At our Letchworth Garden City location, we offer engaging and immersive cooking classes that are designed to help you unlock your full culinary potential. Whether you're looking to improve your cooking skills, learn new recipes, or simply enjoy a fun and educational culinary experience, our cooking classes are the perfect choice.
Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure through the diverse flavours of Spain as we bring you an immersive Spanish Tapa Cookery Class. Over the course of 4 hours, you'll delve into the art of crafting a delectable array of iconic Spanish tapas. From traditional favourites to contemporary delights, this culinary experience will transport your senses to the vibrant streets and coastal shores of Spain. What you will make: Manchego Stuffed Padrón Peppers Pan con Tomate (Tomato Bread) Manchego, Almonds & Thyme Honey Ajo Blanco - Almond, Garlic, and Bread Dipping Sauce Chorizo Cooked in Cider OR Chorizo & Bean Stew Canarian Potatoes with Mojo Verde Salt-Baked Prawns with Charred Lemon Basque Cheesecake Class Details: Duration: 3 hours Skill Level: All levels welcome
What's Included: Hands-on instruction from our experienced chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Tasting of the dishes prepared during the class Recipe cards to recreate the magic at home
Embark on a culinary journey into the heart of Italian tradition with our immersive 3-hour Fresh Pasta & Ravioli Cookery Class. Led by our expert chef, this hands-on experience will teach you the art of crafting fresh egg pasta from scratch, transforming it into delicate Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli and flavourful Pork or Mushroom Tortellini. Activity 1: Fresh Egg Pasta - Mastering the Basics Begin your pasta adventure by learning the fundamentals of making fresh egg pasta dough. Under the guidance of our skilled chef, participants will knead, roll, and shape the dough to perfection, discovering the secrets behind achieving the ideal texture and consistency. From silky fettuccine to delicate sheets for ravioli and tortellini, you'll learn the versatility of fresh pasta. Activity 2: Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli - A Taste of Tuscany Delve into the exquisite world of filled pasta with the creation of Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli. Participants will learn to prepare a delectable filling of creamy ricotta cheese and vibrant spinach, mastering the art of shaping and sealing each delicate parcel. Elevate your ravioli with a homemade sauce or simply enjoy them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Activity 3: Pork or Mushroom Tortellini - Savoury Sensations Explore the intricate art of making Pork Mushroom Tortellini, a beloved delicacy from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Participants will craft a savoury filling of seasoned pork and earthy mushrooms, learning the traditional technique for shaping each tortellini by hand. Discover the satisfaction of creating these bite-sized treasures, perfect for pairing with your favourite sauce or broth. Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels
What's Included: Expert guidance from our skilled chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Tasting of the freshly made pasta, ravioli, and tortellini Recipe cards to take home and recreate the pasta delights
Dive into the world of seafood with our Fish Cookery Class! In this immersive 3-hour session, you'll learn to prepare a variety of delicious fish dishes that are sure to impress. Led by our expert chef, this class covers everything from curing and smoking to pan-frying and assembling elegant plates. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or a cooking novice, you'll gain valuable skills and techniques to elevate your culinary repertoire. What You Will Make: 1. Smoked Salmon and Mackerel Ballotine with Croutons and Pickled Cucumber Master the art of creating a sophisticated ballotine, blending the rich flavors of smoked salmon and mackerel. You'll also learn to make crispy croutons and tangy pickled cucumber to complement this elegant dish. 2. Beetroot and Gin Cured Salmon Gravadlax Discover the secrets of curing salmon with beetroot and gin, resulting in a visually stunning and flavor-packed gravadlax. Our chef will guide you through the curing process, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time. 3. Pan-Fried Hake with Chorizo and Bean Cassoulet, Pangritata Learn to pan-fry hake to perfection, then pair it with a hearty chorizo and bean cassoulet. You'll also create pangritata, a crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds texture and flavor to your dish. 4. Prawn and Smoked Haddock Fishcake Craft delicious fishcakes using a blend of prawn and smoked haddock. Our chef will teach you the techniques for achieving the ideal texture and taste, perfect for any seafood lover. Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels
What's Included: Expert instruction from our skilled chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Hands-on preparation of each dish Tasting of the dishes prepared during the class Recipe cards to take home and recreate the seafood delights
Embark on a delicious journey to Portugal in this immersive, hands-on cookery class! Over three hours, you’ll master the art of classic Portuguese dishes, from crispy salt cod croquettes to a rich and aromatic cataplana, all topped off with the nation’s most beloved dessert – the famous pastel de nata. Expect bold flavors, exciting techniques, and plenty of fun along the way!
