Cookery Schools Collection : River Cottage Cookery School, Devon

River Cottage Cookery School, Axminster, Devon. Home of TV’s Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.

The River Cottage Cookery School offers a unique and immersive culinary experience set in the picturesque surroundings of River Cottage HQ in Devon, United Kingdom. Founded by renowned chef and food advocate Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, the school embodies the ethos of sustainable and seasonal cooking.

Nestled in the heart of the Devon countryside, the cookery school provides a diverse range of hands-on classes that cater to various skill levels and culinary interests. From mastering fundamental cooking techniques to exploring advanced culinary arts, participants have the opportunity to engage with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and gain a deeper understanding of sustainable and ethical food practices.

The school’s curriculum spans a wide array of topics, including butchery, baking, foraging, and vegetable-centric cooking. Expert chefs and instructors guide participants through the process, sharing their knowledge and passion for cooking with an emphasis on using ingredients that reflect the seasons.

The teaching standards at River Cottage are Accredited by ICSA, the Independent Cookery Schools Association as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ for consistency in teaching, exceptional learning experiences and facilities.

Classes are designed to be both informative and enjoyable, fostering a sense of community among participants. The idyllic setting of River Cottage HQ enhances the overall experience, providing a connection to the natural elements that play a crucial role in the farm-to-table philosophy.

The River Cottage Cookery School goes beyond traditional cooking classes by incorporating elements of farm life into the experience, adapting the ‘plot to plate’ ethos, all underpinned by founder Hugh’s ‘S.L.O.W.’ approach to food. Participants may have the opportunity to explore the River Cottage farm, visit the gardens, and gain insights into sustainable farming practices, further enriching their culinary education.

Whether a novice or an experienced cook, the River Cottage Cookery School offers a chance to connect with food in a meaningful way, promoting a deeper appreciation for the origins of ingredients and the impact of food choices on the environment. It is a destination for those seeking not only to enhance their cooking skills but also to embrace a more sustainable and mindful approach to food.

The ‘Axminster Kitchen’ is the River Cottage’s restaurant, open to the public and offering everyone the opportunity to enjoy the very best of what River Cottage has to offer.

Accommodation is also available in the River Cottage itself, with a series of rustic boutique style rooms, for a fully immersive River Cottage Experience.