Market Share in the fun at the Cowhouse Market in Hazeldean
At the Cowhouse, a gourmet food and craft market held every Saturday and Sunday in Hazeldean Valley, on the eastern outskirts of Pretoria, you’re in for a good time and good deals.
Many Gauteng families subjected to the daily grind in the concrete jungle, in the suburbs or in peak traffic want to get out of the city on weekends to relieve their cabin fever. If the budget doesn’t allow for a weekend escape far from civilisation, there are the options to go cycling, running, horse riding, socialising or shopping. And if they are smart, live near Pretoria and want to do all of those things, they head straight for Hazeldean Valley near Silver Lakes, where you can try it all.
The Cowhouse Market is held in an old milking shed at Hazeldean Valley every Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 16:00, and every last Saturday of the month until 22:00. Adults, children and dogs are welcome, and everyone can bring their bicycles – and if you don’t have a bike, you can hire one to enjoy the trails in the area.
Platteland might have been there on a quiet Sunday, but even after church, when business definitely picked up, it never seemed too crowded or hectic.
Wandering among stands selling an extensive range of food, treats and drinks, some handiwork, antiques, books and second-hand goods, you’ll notice that most visitors come here to relax and catch up, tuck into something tasty and enjoy good live music. And the youngsters tire themselves out on the jumping castle, jungle gym or pony rides.
The next day was Monday, but at this market you wouldn’t have guessed it – no one seemed in a hurry to get home. • The market is held on the former Hazeldean Ayrshire farm, on the corner of Ridge Road and Oukraal Boulevard. Visit the website and the Facebook page for directions.