Cornwall’s Hottest New Food Destination Celebrates Official Opening

The Buttermarket in Redruth Marks Its Grand Launch

The Buttermarket, Cornwall’s newest must-visit attraction, has celebrated its official opening in Redruth following a £4-million transformation of its Grade II listed buildings. The site, now a European-style food court combined with work and retail spaces, was launched by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho.

The project was led by Redruth Revival Community Interest Company (CIC), a group of six volunteer directors working to revitalise Redruth town centre. The Buttermarket began trading in November and has already become a popular destination, drawing visitors from across Cornwall.

Official Opening Marks a Milestone for Redruth

Speaking at the opening, Edward said:

“I am really delighted to be here at the start of the next stage in Redruth’s revival. It was at the centre of Cornish life and prosperity for so long, so it is great to see new ideas and initiatives coming to the town and to see the enthusiasm of everyone concerned.

“Many thanks to all involved in this development for their hard work and determination, to the tenants who will bring life and prosperity to the place, and to everyone in the local area who has supported the project and I hope will benefit from it.”

Judy Davidson MBE, Chair of Redruth Revival CIC and a former Mayor of Redruth, has worked on the project for a decade alongside fellow directors Jan Driver, Paul Harris, Aaron Pascoe, Tamsin Spargo and Ross Williams. Judy thanked the funders, volunteers, and professionals—including Thread Architects and Jewell Construction—who helped bring the vision to life.

A New Lease of Life for Historic Buildings

Stephen Boyce, from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, praised the project:

“Redruth Revival CIC has done a fantastic job, not only saving these important historic buildings from decay and potential loss, but ensuring that they can play a vital part in Redruth’s social and economic future.

“This is precisely what the Heritage Enterprise scheme, from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, was designed to do and I’m delighted that Redruth Revival has been able to put National Lottery players’ money to such positive use.”

The Buttermarket now houses galleries, independent shops, workspaces, and food vendors offering a variety of global cuisines. Earles Bar, named after a business once on the site, serves Cornish craft beers and selected wines.

Celebrating with Food, Music, and More

The official opening event featured a lunchtime gathering with food provided by Bango Kitchen, one of six vendors at the venue. Representatives from the Architectural Heritage Fund, Historic England, and Cornwall Council, all of whom supported the project, attended the event.

Later in the evening, 150 guests celebrated the launch by sampling the kitchens’ offerings and enjoying entertainment from local musicians Hedluv & Passman before dancing under The Buttermarket’s mirror ball.

Jonathan Bray, General Manager of The Buttermarket, said:

“To see this iconic building come alive again is nothing short of joyous.

“We’re committed to delivering experiences and events on a regular basis as The Buttermarket becomes the new beating heart of Redruth and a major attraction in Cornwall.”

A Hub for the Community

The Buttermarket is set to host regular events, with its spacious courtyard offering a prime summer venue. The site, located off Station Hill and Alma Place, is easily accessible from Redruth’s railway station and bus stops.

Redruth Revival CIC has also purchased the adjacent Fairmeadow car park, reducing daytime parking costs and making evening parking free. All profits from the CIC’s properties will be reinvested into further regeneration projects in Redruth, as the group continues working to secure the town’s reputation as ‘Cornwall’s coolest comeback.’