Photo: Wolfgang Cash at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0
Every Sunday morning, the historic village of Evandale, just a 20-minute drive from Launceston, transforms into one of Tasmania’s best country markets. Spreading out along the leafy main street and spilling into the surrounding park, the Evandale Market is a treasure trove of antiques, local crafts, fresh produce, and hearty street food. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with locals and visitors alike browsing stalls under the shade of old elm trees. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir, sample Tassie cheeses and preserves, or simply soak up the community spirit.
Highlights & What to See
- Antiques & Collectibles: From vintage furniture and retro kitchenware to old books and quirky bric-a-brac, the market is a paradise for treasure hunters. Arrive early for the best finds.
- Local Produce: Sample fresh fruits, artisan bread, honey, and award-winning Tasmanian cheeses. Don't miss the homemade jams and chutneys – perfect for gifts or your pantry.
- Hot Food Stalls: Grab a gourmet sausage roll, a curry, or a wood-fired pizza. The coffee van is a must for a caffeine hit, and the scones with jam and cream are legendary.
- Live Music & Street Performers: Buskers and local musicians add to the festive vibe. Find a spot on the grass and enjoy the tunes while you snack.
- Historic Evandale: The market is set in the National Trust–listed village, so take time to wander the streets lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings. The Evandale Cemetery and the old bridge over the South Esk River are worth a look.
- Penny Farthing Championships (February): If you visit during the annual Evandale Village Fair, you’ll see the quirky World Penny Farthing Championships – a true spectacle.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least 2–3 hours to browse the market at a leisurely pace. Arrive by 9am to beat the crowds and snag the best antiques. Afterwards, linger for a late brunch or explore Evandale’s historic buildings. The market usually winds down around 1pm, so combine it with a visit to a nearby winery or Cataract Gorge in the afternoon.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Cataract Gorge – Launceston’s stunning natural attraction, with walking trails, a chairlift, and a swimming pool, just a 20-minute drive away.
- Launceston City – Explore the city’s heritage architecture, Queen Victoria Museum, and the vibrant food scene along Brisbane Street.
- Josef Chromy Wines – A top Tasmanian winery with cellar door tastings and a restaurant, only 10 minutes from Evandale.
- Tamar Valley – A scenic wine region with dozens of cellar doors, perfect for a self-drive tour. Stop at Pipers Brook or Jansz for sparkling wine.
- Bridestowe Lavender Estate – Famous for its purple rows of lavender, especially stunning in summer (December–January). About 45 minutes north-east.
- Ben Lomond National Park – For hikers and skiers, this mountain park offers dramatic dolerite peaks and alpine walks, about 1 hour from Evandale.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Cataract Gorge — Peripitus / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Launceston — File:Launie (cropped).JPG : User: (WT-shared) Plug at wts wikivoyage derivative work: Georgfotoart / Public domain
- Tamar Valley — PBVmedia / CC BY 2.0
- Bridestowe Lavender Estate — Adii229 / CC BY-SA 4.0