If you’re heading to Cape Town and love discovering creative spaces, foodie hotspots, and vibrant community hubs, the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock is an absolute must-see. More than just a market or a collection of shops, it’s a place where talent, innovation, and culture come together in a way that’s distinctly Cape Town.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
A Creative Hub in the Heart of Woodstock: Explore the offices, workshops, and stores where local designers, artists, and photographers thrive.
A Feast for the Senses: Discover why the Mill is one of Cape Town’s top foodie destinations, with award-winning restaurants, street food, and local drinks.
History and Architecture: From a biscuit factory to a celebrated cultural landmark, the Mill’s story is as rich as its walls.
Neighbourgoods Market: How Cape Town’s iconic weekend market continues to draw locals and tourists alike.
Art, Music and Atmosphere: Street art, live DJs, and lively courtyards make every visit a multi-sensory experience.
Tips for Visiting: Parking, transport, opening times, and a few practical hints to make your day stress-free.
The Old Biscuit Mill is a vibrant community where talented people come together to share, collaborate, and showcase their passions. From dynamic office spaces and workshops to designer stores, you can encounter eclectic artworks and innovative products that reflect South Africa’s finest creativity.
Décor, fashion, furniture, and lifestyle items take centre stage here. Every corner of the Mill showcases local designers, artists, photographers, and craftsmen, offering visitors an inspiring insight into Cape Town’s creative energy.
If you’re a foodie, the Old Biscuit Mill will feel like home. It’s proudly home to some of South Africa’s most celebrated restaurants, offering everything from artisanal pizzas and pastas to gourmet burgers. You’ll also find a carefully curated wine outlet featuring local wines, craft beers, and gin, perfect for a relaxed afternoon with friends.
The Neighbourgoods Market, held every Saturday (9am–5pm) and Sunday (10am–5pm), adds even more flavour. Street-food stalls serve an international mix, including flammkuchen, churros, shakshuka, Korean dishes, Swahili doughnuts, paella, and South African shisa nyama. Dietary needs are well catered for, including vegan, halaal, and sugar-free options.
Before its rebirth as a creative hub, the Mill was a biscuit factory for the Pyott’s Biscuit Company, opened by John Pyott in the early 1900s and operational until 1946. Today, the Mill’s charming architecture blends its industrial past with contemporary design, making it a picturesque spot for photography and exploration.
The Neighbourgoods Market is a Cape Town institution. It catalysed the city’s weekend market scene over a decade ago and continues to attract foodies, collectors, and fashion enthusiasts alike. Beyond food, visitors can enjoy vintage items, crafts, live music, and the occasional DJ set, all in a convivial courtyard setting. Dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a true community experience.
One of the Mill’s most striking features is its collaboration with local and international street artists, resulting in bold, colourful murals throughout the venue. Keep an eye out, snap a selfie, and share your finds with #OldBiscuitMillArt.
The weekend markets often feature DJs and live acts, creating a lively, welcoming vibe. Whether you’re there for food, art, shopping, or simply people-watching, there’s something to enjoy around every corner.
Opening Times: The Mill is open seven days a week, though some stores may close on Sundays and public holidays. Restaurants have varied hours.
Transport & Parking: Weekday parking is available within the Mill. On Saturdays, due to the Neighbourgoods Market, it’s best to use Uber or the MyCiti Bus (route 261 stops outside). Secure Saturday parking is available at the College of Cape Town (R10/day, entrance in Kent Street).
Neighbourgoods Market Hours: Saturdays 9am–5pm, Sundays 10am–5pm. Come rain or shine.
The Old Biscuit Mill is more than a market or collection of shops; it’s a vibrant community, a foodie hotspot, and a cultural landmark. Whether you’re hunting for unique designs, tasting your way around the globe, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it’s a place that captures the essence of Cape Town.
Exploring Woodstock and Cape Town is easier when you have a comfortable base nearby. At Nox Cape Town, we manage a curated collection of premium homes and apartments across the Atlantic Seaboard, perfectly located for visiting attractions like the Old Biscuit Mill. After a day of markets, food, and art, you’ll have the ideal spot to relax and unwind.