Canberra Glassworks (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Canberra Glassworks?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: Solo visitors can freely roam the gallery, watch live glass-blowing from the mezzanine, join a free heritage tour, or book a one-on-one class, all without needing child facilities.
Positives:
- Flexible entry: Pay what you wish at the door; entry by donation grants full access.
- Small tour groups: Heritage tours cap at six people for personal interaction.
- Accessible layout: Step-free ground floor and lift access to the mezzanine platform.
Challenges:
- Demo schedules: Free demonstrations only run on weekends at fixed times.
- Class cost: Hands-on sessions are AU $220 and sell out on peak weekends.
- Studio heat: The Hotshop area stays warm—avoid heavy synthetic fabrics.
What is Canberra Glassworks?
- Houses professional hotshop glassblowing, cold-working and kiln-forming studios for contemporary glass art production
- Presents a public gallery with rotating exhibitions by local and international glass artists
- Offers workshops, classes and heritage tours to support glassmaking education and research
What is so special about Canberra Glassworks for solo trip?
- Self-guided viewing of live glass-making
- Small, free heritage tour of the historic powerhouse
- Weekend hotshop demonstrations by resident artists
- Hands-on workshops let you craft and keep a glass piece
- Gallery shop offers unique souvenirs
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a self-guided tour, a heritage tour, a hotshop demo, and browsing the gallery shop
Solo-Friendly Activities in Canberra Glassworks
Self-guided studio viewing:
Enter by donation to explore gallery, shop and watch artists work in the Hotshop and Cold Shop.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot on the mezzanine viewing platform.
Weekend Heritage Tour:
Join a 45-minute guided tour of the historic Kingston Powerhouse and see contemporary glass installations.
Tip: Book via the Glassworks website to reserve one of six spots.
Hotshop demonstration:
Watch a free 45-minute glass-blowing demo by resident artists.
Tip: Demos run most weekends at 11 am and 1 pm—no booking needed.
Hands-on glass-blowing class:
Book a 20- or 40-minute session to make and take home your own glass piece.
Tip: Reserve at least two weeks in advance; sessions cost AU $220 per person.
Gallery shop browsing:
Browse unique ornaments, vessels and decorative pieces made onsite.
Tip: Ornaments start around AU $50; ask staff about recent releases.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Canberra Glassworks
- Book tours early: Reserve your heritage tour or class spot online before arrival.
- Visit midweek: Attend Wednesday or Thursday for a quieter, self-guided experience.
- Combine nearby: Pair your visit with brunch at the Old Bus Depot Markets next door.
Reviews of Canberra Glassworks
Cathy Bannister
Two years ago or so my son-in-law bought the bead-making course for me and my son. It was brilliant! It's quite a meditative process, spinning beads to get them as neatly round as possible. I was far too busy making beads to shoot photos, so you will have to make do with photos of works for sale in the shop.
Michelle Chamings
We love it there. Just a donation for entry. It was so fascinating to watch a bird,glass and bowl being made. We were lucky ky enough to have a gentleman behind us who works there explaining everything that was happening . You can book to do a beginners 2 day course to make your own
Jen Stevens
I did the make your own spring vase workshop with Phoebe and she was brilliant. Super calm and explained everything so well, she was knowledgeable and supportive throughout the process. A wonderful, unique experience that I would highly recommend. I also did the make a bird workshop a few years ago and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Canberra Glassworks workshops, a must do experience when visiti...
lynley Reid
We spent the afternoon doing a class with Thomas, it was so much fun, brilliant! Thomas is an awesome teacher who encourages you to explore the medium as well as teaching you the how to of making a vessel. We had the best time and will return. Thanks Thomas!
Casandra TP
Situated next to the Old Bus Depot Markets this is a great addition to your visit. Entrance is via donation. There is a shop at the entrance full of beautiful glassware that has been created there and small exhibition rooms on the side. The most exciting part is your get to see the artists at work from a viewing area which is impressive to see. For those that are staying in Canberra longer, you ca...
When is the best time to visit Canberra Glassworks (Canberra, Australia)?
Weekend demos run year-round but may pause on public holidays. Summer months heat the studio—wear light, natural fabrics.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry donation | AUD 5 |
| Hotshop demo | AUD 0 |
| Glass-blowing class | AUD 220 |
| Gallery shop souvenir | AUD 75 |
| Coffee nearby | AUD 8 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 308 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Canberra Glassworks
Address: 11 Wentworth Ave, Kingston ACT 2604, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Canberra Glassworks (Canberra)?
About Canberra Glassworks
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 6260 700510 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, solo trip
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities