Top York Classes & Workshops

Don’t worry about getting lost in the winding streets of medieval York during this introductory small-group tour of the city, ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time in the region. See several York highlights—including St Mary’s Abbey, York Minster, and The Shambles—without worrying about directions, while benefiting from the insight of your guide throughout.

Chocolate fans—this is the one for you! Rather than simply buying chocolate from a shop in York, this experience allows you to learn how to make your own chocolate bar from scratch. Learn special techniques used by chocolatiers—such as how to temper chocolate, and experiment with different flavor combinations too. At the end of the lesson, enjoy the perk of being able to take your chocolate bar away with you.

Learn how Yorkshire gin is made without guessing your way through tastings on this guided experience at Hooting Owl Distillery in York. Led by a master distiller, the tour explains the distillery’s process, origins, and the legend of Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins, so you understand what you’re drinking—not just sampling it.

York Gin Tastings are fun, fascinating, and one of the best things to do in York. Come along with friends and enjoy two full G&Ts (or other mixer!) while tasting a wide selection of your award-winning range. You'll learn lots and laugh lots with your famously friendly and knowledgeable York Gin Experts, who'll take you through the amazing legends, myths and history of gin. Includes: Two drinks, 6 tasters, optional snacks, 10% discount on everything at the event. Speakeasy setting within York City walls. Dog friendly.

Here’s what’s included A welcome Hooting Owl rum and mixer of your choice. A tour of the distillery Guided tastings of our Yorkshire rums Learn the history and myth of Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins and the origins of The Hooting Owl. Tasting samples our Hooting Owl Rum.

Design your bespoke ring with the guidance of your artisan ring makers. Choose your metal, pattern, width, finish, and engraving to create your one-of-a-kind piece. Brass ring included or silver upgrade available.

Learn the full magic of creating chocolate from the raw cocoa bean to your own finished chocolate bar. We’ll share with you the secrets of the chocolate making process, to create your own chocolate recipe. During the workshop you will: Learn how to develop flavours and qualities from each stage of the cocoa bean processing. Learn how to combine ingredients to create desired chocolate recipes. Make a personalised signature chocolate blend to your own recipe. Beautifully package up your creations so you can enjoy them or re-use them at home in your own recipes. Go home with recipes and your newly found chocolate knowledge. Each participant will receive approximately 500g of your own chocolate as well as the recipes and technical worksheets to be able to develop your chocolate making skills further.

York is famous for its chocolate–both Kit Kat bars and Terry’s Chocolate Orange were invented here. Have your own Willy Wonka experience in this class where you’ll craft chocolate truffles at a factory. Learn the basics of chocolate making, from tempering chocolate to making ganache, before you package your creations and take them home.

A unique opportunity awaits in the tranquil surroundings of a rural York farm, with a private basket weaving day designed for two. Under expert guidance, learn the intricate techniques of willow weaving, transforming English grown willow into a beautiful, functional basket. This immersive workshop not only teaches you how to prepare willow, create a sturdy base, and weave the walls, but you also get to finish your basket off with a pretty, plaited effect decorative border.

Step into the world of gin making at the York Distillery's Gin School, where you'll craft your very own unique bottle of gin. The experience kicks off with a refreshing York Gin G&T, followed by a mini tasting of gins, plus an exploration of a range of botanicals to discover your favourite flavours. Guided by WSET-qualified gin tutors, you'll learn the art of distillation and the fascinating history of gin. As you create your spirit, you'll learn more about the fun and dark history of this most interesting of spirits. Take home your bespoke 700ml bottle of gin and the knowledge to appreciate gins like never before.