What You Will Make:
🔥 Salt Cod Croquettes (Pastéis de Bacalhau)Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside—these golden bites of salt cod, mashed potato, and fresh herbs are a true Portuguese staple. You’ll learn how to shape, season, and shallow-fry them to perfection.
🍅 Portuguese GazpachoLight, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors! This chilled soup is a vibrant mix of sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh peppers, and fragrant herbs—perfect for a taste of summer all year round.
🍖 Pork & Clam ‘Cataplana’A true showstopper! Cooked in a traditional Portuguese cataplana pot, this dish brings together succulent pork, juicy clams, and a rich, aromatic sauce that’s packed with bold, warming spices. We’ll guide you through every step of this comforting and flavour-packed dish. (Don’t worry—if clams are tricky to source, we’ll have a delicious alternative ready!)
🥧 Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pastéis de Nata)Flaky, buttery pastry. Silky-smooth custard. A perfectly caramelized top. Need we say more? Learn the secrets behind making the ultimate pastel de nata and take home a treat that will impress family and friends!
Class Details:
⏳ Duration: 3 hours of hands-on cooking
👩🍳 Skill Level: Fun and engaging for all experience levels
✅ What’s Included:
Expert guidance from our passionate chefs
All ingredients and equipment provided
Aprons to wear during the class
Recipe cards to take home so you can recreate the magic
A friendly, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of foodie chat!
Join us for a luxurious Beef Wellington Cookery Class, where you'll master the art of creating this iconic dish alongside a selection of delicious sides. In this 3-hour class, designed for adults, you'll learn how to prepare a show-stopping Beef Wellington with tender fillet steak, encased in flaky puff pastry, and paired with rich accompaniments like dauphinoise potatoes, glazed carrots, and a rich gravy. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a gourmet meal at home! What You Will Make: 1. Beef Wellington Under the guidance of our expert chef, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Beef Wellington from scratch. From seasoning the fillet to preparing the mushroom duxelles and wrapping it all in buttery puff pastry, you’ll master each step to create a dish that's both impressive and delicious. 2. Dauphinoise Potatoes Learn how to make creamy, indulgent dauphinoise potatoes, the perfect complement to your Beef Wellington. Our chef will guide you through layering potatoes with garlic-infused cream and baking them to perfection. 3. Glazed Carrots These sweet and tender carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish. You’ll learn how to glaze them to achieve a rich, shiny finish that’s full of flavor. 4. Rich Gravy & Horseradish What’s a Beef Wellington without a rich, flavorful gravy? You’ll also make a delicious homemade gravy, perfect for serving alongside your dish, as well as a fresh horseradish sauce to add a tangy kick. Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels
What's Included: Expert instruction from our chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Hands-on preparation of Beef Wellington, dauphinoise potatoes, glazed carrots, and rich gravy Recipe cards to take home and recreate the dish Aprons provided
Indulge in the rich flavors and classic techniques of French brasserie cuisine in our immersive 3-hour Cookery Class. Led by our skilled chef, this class promises to transport you to the heart of a French bistro as you master the art of crafting Twice-Baked Soufflé, Confit Duck Leg Cassoulet with Black Pudding, and a Spiced Crème Brûlée.
Course 1: Twice-Baked Soufflé - A Pillowy Prelude
Embark on your culinary journey by mastering the delicate art of Twice-Baked Soufflé. Under the guidance of our chef, you'll learn the secrets to creating a light and airy base, twice-baking it to perfection. Elevate this classic French dish with a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, setting the stage for the brasserie feast to come.
