Enjoy some retail therapy in Ireland
Searching for the perfect Irish souvenir? Or maybe you just fancy a shopping spree while you’re here. Either way, you are surrounded by markets and big-name brands in Ireland.
To sample Dublin’s eclectic shopping scene, head to George’s Street Arcade, an enclosed Victorian market with over 40 independent retailers selling clothing, jewelry, music records, souvenirs, and food.
For practically every high street brand in one place, head to the retail mecca of Liffey Valley, where you can shop for iconic pieces and enjoy a tasty meal at one of the many eateries on site.
When it comes to designer brands on a budget, locals flock to Kildare Village, which is packed with boutiques, luxury brands, and Irish designer stores at discount prices.
In Northern Ireland, the compact city of Newry is known for its retail therapy. Shopping centers such as The Quays and The Buttercrane house all the major stores and eateries you could wish for, along with niche and independent shops along quaint streets where family-run businesses offer charm and unique wares.
In Galway City, any local will point you towards Eyre Square Shopping Centre, where you’ll find over 70 stores, including Irish retailers and international brands. While in Galway, who could forget the famous Aran jumper? Visit The Sweater Shop Galway on Abbeygate Street or the Aran Sweater Market on Quay Street and take home a cozy piece of Ireland’s culture.
The Irish farmers’ market is a bedrock of local community life. This is where you can try real authentic Irish street food with an artisan twist.
For history and artisan food, Cork’s elegantly vaulted English Market, one of the oldest of its kind in the world (1788), is not to be missed, nor is the artisan food hotspot of Midleton Farmers’ Market, about 22km east of Cork city.
Built-in the late 19th century, Belfast’s award-winning St George’s Market is a gourmet treasure trove and an eclectic mix of traditional and modern life in the city. There’s been a market here since 1604, but this one dates from 1890 and takes place every morning from Friday to Sunday.
Tyrone Farmers’ Market in Dungannon gets things going on the local gourmet scene on the first Saturday of every month, with 15 local stalls.
Naas Farmers’ Market in County Kildare is every Saturday from 10 am-3 pm, and includes organic produce from the Wicklow hills, fresh bread, farmhouse cheeses, and sweet treats.
If you’re looking for hand-crafted keepsakes and gifts, the Craft Village in Derry-Londonderry is a great place to start. From knitted pieces to bespoke crafted pieces, you’ll find the perfect Irish souvenir.
Spiddal Craft Village is a convenient stop as you tour the Wild Atlantic Way, where you can chat with the artists, browse their collections, and even partake in a weekend basket-making course.
If you’re in Kilkenny City, don’t forget to stop by the Kilkenny Design Centre after touring Kilkenny Castle. It’s full to the brim with Irish craft and design with everything from homeware to jewelry on offer.
What would you love to bring home as a keepsake from the island of Ireland?