Guide To The English Market In Cork Ireland

Step inside Cork’s beloved English Market, and you’re in for a proper treat. This isn’t just a 400 year old market—it’s the heart and soul of the city.

Since 1788, locals have been popping in to meet, greet, and eat. You’ll find everything from the finest cuts of meat to freshly baked soda bread.

The market is a feast for the eyes and the belly, with stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and even a bit of the ol’ black pudding.

Stop by to fill your basket or have some craic (fun) over a cuppa. Either way, the English Market is the spot to soak up Cork’s charm.

In recent years, it’s really become a must visit, thanks to a visit by the most English of Englishwomen, Queen Elizabeth II.

Celebrity chef Rick Stein also praised the English Market, describing it as the “best covered market in the UK and Ireland.”

>>> Click here for a culinary tour that includes the English Market

Mini History of the English Market

The English Market actually has no English connections. Only proudly artisan Irish good are sold there.

Apparently, though, there used to be another market nearby called the “Irish Market.” So, when the new place of trade was established in 1788, the council gave it the name “English Market” to distinguish it from the other one.

Interior view of the arcades of the English Market

The building was partially destroyed by fire in 1980. But it was lovingly restored to its former glory.

The market briefly gained attention when Queen Elizabeth II visited in 2011, as I mentioned above, apparently at her own request.

She chatted happily with the traders, especially fishmonger Pat O’Connell, who then got an invite to Buckingham Palace.

Visiting the English Market

The market has a lovely double arched entrance on Grand Parade. There are two side entrances as well.

Inside, you’ll find a beautiful multi-arched wood ceiling. There are colorful displays of the finest, freshest foods Cork has on offer.

K O'Connell Fish Merchants — K O’Connell Fish Merchants

In the myriad stalls, you’ll find meat, fish, breads, organic fruit and veg, cheese, coffee, nuts, etc.

Thanks to Cork’s diverse community, you can also purchase exotic spices, Asian groceries, and Middle Eastern treats.

Some items seemed incredibly inedible to me — pigs’ feet, tripe, and drisheen (the edible lining of a cow’s stomach served with black pudding from cow’s blood). But it’s there for the adventurous among you.

The market also has a selection of clothes, gifts, and joke shops. And there are number of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a coffee and Irish scone while listening the bustle of the market.

Here are some of the must-visit stalls in Cork’s English Market:

Tom Durcan Meats – famous for Cork spiced beef and top-quality cuts of meat.
On the Pigs Back – offers Irish farmhouse cheeses, pâtés, and artisan chutneys.
The Real Olive Company – a haven for olives, pestos, and Mediterranean delights.
K O’Connell Fish Merchants – known for fresh seafood straight from Cork’s coast.
The Alternative Bread Company – specializes in sourdoughs and artisan breads.
The Chicken Inn – offers free-range poultry and specialty game meats.
The Sandwich Stall – delicious sandwiches made with market-fresh ingredients.
O’Mahony’s Poultry – renowned for fresh eggs, poultry, and duck.
Bubble Brothers – a fantastic wine and champagne selection to pair with your market finds.
Heaven’s Cakes – tempting baked goods, including cakes, pastries, and treats.

pastry shop with decorative flowers — look at that!

If you want to grab lunch, Farmgate Cafe on the mezzanine level has some delicious modern Irish comfort food. The cafe sources its ingredients directly from the food stalls below.

If you want to pick up items for a picnic-style lunch, check out On the Pig’s Back. This stall specializes in artisanal charcuterie, pates, and cheeses.

Many stalls also sell grab-and-go items like savory pies, sausage rolls, or seafood chowder.

Tips For Visiting

Address: The main entrance is on Grand Parade. There are side entrances on Princes Street and Patrick Street.

Hours: Open Mon to Sat -from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Parking:

There is basically no street parking near the entrance.

Q-Park Grand Parade is just a 2-minute walk from the market’s entrance. That’s where we parked to visit.

Cork City Council also operates a Park & Ride facility at the Black Ash, Kinsale Road, on the south side of the city. This service allows you to park your vehicles and take a bus directly to the city center, avoiding the hassle of city parking.

If you’d like to get the historical backdrop of the city and see all the secret spots, you may want to book a guided walking tour that includes the market.

Tips:

While most vendors accept cards, some may prefer cash. Arrive early to experience the market at its freshest and avoid crowds.

The Princes Street Entrance, adorned with the market’s iconic facade, is the perfect spot for photos.

And be sure to climb to the first floor balcony to see the bustling market below!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the English Market in Cork. You may enjoy these other Ireland travel guides:

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