Markets at The Rocks Sydney

The Rocks area is the birthplace of European settlement in Australia and is now one of the most visited places in Sydney and home to The Rocks Markets.

In 1788, convicts were ordered on to Sydney Cove’s western shore to build shelters for the newly arrived fleet. The sandstone rocks rising up along the water’s edge were called simply ‘The Rocks’, a name that has endured and gained global recognition as The Rocks, Australia.

Located in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks, Sydney, and The Rocks Markets, have become Australian icons. The Rocks Market is renowned for its eclectic mix of antiques, fashion, art, homemade produce, rare books, indigenous and cottage crafts, and its vibrant range of music and street theatre.

The Rocks Market operates Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm (6pm in summer) and has plenty of secure parking for those not using public transport. This historical area is known as ‘Sydney’s outdoor museum’, and has faithfully maintained the rustic cobblestone streets, waterside hotels and sandstone cottages from days of old.

Modern amenities add comfort and convenience without destroying the unique, picturesque character, including The Lord Nelson, Sydney’s oldest pub, built in 1844, and Cadman’s Cottage, Sydney’s oldest surviving dwelling, built in 1816.

Accommodation Near Sydney Markets