A Complete Guide to Visiting Cahir Farmers Market – Times, Stalls & Local Treasures
Introduction
Every Saturday, the historic castle car park in Cahir comes alive with the sights, smells and sounds of County Tipperary’s finest local producers. The Cahir Farmers Market is more than a shopping trip – it’s a community celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage, artisan craftsmanship and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a resident looking for fresh, responsibly‑sourced food, a tourist eager to taste authentic Irish flavours, or a business owner scouting local suppliers, this guide provides everything you need to make the most of your visit.
When the Market Is Open
| Day | Opening Hours | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 09:00 – 13:00 | Year‑round (including bank holidays) |
Location: Castle Carpark, Cahir, County Tipperary (just opposite Cahir Castle and a short walk from the town centre).
Contact: 086 648 2044 – the market organiser can confirm any special events or temporary stall changes.
Tip: Arrive early – most stalls sell out within the first two hours, especially the fresh‑baked goods and seasonal fruit.
What to Expect – The Typical Stall Line‑up
The market hosts around 12–15 regular stallholders, each specialising in a distinct product range. All produce (apart from the fish stall) is sourced from farms within a 20‑mile radius of Cahir, guaranteeing freshness and supporting the local economy.
| Category | Example Stall(s) | Typical Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable & Fruit | Two vegetable producers, two fruit growers | Heirloom tomatoes, Irish carrots, kale, potatoes, apples, berries, stone fruit (seasonal) |
| Fish & Seafood | One dedicated fish stall | Freshly caught Irish salmon, trout, white fish, shellfish (subject to seasonal availability) |
| Meat & Charcuterie | Local butcher’s stall | Traditional cured pork, sausages, free‑range chicken, beef cuts |
| Organic Livestock | Certified organic farmer | Grass‑fed beef, lamb, pork, and a selection of farm‑fresh eggs |
| Home‑Bakery | Three home‑bakers | Sourdough loaves, oat & rye breads, pastries, cakes, gluten‑free treats |
| Juice & Cider | Juice producer | Cold‑pressed apple & berry juices, artisanal cider vinegar |
| Cheese & Dairy | Local cheese makers | Bay Lough cheese, fresh cottage cheese, goat’s cheese |
| Crafts & Gifts | Various craft‑makers | Hand‑woven textiles, pottery, wooden toys, jewellery |
| Specialty Foods | Artisan stall(s) | Organic wines, Irish chocolate, chutneys, preserves, honey |
The market’s emphasis on locally‑grown, sustainably‑produced goods means you’ll often find information cards detailing the farm’s location, farming methods and animal welfare standards.
Local Produce – Fresh From the Fields to Your Plate
Seasonal Fruit
- Apples: The surrounding orchards supply crisp, juicy varieties perfect for eating fresh or making cider.
- Berries: Strawberries, blackberries and raspberries appear from late May through September.
- Stone Fruit: Early‑summer peaches and plums are a treat when they’re in season.
Vegetables
- Root Crops: Potatoes, carrots, and parsnips – staples of the Irish kitchen.
- Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and silverbeet, often grown using organic methods.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme and chives for home cooking.
Meat & Fish
- Grass‑Fed Beef & Lamb: Rich, lean cuts with a distinctive Irish flavour.
- Cured Pork: Traditional Irish bacon and sausages, smoked on‑site in some years.
- Fresh Fish: Locally sourced salmon and trout, usually caught in the nearby River Suir or Lough Derg.
Dairy & Eggs
- Artisanal Cheeses: Bay Lough cheese offers a range from mild to sharp, all made from cow’s milk produced within the county.
- Free‑Range Eggs: From the organic farm stall, with a guarantee of humane rearing.
Crafts, Artisanal Foods & Unique Finds
Beyond food, the market is a hub for creative makers:
- Hand‑woven Blankets & Scarves: Made from Irish wool, perfect for the cooler months.
- Pottery & Ceramics: Functional bowls, mugs and decorative pieces, often featuring motifs from Tipperary’s landscape.
- Jewellery: Silver and copper pieces inspired by Celtic designs.
- Gourmet Treats: Small‑batch chocolate, honey infused with local herbs, and small‑lot organic wines from boutique vineyards.
These crafts make ideal souvenirs or gifts, and many stallholders are happy to discuss custom orders.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Cash & Card: Most stalls accept cash; an increasing number now take contactless card payments – bring both.
- Parking: The Castle Carpark offers free parking on market days; arrive early to secure a spot close to the stalls.
- Reusable Bags: Bring your own tote or basket to reduce waste and comply with Ireland’s recent plastic‑free initiatives.
- Pet Policy: Dogs on leashes are welcome in the car park but not inside the market area.
- Weather Considerations: The market is outdoors; a light raincoat or umbrella is advisable, especially in the winter months.
- Accessibility: The car park is level and has wheelchair‑friendly pathways; stall aisles are generally wide enough for mobility scooters.
Supporting the Local Economy
Spending at Cahir Farmers Market has a ripple effect throughout the community:
- Farmers retain a higher proportion of profits compared with large supermarkets, allowing reinvestment in sustainable practices.
- Craftspeople gain exposure to a wider audience, helping preserve traditional skills.
- Local schools and community groups sometimes organise educational visits, fostering a new generation of food‑savvy consumers.
Consider signing up for the market’s newsletter (available via the website) to receive updates on seasonal produce, special events (e.g., live music, cooking demonstrations) and volunteer opportunities.
Getting There & Nearby Attractions
- By Car: From the M8, take the exit for Cahir (N24). The market car park is signposted from the town centre.
- Public Transport: Bus Éireann route 245 stops a short walk from the market. Check the latest timetables for Saturday services.
- Nearby Sights:
- Cahir Castle – a 13th‑century fortress just a 5‑minute walk away.
- Swiss Cottage – an iconic 19th‑century thatched cottage.
- The Main Guard – a historic gatehouse now housing a small museum.
Combine a market visit with a stroll through these attractions for a full Cahir experience.
Conclusion
Cahir Farmers Market offers a vibrant snapshot of County Tipperary’s agricultural bounty, artisan craftsmanship and community spirit. With its Saturday opening from 09:00 to 13:00, you can sample fresh produce grown within 20 miles, discover unique crafts, and support local families who keep traditional Irish foodways alive. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a culinary adventure, or simply a leisurely Saturday, the market is a must‑visit destination that showcases the very best of Cahir.
Plan your visit, bring a reusable bag, and enjoy the flavours of Tipperary!