Car boot sales are a fantastic way to find unique treasures, declutter your home, and enjoy a fun community atmosphere. In Ireland, these sales have grown in popularity, offering a wide array of locations to discover pre-loved goods, antiques, collectibles, and even fresh produce. With their charm and potential for great finds, car boot sales have become weekend traditions for many. In this article, we review 20 of the best car boot sales across Ireland, giving you an insider’s guide to the best locations to check out.
1. The Red Cow Car Boot Sale (Dublin)
One of Dublin’s largest and most popular car boot sales, the Red Cow Car Boot Sale takes place every Sunday in the Red Cow Complex car park. With hundreds of sellers, this bustling market offers a wide variety of goods, from second-hand furniture and clothing to antiques and electronics. The sheer size of the sale ensures that you’ll find something interesting, whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or just browsing for fun.
Why Visit?
One of the largest in Dublin, offering a huge selection.
Indoor and outdoor stalls, making it accessible year-round.
Ideal for finding furniture, electronics, and vintage items.
2. Gorey Car Boot Sale (Wexford)
Located in the vibrant town of Gorey, this car boot sale has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Taking place every Saturday, it features a variety of stalls selling bric-a-brac, books, vinyl records, toys, and clothing. The friendly atmosphere and the chance to chat with local vendors make it a welcoming experience.
Why Visit?
Great variety of items, especially vintage toys and books.
Family-friendly atmosphere.
Close to other local attractions like Gorey’s Main Street and nearby beaches.
3. Cork City Car Boot Sale (Cork)
Cork City’s car boot sale is one of the top markets in the south of Ireland, held every Sunday in the Blackpool Shopping Centre car park. It’s a great spot for hunting down antiques, collectibles, and crafts. With a mix of professional sellers and casual traders, you’re sure to find hidden gems at bargain prices.
Why Visit?
Prime location in Cork City, perfect for locals and tourists alike.
A good mix of collectibles, crafts, and household goods.
Friendly atmosphere with regular local vendors.
4. Howth Car Boot Sale (Dublin)
If you’re looking for a coastal escape while doing some treasure hunting, the Howth Car Boot Sale is a must-visit. Held every Saturday, this seaside market offers stunning views alongside its eclectic mix of stalls. The sale includes everything from antiques and vintage items to handmade crafts and artisan foods.
Why Visit?
Scenic location near Howth Harbour.
A fantastic mix of goods, including artisan foods and crafts.
Combine a visit with a coastal walk or seafood meal in Howth.
5. Dungarvan Car Boot Sale (Waterford)
Dungarvan’s car boot sale is a smaller, more intimate market held at the Dungarvan GAA grounds. Despite its size, it’s a treasure trove for those seeking vintage finds, second-hand books, and unique collectibles. The atmosphere is friendly, and the sale is well-organised, making it easy to browse and shop.
Why Visit?
Well-organised and easy to navigate.
Excellent for second-hand books and collectibles.
A great addition to a day out in Dungarvan.
6. Tallaght Stadium Car Boot Sale (Dublin)
Held in the car park of Tallaght Stadium every Sunday, this popular car boot sale draws large crowds from across Dublin and beyond. With a variety of stalls offering clothing, electronics, toys, and more, it’s a great place to spend a Sunday morning. Tallaght Stadium’s large space ensures there are plenty of sellers to browse.
Why Visit?
Easily accessible by public transport.
Large number of stalls and great bargains.
Perfect for electronics, toys, and everyday items.
7. Bandon Car Boot Sale (Cork)
Located in the picturesque town of Bandon, this car boot sale takes place on the first Sunday of each month. The sale is particularly well-known for its wide range of antiques and vintage items, making it a favourite among collectors. With its relaxed atmosphere, it’s also a great spot to find home decor and gardening tools.
Why Visit?
Excellent selection of antiques and vintage goods.
Friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Monthly event with a loyal following of sellers and buyers.
8. Galway Saturday Market (Galway)
While technically a farmers’ market, Galway Saturday Market also features a number of car boot-style stalls where locals sell second-hand goods and crafts. Set against the backdrop of Galway’s historic streets, this market is a favourite for both locals and tourists. Here, you can find everything from handmade jewellery and crafts to second-hand clothing and rare collectibles.
