8 food markets to check out on your next break in Ireland

Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.

From fresh farmers' produce to meals packed full of flavour, these markets are a must.

One brilliant way to spend a day during your next short break, is to visit a local food market. Sample the area's specialities, mingle with local producers and suppliers, and immerse yourself in a brand new food culture. As well as being an exciting way to discover a new town, food and farmers markets are often a brilliant way to enjoy tasty food at a great price while travelling. Grab a hearty dish to go or stock up on fresh fruit and snacks or sip on a freshly brewed coffee while rambling peacefully through your destination. Looking for market inspiration? You've come to the right place. We've put together a list of markets from up and down the country that are both completely free to visit and an excellent way to spend time on your next short break. Add these market stops to your holiday itinerary, visit a vibrant new village and stock up on as little or as much as you like as you get to know a new town on a whole other level.

Ireland's Ancient East

Solas Eco Garden Centre, Co. Laois

As well as being home to the excellent Solas Eco shop and Garden Centre in Portarlington, Co. Laois, Solas also hosts a weekly farmers market every Saturday from 10am - 2pm. This market hosts over 20 stalls, with a selection of goods from local suppliers as well as fresh produce from across the country. Grab some fruit from the Little Irish Apple Company and the Derry Villa Blueberry Farm, or some freshly baked bread from Crean's Bakery, or some handmade artisan cheese from Corleggy Cheese. And, if you fancy something hot to eat, Republic of Grill are on hand, serving up burgers, hot dogs, tacos and chicken wings.

Kilkenny Farmers Market, Co. Kilkenny

Taking place every Thursday from 9:30am to 2:30pm, the Kilkenny Farmers Market sees traders sell fresh produce from over 200 local farmers and families. Enjoy farmhouse cheeses, honey, organic meat, fruit and vegetables, preserves, home-baked goods and so much more at this buzzy city market. Once you've had your fill, grab a freshly brewed coffee from one of the stalls and take a meal to go and enjoy it in the peaceful surroundings of the Kilkenny Castle Parklands.

Wild Atlantic Way

The Milk Market, Co Limerick

The Milk Market in Co. Limerick is not only a foodie's paradise, but a bustling attraction in its own right. With a rich history dating all the way back to 1852, this riverside market is the oldest in the country, and it's open all weekend. On Fridays and Sundays, head to the outdoor café for live music, and explore a mix of stalls on offer, including antiques and artisan food. Saturdays, meanwhile, sees the Famous Food Market take place, with a huge selection of fresh produce on offer, as well as vibrant street food.

Bantry Market, Co. Cork

Located in the picturesque Wolfe Tone Square in Bantry, the Bantry Market hosts a huge variety of stalls as it sets up shop every Friday from 9:30am to 1pm. Fill your basket with organic fruit and vegetables, preserves, cheese, meat, olives, eggs and so much more. Afterwards, grab a meal to go, find a place to relax, and sit back and enjoy a spot of people-watching at this buzzy, thriving market. Additionally, the first Friday of each month is known as Fair Day, with even more traders flocking to the market, and it makes for a truly atmospheric experience.

Dublin

Blackrock Market, Co. Dublin

Situated in the seaside suburb of Blackrock, the Blackrock Market invites visitors to step through the archway and inside the Georgian building where you can enjoy a meandering stroll through its stalls. At the Blackrock Market, you'll find a beautiful array of new, second-hand and antique goods as well as some great food stalls serving up quick feasts. Grab a bite from Korean Burrito, Shaka Poke or the Veggie Vibe Café, and tuck into it while enjoying the fresh air and sea views on the Blackrock Seafront.

Airfield Farmers Market, Co. Dublin

Not too far from Dundrum Town Centre in Dublin, you'll find the historic grounds of Airfield Estate, which hosts the Airfield Farmers Market which is open every Friday and Saturday from 9am to 2:30pm. Sample the local produce which includes chutneys, jams, bread and pastries or fill your bags with goods from Airfield's bountiful stalls. Some highlights include fresh Irish fish from Kilmore Seafresh, charcuterie essentials from Scarlet Olive Co. or freshly baked goods and granola from Sarah's Natural Kitchen.

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

Killaloe Farmers Market, Co. Clare

With a peaceful location on the banks of the River Shannon, a visit to the Killaloe Farmers Market is an ideal way to spend a Sunday morning in Co. Clare. Grab a coffee and then start exploring the stalls of this picturesque market. Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables from local suppliers, and grab some brunch on the go. Some of our favourite quick bites to eat here include freshly baked pastries, crepes and moreish falafel. The Killaloe Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 11am to 3pm.

The Courtyard Market, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Located in King House in the town of Boyle, the Courtyard Market is an inviting space with a buzzy atmosphere. Pop by King House between 10am to 2pm every Saturday and peruse the stalls. Some of the gems you'll find here include cheese from the Leitrim Hill Creamery, sausage rolls from Bia an Domhain and fresh produce from Good and Green Organics. And the best part? You can enjoy the market's stalls, while taking in the stunning Georgian architecture of your surroundings. For more ideas on how to make the most of your short break in Ireland, visit discoverireland.ie. The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this summer and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace. Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.