Course 2: Confit Duck Leg Cassoulet - Hearty French Comfort
Dive into the heartiness of French brasserie fare with the preparation of Confit Duck Leg Cassoulet. Our chef will guide you through the slow-cooking process, resulting in tender and flavorful duck confit. This cassoulet is a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures, transporting you to the cozy ambiance of a French bistro.
Course 3: Spiced Crème Brûlée - A Sweet Finale with a Kick
Conclude your culinary journey with the creation of Spiced Crème Brûlée. Learn to infuse this classic dessert with a hint of spice, adding a layer of complexity to the velvety custard. Master the art of caramelizing sugar to create the signature crisp crust that crowns this indulgent and satisfying finale.
Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: All levels welcome
What's Included:
Hands-on instruction from our experienced chef
All necessary ingredients and equipment
Tasting of the Twice-Baked Soufflé, Confit Duck Leg Cassoulet with Black Pudding, and Spiced Crème Brûlée prepared during the class
Recipe cards for each dish
Indulge in the art of Italian dessert-making with our 3-hour Italian Dessert Cookery Class. Perfect for dessert lovers and home cooks alike, this class will teach you how to make three iconic Italian sweets: the classic, creamy Tiramisu, a velvety Panna Cotta served with a fruity salsa ai frutti di bosco, and the crumbly yet delicious Sbrisolona. Under expert guidance, you’ll master the techniques behind these traditional treats, bringing the flavors of Italy into your own kitchen! What You Will Make: 1. TiramisuDiscover the secrets to making the perfect tiramisu, with layers of coffee-soaked sponge, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. You’ll learn how to balance the flavors and create the ultimate indulgent dessert. 2. Panna Cotta with Salsa ai Frutti di BoscoMaster the art of making silky smooth panna cotta, a classic Italian dessert that melts in your mouth. You’ll pair it with a vibrant, tangy berry sauce (salsa ai frutti di bosco) to add a fruity burst to this creamy treat. 3. SbrisolonaLearn how to make Sbrisolona, a crunchy, almond-based crumble cake from the Lombardy region. This rustic dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious, perfect for pairing with coffee or as a sweet snack. Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels
What's Included: Expert instruction from our chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Hands-on preparation of tiramisu, panna cotta, and sbrisolona Recipe cards to take home and recreate the desserts Aprons provided
Immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Italy with our immersive 3-hour Risotto and Arancini Cookery Class. From mastering the art of creamy risotto to crafting golden Sicilian arancini, you'll embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the heartiness and comfort of Italian cuisine. Course 1: Butternut Squash, Sage & Hazelnut Risotto Discover the heartiness of autumn with a risotto infused with the sweetness of butternut squash, the earthiness of sage, and the crunch of toasted hazelnuts. Learn how to balance flavours while achieving the perfect creamy texture. Course 2: Creamy Polenta with Parmesan & Seasonal Topping Unlock the secrets of perfectly cooked polenta – smooth, rich, and full of flavour. Paired with Parmesan and a seasonal topping, this rustic northern Italian dish is a versatile addition to your home cooking repertoire. Course 3: Sicilian Arancini with Spicy Tomato Sauce Transport yourself to sun-soaked Sicily as you master the art of making arancini. Learn to create the crisp golden shell and savoury rice filling, then pair them with a vibrant spicy tomato sauce for an irresistible finish. Class Details: Duration: 3 hours Skill Level: All levels welcome
What's Included: Hands-on instruction from our experienced chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Tasting of the risottos and arancini prepared during the class Recipe cards for risotto variations and arancini
