Canberra Glassworks Kingston

Experience the magic of glassmaking at Canberra Glassworks, one of Canberra’s most unique cultural attractions. Located in the historic Kingston Powerhouse, just minutes from Mercure Canberra, visitors can watch artists at work, explore inspiring exhibitions, join hands-on workshops, and take home a beautiful piece of Australian-made glass art.

Canberra Glassworks in Kingston

Set on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in the vibrant Kingston Arts Precinct, Canberra Glassworks is Australia’s leading centre for contemporary glass art. Housed within a beautifully restored heritage power station, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to see professional artists creating extraordinary works in a working glassmaking studio.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, group, or solo explorer, Canberra Glassworks provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most captivating art forms.

Distance from Mercure Canberra: Approximately 10 minutes by car.

Watch Live Glassblowing in the Hotshop

The heart of Canberra Glassworks is the Hotshop, where furnaces glow and skilled artists transform molten glass into stunning works of art.

Visitors can watch glassmakers at work throughout the year, and there is currently even more to see as the Glassworks team undertakes a major commission for the redevelopment of Sydney’s historic City Tattersalls Club. More than 1,200 bespoke glass light fittings are being handcrafted for the installation, making this one of the largest production projects ever undertaken at the facility.

Watching artists create these pieces offers a fascinating insight into the precision, skill and creativity behind large-scale glassmaking.

Create Your Own Glass Artwork

Looking for a truly memorable Canberra experience?

Canberra Glassworks offers a range of hands-on workshops where visitors can create their own glass artwork under the guidance of experienced artists.

Popular Experiences

• Glassblowing sessions
• Make-your-own paperweights
• Christmas ornaments and seasonal projects
• Couples glassmaking experiences
• Weekend workshops for beginners
• Specialty courses and masterclasses

No experience is required, making these sessions ideal for first-time participants.

School Holiday Activities for Families

Canberra Glassworks is a favourite destination during school holidays, offering creative and educational programs for children and teenagers.

The popular Spring School Holiday Program allows young artists to learn glassmaking techniques in a safe and engaging environment. Parents and guardians are welcome to participate alongside children, creating a fun family experience.

For older participants, specialised courses such as the Teen Glassblowing Program provide a unique opportunity for young creatives aged 14 to 18 to learn directly from professional artists.

Award-Winning Artists and Unique Creations

Visitors may also have the chance to witness special projects and artist demonstrations throughout the year.

Recent highlights include artist Annette Blair, whose acclaimed glass installations include the striking chandeliers displayed at the Australian War Memorial. The Glassworks regularly collaborates with leading Australian artists while also supporting emerging talent through competitions, exhibitions and community projects.

Explore Contemporary Glass Exhibitions

Canberra Glassworks hosts a dynamic exhibition program featuring some of Australia’s most talented contemporary glass artists.

Rotating exhibitions showcase:

• Contemporary glass sculpture
• Functional glass art
• Large-scale installations
• Emerging Australian artists
• International glassmaking influences

Each visit offers something new, making Canberra Glassworks a destination worth returning to throughout the year.

Shop Australian-Made Glass Art

Before you leave, visit the Glassworks Shop to browse an impressive collection of handcrafted glass pieces created by artists from Canberra and across Australia.

Popular souvenirs include:

• Handblown bowls and vases
• Glass jewellery
• Decorative sculptures
• Home décor pieces
• Unique gifts and collectables

For visitors seeking something more memorable than a standard souvenir, the Glassworks Shop offers distinctive pieces that reflect Australia’s vibrant creative culture.

Why Visit Canberra Glassworks?

• Watch live glassblowing in action
• Explore a heritage-listed industrial building
• Join hands-on glassmaking workshops
• Enjoy family-friendly holiday activities
• Discover contemporary art exhibitions
• Shop unique Australian-made gifts
• Experience one of Canberra’s most distinctive attractions

Stay at Mercure Canberra

Planning a Canberra getaway? Stay at Mercure Canberra and discover the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Located within easy reach of Kingston, Canberra Glassworks makes an inspiring day out for couples, families, conference delegates and leisure travellers alike.

BOOK NOW at Mercure Canberra and experience the creativity, craftsmanship and culture of Canberra Glassworks.