The Davies Park Market (still referred to by most as the West End Market) represents everything about the community it resides in and for that reason easily attracts a steady stream of both loyal locals and curious tourists without fail every Saturday morning.
Enjoy the market ambience
Although it is up with the birds at 6am and runs until the generous time of 2pm it is recommended to head in as early as possible if you want to enjoy the stalls in peace. Make the most of that early morning serenity, sip your chai latte and lose yourself in the colourful stalls with equally colourful owners as the busker’s delicate tunes sprinkle down around you. Soak it all in and then watch in awe as the tree-lined carpark that snakes around Davies Park and hosts the market undergoes a transformation of life, colour and movement over the next few hours as the many local yoga classes end and the community at large descend upon the markets. Before long a casual crowd are filtering through its narrow corridor and the must-have market accessories of a wheeled trolley overflowing with produce and a four-legged friend by foot (or in bag) all add to the busy yet intoxicating atmosphere.
It’s certainly easy to see why these riverside markets have gained such popularity with the huge range of products and services that are on offer. Here you’ll find not only an impressive display of fruit and veges, meat, fish and other groceries all at very affordable prices but a slew of other stalls selling everything from sarongs, jewellery, flowers, original prints, fudge, accessories, crafts, yoga mats and an array of other delightful knick-knacks. Treat yourself to a massage or get your eyebrows threaded in a traditional session using pieces of string to pluck with. Unusual maybe but highly effective!
The West End Markets are perfect for coffee lovers
Once the shopping is done grab a late morning breakfast at one of the cosy cafes sheltered beneath the massive fig trees or shop at one of the excellent food stalls. The field alongside the market becomes a popular picnic ground by visitors so bring a blanket if you feel like eating it picnic style in the sun. A ball or Frisbee will keep the kids happily entertained as will some freshly squeezed lemonade and a bag of Gerard’s sensational popcorn – keep an eye out for his stall but be warned – it is highly addictive!
It’s hard not to fall in love with the character-infused West End markets. Whether you are there for its cheap market goods, delightful treats or just to people watch you are bound to leave with an armful of purchases and a spring in your step!
Getting There
Davies Park is located on the corner of Jane Street and Montague Street in West End. There is plenty of free parking in the surrounding streets. If you want to make a trip of it then there are regular buses to the area, as well as ferries that run a linking bus from the jetty to the market. The park is dog friendly.
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