Why Visit?
A mix of fresh produce, crafts, and second-hand goods.
Perfect for a weekend stroll through Galway’s city centre.
Popular among tourists and locals alike.
9. Naas Racecourse Car Boot Sale (Kildare)
Held at the Naas Racecourse, this car boot sale attracts a wide variety of sellers, offering everything from household goods to collectibles. It’s one of the most well-attended sales in Kildare, making it a great place to spend a Sunday morning. Whether you’re looking for a rare find or just browsing for bargains, the Naas Racecourse Car Boot Sale has plenty to offer.
Why Visit?
A large selection of goods, from household items to collectibles.
Great venue with ample parking.
Family-friendly with a relaxed atmosphere.
10. Carrick-on-Shannon Car Boot Sale (Leitrim)
Held monthly at the Carrick-on-Shannon Community Centre, this car boot sale is a smaller but charming event. It’s perfect for those looking for second-hand household items, books, and clothing. The community spirit is strong here, with locals using the event as a social gathering as much as a shopping opportunity.
Why Visit?
Friendly and community-driven atmosphere.
Perfect for finding second-hand books, toys, and clothes.
Great way to experience the local Leitrim culture.
11. Sligo Car Boot Sale (Sligo)
This car boot sale takes place at the Sligo Racecourse and is one of the largest in the northwest of Ireland. With its wide variety of goods on offer, from antiques and furniture to toys and clothes, it draws both local buyers and visitors from surrounding counties. The mix of professional traders and casual sellers ensures a fresh variety of items every week.
Why Visit?
One of the largest car boot sales in the northwest.
Great mix of antiques, furniture, and bric-a-brac.
Ideal for bargain hunters and collectors alike.
12. Tullamore Car Boot Sale (Offaly)
Held at the Tullamore GAA Club, this car boot sale is a popular event in County Offaly. The sale offers a wide variety of items, including vintage clothing, homeware, and electronics. With its central location and regular sellers, it’s a reliable spot for a morning of bargain hunting.
Why Visit?
Central location in Tullamore.
Regular sellers offering a consistent variety of goods.
Great for vintage clothing and household items.
13. Athlone Car Boot Sale (Westmeath)
Taking place at the Athlone Institute of Technology car park, this sale is one of the best in the Midlands. The Athlone Car Boot Sale offers a variety of second-hand goods, from clothes and books to furniture and tools. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday morning, especially for those looking for a diverse selection of affordable items.
Why Visit?
Wide variety of items on offer.
Convenient location near the Athlone town centre.
Great for furniture, tools, and household goods.
14. Castlebar Car Boot Sale (Mayo)
Castlebar’s car boot sale takes place at the Breaffy House Hotel grounds and is a favourite among locals in Mayo. The sale is known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly vendors, offering a good mix of antiques, household items, and crafts. Whether you’re looking for a specific item or just browsing, the Castlebar Car Boot Sale is worth a visit.
Why Visit?
Held in a scenic location at Breaffy House.
Great mix of antiques, crafts, and household items.
Friendly vendors and relaxed atmosphere.
15. Enniscorthy Car Boot Sale (Wexford)
This Wexford-based car boot sale is held at the Enniscorthy Showgrounds and is one of the largest in the region. It’s a fantastic place for those interested in vintage items, furniture, and garden tools. The wide selection of goods, combined with the showgrounds’ spacious layout, makes for an enjoyable shopping experience.
Why Visit?
Large selection of vintage items and furniture.
Great venue with plenty of parking.
Regular event with a loyal crowd of sellers and buyers.
16. Arklow Car Boot Sale (Wicklow)
The Arklow Car Boot Sale is held at Arklow Rugby Club and offers a wide range of goods, from clothes and books to toys and household items. It’s a great community event, with many locals taking part as both buyers and sellers. The sale’s proximity to the town centre also makes it a convenient stop for weekend shopping.
Friendly community Atmosphere wide range of goods, including books, clothes, and household Items
Why Visit?
Friendly community atmosphere.
Wide range of goods, including books, clothes, and household items.
Perfect for combining a visit with a day out in the charming town of Arklow.
