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Clodagh McKenna says she has built a happy life in England, but her bond with Ireland remains powerful — she still longs for its people, places and food. Her husband, Harry Herbert, has fallen for the country too and is even exploring an Irish passport to formalise that connection.
A strong pull back to Ireland
McKenna speaks openly about what she misses most: the warmth of the people, the coast, bustling pubs and local markets. She returns often enough to keep those ties alive, she says, and those visits clearly matter.
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Her husband has joined in the affection. Since their wedding at the Highclere estate in 2021, Herbert has become a familiar face in Cork’s English Market and elsewhere, embracing the social life that draws many visitors back each year.
Filming close to home
The couple are based in Hampshire, where they filmed the newly released six-part UTV series Clodagh: Cooking At Home, produced in partnership with Oceania Cruises. Shot at their Broadspear residence, the programme mixes weeknight recipes with dishes fit for dinner parties, while showing the kitchen, gardens and country setting.
Television work felt different for McKenna. She said hosting in her own home, with a full crew present, made her initially cautious — she’s more used to studio shoots. Trust grew quickly, however, and she describes the production team coming together fast to create what she calls a beautiful final result.
Harry’s role on screen and off
Herbert does more than offer moral support. He appears on screen, cooks alongside McKenna and has become known for his scrambled eggs and roast chicken. She praises his willingness to pitch in, both in the kitchen and around the house.
Asked whether shared activity is a key to a happy marriage, McKenna gave a simple answer: yes. She adds that deliberately noticing and appreciating each other helps maintain the relationship.
- Clodagh: Cooking At Home airs on UTV on Saturdays at 12pm and is available on ITVX.
- McKenna’s book, Clodagh At Home, is published by Kyle Books and is out now.
- Oceania Cruises partnered on the series; more information is available at oceaniacruises.com.
