Old Bus Depot Markets
Canberra's vibrant Sunday market in a former bus depot, featuring artisan food, unique crafts, and live entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best selection
Old Bus Depot Markets
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Canberra's vibrant Sunday market in a former bus depot, featuring artisan food, unique crafts, and live entertainment.
"One of the best markets in Australia, with great stalls you want to see, not touristy stuff for sale."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Popular food and craft stalls sell out quickly. Get there before 10 AM for the widest selection! :moneybag:
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Consider the Kingston underground car park or residential streets nearby. Avoid last-minute parking hunts! :oncoming_bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Food Delights
Various food stalls
Indulge in gourmet treats, from fresh baked bread and cannolis to delicious gozleme and jianbing. Taste tests abound!
Unique Handmade Crafts
Apparel & Gifts section
Discover one-of-a-kind jewelry, art, homewares, and clothing crafted by local artists and designers.
Live Entertainment
Main market area
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with live bands and performers adding to the Sunday market buzz.
Seasonal Specials
Throughout the market
Keep an eye out for special events like the Easter market with an Easter Bunny and themed treats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunday Funday: Plan Your Visit
Navigating Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Popular food and craft stalls sell out quickly. Get there before 10 AM for the widest selection! :moneybag:
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Consider the Kingston underground car park or residential streets nearby. Avoid last-minute parking hunts! :oncoming_bus:
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
While some vendors take cards, many prefer cash. Be prepared to avoid missing out! :credit_card:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing. Comfort is key for a full market experience! :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Popular food and craft stalls sell out quickly. Get there before 10 AM for the widest selection! :moneybag:
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Consider the Kingston underground car park or residential streets nearby. Avoid last-minute parking hunts! :oncoming_bus:
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
While some vendors take cards, many prefer cash. Be prepared to avoid missing out! :credit_card:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing. Comfort is key for a full market experience! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market offers great photo ops with unique crafts and delicious food. Don't forget your phone! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Old Bus Depot Markets are a highly recommended Sunday destination in Canberra, praised for their diverse range of unique artisan foods and handmade crafts. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, often enhanced by live music, and the opportunity to discover local talent. While parking can be a challenge and some stalls may feel similar, the overall experience is consistently rated as enjoyable and worthwhile.
"Located at 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston, ACT, Australia 🇦🇺
This is a great market held every Sunday from 9.30am until 2.30pm in a former bus depot. It has a wonderful range of stalls including food, arts and crafts and clothing.
We had a great time, I bought some wonderful items such as fresh cannolis, a new umbrella and some toys (that I don’t need but I am a big kid at heart 🤣). There was some live entertainment Including a great band. You could also get fresh fruit and vegetables and fresh baked bread. This is the second time I’ve been to these markets and have really enjoyed them each time. They are just a short stroll from the Dockside Foreshore and have plenty of parking 🅿️ and good toilet 🚻 facilities. They are also very wheelchair 🦼 accessible. Would definitely recommend. Thumbs up!! 👍👍"
Nerine Cummins
"The Easter market felt happening here. Interesting mix of stalls: handmade crafts, gourmet artisan foods, artists, clothing, homewares, flowers, etc.
There was an Easter Bunny going around giving eggs to children. My kids gravitated to the 3D printed fidgets, Pokemon card stall and of course, lollies and chocolates.
We enjoyed a warm brunch of jianbing from Little Wu’s cart and by this time the bakery nearby had almost sold out. There was live music on both floors of the depot.
It’s a spacious market covering two split levels, and with the crowds that weekend it felt just right in atmosphere."
A2B in an EV
"One of the best markets in Australia, just great stalls you want to see, not touristy stuff for sale, we loved trying the taste tests, cheese, deli meats, olives and dips. I bought a sunflower puzzle from Simon Ray, the gozleme was yummy, worth a visit on a Sunday while visiting Canberra"
Sarah Ellis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Bus Depot Markets are located at 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston, ACT. You can reach them by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options also serve the Kingston area, making it accessible for visitors from across Canberra.
Parking can be tricky. The Kingston underground car park is a popular option, though it can fill up. Exploring residential streets a few blocks away or the Foreshore car park are also viable alternatives.
