Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.

As you explore the aisles, you’ll experience a sensory overload at the turn of every corner. Arrive early to observe as traders diligently set up their stands. Then watch as the market fills up with curious tourists and locals, who come to buy goods for their homes and restaurants.

The market is traditionally a place to shop for fish and meat. Butchers and fishmongers still make up the majority of the traders. Marvel at the many meat cuts, including beef steaks, lamb shanks, pigs’ feet and tripe. Look for drisheen, a type of sausage made from cow, pig and sheep blood mixed with breadcrumbs, fat and milk.

Find a wide selection of healthy items at the fruit and vegetable stands, where exotic and organic produce items are displayed in a kaleidoscope of colors. Choose from more than a dozen varieties of olives alongside Mediterranean cheeses, cured ham, oils and pickles. Indulge in freshly baked breads, rich chocolates and sweet confectionaries.

Go to the upper level and dine on customary Cork dishes at a market restaurant. Sit at a table next to the veranda, order a drisheen and peer down on the activities below. Alternatively, grab a gourmet sandwich and eat on the go.

The English Market is in the heart of Cork’s city center, only a short walk from other major city attractions such as Cork Opera House and the Crawford Art Gallery. Use the hop-on, hop-off tourist bus that stops at the market or public buses that stop nearby. The market is open from Monday to Saturday.