Bringing Back the Buzz

A Grade-II listed cluster of historic buildings has been reimagined for the modern era as a European-style food court, work and retail space.

Once a hub of prosperity, thanks to Cornwall’s mining industry, Redruth has navigated shifts in fortune, balancing nostalgia and reinvention. Thanks to Redruth Revival Community Interest Company (CIC), the town now has a new focal point – The Buttermarket – a £4-million project that’s breathing new life and a culinary destination into the town centre.

Once Cornwall’s largest market in 1791, it was demolished in 1795, prompting local landowner Sir Francis Basset to commission a new one in 1825. Known as the Buttermarket, it played a key role in the town’s identity but gradually fell into disuse as mining declined. Now, thanks to Redruth Revival CIC, this historic space is thriving once again. Judy Davidson MBE, former Mayor of Redruth and chair of Redruth Revival CIC, has championed the project for over a decade alongside fellow directors. “Seeing the Buttermarket bustling again is incredibly rewarding,” says Judy. “We hope it will remain a cornerstone of Redruth’s regeneration.” 

Designed by Thread Architects, the restoration preserves historical features while integrating modern elements like a central glass atrium. The space offers markets, music events, feast nights and has a new cycle hub in the offing, blending understated design with sympathetic renovation. The Buttermarket has a great buzz, particularly in the evening, and is becoming more popular week on week. It’s easy to see why – it’s a cool venue, with cool tunes and super-tasty food… yet with a price point that won’t break the bank. Everything feels effortless – parking is easy, the space has a welcoming feel to it, ordering is simple and the flavours are unforgettable. 

It’s is a paradise for food lovers. Resident kitchens include Bango Kitchen’s revered Asian street food, Cowgirls’ grass-fed beef, Caths Cornish Kitchen’s buttery pies, and Little Ears’ handmade pasta. Pop-ups like The Jar’s Indian street food and Harry’s Mercado tacos add to the diversity. The setup is simple yet brilliant: grab a drink, order from any kitchen, and wait for your buzzer to sound.

With profits reinvested into future regeneration projects, Redruth’s revival is just beginning. This historic town is proving that the most exciting transformations often happen where past and future converge and The Buttermarket has become its beating heart.

The Buttermarket

Station Hill, Redruth TR15 2PP
01209 643219
www.buttermarket.org