If you loved our original tapas class — or you’re joining us for the first time — this brand-new workshop brings a completely fresh menu of authentic Spanish dishes to master. Learn to create a vibrant spread of tapas, from elegant small bites to rustic regional favourites, all guided by our expert chef. In this hands-on 3-hour class, you’ll prepare a full variety of dishes that balance bold flavours, seasonal ingredients and classic Spanish techniques. What You’ll Make Herb Tortilla A light, flavourful twist on the traditional tortilla española, enriched with fresh herbs for a delicate and aromatic finish. Stuffed Figs with Blue Cheese & Pancetta Sweet figs filled with creamy blue cheese, wrapped in crisp pancetta — the perfect sweet-salty bite. Confit Pork Belly with Butter Bean Purée Slow-cooked pork belly that melts in the mouth, served on a silky white bean purée inspired by northern Spain’s rustic cooking. Stuffed Romano Peppers Charred Romano peppers filled with a savoury vegetable and herb mixture — colourful, comforting and full of flavour. Aubergine Saltimbocca A twist on the Roman classic: pan-fried aubergine layered with sage and cheese, finished with a rich glaze. Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Chilli Prawns) A Spanish staple — juicy prawns cooked in sizzling olive oil with garlic, chilli and smoked paprika. Manchego with Thyme Honey & Almonds A simple but stunning combination of aged Manchego, toasted almonds and fragrant thyme-infused honey. Class Details 📍 Duration: 3 hours👩🍳 Skill Level: All levels welcome🍴 Includes: Chef-led hands-on instruction All ingredients & equipment Tastings of every dish Recipe cards to recreate the menu at home
Embark on a 3-hour gastronomic adventure as we transport you to the heart of Northern Italy in our immersive Cookery Class. Led by our expert chef, this class promises to be a celebration of regional flavors as you master the art of crafting Polenta Tartlets filled with Wild Mushrooms and Parmesan, Garlic, and Parsley Sauce, and Gnocchi with Peppers and Sausages. Course 1: Polenta Tartlet with Wild Mushrooms - A Taste of Northern Elegance Begin your culinary journey by mastering the creation of Polenta Tartlets. Under the expert guidance of our chef, you'll learn to craft the perfect polenta base, creating delicate tartlets that serve as a canvas for a luscious filling of wild mushrooms. Elevate the dish with a Parmesan, Garlic, and Parsley Sauce that adds layers of flavor and sophistication. Course 2: Gnocchi with Peppers and Sausages - A Hearty Northern Comfort Dive into the heartiness of Northern Italian cuisine with the preparation of Gnocchi. Our chef will guide you through the process of creating pillowy potato dumplings, perfectly paired with sautéed peppers and savory sausages. Discover the art of balancing flavors to create a dish that's comforting, flavorful, and quintessentially Northern Italian. Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Skill Level: All levels welcome
What's Included: Hands-on instruction from our experienced chef All necessary ingredients and equipment Tasting of the Polenta Tartlets and Gnocchi dishes prepared during the class Recipe cards for Polenta Tartlets with Wild Mushrooms and Gnocchi with Peppers and Sausages
Step into the heart of Italian cuisine with our Fresh Pasta Cookery Class, dedicated to the art of unfilled pasta. Over 3 hours, you’ll learn to make pasta dough from scratch, shape it into beautiful ribbons and bows, and bring each dish to life with authentic, flavour-packed sauces. Guided by our expert chef, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to recreate these Italian favourites at home. Dish 1: Pappardelle ai Funghi Discover the earthy elegance of wide pappardelle ribbons paired with a luxurious wild mushroom sauce. Using a mix of porcini and chanterelle mushrooms, this dish is rich, rustic, and deeply satisfying. Dish 2: Farfalle con Pesto di Pistacchi, Salsiccia e Scamorza Learn to craft delicate bow-tie pasta and toss it in a vibrant pistachio pesto with Italian sausage and smoky scamorza cheese. A dish that’s both hearty and indulgent, showcasing bold southern Italian flavours. Dish 3: Tagliatelle con Cozze, Patate e Zafferano Embrace coastal Italian cooking with fresh tagliatelle served with tender mussels, saffron, and potatoes. Fragrant and golden, this dish captures the warmth of the Mediterranean in every bite. Class Details📍 Duration: 3 hours👩🍳 Skill Level: All levels welcome 🍴 What’s Included: Hands-on instruction from our experienced chef All ingredients & equipment Tastings of every pasta dish Recipe cards to take home
At our Letchworth Garden City location, we offer engaging and immersive cooking classes that are designed to help you unlock your full culinary potential.
