Glassworks is a perfect stop. Grab a famous Brodburger and enjoy a wander, catching the glass blowing action from the viewing area. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
See artists at work & markets
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Two hand-crafted glass artworks, created at the Canberra Glassworks, now grace the Memorial’s newly constructed East and West spiral stairwells. Inspired by the Ode of Remembrance, these site-specific pieces, titled “Quiet Skies, as the sun rises” and “Quiet Skies, as the sun sets”, are made from hot-sculpted glass and capture the colours of sunrise and sunset, with each artwork featuring approxi...
awmemorial
271 likes • 4.2K views

🎯 Watch the magic happen!

Don't miss the live glassblowing from the viewing area – it's truly impressive to see the artists at work. Reddit

🎟️ Donation-based entry

Entry to the gallery and viewing areas is by donation, making it an accessible cultural experience. Reddit

I had the chance to visit the Glassworks in Canberra and even got to try my foot at making a glass bird 🐦🔥. Now, it may not be anywhere near the incredible glasswork the talented artists there create, but it was definitely fun, challenging, and such a great experience. With a lot of help along the way, my little glass bird came to life — and I have to say, I quite like it! Sometimes it’s not abo...
trishjackson.art
31 likes • 438 views
Did you know that @canberraglassworks is the largest glass-making facility in the Southern Hemisphere dedicated to studio glass? Housed in the heritage-listed Powerhouse building in Kingston, you can pop by any time to watch artists at work from the Hotshop and then purchase any number of incredible hand-made glass artefacts or take in an exhibition on display. The shop sells pieces from iconi...
hercanberra
123 likes • 12K views

🛍️ Unique souvenirs

The shop features beautiful glassware created on-site, perfect for a special memento or gift. Reddit

⏳ Workshops take time

If you're doing a workshop, factor in potential wait times, especially if you're also grabbing food nearby. Reddit

During our recent visit to Canberra en-route to the snow, we stopped over at the Canberra Glassworks and learnt about its heritage building and also saw how glass is made. Some of the artisanal pieces which were on display were too striking, and actually made us realise how much effort goes into creating a thing of beauty, even something so mundane and age-old as glass. . . . . . . . . . #canberra...
tarini.puri
3 likes • 105 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Watch the magic happen!

Don't miss the live glassblowing from the viewing area – it's truly impressive to see the artists at work. Reddit

🎟️ Donation-based entry

Entry to the gallery and viewing areas is by donation, making it an accessible cultural experience. Reddit

🛍️ Unique souvenirs

The shop features beautiful glassware created on-site, perfect for a special memento or gift. Reddit

⏳ Workshops take time

If you're doing a workshop, factor in potential wait times, especially if you're also grabbing food nearby. Reddit

💡 Highly addictive hobby!

Be warned: trying a workshop might just spark a lifelong passion for glass art! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(737 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Canberra Glassworks for its unique and engaging experiences, particularly the hands-on workshops and captivating live glassblowing demonstrations. The supportive and knowledgeable instructors are frequently highlighted, making it a highly recommended activity for both locals and tourists. While the donation-based entry is appreciated, some may wish for more structured viewing times for demonstrations.

"I did the make your own spring vase workshop with Phoebe and she was brilliant. Super calm and explained everything so well, she was knowledgeable and supportive throughout the process. A wonderful, unique experience that I would highly recommend. I also did the make a bird workshop a few years ago and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Canberra Glassworks workshops, a must do experience when visiting Canberra!"

Jen Stevens

"Situated next to the Old Bus Depot Markets this is a great addition to your visit. Entrance is via donation. There is a shop at the entrance full of beautiful glassware that has been created there and small exhibition rooms on the side. The most exciting part is your get to see the artists at work from a viewing area which is impressive to see. For those that are staying in Canberra longer, you can take a course. I would definitely recommend visiting as it is just so interesting."

Casandra TP

"We spent the afternoon doing a class with Thomas, it was so much fun, brilliant! Thomas is an awesome teacher who encourages you to explore the medium as well as teaching you the how to of making a vessel. We had the best time and will return. Thanks Thomas!"

lynley Reid

What People Like

Hands-on workshops
Live glassblowing
Talented instructors

What People Dislike

Workshop booking essential

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Canberra Glassworks is located at 11 Wentworth Ave, Kingston, ACT 2604, right next to the Old Bus Depot Markets. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options also serve the Kingston area. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available in the vicinity, particularly around the Old Bus Depot Markets. Arriving early on weekends can help secure a spot. Reddit

While it's a bit of a walk, it's feasible if you enjoy a stroll. Alternatively, a short bus or taxi ride from the city centre will get you there quickly. Reddit

Yes, several ACTION bus routes service the Kingston area, making it accessible via public transport. Check the Transport Canberra website for current routes and schedules. Reddit

It's conveniently located next to the popular Old Bus Depot Markets and along the vibrant Kingston Foreshore, known for its restaurants and cafes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the gallery and viewing areas is by donation. This allows visitors to experience the art and watch the artists at work without a fixed admission charge. Reddit

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended for all workshops, especially popular ones like the 'make your own spring vase' class, as they often fill up quickly. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the gallery and viewing areas are open during regular business hours, often extending into the weekend to coincide with the markets. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a dedicated viewing area where you can watch the skilled artists at work for free (entry by donation). Reddit

Age restrictions may apply to certain workshops due to the nature of working with hot glass. It's advisable to check the specific workshop details on the Canberra Glassworks website or contact them directly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, explore exhibitions of stunning glass art, and even participate in hands-on workshops to create your own glass piece. Reddit

