New Railway Market Opens in Elgin!
As if there aren’t enough marvellous markets in the Western Cape already, The Elgin Railway Market is now open to the public. What’s more, you can travel there for the day by old timey steam train… because travelling by car is far too boring. With a wide variety of food and retail options to browse and shop, this new market is sure to become a hit for both locals and visitors to Elgin.
Once an old apple warehouse, the market is now a steampunk-inspired station market hosting a bunch of local vendors and live music. With Victorian staircases, magnificent metal archways and a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-style fan system of pulleys, this market is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
Hungry? Visitor’s are spoiled for choice with a vast selection of local food vendors. Try a delectable curry from The Curry Pot; a scrumptious schwarma; ribs and burgers at The Station Grill; or a cheeky pizza at Elginos Express. There are also unique options like Mexican food, Greek treats and health-conscious treats for the low-carb crowd. Ella’s Elgin Farm Foods boasts a variety of deli-style delights but save space for a waffle-on-a-stick from #Rollin. The market also hosts a craft gin bar on top of a local wine, beer and cider bar.
After your meal, check out the mezzanine level of the market which is home to a ton of retail vendors. Here, you’ll find handmade jewellery, leather goods, thrift clothing, pottery and fresh flowers on your way out. For entertainment, enjoy live music throughout the weekend and little ones will be entertained by jungle gyms and roundabouts while the children’s play area is currently under construction.
If you’re in the area during the week, guests are able to use the hot-desk zone which has free WiFi, plug points and printer facilities, and the coffee station stays open for your caffeine fix as well. More cool things to do include a tour of Elgin’s wine farms and attractions in a vintage car (bookings required), or book an overnight stay at one of the B&Bs, hotels or glamping sites nearby.
Want to make a day of it? The market has partnered with the Ceres Rail Company to make steam train transport available to and from the market a few times a month. The whistle and steam of the arriving train is totally Hogwarts Express-ish and is a must-see for children and adults alike. Grab a good stop on the station platform or simply enjoy the view from the market’s leisure deck which overlooks the railway.
The Elgin Railway Market is open during the week (workspace only) from 09:00 to 17:00. The whole market is open on a Friday from 16:00 to 20:00; Saturdays from 09:00 to 20:00 and Sundays from 09:00 to 17:00. For more information visit the Elgin Railway Market website.