17. Limerick Car Boot Sale (Limerick)
The Limerick Car Boot Sale, held at Limerick Greyhound Stadium every Sunday, is one of the busiest markets in the Midwest. Offering everything from second-hand clothes to antiques and collectibles, it attracts a wide range of vendors and buyers. With its large open space and variety of stalls, it’s a great place for both serious collectors and casual shoppers.
Why Visit?
Large variety of goods, including antiques and collectibles.
Central location within Limerick City.
A good mix of professional vendors and casual traders.
18. Navan Car Boot Sale (Meath)
The Navan Car Boot Sale, held in the Simonstown GAA Grounds, is one of the largest and most well-known in County Meath. It’s particularly popular for its wide selection of homeware, furniture, and electronics. Whether you’re looking for a bargain on everyday items or something more unique, Navan’s car boot sale has plenty to offer.
Why Visit?
One of the biggest car boot sales in Meath.
Great for homeware, furniture, and electronics.
Plenty of parking and a family-friendly atmosphere.
19. Kilkenny Car Boot Sale (Kilkenny)
Located at the Kilkenny Greyhound Stadium, the Kilkenny Car Boot Sale is a great stop for those in the Southeast of Ireland. It’s a fantastic place for bargain hunters, with a large selection of second-hand goods, toys, clothing, and even fresh produce. Many locals use this event as an opportunity to clear out their attics and garages, ensuring a diverse range of goods every week.
Why Visit?
Great selection of goods, from fresh produce to toys and clothing.
Perfect for combining with a visit to Kilkenny’s historic sites.
Friendly atmosphere with many local vendors.
20. Thurles Car Boot Sale (Tipperary)
Thurles Car Boot Sale takes place at the Thurles Greyhound Stadium and has become a staple for those in County Tipperary. It’s one of the larger sales in the region, offering a wide array of goods, including antiques, vintage clothing, tools, and home decor. The relaxed setting and the friendly atmosphere make it a great place for a weekend outing.
Why Visit?
One of the largest car boot sales in Tipperary.
Excellent for finding antiques, tools, and vintage items.
Relaxed and family-friendly environment.
What to Expect at Irish Car Boot Sales
Car boot sales in Ireland are a treasure trove for those who enjoy the thrill of bargain hunting. Each sale offers a unique selection of items, from everyday household goods to one-of-a-kind antiques and collectibles. Many sales take place in picturesque or historic settings, adding to the charm of the experience. Vendors at these markets range from professional traders to locals looking to declutter their homes, which ensures a constantly changing inventory and a fresh experience every week.
What to Bring:
Cash: Most vendors do not accept card payments, so it’s essential to bring cash. Small denominations are preferable, as sellers might not always have change for larger notes.
Bags or Trolleys: With so many items on offer, you might find yourself leaving with more than you planned. Bringing reusable bags or a small trolley will make carrying your finds easier.
Patience: Part of the charm of a car boot sale is the hunt. Be prepared to sift through many items to find the hidden gems. Take your time, and enjoy the experience.
Tips for Buyers:
Arrive Early: The early bird catches the worm, and at car boot sales, this is especially true. Arriving early gives you the best chance of finding the most desirable items before they’re snapped up.
Haggle Politely: While haggling is expected, always be polite and respectful when negotiating prices. Most vendors are open to reasonable offers, especially as the day goes on and they’re keen to pack up.
Inspect Items Carefully: Since many items are second-hand, make sure to inspect them for damage or wear before purchasing. Don’t be afraid to ask the vendor questions about the item’s condition or history.
Bring Snacks: Many car boot sales are large and take a few hours to browse fully. Bringing some snacks and water will keep your energy up as you hunt for bargains.
Conclusion: A Unique Shopping Experience
Car boot sales in Ireland offer a unique and enjoyable shopping experience that combines the excitement of treasure hunting with the charm of local community markets. Whether you’re searching for a rare antique, some affordable household items, or simply a fun way to spend a weekend morning, the car boot sales featured in this guide have something for everyone. Each sale has its own character, shaped by its location, regular vendors, and the ever-changing variety of goods on offer.
For those new to the world of car boot sales, these events provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, meet friendly vendors, and discover unique items at bargain prices. And for seasoned boot sale veterans, the thrill of uncovering hidden gems never fades.
So whether you’re in Dublin, Cork, Galway, or a small town in between, there’s a car boot sale waiting for you. Happy treasure hunting!