Absolutely! Visitors consistently rave about the workshops, describing them as wonderful, unique, and incredibly fun experiences with brilliant and supportive instructors. Reddit

Glassblowing demonstrations occur regularly throughout the day. Visiting during peak market times on weekends might offer a lively atmosphere, while weekdays could be more relaxed. Reddit

Yes, there's a shop at the entrance selling beautiful glassware created by the artists. It's a great place to find a unique souvenir or gift. Reddit

Children can enjoy watching the glassblowing demonstrations from the viewing area. Specific workshops may have age recommendations, so check in advance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Canberra Glassworks itself doesn't typically have a full-service cafe, but it's located right next to the vibrant Kingston Foreshore, which offers numerous dining options, and near the Old Bus Depot Markets for snacks. Reddit

The Kingston Foreshore is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, with many cafes and restaurants. You can also grab a famous Brodburger nearby. Reddit

While there aren't specific picnic areas inside the main gallery, you can enjoy food purchased from nearby eateries on the Kingston Foreshore or at the markets. Reddit

Many visitors combine their trip with a meal at Kingston Foreshore or a burger from Brodburger, as it's a popular local experience. Reddit

The Kingston Foreshore area offers a wide range of dining establishments, many of which provide diverse menus including vegetarian and vegan options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the gallery and viewing areas. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions, especially during exhibitions or workshops. Reddit

The live glassblowing action offers dynamic photo opportunities. The finished glass art pieces in the gallery also make for beautiful, artistic shots. Reddit

Flash photography is often discouraged in galleries to protect artworks from light damage. Please be mindful and check for signage or ask staff. Reddit

Drone photography is typically not permitted inside or around cultural institutions like Canberra Glassworks due to safety and privacy concerns. Reddit

During a workshop, you'll capture the process of creating your own piece, offering a very personal and engaging photographic memory of your experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Canberra Glassworks offers a visually engaging experience for families. Children are often fascinated by the live glassblowing demonstrations, watching the fiery transformation of glass. The bright colours and unique shapes of the glass art on display can also capture their imagination. Reddit

While some workshops might have age restrictions, inquire about family-friendly sessions or shorter introductory experiences. The donation-based entry makes it an affordable outing. Consider pairing your visit with a trip to the nearby Old Bus Depot Markets or a casual meal at Kingston Foreshore for a complete family day out. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives

For those passionate about art, Canberra Glassworks is a must-visit. You can immerse yourself in diverse exhibitions showcasing contemporary glass art, appreciating the techniques and artistic visions of various creators. The opportunity to witness live glassblowing provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the demanding yet rewarding craft. Reddit

Participating in a workshop is highly recommended for a hands-on creative experience. Instructors are lauded for their skill and ability to guide participants in creating their own glass pieces, making it a deeply satisfying and memorable activity. The shop also offers a chance to purchase unique, handcrafted glass art directly from the artists. Reddit

🎁 Souvenir Hunters

Looking for a truly unique souvenir from Canberra? The shop at Canberra Glassworks offers a stunning selection of handcrafted glass art, from delicate ornaments to more substantial decorative pieces. These items are created on-site by talented artists, ensuring you're taking home a piece of genuine local craftsmanship. Reddit

While workshops allow you to create your own personalized memento, purchasing from the gallery shop provides immediate access to exquisite works. The quality and artistry of the pieces make them stand out from typical tourist trinkets, offering a lasting reminder of your visit to this creative hub. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Glassmaking: From Molten to Masterpiece

Canberra Glassworks is a hub for contemporary glass art, showcasing the incredible skill and artistry involved in transforming raw materials into breathtaking works. Visitors can witness this magic firsthand through live demonstrations, where experienced artists manipulate molten glass using tools like blowpipes and jacks. The intense heat and precise movements are captivating to observe, offering a unique insight into a craft that blends tradition with innovation. Reddit

Beyond the demonstrations, the facility offers a range of workshops designed for all skill levels. Whether you're a complete beginner wanting to try a 'make your own spring vase' class or looking to refine your skills, the expert instructors provide patient guidance. These hands-on sessions are highly praised for their supportive environment and the rewarding experience of creating your own tangible piece of art. Reddit

The gallery spaces at Canberra Glassworks feature rotating exhibitions that highlight the diverse styles and techniques of glass artists. From delicate sculptural pieces to bold, statement works, the collection is a testament to the versatility of glass as a medium. It's a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the creativity and dedication of the artists who push the boundaries of glass art. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community

Many visitors recommend combining a trip to Canberra Glassworks with a visit to the adjacent Old Bus Depot Markets, especially on weekends. This allows you to experience both the vibrant market atmosphere and the artistic creations at the glassworks. Grabbing a famous Brodburger from nearby Kingston Foreshore is also a popular suggestion, making for a well-rounded outing. Reddit

When it comes to workshops, booking in advance is crucial. Travelers emphasize that popular classes fill up quickly, so securing your spot early is key to avoiding disappointment. The instructors, like Phoebe and Thomas, receive consistent praise for their expertise, patience, and ability to make the learning process enjoyable and successful for everyone. Reddit

Entry to the gallery and viewing areas is donation-based, making it an accessible attraction for all. This allows everyone to appreciate the art and the process without a significant financial commitment. Remember that the creation process can sometimes take a while, so factor this into your timing, especially if you're planning to visit other nearby attractions. Reddit

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