I must admit, I’ve been driving past the Milnerton Flea Market for years, secretly judging on it big time and thinking to myself “who the hell even goes there???”

But over the last few months I’ve spotted some really cool things out and about and every bloody time I asked where the person had found this amazing little gem, they’d reply “oh the Milnerton market”.  So I figured right, it’s time I go check this out for myself…  So I did.  And I dragged poor Bjorn with me as backup.  But for the record, he wasn’t too excited about this expedition.

Right, so firstly, I will say that this market does have a pretty sweet backdrop, with one of the best views of Table Mountain in town.  But when it comes to charm, don’t expect something like the Neighbourgoods Maket at the Old Biscuit Mill or the Hout Bay Market for example.  The vibe here kinda reminded me of the PE beachfront stalls…  not really a good thing, but then again I do think Capetonians are very spoilt when it comes to markets, cause we have some really great ones.

I guess the real drawcard for this market though is the fact that you honestly can find anything here.  Think collectables, car parts, plumbing bits & bobs, picture frames, old coins & notes, clothing, toys, plants, furniture and much much more.  It’s a total gold mine for antique finds if you have an eye for that kind of thing…

For example, I totally fell in love with these old school cameras & telephones.  Desperately want to figure out some way of working them in as cool decor pieces:

Even better if you could actually still use them…

Other random things which caught my eye included:

Old fur coats, the “Scotland the Brave” album – been looking for that baby for years hehe, ever had a smashed car light? No problem here, shark teeth – um OK, and a fish bowl! to match my awesome ceramic fish I got at Vamp Furnite (But Bjorn – who clearly hates fish – wouldn’t let me buy it. Sad face.)

Oh and you know that saying: “Everything but the kitchen sink”? Well, not at the Milnerton Market:

Ta da!!!  They be havin’ it!

But the bestest thing by far?  The rockin’ pancake stand.  Seriously the best pancakes I’ve had in ages, with that regte egte kerk basaar feel.  And at only R6 a pop, it just doesn’t get better than that folks.

I would happily drive out there just for the pancakes…

So ja, not the fanciest market in town.  And you have to have some patience to find your little treasure.  But I’m really glad I finally dragged by butt over there.  Now when someone asks me where they can find some obscure item, I can confidently direct them here.

NB info to take note of:

• When: Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays (except Christmas Day and Good Friday) from 8am until around 4pm  ** weather permitting **
• Where: Alongside Marine Drive (R27) – if you’re heading from town towards Bloubergstrand, it will be on your left in the Paarden Island area.

xxx