The Fabulous Carriageworks Farmers Market Sydney
Carriageworks Farmers Market is THE place to go for organic, artisan goods. It’s not one for bargain hunters, but it’s packed with delicious, exciting things, many of which make fantastic gifts.
Housed in an old railway blacksmith shed near Redfern train station, this weekly market is one of the few undercover markets in Sydney, making it a perfect place to visit rain, hail or shine.
What will I find at the Carriageworks Farmers Market?
Carriageworks are the perfect market for food lovers who want to sample some of Sydney’s best local produce. The stallholders are almost always happy to chat about their products and answer questions you have.
There are usually lots of tastings on offer, giving you a chance to try new things without risking buying something you don’t like.
The market is the perfect spot to fill your picnic basket with all sorts of local delicacies before heading out to explore Sydney.
There are over 70 regular stalls that rotate throughout the month, with about 40 trading each week. An hour here is a fantastic way to start the weekend, and it is a good halfway point on an early morning walk exploring the inner west.
The market features mainly organic and sustainable locally sourced produce from farms and providers across NSW. There is an excellent range of goods, from fresh flowers to artisan cheeses, local oysters, organic chocolate and plenty of organic vegetables.
Even if you are a visitor staying in a hotel with no kitchen access, this place is worth a visit to stock up on sweet treats, yummy fresh rustic bread and cakes.
What I usually buy when I visit
My usual thing is to gather up our favourites and make up a picnic basket. I suggest trying some of these:
- The smoked fish/dips from Brilliant Foods
- Yalla yoghurt
- Milla cordial
- Pepe Saya Butter – they even sell $1 sized versions perfect for travellers
- Crusty bread from Bread and Butter Project
- Cakes and other goodies from Sweetness the Patisserie – esp the marshmallows
Along with all the fresh food, you can pick up gorgeous flowers, funky reusable bags and things like native spices, which make for unique gifts for friends back home.
Once you are finished shopping, pull up a seat and indulge in some breakfast. There is plenty of choice from pastries to steaming hot Pho. The most popular prepared food stalls include Bird Cow Fish who do a great bacon and egg rolls you will smell the minute you arrive.
If you are on a tight budget, you can almost get your fill on the very generous free tastings offered at most stalls.
Tip: While you are here check out the Carriageworks Gallery, which hosts great exhibitions and is a fascinating space. It also has spotlessly clean bathrooms 🙂
There is a decent amount of parking and you should have no problem if you arrive by 9am. There is a free shuttle bus from Australian Technology Park to Eveleigh from 8:15am to 12:30pm leaving from Bay 8.
Find out more on their Facebook Page
Where: 243 Wilson St, Darlington
When: Saturdays 8am-1pm
Directions: Take the train from any city train station to Redfern Station and exit via the main entrance on Lawson Street. Turn left on exiting and take the first left. Follow this road allow for about 700m – No more than a 10-minute walk.
Want more markets? Check out this guide to Sydney’s best markets for visitors or locals. We also have a list of Christmas markets in Sydney.