“I learnt so much!”
I really enjoyed the Intermediate Cookery Course and learnt so much. I performed tasks and cooked dishes I had not done before and I also tried foods I was uncertain about eating. Alan was amazing, so knowledgeable and patient. Chris was invaluable doing all the clearing up, apart from Friday when Tyler performed the same service. It was so good not having to worry about washing up as it allowed total concentration on learning and cooking. It was my fifth course at Ashburton, having done some half and one day courses before. I am booked to do a Patisserie week in September and I can’t wait to come back. I am wondering what to choose after that!!! I have been to a couple of cookery courses run by other establishments before (one very well known) and I can honestly say that Ashburton Cookery School is the best .
CG [June 2022]
“The intermediate cookery course was a wonderful experience!”
The intermediate cookery course was a wonderful experience! Felt very challenged, and was a full-on week, but I've come out of it with so many more skills, insights into how the professionals do it, and so much more confidence and ambition to attempt new recipes! Darren our chef tutor always kept things humorous and was very supportive in helping salvage/avert any disasters. All in all a great experience!
NR [June 2022]
“The course from start to finish was brilliant. ”
Another exceptional week of cooking and learning on the Intermediate Course. Darren Smith was again simply exceptional; engaging, charismatic, knowledgable and a huge amount of fun. A brilliant chef and teacher, he allowed me (through his mentoring and coaching) to get the most out of the course. Mike (KP) is an utter legend, he added real value to the week through his help and charisma in the kitchen. A real asset! The course from start to finish was brilliant. Thank you very much.
TM [June 2022]
“Fantastic week. ”
Learned a great deal from Chef Darren. Much more hands on and content than I imagined, which was great. And a big shout out to the Kitchen Porters and Prep Kitchen etc. Everything ran like clockwork. Thank you all.
LG [June 2022]
“A Great Course”
Was a great course. Alan and Darren have very different styles and personalities, which complemented each other well and gave a more all-round feel to the teaching. Both were excellent. I would heartily recommend the course to anyone. Thank you.
SO [June 2022]
“Professional, friendly and well organised”
Excellent course. Fantastic instructors who made it enjoyable, shared great tips and knowledge as well as pushing us to stretch our skills and get out of our comfort zone. I cooked more and more varied dishes than I knew I was capable of. The whole school set up was professional, friendly and well organised. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the school to friends and hope to do more of your courses in future.
JB [June 2022]
“5* from start to end”
The whole experience was 5* from start to end. Excellent facilities, chef's, staff and course content. I am already looking at my diary for my next course. Many thanks from a very satisfied and enthused customer.
JFW [June 2022]
“Fantastic course.”
Fantastic course. Really enjoyed the week. Hopefully will be back for more!
AL [June 2022]
“Ashburton is the best.”
My experience with Ashburton was brilliant from start to finish. Starting with my initial contact with Heidi, Judy and the team who advised me regarding the courses you offer and the content which allowed me to choose the right one. When I arrived the welcome and set up was extremely well organised and professional which carried on through out the week. My Chef Tutors Stuart and Dave were brilliant and I cannot praise them enough. They both taught with such passion, knowledge and patience so it was a pleasure to be there. There was just the right amount of fun too which is always good. The organisation was faultless and so was the instruction. I have liaised with several cookery schools though our business and I can honestly say that Ashburton is the best. Thank you to everyone and I hope I can keep in touch and see you all again.
VW [May 2022]
“Exceeded My Expectations”
Ashburton exceeded my expectations all the way through. All enquiries were dealt with promptly and in a friendly, professional manner. Stuart and Dave were wonderful to work with and so knowledgeable. Also, all the behind the scenes preparation was amazing and everything was so well- organised. I can’t wait to come back and do another course. Thank you!
