Discover Monaghan Masterclasses, a collection of unique hands-on experiences led by local experts, makers and craftspeople. Perfect for a day trip from Dublin or Belfast, or as part of a relaxing Monaghan getaway.
What Are Monaghan Masterclasses?
Meet the people behind Monaghan’s most inspiring creative, lifestyle and active experiences. The Monaghan Masterclasses series brings together passionate experts, skilled makers, and masters of their craft – all ready to share their knowledge through immersive, hands-on experiences that you can book and enjoy for yourself.
Whether you want to learn a new skill, rediscover a forgotten passion, or simply enjoy a memorable day out, Monaghan offers the perfect setting to slow down, to immerse and connect.
Monaghan is an easy escape for a day trip or short break, readily accessible by car or public transport from both Dublin and Belfast; South Monaghan is approximately an hour from Dublin, while North Monaghan is similarly easy to get to from Belfast.
With a wide choice of accommodation to suit every budget, excellent local food, and authentic experiences throughout the county, Monaghan makes it easy to turn a masterclass into a relaxing getaway.
Lynsey McKernan
Plein Air Painting Master
Lynsey McKernan is a professional artists with a practice rooted in plein air painting and landscape observation. Combining years of creative experience with a welcoming teaching style, she helps people of all abilities discover the rewards of painting outdoors and connecting more deeply with the landscape around them. That landscape is none other than beautiful Monaghan, with no shortage of breath-taking scenic landscapes to capture.
Maria Macklin
Master of Sustainable Style
From her studio near Carrickmacross, Maria Macklin is helping people rethink the way they dress through a more sustainable and authentic approach to personal style. Combining colour analysis, wardrobe expertise, and conscious shopping advice, her masterclasses are designed to inspire confidence while encouraging a more thoughtful relationship with fashion.
Damien West
Jiving Master
If you’ve ever been left behind on the dancefloor (we feel your pain) Jivin’ Country will surely bring your dance skills up to scratch! As well as the obligatory jive, a mainstay of the Irish wedding and country dancefloor, Damien and his dance partner, Katie, are skilled teachers of the foxtrot, waltz, line dancing and quickstep. Jivin’ Country teaches a regular class here in Castleblayney, as well as one-on-one lessons tailored to their students level of ability.
Laura Pusceddu
Fermentation Master
Laura together with partner, Rory, both former professional chefs, honed their fermenting skills on an organic farm on Inishbofin. Their product range at Bia Cultures, their burgeoning business which they operate here in Ballybay, includes sauerkraut, kimchi and pickles, as well as fermented beetroot and lemons – all made in small batches from the very best seasonal ingredients.
Gemma Treanor
Equestrian Master
Gareth Conlon
Master of Sustainable Food
Gareth, co-founder and director of regenerative farm and education centre Síolta Chroí, delivers a range of courses focused on self-sufficiency and regenerative food production. Participants learn practical skills such as growing vegetables, creating food forests and baking traditional bread, all under expert guidance. “We offer a unique blend of learning, food and connection with nature and a like-minded community,” says Gareth.
Nell Regan
Poetry Master
Nell Regan is an acclaimed poet and non-fiction writer whose latest collection is Thirty-Six Views of the Sugarloaf (Arlen House). She has been a Fellow at the International Writing Programme, Iowa, recipient of a Patrick and Katherine Kavanagh Fellowship and Arts Council Literature Bursaries. If you are looking to hone your poetry skills, you are in fantastic hands with Nell, who works with the Patrick Kavanagh Centre to deliver an immersive poetry workshop ‘They Laughed at One I Loved’.
Ready to discover your next passion?
Explore the Monaghan Masterclasses series and meet the people transforming traditional skills, creativity, and craftsmanship into unforgettable experiences.
Start planning your visit today and book your masterclass experience.
Find Out More
To find out more about the featured businesses, follow Monaghan Tourism on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), @MonaghanTourism, where profiles will be released throughout over the summer.
With thanks to Fáilte Ireland & the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for their support of this campaign.
