Old Bus Depot Markets

The Old Bus Depot Markets are a dynamic and beloved Sunday tradition in Kingston, Australian Capital Territory. Every weekend, this iconic market transforms a historic former transport depot into a bustling hub of creativity, flavour, and community. Lovers of fine handcrafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics, and jewellery junkies all make their way to 21 Wentworth Avenue to experience what is affectionately known as “Canberra’s Sunday Best.” The markets are open every Sunday from 9:30am to 2:30pm, a schedule that has made them a staple in the local social calendar for years.

The setting itself is a huge part of the appeal. The Old Bus Depot Markets are proudly situated in the Former Transport Depot, previously known as the Eastlake Garage. This industrial building, a key part of Canberra’s history dating back to 1927, provides a unique and atmospheric backdrop for the endless colour, tastes, and sounds that fill its halls. Recognised by the ACT Government for its heritage, the venue features two large halls to explore, allowing visitors to easily spend a few hours browsing the eclectic mix of stalls. From the moment you step inside, the warm buzz of conversation and the aroma of fresh food create an inviting sensory experience.

Market Experience

Stepping into the Old Bus Depot Markets is a true sensory journey. One hall is primarily dedicated to food, featuring a diverse range of international cuisines and specialty items. From authentic Ethiopian dishes at Seni’s Ethiopian Cuisine to freshly made crêpes at Chez Romeo Crêpes, the food offerings are a major draw for hungry visitors. You can also find gourmet pastries at Sapori Lab and delicious dumplings from The Dumpling Diplomat. The other hall is a treasure trove of clothing, handcrafted art, unique jewellery, homewares, and original gifts. The market is known for its uncomplicated and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect Sunday outing for families, couples, and solo explorers alike.

Live music often adds to the vibrant ambiance, with busking spots available for local performers. The layout encourages leisurely wandering, with wide aisles and plenty of space to stop and chat with the passionate stallholders. Many vendors are the creators themselves, eager to share the stories behind their work. This direct connection between maker and buyer fosters a sense of community that is rare in everyday shopping. Whether you are seeking a one-of-a-kind birthday present, a tasty lunch, or simply some weekend inspiration, the market delivers an authentic and memorable experience.

Services and Stallholder Variety

The Old Bus Depot Markets host an impressive and ever-changing array of stallholders. This curated mix of local artisans and specialty food vendors means no two visits are exactly alike, and there is always something new to discover. The stallholder directory on the market’s website provides a full overview of current participants, but you can typically expect to find a wonderful selection of categories.

Shopping and crafts represent a core part of the market’s identity. Visitors can explore Wood’N’Design for unique collectables and crafts, and discover items for kids from a range of vendors under the “All About Kids” category. The homewares and garden section features standout artisans like Annettes Pottery and Crochet and My Knotty Abode Macrame Homewares. Art and photography lovers will appreciate the work of creators like Sarah Welsford ART, alongside many other painters, photographers, and mixed-media artists.

Food and drink options extend well beyond a quick snack. The “Delectable Food & Drinks” category includes regional producers selling artisan honey, preserves, baked goods, and specialty beverages. The multicultural food stalls offer everything from Laotian cuisine to traditional European treats. Many vendors offer samples, making it easy to discover new favourite flavours. For those with a sweet tooth, the patisserie and dessert options are exceptionally popular.

Jewellery and fashion are also strongly represented, with numerous stalls offering handmade necklaces, earrings, and bracelets crafted from silver, beads, polymer clay, and upcycled materials. Clothing collectors can browse racks of curated vintage pieces, hand-dyed silk scarves, and artisan-made leather goods. The market actively supports small businesses and emerging designers through its Student Pathways program, offering mentorship and stall opportunities to talented newcomers.

Why Choose Old Bus Depot Markets

Choosing the Old Bus Depot Markets for your Sunday outing means embracing an experience that is authentic, community-driven, and refreshingly different from conventional retail. The market holds a strong 4.2-star rating on Google Maps, based on over 2,900 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere. Google reviewers frequently praise the market as a wonderful place to spend a few hours, highlighting the diverse mix of stalls, particularly those featuring handcrafted items, art, jewellery, and plants.

The market’s commitment to quality is unmatched. Unlike impersonal shopping centres, each stallholder is hand-selected to ensure a high standard of originality and craftsmanship. As one online reviewer noted, there is a “great mix of stalls with handmade items, art, jewellery, plants and original gifts.” Another echoed a common sentiment, stating simply, “It’s always worth coming here!” The atmosphere is repeatedly described as nice and uncomplicated, making it a welcoming destination for locals and tourists alike.