SR [May 2022]
“I just loved the 5 day Intermediate cookery week”
I just loved the five day intermediate cookery week There was a warm welcome and introduction on day one over coffee and then we were straight into the amazingly equipped kitchens to begin our cooking experience. The quality of the teaching was superb with clear and precise instruction and helpful demonstrations. The ingredients were always of the highest quality and variety. And the recipes were varied and practical and relevant. From poaching the perfect egg to reducing the most delicious jus to preparing a full Michelin style meal every moment was a delight I found the course was pitched at the perfect level for someone who enjoys cooking for friends and family and who would like to extend their repertoire and skill set in a relaxed and non-competitive environment surrounded by like-minded people and with the most highly skilled and experienced instructors.
CC [Apr 2022]
“Fantastic and Professional”
Fantastic and very professional cookery school, will be using Ashburton Cookery School to further develop my skills. The chef tutors have great instructional qualities, personality, and great cookery skills. Always offered advice where needed.
D.G [Aug 2020]
“I�m so glad that I attended the course - I learned a huge amount especially about technical skills. The course is broad and Rob made sure everybody enjoyed the experience. The quality of ingredients especially meat and fish was exceptional.”
I was especially impressed on the additional information / updates provided during the Covid period which I'm sure must have been a logistical nightmare for the School.. I'm an enthusiastic amateur chef and wasn't sure what to expect from the course but it far exceeded my expectations. Everything was so well done and at a fast but comfortable pace. I learnt a huge amount. Rob who ran the course was a brilliant tutor. The Excellent quality of ingredients Isn't emphasised on the website - I'd encourage you to do so as this really brings the course alive
P.W [July 2020]
“Superb course, fantastic tutor, brilliant Cookery School”
Simply put, Rob was outstanding as our chef tutor. His passion for food and cookery is infectious. His knowledge seemed to be endless and his patience in answering our questions and keeping our dishes moving in the right direction was brilliant. I have the utmost respect for him and what he does and feel very privileged to have been able to learn from him during the week
J.B [July 2020]
“The advanced cookery course at Ashburton is the complete package and far surpassed my expectations. All of the staff were friendly and approachable and willing to go the extra mile to ensure the very best experience. The ingredients used were of the highe”
Given that the school had only very recently re-opened due to COVID-19, it was brilliant that from the welcome at the door through to the time in the kitchen, having tea and coffee and generally interacting with the staff, everyone at Ashburton appeared to know exactly what they were doing, how they should operate within COVID restrictions and be really approachable and cheerful whilst doing it. Outstanding and a real scene setter for a brilliant week.
I.S [July 2020]
“10 out of 10”
Amazing service and professional staff,I had such a great week,will definitely be back again .10/10
KE [Nov 2019]
“Excellent,”
The chef tutor was excellent, very enthusiastic, explained everything really well and constantly came to us all, helping and advising as he went.
ED [Oct 2019]
“Excellent Course.”
Excellent course. I crossed so many of my cookery red lines eg bread, pastry, pasta. Cannot remember a week when I learned so much and enjoyed myself at the same time.
CC [July 2019]
“didn't want to leave!”
Wonderful from start to finish! Our tutors were both absolutely brilliant! They made you feel at ease in the kitchen, especially for someone like me who has basic knowledge of cooking and little experience. I learnt so many new techniques, skills, ideas and recipes. I didn't want to leave after my week at Ashburton! Would definitely recommend Ashburton Cookery school to friends & family!
ER [Oct 2018]
“experience not to be missed”
Ashburton Cookery School is an experience not to be missed. You can learn so much from the friendly and knowledgeable chefs. The courses are such good fun.
SB [Oct 2018]
“An absolutely fantastic week”
An absolutely fantastic week enjoyed thoroughly by the entire group. Apart from learning some great new skills, we had a good laugh and made some fabulous new friends. The food was delicious and a glass of wine with our dinner was a lovely touch. The facilities at Ashburton Cookery School are super - as is the accommodation. Thanks for a great week - I will definitely be back!
PJ [Feb 18]
“Just brilliant! ”
Just brilliant! Excellent tutors, staff and facilities, came away with lots of new ideas and confidence in my own abilities. Cannot recommend highly enough!
