Younghusband market may have an unusual name but what actually makes it stand out is its cool hipster vibes. This is just one of the coolest market venues in Melbourne. I just love it's industrial and red brick interior, open space airiness, high ceilings and just retro cool.
Of course the space is one thing and the shopping doesn't let up either. Heaps of artisan bespoke products by the actual artists means you can find unique custom pieces that let you stand out from the crowd while also supporting artists and small business. Seems like a win win situation to me.
Standing Proud: What sets Young Husband Market apart from most Melbourne markets is that instead of feeling like a generic indoor market, it unfolds through soaring industrial spaces filled with red brick, timber beams, steel details and loads of natural light, creating a dramatic backdrop for handmade art, jewellery, fashion, homewares, food and vintage finds..
Safe from the elements: With 95% of the market being indoors Young Husband Market is safely protected from Melbourne's unpredictable weather. This is a huge plus in the winter months when it can be difficult to make yourself get outside.
Artisan Makers: Nothing against importers and resellers (we all need to make a living) but is nice to know that when you purchase from Young Husband Market nearly all the goods seem to be artisan hand-made or local products. Of course their are a few exceptions but predominantly you really are supporting local makers and producers at this market.
From new to old to new again: The restoration of the historic Younghusband Wool Stores in Kensington has transformed one of Melbourne’s great industrial landmarks into a lively modern precinct while preserving the character that makes the site so distinctive. Dating back to the early 1900s, the red-brick warehouses have been carefully adapted for offices, shops, hospitality and creative spaces, with original features such as steel-framed windows, wool pulleys, painted signage and the dramatic sawtooth roofs retained wherever possible.
The result is a thoughtful blend of old and new, giving the former wool-trading complex a fresh purpose for the 21st century.
The Non-Accidental Market: I've gotta say some people are really in the know. Young Husband Market is not an accidental market. You aren't likely to drive past by accident and even locals may not know it exists. However, all credit to the marketing team as Young Husband Market has plenty of customers. This creates a great atmosphere and ensures the vast market feels full of life. Things go hand in hand and if there weren't enough customers it would all feel pretty sad. Thankfully it's teeming with life so it's all come together and overall this is just one of the best markets in Melbourne.
Location
Younghusband Market in Kensington is located at the Younghusband Woolstore, 2/50 Elizabeth Street, Kensington. Pretty accessible by car (parks might be difficult to get if you time your visit at a peak time) and a short stroll away from both Macaulay Train Station and Kensington Train Station.
When
From 10AM-3PM usually on a 2nd or 3rd Saturday of the month.
If their is a disappointment it's that Young Husband Market doesn't have a fixed date. It's so much more convenient to know exactly when a market is on. Hopefully they will settle on a fixed date in the future to make it easier for everyone.
This Weekend in the West
Find out events, markets and festivals this weekend in the West. Bookmark the page for your handy reference.
Play our 1990s Music Trivia and Word Puzzle
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Official Website
Check Younghusband Market for any event cancellations or event updates.
Other places nearby to visit
- White Rabbit Records in Kensington for some vinyl record shopping or a drink
- Kensington Market on once a month.
- Historic Newmarket Saleyards for a bit of local history
- Moondog Wild West bar and eatery for a bit of Mexican and pub vibes in Footscray.
