How to Find a Cookery School in Ireland

Whether you are looking for a cookery school for professionals, a gourmet getaway or simply a chance to brush up on your kitchen skills, Ireland offers many cookery schools. Follow these steps to find the right cookery school for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide what kind of cookery school suits you best. Cookery schools specialise in different types of cuisines, offer programmes of varying lengths and for individuals with a variety of different skill levels.
2. Visit your local library or bookshop to browse food magazines such as Gourmet and Food and Wine, which may have articles, reviews and advertisements of featured cookery schools.
3. Contact cookery schools in your local area. If you’ve had an enjoyable experience from attending a cookery school in your own area, consider asking the school for recommendations for cookery schools further afield.
4. Speak to a travel agent or specialised tour company. Week-long cookery holidays and food tours have grown in popularity. For example, Hidden Ireland Tours offers cooking tours, which can be a great way to relax on holiday while taking in some beautiful scenery and enjoying some excellent food.
5. Find out more by visiting the websites for cookery schools such as Berry Lodge Cookery School, Alix Gardner Cookery, The Ballymaloe Cookery School, Carlingford Cookery School and Dunbrody Abbey Cookery Centre.
6. Visit speciality cooking shops, which are a haven for food lovers and cooking enthusiasts. In County Cork, try Ballymaloe Kitchen Shop, which is located on the grounds of the Ballymaloe House Hotel. In Dublin, head to Kitchen Complements, which is a well-stocked kitchen shop where you'll also find in-house cookery demonstrations.
7. Contact a tourist organisation in Ireland. If you cannot find any suitable cookery schools through your own research, tourist organisations can provide you with valuable resources and contact information.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask the cookery school if there are any requirements for your course. Some cookery schools will ask you to bring specific kitchen items with you, such as an apron or chopping knife.
• If you are on a budget, consider volunteering at a cookery school. Some schools offer discounts on course fees if you agree to do several hours of prep work prior to the class.