LA [Dec 17]
“Ashburton Cookery School gets it exactly right.”
As a business owner, I am always impressed by businesses that get it just right; Ashburton Cookery School gets it exactly right. The quality of facilities, all staff, teaching, accommodation and ingredients - locally sourced - were absolutely top notch. It has been a wonderful experience, which I have already booked to repeat.
SH [Dec 17]
“A life changing experience”
From the booking process to the delivery of the course, this has been a life changing experience, a completely professional course, so many skills now inherited and now a huge confidence in my cooking, the tutors were exceptional with the added bonus of some wonderful kitchen humour. Simply a brilliant experience
IG [Dec 17]
“Wow what a week.”
Wow what a week. Amazing staff, fantastic food. I loved every single day. I was sad when it finished. I will definitely go back to do more courses. The structure of the course was great. It made learning so much fun. Thank you to you all
BG [Dec 17]
“I loved every moment.”
Just completed the Intermediate cookery course. I loved every moment. Expert tuition from very knowledgeable chefs. It was a busy and full on course but in a relaxed atmosphere. I came away with brand new skills that I will build on. Most definitely will be booking another course in the near future!
VC [Dec 17]
“A week full of laughter”
The focus was all about learning whilst having fun in the kitchen and it was definitely a week full of laughter with each other and the tutors. I have already recommended it to many friends!
JT [Dec 17]
“Book it now, it will be the best decision you'll make all year”
The weeklong Intermediate course at Ashburton was fantastic - so much fun, jam-packed with tips and new skills and you will just not believe the food you end up cooking! Delicious. Book it now, it will be the best decision you'll make all year
SS [Oct 17]
“Works of art on a plate”
Just completed an intermediate course it was amazing. Everyone was so friendly. It has enabled me to produce meals to a professional standard that I would be proud to serve. Works of art on a plate. A great deal of thought has gone into producing foolproof menus for this course to create impressive meals with a Wow! factor I'll be using time and time again. Looking forward to the next course .
RK [Aug 17]
“ I can't wait to practice on my friends and family! ”
A fantastic week, I gained so much confidence and feel ready to take on more advanced recipes at home. The tutors were so knowledgeable and explained all about the techniques and ingredients clearly. I can't wait to practice on my friends and family!
AC [Aug 17]
“Brilliant experience”
A fantastic skills-packed week, run in a slick professional manner. Brilliant experience. Wine after dinner was a great bonus!
AL [Aug 17]
A first class experience you will not regret
PM [June 17]
“truly amazing course”
I arrived somewhat apprehensive and a little fearful, as I had previously had no experience of this kind. Very quickly I was welcomed put at ease this is a truly amazing course and I learnt so much as well as thoroughly enjoying myself. I hope very much to be back soon for something else.
NG [June 17]
“ Great teaching, great food, great fun”
Don't think you are coming for a holiday. This course is hard work, but you will come away with vastly improved skills and a real sense of achievement. Great teaching, great food, great fun
MT [May 17]
“I have come away with the inspiration, confidence and desire to build on the critical foundations the course gave me.”
Although my one week course at Ashburton was short, I have come away with the inspiration, confidence and desire to build on the critical foundations the course gave me. I now have the ability to pick up recipes with ease knowing that I have the skills and know-how to execute them.
SS [Jan 17]
“incredible week”
An incredible week which allows you to widen your cooking skills and get inspired by some amazing chef tutors who have seen it and done it, and have a passion for passing their knowledge on. Could not fault it.
JM [Aug 2016]
“very inspirational”
It was a really enjoyable and instructive week, which more than lived up to expectations. Great fun and very inspirational.
NW [Nov 2015]
“exceeded my expectations”
I chose the Ashburton course because I wanted to improve my cooking skills and knowledge; not just come away with a book of new recipe ideas. The course exceeded my expectations and my family have already noted a step function change in the quality and presentation of the food that I now bring to the table.
SM [Oct 2015]
“Really really fun and I learnt a lot.”
Really really fun and I learnt a lot. Staff and chefs both friendly and helpful. Would heartily recommend this course.
