Éclade de Moules at Ashcombe: Richard Cornish’s Mussel Masterclass on the Mornington Peninsula

On a warm summer evening at Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens in Shoreham, Victoria, an intimate culinary ritual unfolds: the Éclade de Moules masterclass with celebrated food writer Richard Cornish. Located on the southern stretch of the Mornington Peninsula, this event pairs a gentle stroll through clipped hedges and lavender rows with a hands-on lesson in a classic French mussel barbecue, followed by wine, stories and long-table conversation.

The experience begins with a guided walk through the gardens’ signature features: the century-old hedge maze, sunlit swathes of lavender and informal cottage beds threaded with native coastal plants. Those botanical rooms create a private outdoor dining room where the central spectacle—the éclade—comes to life. Originating on the Atlantic coast of France, an éclade cooks mussels beneath a bed of flaming pine needles; here, local mussels and regional wines are used to ground the technique in southern Australian flavours. Richard Cornish leads the session, explaining produce provenance, shellfish handling and the sensory details that lift a simple seaside meal.

What makes this event singular is its setting: a working ornamental garden on the Mornington Peninsula that foregrounds both horticulture and hospitality. The hedge maze and lavender fields act as more than décor; they frame conversation, scent and the tactile pleasure of communal eating. It’s an accessible, low-key evening—appropriate for food lovers, gardeners, and anyone who enjoys coastal light and slow-paced culinary storytelling.

Practicalities are straightforward: the published program runs roughly 1.5 hours, is for adults (minimum age 18), and typically takes place outdoors, so weather can change the rhythm. Expect informal seating, shared platters and a relaxed pace rather than a formal cooking school. Bring a light jacket for coastal breezes and sunscreen for daytime arrivals; dietary needs should be flagged in advance.

Why book it? This is a rare chance to see a celebrated food writer interpret a traditional technique in a live setting while situated inside one of Victoria’s most distinctive garden properties. It’s part garden tour, part tasting and part cultural lesson—a sensory evening that pairs place, produce and storytelling. For travellers on the Mornington Peninsula looking for an active, flavor-forward night that’s equal parts education and indulgence, the Éclade de Moules at Ashcombe is both a gateway to regional seafood culture and a convivial way to spend an evening by the sea.

Plan to arrive early to explore the maze alone, bring layers for sudden sea breezes and ask organizers about substitution options for shellfish allergies. Transport is mostly by car; parking is available on site but space can be limited during peak weekends. Combine the night with a Mornington Peninsula day trip—beaches, cellar doors and coastal walks are easily paired to make the most of your visit.