Learn cookery techniques at Waddesdon Manor

Waddesdon Cookery School. Image copyright National Trust Waddesdon Manor, picture taken by Stuart Bebb

Visitors can learn new kitchen skills and techniques to try out at home over a week long series of sessions this month. There will be chances to learn about canapes, afternoon tea, pates, puddings and fish.

The week begins with Champagne and Canapes on Monday February 22. The team will create a wonderful selection of savoury and sweet canapes to try at home and will include an informal introduction and tasting of Champagne by the in-house wine advisor Peter Tompkins. The day includes a two course lunch.

The following day, Tuesday February 23, is The Art of Afternoon Tea where you can learn how to rival the best hotels. The event includes a Champagne afternoon tea.

Terrines, Pates, Mousses and Mousselines is the subject for Wednesday February 24. Learn how to distinguish between a terrine and a pate and see them served with jams, jellies, compotes and chutneys. Includes two course lunch.

Craig Clark, head of pastry, leads Just Desserts on Thursday February 25 with a mouth watering selection of pudding recipes. Peter Tompkins also discusses suitable wines. Includes two course lunch.

Finally, on Friday February 26, Cooking with Fish and Seafood is led by head chef Shaun Blythe, who hopes to give you the confidence to try the unusual at home, demonstrating cold smoking and salt curing. Includes a two course lunch and advice from Peter Tompkins on matching wines.

All events take place from 10.30am - 4pm, cost £48 per person and include a recipe folder and goody bag to take home. Book online at www.waddesdon.org.uk or call 01296 653226.