My Ireland
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Cork city’s English Market
The English Market has been the place to go for local produce in Cork city since the 18th century.
First opened in 1788, the English Market is one of the oldest municipal markets in the world. As soon as you enter, you’ll feel the energy of this buzzing foodie space. Local vendors sell fruits, vegetables, cheese, charcuterie and more at colourful stalls – many maintaining traditions that have lasted generations. You’ll encounter traditional Cork foods such as drisheen (blood sausage) and tripe, as well as local favourites including The Real Olive Company’s fresh pesto and olive oil, Frank Hedderman’s smoked salmon and Toonsbridge Dairy cheeses.
As well as fabulous food, there’s a real sense of history here. The English Market has maintained its trade through some of Cork’s most troublesome times. It survived the Great Famine, war, serious flooding and recession. In 1980 it was struck by fire and nothing was left except the exterior walls and the decorated fountain inside the market. It bounced back though, as thriving as ever. The market building itself has even become a landmark in Cork with its distinguished red brick walls and interesting architecture. Drop by, browse the stalls and stay for lunch at the acclaimed Farmgate Café. It’s the perfect Cork day.
Stalls in the English Market, Cork city
Need to know
The Farmgate Café on the upper level of the market serves tasty seasonal dishes made with local ingredients – many of which are from the market.
A few famous faces have visited the English Market, including the late Queen Elizabeth II!
Celebrity chef Rick Stein called this market “the best in the UK and Ireland”.
