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Best Markets in Cornwall: Spotlight on Par Market

Updated: Sep 14


Introduction

Cornwall's market culture is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, offering visitors a unique shopping experience. Among the many markets in Cornwall, Par Market stands out for its variety, space, locality and vibrant atmosphere. This guide highlights why Par Market is one of the best markets in Cornwall-a great place to visit when its raining


Discover Par Market: One of the Best Markets in Cornwall


Location and Schedule of Par Market

How to Get There: Par Market is conveniently located just off the A390 in St Austell, making it easily accessible by car, bus and train. There is free parking for up to 2,000 cars, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

Market Days and Operating Hours: The market operates every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, providing ample opportunity for both locals and visitors to explore its offerings.

Food Hall Operating Hours: he Food Hall operates every Wednesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, offering a variety of delicious meals from traditional to healthy options.



Entrance of Par Market with parking area visible
The entrance to Par Market with ample FREE parking space.

What to Expect at Par Market


Variety of Stalls:

Par Market hosts a diverse array of stalls, offering everything from fresh produce and artisan crafts to clothing, jewelry, home goods, antiques and more


Fresh Produce:

Par Market boasts an impressive selection of fresh produce. Vendors supply a variety of vegetables, fish, cheese, and meats. You'll find everything you need for a delicious meal, sourced from local producers.


Artisan Crafts and Unique Finds:

Discover handmade crafts, antiques , unique gifts, and one-of-a-kind items. From Kathmandu clothing to Dungeons and Dragons, there's something for everyone at Par Market.



The Food Hall at Par Market


Delicious Local and International Cuisine: The Food Hall at Par Market is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide variety of local and international cuisines. From traditional Cornish pasties to exotic street food, pizza and Chinese, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Fresh Ingredients and Homemade Goodies: Many of the food vendors use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create their dishes. You can find homemade pies, freshly baked bread, cookies, cakes, cheeses, and much more.

Comfortable Seating and Friendly Atmosphere: The Food Hall provides comfortable seating areas where you can relax and enjoy your meal. The friendly atmosphere and delicious aromas make it a delightful spot to take a break from shopping.



The evolution of Deliciousness

Our latest blog dives into the history and vibrant atmosphere of Par Market Food Hall, one of the top destinations among Cornwall restaurants. Discover how we evolved from a traditional market to a thriving food hall offering a diverse range of cuisines, including Chinese, Mexican, pizza, burgers, and more. It's a must-read for food lovers and anyone looking to experience the best of Cornwall's dining scene!



Highlights of Par Market


Local Delicacies: Taste the flavors of Cornwall with local delicacies like Cornish pasties, cheeses, and freshly baked goods. Be sure to try some of the market's famous treats.

Handmade Goods: Explore the wide range of handmade goods, including jewelry, textiles, and home decor items. These unique pieces make perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Entertainment and Atmosphere: Par Market is more than just a shopping destination. Enjoy live music, street performances, and a lively atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable.



Tips for Visiting Par Market


Best Times to Visit: For a more relaxed shopping experience, visit early in the morning. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, afternoons are busier and offer more entertainment.

What to Bring: Bring reusable bags to carry your purchases and cash, as some vendors may not accept cards. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the large market area.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit: Take your time to explore each stall, interact with vendors, and enjoy the hustle and bustle. Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn about the products.



Supporting Local Producers at Par Market


Benefits of Buying Local: Shopping at Par Market supports local traders and artisans, contributing to the local economy and promoting sustainable practices.


Popular Local Vendors: Look out for a variety of vendors offering a range of products from antiques, gaming, vaping, niche clothing and and of course, the Food Hall.


The Best Place for Birthday, Gift, or Souvenir Shopping


Variety and Deals: Par Market is the perfect destination for finding unique birthday gifts, special souvenirs, or something memorable for any occasion. The market's vast variety of stalls offers countless options to choose from, and you're sure to find great deals.

Unique and Handmade Items: One of the standout features of Par Market is the abundance of unique, handmade items. From handcrafted jewelry and bespoke home decor to artisan crafts and one-of-a-kind artworks, you'll find gifts that are truly special.

