Prison Break Market Johannesburg is one of the most original and celebrated market and event destinations in South Africa — a Best of Joburg award-winning lifestyle precinct in Glenferness, Midrand, built across seven uniquely designed themed sheds on a property situated opposite the Leeukop Prison. The entire concept is the brainchild of developer Peter Gillespie, who envisioned a space that sits midway between a pop-up market and a permanent retail centre — giving artisans a place to manufacture, teach, and sell in one location, while creating an authentic, community-driven experience that Johannesburg’s conventional malls simply cannot replicate.

With 43,000+ Instagram followers, panoramic views of the Sandton skyline from timber decks, a craft gin distillery, boutique wine library, creative workshops, live entertainment, and two dedicated private event venues, Prison Break Market Johannesburg has grown into a genuine destination — not just for weekenders, but for event organisers looking for something truly unforgettable.

Why Prison Break Market Johannesburg Is Unlike Any Other Venue

Prison Break Market Johannesburg occupies a unique position in the Johannesburg events landscape. It is simultaneously a public market, a creative hub, a food destination, and a world-class event venue — all wrapped in a prison-themed aesthetic that draws on the history of the surrounding area and the legendary San Quentin State Prison for its branding and character.

The atmosphere is deliberately unpretentious and authentic. Because vendors manufacture and sell in the same location, every visit feels genuinely alive — guests can watch artisans at work, taste gin being distilled, join a stained glass workshop, or simply sit on the wooden deck with a craft cocktail and watch the Sandton skyline glow at sunset.

The 7 Themed Sheds

Prison Break Market Johannesburg is structured around 7 distinct sheds, each with its own personality and offering:

• Starfood Market (Shed 1) — Artisanal food hub featuring freshly baked bread, German butchery, French-style café, Mediterranean stalls, gluten-free options, charcuterie, jams, and pastries. Open Wed–Fri 09:00–15:00, Sat–Sun 09:00–17:00
• The Yard Eatery (Shed 2) — Gourmet market-style restaurant with Japanese-inspired noodles, bao buns, pizzas, a Kyalami racetrack-themed kids play area, and a wooden deck with Sandton skyline views. Open Thu–Sun 10:00–21:00
• Crafters Shed (Shed 3) — Live artisan workshops in weaving, stained glass, woodwork, metalwork, and jewellery making. Home to Rosa Handmade, Acorn & Anvil, Craft Academy, Green Punk Designs, and Local is Lekker ZA
• Create Lonehill (Shed 4) — Ceramic and crockery painting studio with food, drinks, and a relaxed creative atmosphere. Open Tuesday 09:00–17:00, Wed–Sun various hours
• Dreambox (Shed 5) — Bookings required; check the website for current offering
• San Quentin Events (Shed 6) — The flagship private event venue (see below)
• The Pourhouse (Shed 7) — Home to The Noble Experiment Craft Gin Distillery, The Wine & Spirit Library, craft beer, boutique wines, and private tasting bookings. Also features The Gallery mezzanine for private bookings. Open Wed–Sun 11:00–21:00

San Quentin Events — The Flagship Private Event Venue

Inspired by the oldest prison in the world, San Quentin Events is Prison Break Market Johannesburg’s flagship event space — a massive 540m² raw barn that can be completely transformed for any occasion.

• Capacity: Up to 500 guests depending on event style and layout
• Breathtaking views of the Sandton skyline
• Blank canvas — the space can be transformed into any theme or configuration
• Smaller adjoining venue available for up to 30 guests for private functions and team-building sessions
• Full production infrastructure available
• Best for: Weddings, luxury corporate galas, product launches, fashion shows, expos, conferences, cocktail events, brand activations
• Bookings: +27 11 463 8019 | events@sanquentinevents.co.za | sanquentinevents.co.za

Alkatraz — The Intimate VIP Venue

Alkatraz is Prison Break Market’s premium intimate event space — ideal for smaller private gatherings, VIP holding areas for artists and celebrities, or as a standalone venue for exclusive events.

• Upstairs (Skybar): 30 guests
• Downstairs: 30 guests
• Entire venue: Up to 75 guests for informal events
• 10 wine barrels and 24 barstools included
• 75-inch plasma screen (downstairs)
• Internal PA system with Bluetooth connectivity
• Fully stocked bar — local beers, wines, soft drinks
• Must be rented as a whole — upstairs and downstairs cannot be split
• Bookings: sanquentinevents.co.za | +27 11 463 8019

Practical Details

• Address: 10 MacMillan Road, Cnr Main and Lachlan Road, Glenferness, Midrand, Johannesburg
• Phone: +27 82 522 1739
• Email: info@prisonbreakmarket.co.za
• Open: Tuesday–Sunday (closed Mondays, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Voting Day)
• General trading hours: 09:00–21:00 (varies by shed)
• Cashless venue — card payments only
• Pets: Leashed pets welcome in non-food areas
• Awards: Best of Joburg Winner
• Best for: Family days out, corporate team events, private celebrations, wedding receptions, product launches, brand activations, artisan markets, pop-up events, fashion shows

For full market information and event bookings, visit the official Prison Break Market website.

Also explore other popular event venues in Midrand or browse Johannesburg event venues on Event Venues SA.