15 of the best farmers’ markets in Cork to check out this summer
Local markets are more than just a place to shop.
In recent years they’ve become a place to catch up with a neighbour over coffee, browse for bits, hear the local news and discover artists and craftspeople.
A well-run market is a medley of scents, sights, fabrics, and flavours that awaken a deep nostalgia for community, commerce and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Luckily for us in Cork, we’re not shy of a few markets and as time goes on, more and more are popping up around the county. If you’re feeling like a jaunt into the countryside or you just fancy a fresh loaf of sourdough in your local area, check out some of these buzzing weekly markets:
1. Mahon Point Farmers Market
Kick off your weekend early with a trip to Mahon Point Farmers Market, which takes place every Thursday morning from 10am -2.30pm outside the Mahon Point Shopping centre.
You’ll find everything from cheeses, to curry, olive oil and sushi.
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2. Douglas Market
The fantastic Douglas farmers market is on every Saturday morning 10am – 2pm, located in Douglas Village. Discover great produce from across Cork county, coffees of all persuasions, vegan treats from My Goodness, cake aplenty and even a live piano performance or two if you’re lucky.
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3. Ballincollig Farmers Market
Head to Ballincollig every Wednesday and discover local vendors offering freshly-caught fish from Union Hall, seasonal flowers and plants from Swanton’s Gardens and potatoes from Ballycotton. There’s plenty to choose from if you’re feeling peckish, with stalls offering vegetarian, sushi and wood-fired pizza on the go.
The Ballincollig Market takes place every Wednesday from 9am.
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4. The Coal Quay Food Market
The Coal Quay market is a fantastic addition to the city centre, following in the footsteps of the infamous shawlies and food merchants who made this part of Cork their commercial home back in the day.
Grab a bouquet of seasonal blooms with your brown bread and mochas at the Saturday Coal Quay Market from 8am-2pm every weekend.
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5. Rohu’s Country Market
Just outside the city bounds is the Rohu Country Market in Innishannon. It’s a spot to check out stunning pieces of handmade woodcrafts or stock up on flavoursome wines, which cannot be found in the supermarkets and an ideal place to pick up lunch and provisions en route to West Cork.
Rohu’s Country Market is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am and Sunday from noon.
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6. Bandon Farmers’ Market
Stop off in Bandon for a Farmers Market every Saturday in the Old Market Garden from 9.30am to 1.30pm. There’s usually a fantastic local performer keeping the crowds entertained and plenty of seating to enjoy a bite on a sunny day.
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7. Cobh Farmers’ Market
Head east to picturesque Cobh and bring a bag to tote your goodies as you explore the flourishing Friday market on The Promenade from 9:30am–1pm.
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8. Midleton Farmers’ Market
As well as the usual suspects, expect to find some community-specific stallholders at Midleton Farmers’ Market. The local Men’s Shed recently created fabulous handmade items for sale on the Community Stall in aid of Ukraine.
The market was originally set up by Darina Allen and local farmers to provide an outlet for their produce. It opens every Saturday morning, 9am -1pm.
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9. Clonakilty Friday Market
It’s no secret that we love Clon. Head west to this charming coastal town for the Friday Farmers Market from 9am-2pm in the spacious Emmet Square.
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10. Bantry Market
Bantry is a proud fishing village and has historically been a market town. The monthly Fair Day, held on the first Friday of every month, attracts big numbers from the surrounding communities.
Check out the weekly market every Friday from 8.30am-5pm.
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11. Carrigaline Farmer’s Market
Carrigaline hosts a weekly farmers market on Fridays from 10am-2pm on the local GAA grounds. Cool off with an ice cream cone on a sunny day, head to The Witch’s Kitchen and Haggard Wolf for some delicious jam and chutney or sate your hunger with a tasty burger as a weekend treat.
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12. Blackrock Sunday Market
The Blackrock Sunday Market takes place every Sunday and it’s the perfect excuse to amble leisurely through the Marina Park in search of lunch.
Stallholders are usually set up opposite the Cork Boat Club from 10am-2pm every Sunday.
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13. Skibbereen Farmers Market
Skibbereen Farmers Market is a huge attraction for the town, running every Saturday from 9.30am – 2pm. The old mart site hosts one of the largest arrays of vendors in West Cork and it’s a hit with tourists every summer.
You might even spot local politician Holly Cairns selling organic seeds from her family farm. We recommend going early to avoid the crowds.
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14. Schull Farmers Market
Bring the smallies to the playground overlooking the idyllic Schull Harbour, then head to the pier where you’ll find the Sunday market every week from 10am to 2pm.
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15. Mallow Farmers Market
Go car-free and take the train to Mallow on Fridays for the town’s farmers market. Stallholders will be waiting for you outside St James’ Church from 9am-1pm.
