The man who founded a unique South African market across the road from a prison

After travelling the world, Peter Gillespie developed the Prison Break Market as a new way for South Africans to shop.

During his travels, he noticed that many markets followed the same process. Vendors arrived each morning, unpacked their goods, traded for the day, and then packed everything away again.

Gillespie believed there was a better way to run a market. This led to the creation of Prison Break Market, a retail and entertainment destination in Glenferness, between Kyalami and Lonehill in Johannesburg.

The market opened in November 2019 and was designed as a midway between a traditional pop-up market and a shopping centre.

He also wanted to give crafters a permanent place where they could make their products in front of customers, teach their skills, and sell their products.

The prison theme is part of the concept. The market includes venues named San Quentin and Alcatraz, and its design incorporates historic pieces collected and restored over the years.

The market originally consisted of seven sheds, each offering something different. Today, the property has expanded to include additional businesses and activities, while retaining the core market concept.

The Harvest Pantry focuses on locally sourced produce and food. Visitors can buy fresh bread, fruit and vegetables, dairy products, cakes, coffee, and other products from local food producers.

The Yard Eatery brings together food and beverage stalls on a large wooden deck overlooking the Sandton skyline. The venue also has a children’s play area with a Kyalami-shaped track and jungle gym.

The Crafters Shed allows visitors to watch artisans make products and take part in classes. These include activities such as weaving, stained glass, woodwork, and jewellery making.

At Create Lonehill, visitors can paint ceramic pieces from a selection of unfired bisque. The venue also offers a café and requires bookings.

Families can visit MiJump, an indoor trampoline park designed for children and supervised activities.

The market’s entertainment offering is centred around its event spaces. San Quentin Events can host public and private events.

The main venue can accommodate up to 500 people. It has also hosted productions, comedy shows, festivals, and other forms of entertainment.

The Pourhouse focuses on gin, wine, craft beer, and related food offerings. It also offers gin-making experiences and workshops.

The property now includes additional venues, including Alkatraz, a private events space; Dance Academy SA; Magical Moments; and The Gulag, a gaming and esports venue.

Photos of Prison Break Market