Overview
Mourne Seafood Cookery School sits within the modern Nautilus Centre on the edge of Kilkeel Harbour, offering a uniquely Irish “catch to cook” experience. The school blends the rugged maritime heritage of County Down with contemporary culinary teaching, allowing visitors to handle freshly landed seafood and transform it into restaurant‑quality dishes. The setting is bright and welcoming, with décor that reflects the sea – nautical blues, reclaimed wood and large windows that frame the harbour’s bustling activity.
Background
Founded by award‑winning chef Roger Moynihan, the school was created to showcase the bounty of the Mourne coastal waters while empowering home cooks. Moynihan, also head chef of the Sweet Pea Café in Warrenpoint, runs the school with a strong sustainability ethos: ingredients are sourced from local fishers and producers wherever possible, and surplus fish is sold in the on‑site shop.
The Nautilus Centre also houses the Mourne Maritime Visitor Centre – an interactive exhibition on Kilkeel’s fishing heritage – and the Kilkeel Tourist Information Office, making the site a natural hub for exploring the Mournes coastal region.
What to See & Do
Hands‑on Cookery Classes
The core offering is a series of timed classes for all skill levels. Options include:
- 2.5‑hour class (£50 per person) – two‑course menu (starter & main) with a wine or soft‑drink included.
- 3.5‑hour class (£65 per person) – three‑course menu (starter, main, dessert).
- 5.5‑hour class (£120 per person) – up to five courses and a full lunch you prepare yourself.
All classes use the day’s freshest catch – rock‑cod, mussels, smoked salmon, or other locally sourced seafood – and include a printed recipe sheet and a certificate of completion.
Demonstration & Taster Sessions
For those who prefer to watch, group demonstrations are available at £7‑£15 per person depending on group size (10‑46 people). Participants sample the dishes and can ask questions about handling and cooking seafood.
Non‑Seafood Workshops
The school also runs occasional workshops on local produce such as Irish cheeses, heritage potatoes and seasonal vegetables, allowing a broader culinary experience.
Private Hire
The fully equipped kitchen can be hired for £100 per day, ideal for corporate team‑building, birthday parties or bespoke culinary events.
Complimentary Extras
Every session includes tea, coffee, biscuits, Wi‑Fi and free on‑site parking.
Nearby Attractions
The school’s location makes it a convenient base for exploring the Mourne coastal region. Within a short drive you’ll find Kilkeel Harbour, the Mourne Mountain Adventures centre, Cranfield West Beach, and the scenic GI Trail. Golf enthusiasts can head to Kilkeel Golf Club (2.3 mi away) for a round on a coastal course.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Saturday | 09:00 – 17:00 (closed 13:00‑13:30 for lunch; Saturdays seasonal closure Nov‑Easter) |
| Sunday | Closed |
Booking & Payment All classes require prior booking – you can reserve online via the school’s website or by calling. Payments are accepted in euros and all major credit/debit cards.
Facilities & Accessibility The venue is wheelchair‑friendly, with baby‑changing facilities and a comfortable waiting area.
Getting There The school is located at Nautilus Centre, Rooney Road, Kilkeel, County Down BT34 4AG. It is easily reachable by car from the A2 coastal road; on‑site parking is free. Regular bus services run to Kilkeel town centre, followed by a short walk to the harbour.
Contact Details
- Phone: +44 (0) 28 4176 2525
- Website: Mourne Seafood Cookery School
Pricing Summary
| Offering | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cookery Class (2 courses) | 2.5 hrs | £50 |
| Cookery Class (3 courses) | 3.5 hrs | £65 |
| Cookery Class (up to 5 courses) | 5.5 hrs | £120 |
| Demonstration/Taster (group) | – | £7‑£15 per person (size‑dependent) |
| Kitchen Hire | Full day | £100 |