St Ives Heritage Craft Fair

Also known as the St Ives Handmade Markets, the monthly Heritage Craft Fair is a great place to get some original handcrafted wares. Most of the products are from Australia, but there are a few internationals stalls too.



The items on sale at these markets range from jewellery (including watches, necklaces and other items made from antique spoons) to skincare, clothes, bags, art, toys, tea and more.

From what I saw on my visit, the products are all of a pretty high quality, and wouldn't be out of place in a local shopping centre (except for that personal touch, of course).



As well as all these homewares, the market also has a food section. Possible stalls include organic foods, fresh foods, and a Growers section; but I found most of the food was more like fast food to be eaten here for lunch. Not the type of food you would want to take home; although I did spot some quality breads, olive oils and spreads.

If you do buy something to eat, and want to take a break from browsing while you enjoy it; there is some seating where you can sit down and relax.



As well as the stalls and shopping you can do, there's a few extras features at the markets just for kids, such as a giant inflatable slide, and pony rides.



Overall, while the event's website advertises 250 stalls, I found it to be a lot smaller than that. There was nowhere near 250 when I visited (it was the February market that I attended), but it's a decent size nevertheless (maybe about 50 instead).



Rating: 7/10

Where: St Ives Showground, off Mona Vale Road.
Why: Avoid mass produced products
Cost: Parking and entry are free
When: The first Sunday of every month, from 9am to 3pm.

Good for kids: Yes

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