Artisan Baking & Pâtisserie Masterclasses

Artisan Baking & Pâtisserie Masterclasses
at The Old Inn, Gairloch

A variety of freshly baked artisan loaves, including rye and malted breads, from our baking classes in the Highlands.

Are you interested in baking classes in the Highlands? You can spend a rewarding day – or two – in the company of Benoît Vergels. As a highly accomplished Belgian master baker, pâtissier, and chocolatier, Benoît brings many years’ experience to his teaching. He maintains a style that is relaxed yet precise, as a result his students learn in a professional yet comfortable environment. These small-group classes are both enjoyable and genuinely instructive. This remains true whether you are an enthusiastic home baker or simply wish to learn new skills during a pleasurable winter’s day.

We hold these classes in a comfortable, well-equipped teaching kitchen within The Old Inn. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views across Loch Gairloch. We include all ingredients, equipment, and refreshments throughout the day. Furthermore, we provide a light lunch of homemade soup and sandwiches. Please note that these inclusions apply unless the course description states otherwise.

Bread-Making Modules

Classic & Speciality Breads (1 day)

A comprehensive introduction covering recipes, ingredients and preparation techniques for white, wholemeal, malted, rye, spelt and gluten-free loaves, plus a selection of speciality breads.
£85 per person

Sourdough Masterclass (2 days)

From creating and maintaining your own starter to advanced shaping techniques with rye sourdoughs.
£150 per person

French & Italian Breads (2 days)

Perfecting traditional baguettes, ciabatta and focaccia – the secrets of long fermentation and high-hydration doughs.
£150 per person

Enriched Doughs & Afternoon Treats (1 day)

English muffins, fruit and plain scones, brioche burger buns and proper doughnuts.
£85 per person

Tarts & Savoury Pastry (1 day)

Shortcrust, sweet and savoury tart doughs, plus a range of classic fillings.
£85 per person

    Pâtisserie & Chocolate Modules

    Pâte à Choux & Classic French Pastries (1 day)

    Master choux pastry and create éclairs, profiteroles and Paris-Brest with custard, frangipane and French buttercream.
    £85 per person

    Sponge Cakes & Celebration Bakes (1 day)

    Light chocolate and vanilla sponges with professional filling and decoration techniques – ideal for birthday and special-occasion cakes.
    £85 per person

    Artisan Chocolate Work (1 day)

    Tempering, moulding, enrobing and creating filled chocolates.
    £85 per person plus cost of ingredients.  This will be confirmed on booking.

      Classes are welcoming to all group sizes, from solo participants to small groups, ensuring personalised guidance and a relaxed atmosphere throughout. They make a delightful highlight of any Winter Highland Holiday at The Old Inn, Gairloch, and are popular as gifts.

      To check availability and secure your place, please telephone The Old Inn on 01445 712 006 or email info@theoldinn.net. Early booking is recommended.