Learn to Cook in the Cotswolds: Top Cookery Classes
One of the joys of staying in a self-catering cottage is that you have the freedom to mix relaxing downtime with experiences that enrich your stay. If you love food (and who doesn’t?), taking a cookery class is a wonderful way to dive deeper into the Cotswold’s culinary culture. Here are some of our favourite cookery schools and classes in the region:
Daylesford Cookery School, Kingham
Set right on the Daylesford Organic farm, this is our go-to recommendation. Their courses are led by experienced tutors and draw directly from the farm’s produce. You’ll find everything from Quick & Simple Suppers and Seasonal Dinner Party classes to artisan bread, nose-to-tail butchery, and wild/foraging‑inspired courses.
Because it’s so close, it’s one of the most accessible and inspiring cookery experiences for guests staying at our cottages.
www.daylesford.com/shop/events/cookery-school
Thyme Cookery School, Southrop
Thyme is a country‑house boutique hotel with a dedicated cookery school. They offer classes like Master a Dish (2 hours) or Cook & Dine (4 hours). Some classes begin with a walk through their kitchen gardens to harvest ingredients before cooking.
It’s a charming and intimate setting, ideal for couples or small groups who want to learn in style.
www.thyme.co.uk/happenings/cookery-classes
Foodworks Cookery School, Colesbourne Park
Situated within the Colesbourne Park estate, Foodworks offers imaginative classes like Italian Kitchen, Lebanese, and Curry Club. Their location, between Cheltenham and Cirencester, makes it a nice option for guests exploring from more northern parts of the Cotswolds.
They focus on using local, top-quality ingredients and delivering an enjoyable, hands-on experience.
www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk
Natural Cookery School, Nailsworth
If you're leaning toward vegetarian, vegan or plant-based cooking, Natural Cookery School is known for its focus on wholesome, seasonal, natural cooking. They run intimate classes from their professional kitchen, offering courses like Very Vietnamese, Arabian Nights, or masterclasses in fermentation.
It’s perfect for guests who want to explore a more plant-centered style of cooking.
www.naturalcookeryschool.com
The Cotswolds Baking Workshop
Focused specifically on baking, this is a great pick for those wanting to learn breads, pastries, or dessert skills. Their classes are informal, friendly, and suitable for beginners and those more advanced alike.
If your guests love baking (or want to bring home artisan breads), this is a standout option.
www.cotswoldsbaking.com
Tips for Guests Taking a Class
- Book in advance- popular classes can sell out, especially on weekends.
- Check timing & location- some classes are full-day, others shorter; factor in travel time from your cottage.
- Mix it with your stay- take a class one day, then use the skills the next day in your cottage kitchen.
- Ask about ingredients & recipes- many schools provide recipe notes, and some let you take home what you make.
- Pair with local food shopping- before or after class, visit local farm shops or delis to gather ingredients you’ve learned about.
Explore Our Unique Lodgings
Because here at Tucked Away, we know The Cotswolds is the kind of place little moments feel big again.
What our guests have said
"Lovely stay and this beautiful property. The Interior was spotless and the rear garden being secure meant we could relax knowing that our dog could not escape. The end of the garden got full sun but the lower terrace provided shade if needed. The decor, soft furnishings and mood lighting inside sets this property apart from many others."
"A lovely cottage in a perfect location. Winchcombe is great as a base to explore the area and big enough to be entertaining on its own. The cottage is in a location where you can walk everywhere so the car stays at home. It is beautifully furnished and decorated an every appliance you could wish for is there. Really loved staying there and would definitely go back"
"We had a lovely and peaceful stay at the Cottage. You get the charming stone house on the outside, and a warm and tastefully decorated inside; perfect!We were able to explore the nearby area on foot (met some cows), and the Cottage is in a very convenient location to reach other villages and things to do and see. It was exactly the vacation we were looking for."