Fancy spending a day discovering some of Dorset's mouth-watering local produce?
Book an experience day to delve into the history behind local producers and learn more about their techniques. You'll also get to meet the people who bring some of the finest craft produce in the country to our tables.
Award-winning English wines
Who doesn’t love a glass of fizz? You might be surprised to learn that Dorset has a formidable reputation for wine, winning numerous international Gold awards.
Furleigh Estate, Langham Wine Estate, Little Waddon Vineyard, Bride Valley Vineyard and English Oak Vineyard are regularly producing exceptional vintages, so why not make time to experience the vineyards and compare tasting notes yourself?
These wines have been created using classical Champagne, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier or Chardonnay grape varieties, hand-picked, and then processed using a combination of traditional and modern techniques. Explore the vineyards to learn about how the grapes are grown, harvested and prepared, before honing your tasting skills with tips and guidance from the in-house experts.
A pint of Dorset’s finest
Whilst Dorset pubs have been a pillar of the communities for centuries, it’s reassuring to still find quality locally produced ales on tap across the county. Two of the most established breweries in Dorset (combining nearly half a century of brewing expertise) offer tours and tastings.
Palmer’s Brewery in Bridport is among the UK’s very best small independent brewers, working to traditional methods with the finest ingredients – why not give their Dorset Gold a try?
The Hall & Woodhouse brewery in charming Blandford Forum, have been Badger beers since 1777. Enjoy a guided tour together with a beer tasting and lunch in the characterful Brewery Tap restaurant.
Learn from the master…chef!
With its abundance of world-class produce, Dorset is the perfect place to hone your cookery schools and take part a masterclass led by top Dorset chefs and artisanal producers. There’s a course for everyone – from hedgerow foraging and cake decorating to bread making
Chris Staines, Executive Chef at The Ollerod, Beaminster, curates regular gastro-events that celebrate the amazing produce within the region. From a special Black Cow Vodka dinner to seasonal supper clubs hosted by Chris, the creativity of the menu paired with the finest and freshest ingredients will blow you away.
Get out and explore our stunning coastline and expand your knowledge of nature’s larder, by taking part in a foraging session with Fore Adventure. Led by Jade & Dan, they offer wonderful section of experiences ranging from short taster sessions to full-day kayaking, foraging and fishing expeditions, and even a number of weekend retreats for those looking to truly escape and immerse themselves in nature.
For an unforgettable foodie treat, join renowned chef Mark Hix at his Dorset home, for an intimate 4-course lunch paired with wine, or sample some of the finest seafood delights at his Oyster and Fish House restaurant.
Combine Cookery with a Peaceful Getaway
Do you have a passion for cooking? Want to develop your cookery skills in a beautiful location? Then make it part of your holiday and include a course at one of Dorset’s many cookery schools.
There are cookery schools to cater for all levels of skill, whether you are a complete novice or expert…all with a friendly atmosphere and courses for all ages, even the younger creative chefs in the family!
What makes a cookery school in Dorset special is the ingredients! The county has a reputation for some of the most delicious produce, such as wine, cider, ale, cheese, organic meat and fruit and vegetables....these delicious, fresh, local ingredients make all the difference but don’t just take our word for it, come and taste it for yourself!
Charmed and inspired by the beauty of Dorset and the superb quality of fresh local produce, Lesley Waters opened her own cookery school in Dorset in 2006 and has recently moved from West Dorset Shaftesbury. Teaching has always been her great passion and opening her own cookery school in Dorset was the realisation of a longheld dream. Her energetic style of presentation is expertly combined with clear and simple guidance, making her classes both entertaining and informative.
Learn how to cook delicious food to impress your family and friends and pick-up secret techniques from Laura Pope from The Dorset Kitchen
And at the end of the day when you’re all cooked out, why not take a breath of fresh air and explore our stunning coast and countryside.
Find more food and drink events here.
Food & Drink Events
