If you have ever found yourself wandering through a sea of treasures on a quiet Saturday morning, you know that the best finds are rarely the ones you planned for. We recently spent a morning at Southey’s Car Boot Market in Somerset West, and while we walked in just wanting the experience, we walked out with a few lessons on local charm and the heart-wrenching logic of a toddler.
With over 100 stalls, the variety was staggering. Whether you are a collector of antiques, a bookworm looking for a used paperback, or just someone in need of a jar of homemade jam, the market feels like a community living room spread out on the grass. We saw everything from vintage jewelry and collectibles to everyday household items and clothes.
One of the first things we realized as we browsed the stalls was that some old-school traditions remain firmly in place. While we were eyeing some of the homemade treats and local goodies, we noticed that very few vendors had card machines. If you are planning a visit to 186 Main Rd, do yourself a favor and stop at an ATM first. You do not want to miss out on the perfect jar of preserves or a handcrafted trinket because you are relying on your phone/card to pay.
Despite being a popular weekend destination, the atmosphere remained remarkably quiet and peaceful. One of the biggest stressors of any weekend outing is usually the logistics, but free parking was readily available right at the market. It made the start of our morning effortless.
Interestingly, the peaceful vibe inside the perimeter stood in stark contrast to the sight of many homeless people gathered just outside the market gates. It was a grounding reminder of the different realities existing side by side in the city, even as we enjoyed the sunshine and the browsing.
We went in with no intention of buying anything, especially for our little boy, as we just wanted him to enjoy the sights. Naturally, that plan lasted about five minutes. We ended up picking out two small diecast cars for him—a bright red bakkie and a blue SUV.
However, we quickly learned that toddler regret is a very real thing. As we made our way back to the parking lot, our son realized that there were much bigger cars available at other stalls that he had overlooked. The realization that he had chosen the “small” ones led to a few tears. It was a classic parenting moment: watching him learn the hard way that sometimes you have to look at all your options before you commit.
Before we headed home, the market had one last surprise for us. Tucked away in the parking lot was a very special car that was clearly not part of the sale. For a car lover, it was the perfect “cherry on top” of the morning. It was a reminder that at a car boot sale, the treasures aren’t always on the tables—sometimes they are right there in the rows of parked vehicles.
If you are looking for a low-key way to spend a morning, Southey’s is a great spot to slow down. Just remember to bring cash, keep an eye out for rare cars in the lot, and maybe help your little ones weigh their toy options carefully before you leave the stall.
I’m a wife, mother and local publisher who traded Johannesburg and two years abroad for life in Somerset West. Through HelderbergStuff, I share lifestyle stories, local discoveries and noteworthy developments across Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay. For media and collaboration enquiries: marina@helderbergstuff.co.za
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