There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking in the wild—hearing the crackle of firewood, smelling the mix of smoke and fresh ingredients, and tasting a meal made entirely outdoors. Northern Ireland, with its stunning landscapes and untamed beauty, is packed with locations perfect for wild cooking adventures. Here are some of our top picks for places where you can fire up your skillet and cook something unforgettable.
1. Tollymore Forest Park
Located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Tollymore offers a peaceful forest setting with bubbling rivers and moss-covered rocks. It’s ideal for a rustic meal by the water with plenty of sheltered areas for setting up a firepit.
2. Murlough Bay
One of the most scenic and lesser-known spots along the Antrim Coast, Murlough Bay gives you dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and grassy spots for laying down a blanket and setting up camp. It’s remote, so bring everything you need—including your Olive Wood Utensil Set.
3. Glenariff Forest Park
Often called the "Queen of the Glens," Glenariff is rich with waterfalls, walking trails, and quiet picnic areas. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a grilled lunch or breakfast by a stream. Use your olive wood cutting board to prep meats and veg right on-site.
4. Lough Neagh Shoreline
As the largest lake in the British Isles, Lough Neagh offers plenty of shoreline for wild cooking. The Antrim side is particularly great for families, with wide-open spaces to set up and enjoy long lakeside evenings by the fire.
5. Slieve Gullion Forest Park
Nestled in County Armagh, this ancient volcanic mountain is surrounded by peaceful forest areas perfect for off-grid cooking. The views are incredible, and there’s nothing like grilling up fresh-caught fish here with your favorite MWTP cleaver in hand.
6. Silent Valley Reservoir
Tucked within the Mourne Mountains, Silent Valley is as peaceful as it sounds. It’s an excellent spot for early morning coffee and eggs over the fire, with misty mountain views and crisp air adding to the charm.
7. Portmoon Bothy (Causeway Coast)
For the seasoned adventurer, the hike to Portmoon Bothy is well worth it. Overlooking the crashing waves and sea stacks of the Causeway Coast, this remote shelter is perfect for multi-day stays with fireside meals and unmatched scenery.
8. Castle Ward Estate
A mix of forest, coastline, and Game of Thrones filming history makes this spot a favorite among locals. You’ll find tucked-away picnic areas, trails, and access to Strangford Lough, giving you plenty of opportunities for open-fire cooking.
9. Benone Strand
Want to grill on the beach? Benone is one of the best spots in Northern Ireland to do it. Long stretches of sand, the smell of saltwater, and the roar of the Atlantic make for a perfect BBQ setting. Bring your apron—it might get messy.
10. The Sperrin Mountains
If you’re after true remoteness, head west to the Sperrins. With wild camping options and vast untouched landscapes, this is the place for ambitious meals and total solitude. Don’t forget your full setup—cast iron, utensils, cutting board, and a good sharp knife.
Whether you’re cooking breakfast by a quiet lake or grilling dinner with mountain views, Northern Ireland’s wild beauty makes every meal taste better. Bring the right gear, respect the land, and leave no trace—and you’ll find that these spots quickly become favorites for years to come.