LD [August 2015]
“Faultless.”
I cannot thank you enough for such a wonderful experience. The course and hotel was 10/10 and I am definitely coming back. Faultless. My only wish was that I had done it for longer!
AM [August 2015]
“can't wait to return.”
I have had a fantastic week, have been completely inspired and can't wait to return.
SM [June 2015]
“I learnt so much”
Excellent value for money. I learnt so much from the week thanks to the excellent teaching. I shall be returning next year
KU [June 2015]
“incredible and inspiring treat”
The most incredible and inspiring treat to myself, the week went beyond my hopes and I am saving up for my next visit! Thank you so much to everyone at Ashburton for such an enjoyable week.
CM [April 2015]
“All the little tips and tricks .....Priceless”
Really enjoyed the whole week. The professionalism, patience and passion of the chef tutors was inspiring. On day three I booked my next course! All the little tips and tricks .....Priceless. and a big thank you to the kitchen assistants who do an amazing job.
EG [April 2015]
“fantastic week”
Had a fantastic week. Learnt a huge amount was inspired by the chefs and can't wait to come back.
SN [April 2015]
“Loads of very helpful tips”
The camaraderie between the chefs was positive and fun. We felt part of a family. Each chef's willingness to answer lots of questions and give loads of very helpful tips at all times during the week was the icing on the cake for me. Both chefs were highly supportive and caring.
PW [Nov 2014]
“All and all a fabulous week.”
The week I spent at Ashburton was truly one of the best weeks I've spent. I felt that I was already a decent cook, but this has given me so many more skills, greater confidence and a huge sense of satisfaction. All the staff were wonderful. All and all a fabulous week.
SW [Nov 2014]
“Great time”
Had a great time- thank you all
CW [Dec 2014]
“Excellent course.”
Excellent course. First class tutors. Top quality food with the great element of local sourcing. Great surroundings. Friendly helpful committed staff. You have a super team all round. Super!!!!!
GH [Aug 2014]
“Wonderful and inspiring week”
I had the most wonderful and inspiring week, I prepared and ate food that I don't like and loved it, made brilliant friends and laughed a lot! I cannot wait to come back for another course!
LW [July 2014]
“I was thoroughly impressed.”
I was thoroughly impressed by Ashburton Cookery School - the standard of teaching, kitchen and dining environment, and the level of customer service from all the staff.
Katrina [June 2014]
“Wish I had done it years ago.”
This is the first course in cookery I have ever done and wish I had done it years ago. Thank you Alan and Joe for being such professional chefs/teachers and making ever minute interesting and has given me a complete new out look to my cooking ,my family have already been impressed on my pasta I made and the tomato sauce that was also delicious, glad I have now some in the freezer. Can not wait to save up and come again.
PL [June 2014]
“I am very impressed with the standard of teaching”
I am very impressed with the standard of teaching and the friendliness of the staff. I had a very good time both on the Intermediate and Foundation. I would like to come back and concentrate more on Patisserie/Confectionery. Although I was really pleased that we did bread and chocolate tempering which I need for work. I am not good on meat cooking and this gave me much more skill and knowledge.
Kate [Nov 2013]
“Loved every minute”
Loved every minute of the whole experience. From The minute we walked in on the first day we were greeted acknowledged by all who passed us and generally made to feel very welcome. Well done to you all. You deserve every success.
Marilyn [Jan 2014]
“One of the best experiences of my life”
Wow what a week. Couldn't fault any aspect of the week. The staff at the accommodation was amazing always there if you needed anything. All the food we cooked with was the best quality and very local. The meals turned out amazingly and just like the chefs. Couldn't believe how hands on the lessons were. When the chefs were demonstrating they gave us some much information about what and why they were doing certain things. The week was one if the best experiences of life. I will always remember the week with fond memories. Would like to thank everyone involved in organising the week. Can't wait to come back. And looking forward to recreating all the new menus I now have under my belt. Thank you all very much.
CE [Aug 2013]
