You only need to bring yourself and a smile to enjoy the experience
Established by Niall McKenna in 2011, Waterman Cookery School is now based in a purpose-built kitchen in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Up to 18 guests can cook together around one large table under the expert guidance of our chefs. Our relaxed, hands-on classes are suitable for all ages and abilities. We remove the jargon, use equipment found in most homes and teach practical skills you can enjoy long after the class ends.
Expert guidance
Learn alongside experienced chefs.
Hands-on cooking
Classes combine demonstrations with practical cooking.
Relaxed and sociable
Sit down together afterward to enjoy what you’ve made.
All abilities welcome
No specialist knowledge or equipment is required.
Private Cookery Classes
From birthday celebrations and group nights out to client entertaining and team events, our Cookery School can be booked for private experiences tailored to your group.
Explore Private Classes
Niall McKenna
Niall McKenna is the chef and restaurateur behind Waterman House. After working with Gary Rhodes, Nico Ladenis and Marco Pierre White in London, he returned to Belfast and opened James Street South in 2003. Since then, he has championed local, seasonal produce, launched several acclaimed restaurants and established a Chef Apprenticeship scheme to support the next generation of cooks.
Cathal Duncan
Executive Head Chef
Originally from Dublin, Cathal developed his craft in leading kitchens across Belfast and London, including The Merchant Hotel, Michelin-starred Roussillon, OX and James Street South. His cooking celebrates high-quality local produce, complemented by influences gathered throughout his career.
Marion Lancial
Resident French Tutor
Her love of cooking began in her grandmother’s restaurant in Normandy before she trained in pastry arts and worked in France and Washington, DC, including as a private chef for diplomats and embassies. Her cooking celebrates quality French cuisine, local producers and seasonal ingredients.
