Top 7 Best Culinary Schools in London

London stands as a vibrant hub for gastronomy, offering a wealth of opportunities for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts. With a rich tapestry of flavors and a thriving food scene, the city is home to some of the most prestigious culinary schools in the world. Whether you’re aiming to become a professional chef or simply wish to refine your cooking skills, our guide to the ‘Top 7 Best Culinary Schools in London’ will help you navigate through the finest institutions the city has to offer.

When choosing a culinary school, there are several factors and services to consider, ensuring you make the best decision for your culinary journey:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by reputable culinary associations.
Comprehensive Courses: Look for programs covering a wide range of cuisines and techniques.
Hands-on Training: Practical experience is crucial for mastering culinary skills.
Experienced Instructors: Learn from chefs with extensive industry experience.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern kitchens and equipment enhance the learning experience.
Internship Opportunities: Gain real-world experience through partnerships with top restaurants.
Flexible Scheduling: Options for part-time or full-time courses to fit your lifestyle.
Cost: Tuition fees can vary, with programs ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.
Post-Graduation Support: Assistance with job placements and career advice.

Explore the world of culinary arts in London and embark on a journey that could lead to a rewarding and flavorful career.

1. The Avenue Cookery School
2. Food at 52 Cookery School
3. Baking Classes by Bread Ahead

4. Divertimenti
5. Sauce by The Langham
6. Kitchenjoy Cookery School
7. Mimo London

Number of companies

2185

Verified reviews

4,80

Average rating

+442088747623

1. The Avenue Cookery School

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

3 Enterprise Way, SW18 1FZ, London

Culinary school
Cooking school
Cooking class

Why we chose them

The Avenue Cookery School stands out as a lively, family-run institution in South West London, dedicated to making cooking an enjoyable and enlightening experience. The school is led by a dynamic trio—mother, daughter, and son team—Diana, Sophie, and Richard, who infuse each class with warmth and enthusiasm. Their mission is to empower individuals of all ages and skill levels to embrace the art of cooking, moving beyond reliance on recipes to using them as a creative guide. With a focus on creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere, their classes are carefully structured to ensure participants leave with both newfound skills and a smile.

The school offers a diverse array of services, including short public classes, corporate events, private parties, and online masterclasses. Known for being “the most fun cookery school in London,” their sessions range from sociable gatherings to themed events like date nights, kids’ parties, and dietary-friendly workshops. Whether it’s a boozy workshop, a yacht cooking course, or a gluten-free baking class, they cater to a wide audience, ensuring that everyone can find a course that suits their interests. The school’s commitment to culinary education makes it a remarkable addition to our directory.

+447538194011

2. Food at 52 Cookery School

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

96 Central St, EC1V 8AJ, London

Culinary school
Cooking class
Event planner

Why we chose them

Food at 52 Cookery School offers a unique and engaging culinary experience in the heart of Clerkenwell, central London. Known for its bohemian and artistic space, this cookery school provides a welcoming atmosphere, departing from the typical formal classroom setting. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, the school’s hands-on tuition is designed to be both educational and enjoyable. Participants can learn to craft impressive dishes from a variety of global cuisines, including Mediterranean, Asian, and Italian, under the guidance of expert chefs. Each session concludes with a delightful feast of the prepared dishes, complemented by specially chosen wines, fostering a social and relaxed environment.

Not only does this school excel in offering cooking classes, but it also serves as a versatile event planner, catering to corporate events, team-building activities, and private parties. The venue’s unique kitchen space is available for exclusive hire, making it a popular choice for gatherings of all kinds. With a focus on sociability, participants cook around a long hand-made oak table, enhancing the communal experience. The school has earned accolades from various publications, being featured in top lists for its exceptional vegetarian and vegan courses. With its laid-back vibe and engaging classes, Food at 52 Cookery School stands out as a top choice for those looking to improve their culinary skills while enjoying a memorable experience.

+442074035444

3. Baking Classes by Bread Ahead

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

Bread Ahead Bakery School, Borough Market, SE1 1TL, London

Culinary school

Why we chose them

Baking Classes By Bread Ahead is an exceptional culinary school offering both in-person and online baking experiences. Known for their artisan approach, their London-based bakery schools provide a welcoming environment for both novice and experienced bakers to hone their skills. Participants can join weekly workshops led by world-class expert bakers in London or opt for the convenience of online sessions, allowing them to bake from anywhere. The school celebrates the art of baking with seasonal workshops, including special Christmas classes, and provides a variety of courses that cater to diverse baking interests.

In addition to in-person and live online workshops, the school offers video masterclasses that enable students to learn at their own pace. With a focus on fundamental cooking skills and global cuisines, the online platform, The Kitchen, extends the learning experience beyond baking. The company also provides options for group bookings and gift vouchers, making it an ideal choice for team-building activities or unique gifts. With a commitment to quality British baking and a diverse range of courses, this culinary school stands out as a top choice for those passionate about baking.

+442075818065

4. Divertimenti

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

227-229 Brompton Rd, SW3 2EP, London

Culinary school
Cooking class
Cooking school
Countertop store
Kitchen supply store
Store

Why we chose them

Divertimenti – Cookshop & Cookery School has been a cherished destination for food enthusiasts since the 1960s, offering a vast selection of over 4500 professional-quality cookware and tableware items. Known for its unique hand-decorated pieces sourced from around the globe, it stocks renowned brands such as Nordic Ware, Le Creuset, All-Clad, and Yaxell. This treasure trove of specialist cookware caters to both home cooks and professional chefs, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about cooking and dining.

In addition to its extensive product offerings, the company is celebrated for its culinary school, providing engaging cooking classes and workshops for all skill levels. The cookery school is equipped with top-of-the-line tools and appliances, including WÜSTHOF knives, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. Whether you’re looking to refine your cooking skills or explore new culinary techniques, this company offers a comprehensive array of services, from a countertop store to a full-fledged kitchen supply store, making it an essential addition to our directory.

+442079737513

5. Sauce by The Langham

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

1C Portland Pl, W1B 1JA, London

Culinary school

Why we chose them

Sauce by The Langham offers an exceptional culinary school experience in the heart of London. Known for its acclaimed cooking classes, the school provides a welcoming and stylish environment equipped with top-of-the-line kitchen tools. The talented team of chefs, who have honed their skills in renowned restaurants worldwide, share their trade secrets through a variety of courses. From ‘Building Block’ classes to full-day ‘Masterclasses’, participants can learn to cook with flair, gaining both new skills and confidence. The school is particularly popular for its festive classes, where guests can immerse themselves in creating seasonal treats, making it a delightful culinary adventure for both beginners and experienced cooks.

The unique appeal of Sauce by The Langham lies in its ability to cater to diverse culinary interests while fostering a relaxed and informative atmosphere. The private hire option offers a perfect setting for team-building or group activities, accommodating large groups and providing bespoke courses tailored to specific culinary desires. Additionally, the school features exclusive Masterclasses with Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr., offering an unparalleled opportunity to learn from a culinary master. With gift vouchers available, the school promises a memorable and flavourful journey, ensuring lasting memories in the kitchen for all its attendees.

+447932589777

6. Kitchenjoy Cookery School

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

47 Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT, London

Culinary school
Nutritionist

Why we chose them

KitchenJoy Cookery School stands out by offering a unique blend of culinary education and wellness. This innovative cookery school provides courses that integrate experiential learning with a medicinal foundation, promoting both health and wellbeing. Catering to individuals of all skill levels, KitchenJoy offers an array of general courses and specialized options like corporate packages and children’s birthday parties. Additionally, they provide gift vouchers, making their classes a thoughtful present for loved ones. The emphasis on “let food be thy medicine” underlines their commitment to teaching participants how to incorporate healthy eating habits into their daily lives.

Beyond classes, KitchenJoy also functions as a versatile venue for hire, available for both full and half-day events, with optional catering services. The school hosts engaging events such as children’s cookery classes and corporate cookery sessions, offering fun and educational experiences for all ages. Regularly scheduled courses like the “Eating for Health” series highlight their focus on holistic health, covering both mental and physical wellness. Testimonials from satisfied participants reflect the school’s reputation for providing valuable, enjoyable, and informative experiences. With a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable instructors, KitchenJoy is a celebrated choice for those looking to enhance their culinary skills and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

+442038078229

7. Mimo London

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

1 Cathedral St, SE1 9DE, London

Culinary school
Cooking class
Gourmet grocery store
Tour agency

Why we chose them

Mimo London – Cookery School is a vibrant culinary destination located in the heart of central London’s Borough Market. Housed in a historic, redbrick building, this unique cooking school offers a variety of engaging food experiences that cater to all ages and interests. Visitors can immerse themselves in Iberian cooking classes, reliving beloved Mimo experiences, or explore contemporary British cooking through classes that celebrate local and seasonal ingredients. This emphasis on diverse culinary traditions and local produce makes it a standout choice for those passionate about cooking and gastronomy.

In addition to its role as a culinary school, Mimo London also features a gourmet grocery store, providing access to high-quality ingredients. The school’s offerings extend beyond traditional cooking classes, as it also functions as a tour agency, allowing guests to experience the rich culinary landscape of London. This blend of educational and experiential services positions it as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking to deepen their culinary knowledge and skills while enjoying a taste of London’s vibrant food culture.

FAQs

What should I look for when choosing a culinary school in London?

Consider accreditation, comprehensive courses, hands-on training, experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, internship opportunities, flexible scheduling, cost, and post-graduation support.

How much does it cost to attend a culinary school in London?

Tuition fees for culinary schools in London can range from €4,500 to €45,000, depending on the program's duration and prestige.

How long do culinary programs typically last in London?

Culinary programs in London can vary in length from a few months for short courses to two years for comprehensive diplomas.

What types of courses are offered at culinary schools in London?

Courses may include classic culinary techniques, international cuisines, pastry and baking, food safety, and restaurant management.

Are there part-time culinary courses available in London?

Yes, many schools offer flexible scheduling with part-time courses to accommodate students' lifestyles and commitments.

What kind of facilities should a good culinary school have?

A good culinary school should have modern kitchens, high-quality equipment, and dedicated spaces for practical and theoretical learning.

Do culinary schools in London offer internship opportunities?

Yes, many culinary schools partner with top restaurants to provide students with real-world experience through internships.