Stroll through the countless stalls of Cork's English Market

Created in 1788 by the English protestants who occupied the city at the time, by 1840 representatives of the city’s catholic “Irish” community took control over the city once again, creating their alternative “Irish Market”, St. Peter’s Market (which today stands as an ordinary Bodega on Cornmarket Street), officially naming its counterpart alternative the “English market” to distinguish it from theirs.

From the 1990s onwards, the market has seen a steady incline of various world-wide market foods in its stalls. These days, any local will tell you that this is the best place in all of Cork county to purchase fresh produce and any meat or fish.

In addition to rather classical local fish selection (such as Ballycotton fish vendor), the market also introduced fresh sushi stands and oyster bars. It also displays an impressive selection of up to 10 stands for local meats (such as spiced-beef by Tom Durcan and other brands of family butchers) and poultry (such as the Chicken Inn stands). It also hosts French and German delicacy sections who have become extremely popular over the years thanks to the quality of their imported products from their nations’ best producers. Other specialties include an extended olive stand from The Real Olive Company, as well a wide range of cheeses as the Toonsbridge Dairy stand. As for fruit and veggies, you’ll have an unlimited choice of products from five different vendors. Finally, if you’re looking for a good coffee break or are in the mood for a bit of sweetness, stop by its many coffee/bakery stands and sit over the counter for a much deserved shopping break whilst chatting to its many friendly vendors!

Finally, the market also includes fine wine stands for those looking for a bottle of French or Italian (because let’s be honest, the Irish aren’t known for their wines) at Bubble Brothers that would pair up perfectly with your shopping.

The Cork English market is located at Grand Parade, Centre, Cork, Ireland and its opening hours are 8AM to 6PM everyday except for Sundays. We advise you to go during the week (Mondays to Thursdays specifically) to avoid larger crowds. Lunch time tends to be very busy. And if you fancy eating at the Farmgate restaurant cafe, it is highly recommended you call ahead of time to make a reservation.

By car:

• From Cork airport, follow the road for Kinsale via le N27 for 22 minutes before heading into the city centre and following signs for Old Station Road, make a turn to take Copley Street, following signs for the SMall before finding the market on your right.

By bus:

• Take the 251, 225 or 226 from Cork Airport until the “The English Market” stop.