Posted on July 15, 2023
Not just known for its stunning landscapes and charming villages, The Cotswolds is also renowned for its bountiful produce and thriving culinary scene. From pick-your-own farms to bustling markets and cooking classes, The Cotswolds offer a myriad of opportunities for food enthusiasts to indulge in the region's finest offerings. Join us on an epicurean journey through The Cotswolds, highlighting some of the best ways to experience and savour its local produce.
Tastings and Workshops
Immerse yourself in the Cotswolds' culinary heritage by participating in foodie workshops and tastings. From cheese-making to bread-baking, cider-making to chocolate truffle crafting, there are numerous opportunities to learn new skills and gain insight into the region's traditional artisanal practices.
The Cotswolds Distillery offers gin and whisky-making masterclasses or if wine is more your thing, check out our journal on the best vineyards in The Cotswolds where you can indulge in a tasting or two. For something a little more wild, check out events with the Cotswold Forager, where you discover edible gems growing in these rolling hills and how to prepare and enjoy them. These experiences allow you to get hands-on and engage with local experts while expanding your culinary repertoire.
Pick-Your-Own Farms
The Cotswolds boasts numerous pick-your-own farms where visitors can harvest their own seasonal fruits and vegetables, providing a unique farm-to-table experience. During the summer months, you can gather succulent strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, while in the autumn, apples and pumpkins are ripe for the picking. Some popular pick-your-own farms in the Cotswolds include Cotswold Farm Park for the autumn pumpkin harvest, as well as Primrose Vale Farm and Over Farm Market for seasonal produce from May through to October. Spend a day in the countryside, reconnect with nature, and leave with a basket full of the freshest treats.
Vibrant Farmers' Markets
To truly discover the flavours of The Cotswolds, explore its vibrant farmers' markets. These markets showcase a wide collection of local produce, from freshly harvested fruits and vegetables to homemade preserves, artisanal cheeses, and locally raised meats. Stroud Farmers' Market, which takes place every Saturday, is renowned for its organic and sustainable produce. The market at Chipping Norton offers a diverse range of products, including baked goods, crafts, and delicacies from nearby farms. Engage with local producers, sample their wares, and support the region's food economy. For more options, check out our farmer’s market journal here.
Cooking Classes
Image credit: Daylesford Organic
Take your culinary skills to the next level by enrolling in a cooking class led by talented chefs. These classes provide hands-on instruction on creating delectable dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're interested in perfecting your pastry skills, exploring traditional British cuisine, or learning the art of modern gastronomy, there are courses tailored to various interests and skill levels. We’d highly recommend checking out the classes available across The Cookery School at Daylesford, Thyme Cookery School, and Harts Barn Cookery School. Each offer such a diverse range of cookery classes that you’re sure to find the perfect one to refine your culinary prowess.