Yes, the markets are accessible via public transport. Check local bus routes that service the Kingston area for the most convenient options.
Absolutely! The markets are located near the Dockside Foreshore, making it a pleasant walk or cycle for those staying nearby. Bike racks may be available.
Yes, the markets are very wheelchair accessible, with spacious layouts and ramps ensuring easy navigation for all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Old Bus Depot Markets is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase from the stallholders.
The markets are open every Sunday from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. They are a popular Sunday destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Old Bus Depot Markets close promptly at 2:30 PM every Sunday. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing out on any last-minute finds.
Yes, the markets often host special events, such as the Easter market which featured an Easter Bunny and themed activities. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, it's generally best to check the market's official policy on pets. Many markets have restrictions for the comfort and safety of all visitors and stallholders.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stalls
You'll find a diverse range of stalls including artisan foods, handmade crafts, unique apparel, gifts, art, and fresh produce. It's a great place to discover local talent.
Yes, the markets boast a fantastic selection of food stalls offering everything from hot meals like gozleme and jianbing to fresh baked goods, cannolis, and juices.
Absolutely! The market is renowned for its unique handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and homewares, making it an ideal spot to find a special gift.
Some stallholders do accept card payments, but it's advisable to bring cash as not all vendors are equipped for card transactions.
The atmosphere is generally lively and vibrant, especially with live music. It can feel spacious but also buzzy when crowds are present, creating a great community feel.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the markets offer many visually appealing opportunities. From colorful artisan foods and unique crafts to live performers and the industrial setting of the depot, it's a photographer's delight.
Focus on the vibrant food displays, intricate handmade crafts, artists at work, and the general bustling atmosphere. The unique architecture of the former bus depot also provides interesting backdrops.
It's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of stallholders or their specific products, especially if they are in the process of creating something.
The former bus depot likely has a mix of natural light from windows and artificial lighting. Early morning visits might offer softer, more diffused natural light.
A mix of candid shots capturing the energy of the market and detailed shots of the crafts and food would work well. Consider a photojournalistic or street photography approach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can enjoy browsing the handmade crafts and art, while kids can be entertained by live music. It’s a great opportunity to introduce children to local artisans and delicious food options in a fun, engaging environment. Remember to bring cash for smaller purchases and be prepared for crowds during peak times.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a budget-friendly meal, look for stalls offering hearty options like gozleme or jianbing, which can be quite filling. Bringing your own reusable bags and water bottle can also help save money. Focus on the experience of browsing and enjoying the atmosphere, and you'll find plenty of value.
🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts
Look out for stalls featuring 3D printed items, custom hats, and patchwork jackets, showcasing the diverse talents of local creators. The market provides an excellent opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the makers, supporting the local arts community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Shopper's Paradise: Discovering Unique Finds
Beyond crafts, the market is a culinary adventure. Food stalls offer a delectable array of options, from savory delights like gozleme and jianbing to sweet treats such as fresh cannolis and baked goods. The opportunity to sample local produce and gourmet items, like cheeses and olives, is a significant draw. Some visitors mention specific vendors like 'Little Wu's cart' for their jianbing, indicating a loyal following for certain food experiences.
While the market is celebrated for its unique offerings, some feedback suggests that a portion of stalls can feel similar to other markets. However, the overall consensus is that the quality and variety of the artisan food and craft stalls make the Old Bus Depot Markets a standout destination for shoppers looking for something special.
The Vibe and Atmosphere: More Than Just a Market
Reviewers frequently mention the positive energy of the market, with some noting it as one of the best markets in Australia. The presence of live entertainment, including bands, enhances the overall experience, turning a shopping trip into a social outing. During special events, like the Easter market, the atmosphere becomes even more festive with activities for children, such as an Easter Bunny.
While the market generally fosters a welcoming and engaging atmosphere, some visitors have noted that the spaciousness can sometimes lead to a feeling of underutilization, with wide gaps between stalls. However, the prevailing sentiment is that the community feel and the blend of shopping, food, and entertainment create a memorable Sunday experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit