CORNER BAKERY HONOURS TRADITION
Honouring Tradition While Embracing the Future: How One of Northern Ireland’s Oldest Bakeries is Evolving

For more than 70 years, Corner Bakery has been a beloved staple in Cookstown, Northern Ireland. Now, under the ownership of Martin Booth, this historic bakery is blending time-honored recipes with modern innovation to serve a new generation of customers while staying true to its roots.
A Legacy Passed Down
In 2022, Martin Booth took the reins of Corner Bakery, one of Northern Ireland’s longest-established bakeries. Originally founded in 1951 by David and Lily Turkington, the bakery remained a family-run institution for decades, eventually passing to their grandson, Tim. When the opportunity arose to take over from his friend Tim, Martin, with a background in education and digital marketing, embraced the challenge of continuing the bakery's legacy.
Modernsing While Preserving Tradition
Despite stepping into an unfamiliar industry, Martin approached the transition with a fresh perspective, investing significantly in upgrading facilities, modernizing operations, and refreshing the bakery’s brand identity. However, at the heart of Corner Bakery’s success is a simple, steadfast commitment: keeping its cherished recipes intact.
“Our customers love the traditional, delicious recipes that have been passed down through generations,” Martin shares. “We take immense pride in maintaining the same quality and consistency that our customers have come to expect.” Using only the finest local ingredients, each product is crafted with care, ensuring that the signature taste remains unchanged.
A Recipe for Success
Beyond its bustling in-store bakery and deli counter, Corner Bakery has significantly expanded its reach. Supplying freshly baked goods to over 100 stores and businesses across Northern Ireland, including major partners like the Henderson Group, the bakery has solidified its presence beyond Cookstown.
What is the key ingredient to this success? “Our team,” Martin says. “We have a passionate, highly experienced group of people who share my commitment to quality, service, and innovation. Together, we ensure that every product leaving our bakery meets the high standards our customers know and love.”
A Growing Selection and Digital Expansion
With over 200 product lines ranging from oven-baked breads and yeast loaves to cakes, traybakes, and pastries, Corner Bakery continues to delight its customers with a diverse selection of treats. But it's not just about what they bake—it’s about the experience they create.
To meet the demands of modern consumers, the bakery has introduced an online ordering platform, making it easier for customers to enjoy their favorite baked goods. Seasonal and themed treats have also become a highlight, with Christmas Eve Boxes proving to be a major success. Looking ahead, the bakery is already preparing to launch special Mother’s Day hampers.
Looking to the Future
The response from loyal customers and retail partners has been overwhelmingly positive, fueling Corner Bakery’s continued growth. Martin is now focused on expanding the commercial side of the business, increasing the number of outlets supplied across Northern Ireland.
“We have big plans ahead, and I couldn’t be more excited about the future,” he says. “While we embrace change, our core values remain the same—preserving the legacy that has made Corner Bakery an iconic name in Northern Ireland.”
For those who have yet to experience the Corner Bakery difference, Martin extends an open invitation to visit or explore their offerings online at cornerbakery.uk.