Our Favourite Artisan Food Markets In Northern Ireland
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Like all foodies, we love nothing more than getting to know the people behind our favourite dishes. Luckily, there are countless artisan food markets in Northern Ireland, where you can do just that.

From the big cities, to smaller towns and villages, just about every corner of Northern Ireland is home to its own quality market. These are the perfect opportunity to meet the creators of your favourite local delights.

With that in mind, here are some of our favourite artisan food markets in Northern Ireland. Go along to any of these, and sample some of the finest local produce, while rubbing elbows with Northern Irish food heroes.

Our Favourite Artisan Food Markets In Northern Ireland

St George’s Market, Belfast

Right in the heart of Belfast city centre, St George’s is probably Northern Ireland’s most iconic covered market. Since the 1890s, the market has been a source of fresh meat, fish and vegetables for city locals.

These days, the Victorian market hall opens its doors to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as a handful of evenings throughout the year. Each week, the market is alive with local producers, musicians, artisans, antiques sellers, and food stalls.

Peruse some of Belfast’s finest jams and chutneys, or sample the wares of local cheese makers. With dozens of traditional and modern takeaway stalls, serving food from around the world, you’ll be truly spoiled for choice at St George’s.

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Source: https://www.culturenorthernireland.org/sites/default/files/styles/slideshow_-_non-scaled_full_width/public/content/Big%20market%20main.jpg?itok=V7buSpvg

Hillsborough Farmers’ Market

Every summer, Hillsborough Forest hosts one of the most picturesque artisan food markets in Northern Ireland. Set against the tree-lined backdrop of the forest’s Dark Walk Lane, Hillsborough Farmers Market is an ideal day out for foodies and families alike.

With everything from groceries, to artisanal charcuterie, preserves and street food, Hillsborough Farmers Market is a feast for all the senses. Once you’ve had your fill, you can also check out a variety of handmade soaps and beauty products or stunning plants.

The market is also dog-friendly, with a number of tasty and nutritious treats on offer for your four-legged friends. The market offers a truly incredible culinary experience for all the family.

Downpatrick Artisan Market

The third Saturday of every month, Downpatrick transforms into a hub of activity for the local County Down food scene, with dozens of artisan producers showcasing their talent. Get to know Northern Ireland’s top producers in the shadow of the Mourne Mountains.

Local bakers, farmers and even fishmongers attend each month to share their fresh produce. Downpatrick Artisan Market is also fertile ground for local musical talent. Once you’ve got your food, pull up a chair and enjoy the sounds of local young musicians.

Downpatrick Artisan Market is also home to some of the region’s best loved artists, including painters, crafts people, and even confectioners.

Lisburn Market

A weekly market has been held in Lisburn since all the way back in 1627. Since then, Lisburn Market has been the centre of local community life. Today, the market takes place each Tuesday, with a mixture of groceries and artisan goods on offer each week.

Set in the heart of Lisburn Square, the market offers the perfect moment of respite during a busy shopping day. With ample hot food, drink and other stands, take the chance to sit back and absorb the atmosphere of a bustling market.

Pick up your fresh, organic groceries for the week, or have a chat with local bakers, producers and artisans in the elegance of Lisburn Square.

Belfast Flea Market

Belfast Flea Market is a slightly different proposition, with a strong focus on innovative food and drink, and vintage clothing, jewelry, books and records. Belfast Flea is hosted in Union Street’s Sunflower Bar on the first Sunday of each month.

The market is a haven for foodies in Belfast, with our friends Mike’s Fancy Cheese and the Grateful Bread in attendance. You’ll also find delicious handmade cordials, pastries and even mulled cider at Belfast Flea.

If you tire yourself out while perusing the market, you can sit down in the bar with a craft beer, or a wood fired pizza, courtesy of the in-house Boxing Hare pizziolas.

Causeway Speciality Market

The North Coast area has a rich history of fine foods. This is celebrated each month at Coleraine’s Causeway Speciality Market. The market has been bringing a vibrant atmosphere to the heart of Coleraine town for over fifteen years now.

As one of the finest coastal markets in Northern Ireland, seafood lovers are well catered for in Coleraine. Purchase your fish directly from the hands that caught it, or sample award winning smoked salmon and shellfish.

Causeway Speciality Market is also the home of countless local artisans, who create jams, chutneys, breads and cheeses, as well as jewelry, specialty teas and even woodturning projects.

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Source: https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/uploads/carousel/_Crop/5FF7814B-978A-4D1A-B2D2-11F73F054759.jpeg

Mourne Market, Newcastle

Set at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, on the County Down coast, Newcastle’s Mourne Market is one of the best loved markets in Northern Ireland. As one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic seaside towns, Newcastle is the ideal destination for locals and visitors alike.

Mourne Market is attended by a range of local restaurateurs, keen to showcase their delicious recipes to new customers, as well as artisan bakers, cheese makers and small-scale farmers.

With a varied list of food producers, artisans, crafts people, artists and florists, Mourne Market is a varied day out for food lovers in one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic towns.

Artisan Food and Drink in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is one of the food world’s best kept secrets. Even as locals, we often don’t know what’s right on our doorstep. Visiting one of the many markets in Northern Ireland is the perfect way to get to know our local food scene.

From fresh produce, to lovingly crafted chutneys, cheeses and pastries, Northern Ireland has it all.

At Indie Fude, our passion is showcasing the finest of local culinary talent. Read our story, and check out our range of incredible food and drinks, or visit us in store to find out more about the best food and drink Northern Ireland has to offer.