The industrial heritage setting adds a layer of character that cannot be replicated. The soaring ceilings and exposed beams of the 1927 Eastlake Garage create a dramatic yet cosy environment. You can feel the history in the walls while surrounded by vibrant contemporary creativity. The market has been officially recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a Hall of Fame Australian Tourism Award for Tourism Retailing (2003-2005), solidifying its status as a premier visitor attraction in the capital region.

Beyond the stalls, the market fosters genuine community connection. The “Save Our Old Bus Depot Markets” campaign has galvanised widespread public support, demonstrating how deeply the venue is cherished. Visitors feel a sense of belonging here, often turning a quick browse into a full morning or afternoon of relaxed socialising. With free entry and a calendar of special events, it offers exceptional value for individuals and families seeking quality leisure time.

Location and Accessibility

You will find the Old Bus Depot Markets at 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston ACT 2604. The location is easily accessible by various modes of transport, making it convenient for visitors from across Canberra and beyond. The market’s position in the Kingston area places it within easy walking distance of the scenic Kingston Foreshore, where you can continue your Sunday with a lakeside stroll or a meal at one of the many waterside restaurants.

For those driving, free car parking is available off Eastlake Parade, with clear signage on Wentworth Avenue to guide you. Additional disabled parking spaces are provided, with six dedicated spots located towards the Fyshwick end of the building at the end of Printers Way off Giles Street. Bus parking is also available, but it is recommended to call the office on (02) 6295 3331 or 0481 170 847 for assistance with larger vehicles.

Public transport is a viable and easy option. The markets can be reached by ACTION Bus route R2 on Sundays, which runs at approximately half-hour intervals from the City (Platform 2) or Westfield Belconnen (Platform 1). Alternatively, Route R6 also operates at roughly half-hour intervals from the City (Platform 2) or Woden Bus Interchange (Platform 5). For cyclists, bicycle racks are conveniently located in the courtyard off Wentworth Avenue, encouraging an active and eco-friendly arrival. Taxi stands and ride-share pick-up points are also readily available, with local services including Canberra Cabs (132 227) and Silver Service (133 100).

Operating Hours and Contact Details

Understanding the market’s schedule is key to planning your visit. The Old Bus Depot Markets are open each and every Sunday from 9:30am to 2:30pm, providing a consistent and reliable weekend activity rain or shine. The main trading hours apply to all public holidays that fall on a Sunday, though it is wise to check the website or social media for any very rare exceptional closures.

While the market itself operates on Sundays, the administrative office hours run from Tuesday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm. During these times, the team is available by telephone to handle enquiries, stallholder applications, and feedback. The team does not operate from the physical market site office during the week, so telephone contact is your best option for mid-week assistance.

Contact information is straightforward. You can reach the markets by phone at 02 6295 3331. Postal correspondence should be sent to PO Box 4183, Kingston ACT 2604. The business maintains a strong online presence where you can find updates, photos, and event announcements on Facebook at www.facebook.com/oldbusdepotmarkets, Instagram at www.instagram.com/oldbusdepotmarkets, and other platforms including Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube. These channels are regularly updated with stallholder spotlights, new vendor announcements, and mouth-watering food photography that perfectly captures the market’s vibrant spirit.

Events, Awards, and Community Commitment

Beyond the regular Sunday market, the Old Bus Depot Markets host special themed events throughout the year that draw crowds from across the region. The Canberra Wool Expo is a standout annual highlight, celebrating creative fibre arts with demonstrations, workshops, and rare supplies for knitting, crochet, and weaving enthusiasts. The event has become so successful that planning for the 2026 Canberra Wool Expo is already underway, promising even more inspiration for fibre artists.

A rotating calendar of themed Sundays keeps the experience fresh. Events like “Kids in the Shed” offer dedicated family-friendly activities, while “Super Sunday Markets” deliver an elevated experience with additional stalls and special attractions. The market also hosts origami workshops by Focus Folding and other hands-on creative sessions. All upcoming events are published on the website’s interactive events calendar, allowing visitors to plan their visits around their specific interests.

The market’s trophy cabinet speaks volumes about its quality and reputation. It is a multiple-time Australian Tourism Award Winner and holds the rare honour of being inducted into the Hall of Fame for Tourism Retailing, a recognition earned through three consecutive wins from 2003 to 2005. This legacy of excellence continues to drive the market’s curatorial approach and high standards for every trader.

Community engagement runs deep in the market’s ethos. The Student Pathways Program actively nurtures the next generation of makers and entrepreneurs, providing mentorship, reduced-rate stalls, and hands-on business experience. The market also opens its doors to buskers, adding a lively soundtrack to the shopping experience. Perhaps most tellingly, the “Save Our Old Bus Depot Markets” initiative has shown the immense public affection for this institution, rallying the community to protect its home at the Former Transport Depot. This campaign has reinforced that the markets are far more than a commercial venture—they are a vital part of Canberra’s cultural fabric and a space where creativity, connection, and tradition thrive together every Sunday.