Discover Belfast’s culinary roots with a hands-on breadmaking experience at McHugh’s pub. Join Bronagh for a recipe-rich journey into Irish baking and culture.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
No specific fitness level required, just be comfortable and ready to knead.
Wildlife
History
McHugh's is one of Belfast's oldest pubs, reflecting centuries of Irish social life and brewing tradition.
Conservation
The activity promotes local food heritage and supports sustainable, local farming ingredients in Irish baking.
Bakehouse NI
Discover Belfast’s culinary roots with a hands-on breadmaking experience at McHugh’s pub. Join Bronagh for a recipe-rich journey into Irish baking and culture.
Bakehouse NI is an artisan baking school and food-experience provider located in Bellaghy, Northern Ireland. The business runs hands-on classes and private experiences focused on traditional Irish breads, preserved goods, and tea-time baking. Sessions include Luxury Afternoon Tea Baking Classes, soda bread and traditional Irish bread making at the Scribe, a Belfast pub bread workshop in McHugh's led by Bronagh, cake decorating, seasonal preserving and fermenting classes, and dedicated children’s birthday baking parties.
Each experience emphasizes seasonal ingredients, practical techniques, and take-home creations. Participants learn to bake buttermilk scones, lemon drizzle cake, soda farls, wheaten and potato breads, chutneys, jams, pickles and sauerkraut, and to finish cakes with fondant and buttercream. Several experiences feature live demonstrations, five-course afternoon tea service on elegant china, and meals using freshly baked breads.
Bakehouse NI operates both private and public sessions suitable for small groups and celebrations. Classes are timed between 2.5 and 4 hours depending on the session format, and include hands-on instruction, refreshments or lunch, and a takeaway of items prepared during the class. The Belfast breadmaking workshop takes place in McHugh’s, a historic pub dating to 1711, and some seasonal experiences are hosted by a turf fire or in a caravan setting.
Bakehouse NI has been featured on The Adventure Collective and partners local ingredients with traditional techniques. The business is presented as a trustworthy choice for visitors and locals seeking authentic Irish baking experiences, culinary skills, and memorable food-focused gatherings. Flexible booking and group options are available year-round for all.
Location
Bellaghy, Northern Ireland
Authentic rural base for classes
Class Length
2.5–4 hours
Hands-on sessions, take-home creations
Experiences
8 experiences
Bread, preserves, tea, cake classes
Historic Partner
McHugh's (1711)
Belfast’s oldest pub venue
Reserve a class in Bellaghy or Belfast for groups, private events, or individual learners — limited seats available.
Arrive early for the best experience
Getting to the class a little early will ensure you settle in comfortably before the session begins.
Wear comfortable, clothes you don't mind getting dough on
Baking can be messy—dress accordingly to enjoy the hands-on fun without worry.
Bring along a notebook for notes or recipes
Capture your favorite recipes and tips to replicate Irish bread at home.
Sample local brews after the session
Enjoy a pint at McHugh’s or nearby pubs to complete your Belfast culinary experience.
Appropriate comfortable clothing
Wear clothes suitable for kneading and getting a little flour or dough on.
Notebook and pen
To jot down recipes or helpful tips from Bronagh.
Reusable apron
To keep your clothes clean during the baking process.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while kneading and chatting.