Welcome to Cork’s iconic English Market — a historic treasure that has been trading since 1788. As one of Europe's oldest and most well-covered markets, it stands as a vibrant hub of Cork’s retail and culinary scene. Having weathered famine, floods, wars, fires, and multiple recessions the market remains a strong part of Cork’s retail environment.
“…the stomach and soul of Cork city, it provides nourishment for both… It’s great to have a chat and to look into the eyes of the person selling to you. The market is a true gem…” - Ross Lewis: Chapter One
Recognised as an architectural landmark, the market is a cherished heritage site and a must-visit tourist attraction.
Celebrated for its fresh, local produce, the English Market showcases the best of Cork’s traditional foods alongside international flavours.
The traders are local and independent food producers or retailers, often with generations of families working in the Market. The traditional serve-over-counter stall trading also ensures that the service to the customer is personal and unique.
The reputation and history of the market continues to attract thousands of visitors annually, including heads of state and celebrities, as it truly is the heart of the city.
“... a civic space, a meeting place, a thoroughfare, and a bustling social hub of the city. With its variety of products, the pride of place accorded to small traders, the personalised service, the growing emphasis on organic products and reliance on small-scale producers, it is forever popular. A mix of traditional Cork fare and exciting new foods from afar, along with longstanding family-run stalls and newcomers from outside, all contribute to its unique appeal, which is celebrated widely, especially by visitors to the city...” O’Drisceoil & O’Drisceoil, "Serving a City", published by Collins Press www.collinspress.ie
“In my opinion this is the best covered market in the UK and Ireland”
- Rick Stein.