Tullamore pastry chef creates Willy Wonka-inspired gingerbread house

For the past eight years, Christmas season in Tullamore has been marked by a very sweet tradition: Clare Purcell, the beloved pastry chef at the Bridge House Hotel unveiling her now-annual spectacular gingerbread creation.

This year, Clare was inspired by the fantastic world of Willy Wonka, creating a themed gingerbread factory complete with Mr Wonka, and the prized golden ticket.

A pillar of the Bridge House Hotel kitchen for over 27 years, Clare has become synonymous with festive cheer.

Her gingerbread artistry has previously taken the form of other enchanting structures such as Hogwarts from Harry Potter, Disney’s iconic castle, and even a tribute to local landmarks like the Tullamore General Hospital and Tullamore town square – and the hotel itself.

Clare’s gingerbread houses are not just culinary marvels; they’re architectural feats. Each window, roof tile, and candy cane detail are crafted with precision.

This labour of love is not for consumption - each house is proudly displayed in the Bridge House Hotel lobby until Women’s Little Christmas in January, providing a festive centre piece for guests and visitors alike.