Shanagarry Travel Guide

What to buy: Eldferflower syrup - just a few drop will transform your pitcher of ordinary [tap] water into something heavenly. Available in the summer when elderflowers are in bloom.

Darina Ellen to Ireland is as Delia Smith to England. The Ellen family has a long history in the restaurant and hotel business in County Cord, their flagship establishment being the formidable Ballymaloe House that is just 10 minutes away from the Cookery School by car.

There are lots of short excursions one can take from the school. Ballycotton, for example, is a small traditional fishing village with a lovely coastal walk and plenty of good seafood restaurants.

The one-week cookery couse, held in the summer, is highly recommended.