Located smack-bang in the middle of Cork city, The English Market is often listed as one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and it was made all the more famous in 2011 with a visit from Queen Elizabeth. However, we decided to feature this gem on the list of Ireland’s Travel Secrets as we felt it is a little underappreciated, though probably not by Corkonians , of course. The market has survived revolutions, fire, famine, booms and busts and continues to be a social hub in the city, right off St.
Patrick’s Street. As well as that it’s also a spectacular market. Not only is it filled with specialty foods , from handmade chocolates to spices from around the world, but you can also find every fresh staple you could possibly need for your kitchen.
The historic building is also a wonderful place to simply while away a few hours. Taking in the colorful delicious wares on sale and sampling some really delicious food. From artisan sandwiches and coffee to fresh oysters and fresh cheese, if you can’t find something you want to munch on there’s something wrong! Of course, if you want to go really native there are a few unique traditional pieces of food on sale including drisheen (blood sausage) or a battlebord (dried salted ling – a member of the cod family).
Delicious! Sign up to IrishCentral's newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything Irish! The history The origins of The English Market dates back to King James I , in 1610, but it was in 1788 that trading.