Besides the English Market, most food and farmers markets in Cork are located outside of the city centre.
It’s true that food and farmer’s markets in Cork are the most delectable places to taste some of the best foods in the county. With fresh produce and ingredients straight from the farmers’ tables and trucks, there’s no better spot to inhale local culture and flavors of the land. Here are some of the best markets in the region, for you to indulge in the music, sip on beautifully roasted coffee and bring home a few snacks.
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English Market
Since 1788, English Market has been the heart of the city’s major indoor food market. For the best quality of produce, ingredients and prepared Irish dishes, there isn’t a better place that offers a wide selection that is both fresh and local. The English Market has been woven into the fabric of the city’s history and suffered through various hardships, including: wars, floods, and even the Great Famine. It’s become such an institution that even Queen Elizabeth II paid a visit here.

Mahon Point Farmers Market
Voted as “The Best Farmers Market in Cork,” Mahon Point Farmers Markets’ hustle and bustle is emblematic of the vivacious energy exchanged between farmers and customers that eager to live and eat healthier lifestyles. Every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mahon Point features a wide range of fresh foods, including: organic dairy, meats, vegetables and fruits. Expect everything here to be local, natural and organic.

Douglas Farmers Market
Open on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m., Douglas Farmers Market is a gathering hub of 30 vendors that specialize in flowers, poultry, meats, seafood, pastries…and more. Every produce and ingredient is naturally-grown, making Douglas Market a place of network between small farmers, restauranteurs and locals. With live music performing on site, this is a great option for a quick grub with freshly squeezed juice and a tasty sandwich.

Midleton Farmers Market
On Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Midleton Farmer’s Market comes alive in a town located in East Cork. A decade ago, Darina Allen of Ballymaloe Cookery School started the farmer’s market to connect producers and customers. Today, it has become one of the most recognizable farmers markets in all of Ireland, with its fresh selections of produce, juices, snacks and breads. Not to mention, there’s also live music to enhance the jovial ambiance.

Skibbereen Farmers Market
Every Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., there’s Skibbereen Farmers Market located an hour west from Cork City Centre by car. Known for promoting artisans’ work and community in the county of Cork, the market features local arts and crafts, especially books and even vintage finds. The main market is full of vendors selling organic fish, meats, fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, cakes…and so much more. Even if it’s situated outside of city centre, it’s considered one of the most vibrant markets in the area.
