The Ivy Experience

Since opening their doors in 2007, The Ivy has won the hearts and taste-buds of foodies from near and far! An evening at The Ivy Cookery School is the perfect way to get away from it all , located on the mature grounds of Thornville House. Tucked away in the idyllic Kildare countryside, inquisitive chickens pick their way through the shrubbery, and horses graze peacefully in adjoining paddocks, The Ivy experience begins from the moment you arrive.

Gourmet Cookery Evenings

Upon arrival at the enchanting country home, guests sip freshly made cocktails by welcoming open fires located in the relaxing drawing room.  Moving through to The Ivy’s intimate, yet  state-of-the art teaching kitchen, guests sit comfortably as Niamh shares  her expert tips and delicious recipes in her charming and engaging  style. Demonstrating each recipe step by step, guests then sample the delectable dishes.

As Niamh’s captivating cookery demonstrations come to an end, guests are invited to dine on the sumptuous five course meal prepared before their eyes, in the adjoining dining room.  The fine dining room can cater for up to 60 guests.  You will leave with a collection of delicious recipes and more importantly the knowledge and skills to recreate them in your own home.

Gourmet Cookery Evening Themes include : Italian, Asian (Thai, Chinese, Indian etc.) , Mexican and  seasonally themed evenings such as How to cook  Christmas dinner.

Demonstration Classes

Demonstration events at The Ivy offer informative tips and advice on mastering the arts  of cooking and baking. In her personable, engaging teaching style, Niamh guides you through her mouth-watering recipes, preparing them with locally sourced ingredients and The Ivy’s free range eggs. After each demonstration, guests get to sample the scrumptious dishes created before them. Guests all receive a book of Niamh’s step-by-step recipes, making them simple to use for own home entertaining. Before you leave, have a browse our well-stocked cookery shop for useful cooking essentials as well as beautifully displayed gift and kitchen-ware collections. Coveted lifestyle brands stocked include Cusipro, Farrington, Swift and Victorinox knives.

Demonstration classes typically include

• Delicious cakes and devilishly good desserts,
• Meals in minutes,
• Cooking on a budget,
• Healthy tasty eating,
• One-pot winter warmers – bakes, casseroles, stews.
• Cooking for Coeliacs  and special dietary requirements.