46 years of smoking wild fish in West Cork
Learn the traditional art of preserving and smoking wild fish with internationally acclaimed Sally Barnes at The Keep in West Cork.
From West Cork to the world
Masterclasses and Courses
High in the hills above Castletownshend, The Keep is Sally's fish school, kitchen and gathering place — somewhere to learn about wild food, cook, eat, talk and spend time around the table.
From traditional fish smoking and coastal foraging to seasonal suppers and our immersive World of Wild Salmon experience, everything begins with the fish, the landscape and what nature gives us.
Evening Suppers
Settle in for a special evening of shared stories, seasonal flavours, and artisan fare. Begin with a welcome drink, then gather around a long table for a supper that celebrates Ireland’s vibrant culinary heritage - with stories from legendary fish smoker Sally Barnes.
Coastal Workshop
Join us for a seasonal foraging adventure along the stunning coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way. With breathtaking views and expert guidance, you’ll discover edible plants, seaweeds, and shoreline treasures - and deepen your connection to nature with every step.
Sally Barnes
For more than four decades, Sally Barnes has dedicated her life to wild fish.
A pioneering figure in Ireland's food renaissance, Sally is an internationally acclaimed fish smoker, teacher and advocate for wild fisheries and the communities that depend upon them.
In 2006, her Wild Irish Atlantic Smoked Salmon became the first Irish food ever to be named Supreme Champion at the Great Taste Awards. Twenty years later, the same product was awarded 3 Stars at Great Taste 2026.
Today, Sally shares the knowledge gathered over a lifetime through the courses, gatherings and experiences at The Keep.
Awards and Memberships