Personalized Shopping Experience: The friendly vendors at Par Market often offer personalized shopping experiences, helping you find the perfect gift or souvenir. Many stalls even offer custom-made items to add a personal touch to your purchase.



Family-Friendly Fun at Par Market


Great Place for Families and Kids: Par Market is an ideal destination for families. The market's spacious layout ensures there's plenty of room for children to move around safely while parents shop.

Kid-Friendly Food Options: The Food Hall offers a variety of kid-friendly meals and snacks, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters find something they love. From classic fish and chips to sweet treats, there's plenty to keep the little ones happy.

Activities and Entertainment: Kids will love the live music, street performances, and occasional children's entertainment that Par Market hosts. The lively atmosphere is perfect for a family day out. Par Market is also home to Kidzworld, one of the best playgrounds in Cornwall.



Par Market Events and Special Occasions


Seasonal Events: Par Market hosts various seasonal events, including Christmas markets, summer fairs, street food festivals, gaming festivals and more. These events add a special touch to your shopping experience.

Special Market Days: Keep an eye out for special market days featuring themed stalls, discounts, and live entertainment. These days offer something extra for visitors.

Community Activities: The market often collaborates with local organizations to host community activities, workshops, and charity events, fostering a strong sense of community.



Best Sweet shop in Cornwall

Sweetland at Par Market is the ultimate candy haven in Cornwall! Whether you're craving nostalgic sweets from your childhood, indulgent chocolates, or international treats that are as fun to pronounce as they are to eat, Sweetland has it all. Our latest blog dives into why Sweetland stands out as one of the top sweet shops in Cornwall, perfect for satisfying every sweet tooth. Prepare yourself for a sugar-filled adventure that might just lead to an unplanned (but totally worth it) visit to Par Market!



Exploring Nearby Attractions


Local Attractions and Landmarks: After visiting Par Market, explore nearby attractions such as the Eden Project, Charlestown Harbour, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.



The Charm of Cornwall's Markets

Why Markets Matter: Markets like Par Market are vital to Cornwall's culture and economy, offering a platform for local producers and artisans to showcase their work.

Cultural Experiences: Visiting markets provides a rich cultural experience, allowing you to interact with locals, learn about regional traditions, and taste authentic Cornish flavors.

Eco-Friendly Shopping: Markets promote sustainable shopping by reducing the need for long supply chains and minimizing packaging waste. Supporting local markets is an eco-friendly choice.


Conclusion

Par Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cornwall. With its diverse range of stalls, fresh local produce, and vibrant atmosphere, it stands out as one of the best markets in Cornwall. Plan your visit to Par Market and discover the charm and character that make Cornwall's markets so special.


FAQs

  1. What are the operating hours of Par Market? Par Market operates every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. The Food Hall is open from Wednesday through to Sunday ( 9am-5pm)

  2. Is there parking available at Par Market? Yes, ample FREE parking is available on-site, making it convenient for visitors.

  3. What types of products can I find at Par Market? You can find a variety of products, including fresh produce, artisan crafts, clothing, jewelry, and antiques. Check out our link for more info: TRADERS

  4. Are there any special events at Par Market? Yes, Par Market hosts seasonal events, special market days, and community activities throughout the year.

  5. What nearby attractions can I visit after Par Market? Nearby attractions include the Eden Project, Charlestown Harbour, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

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3 comentarios


Mama B26
Mama B26
26 nov

If you love Mexican food and fancy something a little different from the norm I would highly recommend going to Lemon Salt , Rhys ,Shannon and Micky are so friendly and helpful , the food is made to the highest quality and possibly one of the best Mexican street food places that I’ve tasted, go eat at this place believe me you won’t be disappointed

🌮🌶️🇲🇽🪇🍋🧂

Editado
Me gusta

great spot for the family !! Nice to to see the positive changes they making at the market.

Me gusta

come on St. Austell, let’s make this the best community market for us all!! The livelihood of the traders depend on it

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