Top York Classes & Workshops

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.

There’s probably no spirit more synonymous with England than gin—and, especially, the gin and tonic. Get a blast of English spirit in historic York on this guided tasting that’s packed with fun facts, myths, and legends. Warm up with a classic gin and tonic, then swirl, sniff, and sip your way through a guided tasting of six gins. Finish with a gin and tonic starring your favorite style.

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.

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.

Learn the art of making (and tasting!) chocolate from an expert during this fun tasting experience. Watch chocolate being made, and sample chocolates of different strengths and flavor notes made with cocoa beans from around the world. Once you’re done, enjoy great discounts in the shop and café.

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.

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.

Interactive Workshop: A hands-on, sensory experience led by a professional fragrance stylist. Expert Guidance: Learn the "Fragrance Pyramid" and how to balance base, heart, and top notes. Personalised Souvenir: Take home a 5ml bottle of a scent that exists nowhere else in the world. Extensive Scent Library: Experiment with a curated collection of premium accords, from fresh florals to deep musks. Perfect for All: An ideal activity for solo travellers, couples, or groups looking for a unique indoor experience.

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.

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.