15 best British activity breaks

Entertain without the strain in Northern Ireland

Why go: After one too many soggy soufflés, you may be vowing never to hold a dinner party again. But don’t despair just yet. Belle Isle Cookery School in leafy Co Fermanagh runs popular ‘Food for Friends’ courses, aimed at people who love to entertain but don’t have much time to prepare. Courses hold a maximum of 12 people and are designed for any level of cooking ability. They are sociable too; each evening, after a wine tasting, guests watch as the finishing touches are added to a gourmet dinner, which is served in the dining room, overlooking the Florence Court mountains.

Great for: Foodie couples, or go with your best friend.

The lowdown: The ‘Food for Friends’ course runs on various dates in April, June , July, August and October, and costs £450 per person, including tuition, meals – some you cook yourself – and accommodation (www.irish-cookery-school.com; 028 6638 7231).