Whether you're looking to improve your cooking skills, learn new recipes, or simply enjoy a fun and educational culinary experience, our cooking classes are the perfect choice.
State of the Art Kitchen Space
Our classes are held in a state-of-the-art kitchen equipped with top-quality knives, cookware, and appliances, ensuring that you have access to the best tools in the trade. From learning basic cooking skills to mastering complex recipes, our classes are carefully crafted to provide a hands-on and interactive learning experience.
Led by our experienced chefs, our classes provide expert instruction on a wide range of cooking techniques and recipes, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced cooks.
Anne is our star Home Economist. She has worked on the last five Mary Berry cook books and has also contributed to the BBC’s ‘MasterChef Cookery Course’ and ‘MasterChef at Home’ amongst countless others.
As an accomplished demonstrator, she has taught at Jean-Christophe Novelli’s Academy, and regularly appears onstage at food festivals using local and seasonal foods, and promoting family cooking for the kids to get involved with too.
Simone Scola
Simone Scola, was born in Falcade, Italian Dolomites where he trained for 5 years. He worked at Michelin starred Tivoli in Cortina D’ampezzo and Locanda Delle Tamerici. Simone moved to London in 2007 where he worked at Zafferano in Knightsbridge and Orrery in Marylebone.
He began his gastro pub experience at the Landsdowne in Primerose Hill. Enjoying this scene he joined The Hermit in 2013 and now works as freelance.
Holly Merry
Holly is our secret weapon for vegan bakes. 6 years vegan, 4 years working in vegan kitchens, she considers cakes and delicious bakes a tool to make any bad day a little better: that's where the name of her business Dopa Delights comes from.
The Dopa is the part of the brain where Dopamine is created, and Holly's cakes not only make her happy, she also hopes to share that happiness with others through her classes and creations.
David Batala
Meet David Batala, a seasoned private chef with over 15 years of experience and a deep love for the art of cooking. David's culinary journey has taken him on a remarkable path, including working in Michelin-starred restaurants. Through his diverse experiences, David has refined his skills, mastering the delicate balance of flavors and techniques that make every dish a masterpiece. With David's warm and patient guidance, you'll uncover the secrets behind creating delicious meals while exploring your own creativity in the kitchen.
We make every possible effort to satisfy dietary needs and, where possible, provide alternatives.
If you have any questions about what we can provide, please call us before making your booking on 01708691322.
If you have any dietary needs or allergies, even if you don't believe they're relevant, please write them in the "dietary requirements" box at the checkout!
Will I have my own work station?
Yes, each students will have a personal work station with an induction hob and a next gen oven plus all the utensils, knives and pans you will need for the class.
What age range do you allow in classes?
Anyone of any age is welcome to attend. Under 16-year-olds are welcome to attend our class accompained by an adult (we would only charge for one ticket). Under 10-year-olds will have classes available to attend especially made for younger children.
Will I get the recipes?
At the beginning of your class you will receive a printed card that features all the recipes you will be learning on the day, plus an additional section for any further notes.
Can I change my booking or cancel?
You may transfer to an alternative class if you give us notice not less than 3 days before the date of the class. In this case, we will rebook you on to your selected class as long as it’s available and not sold out. Confirmed bookings are not eligible for refunds or cancellations under any circumstances. If you cannot attend a class you may send someone else in your place, just let us know the name of the attendee in advance of the class, where possible.
What do I need to bring?
You do not need to bring anything to most classes, but we recommend bringing a food container for the food you will make in case you wanted to take it home. Please make sure you are wearing closed toe shoes.
Can I buy a gift card?
Yes, our Gift Cards can be redeemed against Cooking School classes!