
County Cork, Ireland
Culinary Masterclass
July 19 - 25, 2026
“Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.”
-Samuel Beckett
Embark on a culinary farm-to-table journey where the greenest pastures meet the sea in County Cork, Ireland.
Tucked just away from the heart of Cork, lies a castle tower from the medieval times. A Georgian mansion tucked next to it on 110 acres in a small town that is both charming and of a time long gone by. Built first in 1450, the castle became an estate in 1740.
The entire estate is ours for the duration of our stay, which includes not only the aforementioned pastoral dreaminess, but a professional kitchen for our cooking classes and a ballroom for whatever we decide to use it for!
We've done all the research for the curated culinary adventure you've come to expect, but this one includes a Cork County local, Shane O’Sullivan, who has worked with us for several years at this point. Shane’s deep understanding of the area pairs with cooking lessons led by Chef Olivia, who trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and London, and worked for multiple Michelin starred restaurants in England.
Discover what’s included
Led by Chef Olivia Clulow & County Cork Local, Shane O’Sullivan
RecipeKick Chef Olivia has been cooking professionally for over ten years after training at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and London. She has worked for multiple Michelin starred restaurants, most notably spending two years at the Ledbury restaurant in London when it was ranked 11th in the world. She then went on to oversee the opening of a multi dimensional restaurant in South London, called Upstairs, where she worked as head chef for two years. After working in cooking schools in London and with a number of small food businesses she moved back home to Florida. She now runs Bayview Melrose, a B&B that hosts supper clubs, catering, meal planning and teaches local cooking classes. Olivia continues to summer in the UK with her British husband and family. She is passionate about seasonality, circular food systems, and dispelling the stereotypes of bland English cuisine.
Destination highlights
There’s so much more to Ireland than Bubble & Squeak! (Although we’ll cover that too!)
Stay in a Historic Georgian Manor House
One of our favorite aspects of RK Adventures is bringing you to unique properties that are historically meaningful, foster community, and connect you to the land—places you wouldn't have the chance to experience in your own travels. Here the history and food heritage run deep, and conversations often linger into the night. Join us!
Modern Irish Gastronomy
Ireland is home to some of the world’s best chefs and recipe developers. you've experienced bland food in England before, this trip will completely change your perspective. England gastronomy has transformed with its vibrant farm-to-table movement, artisan products, and unique local dishes that celebrate its culinary heritage in a modern, elevated way.
& if you Fancy a Pint…
You will be within walking distance of delightful pubs, perfect for a countryside Pub Ramble, a quintessentially British experience. After a lovely walk across the countryside, there's nothing better than pulling a pint at the local pub (or sipping a tea), surrounded by local characters. Modern British pubs have evolved into vibrant culinary hubs, offering elevated dishes that go beyond the classics.
FAQ
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Everything but flights.
All of our trips are all-inclusive, from when you arrive until you depart, we will take care of you in style! You are responsible only for getting yourself here and home. We take care of all the accommodations, meals, drinks, tours, gratuities, transportation, cooking lessons, and excursions; with lots of laughter to boot.*A 50% non-refundable deposit reserves your spot. The remaining balance is due 120 days before the experience.
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This trip is focused on exploring the Irish countryside. We will visit Cork while we are there, but in general we’re not doing site seeing in big cities on this trip.
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You’ll book your flights in and out of Birmingham Airport (BHX).
Arrival. Plan to arrive early afternoon 12-3pm on arrival day, or let us know if you will already be in England and want to take a train out to us.
Departure. We wrap up in the morning, so book a departure flight that leaves in the early afternoon of departure day (noon on). We will need to drive 30 mins to the airport, plus you’ll need time to be there 2-3 hours ahead for international travel.
Extending your Travels? Many guests like to plan a few days of travel either before or after our culinary week. If you'd like to explore London, the villages around us, or other England destinations, we are happy to pick up/drop off at the local Warwick ParkwayTrain Station which offers direct lines to/from London and other English cities.
Travel Insights. Please reach out to Anna@okay-perfect.com to help with any travel questions and suggestions for pre/post travel. -
We will meet you at the Birmingham Airport (BHX) or Warwick Parkway Train Station and take care of you from there!
If you will be renting a car for your travels, we will provide the address for your arrival. Remember they drive on the other side of the car and the other side of the road! Fun! -
Whatever brings you joy! We will only have 1 or 2 times where you might want something nicer than your usual day clothes, a nice meal or evening out, for example.
As always, be sure to leave room and weight available for packing treasures you may find in the markets. Gin or honey in glass containers can get heavy!
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The average temperatures in the Cotswolds/Stratford for that time of year are a high of 72F and a low of 54F. Such a great time of year for a visit!
Rainfall is always possible in England, so bring a waterproof layer for rain and something warm for evenings.
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This retreat may not be suited to participants with low and limited mobility, as there will be cobblestones and country walking. None of the walking should be overly exerting, mostly flat, but the pub walk could be 1.5 miles of lovely countryside. We are happy to accommodate however possible.
The Manor House, like most European properties, has all bedrooms upstairs. You should be able to navigate stairs to the 2nd or 3rd floors (see each room description for location). Of course, we will carry your bags for you!
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We say “tentative schedule” as one of our principles is to surprise and delight you during your stay. All travel anxieties, worries, or woes are removed and your only “job” is to enjoy yourself.
One of the joys of these adventures is the nightly reveal of what we are doing the next day! If you have particular concerns for what the trip entails, please reach out to Anna@okay-perfect.com who can inform. We are here to help!
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Yes to both! We typically do a winery or distillery day, but there will always be non-alcohol options available as well. The sober-curious movement is on the rise and we enjoy providing fun alternative beverages at all meals. The distillery visit will still be fascinating and beautiful, for the landscapes, history, food, and artisan process.
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We are able to accommodate almost any dietary restriction or preference. Once your booking is confirmed, we will be communicating with you and will ask about any dietary restrictions.
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All that's required to secure your booking is a 50% non-refundable deposit to reserve your spot.
The remaining balance is due 120 days before the experience.
*If a guest wishes to cancel a trip, no monies that have been paid will be refunded but can be transferred to another person of their choosing to go in their place. We highly recommend that your purchase travel insurance. For a quote on travel insurance, please click here to go to Faye Whole Trip Travel Insurance to see their packages & rates.