If you’re curious about British culinary traditions, or simply eager to learn a new skill in a cozy, friendly setting, the London Scone Making and Tea Workshop offers a charming slice of English life. This well-rated experience (a perfect 5-star from over 700 reviews) is a hands-on class where you’ll master the art of crafting authentic British scones, all in the heart of central London.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is its blend of fun, education, and delicious food. You’ll enjoy the aroma of freshly baked scones, sip traditional English tea, and walk away with a certificate of your new skill—and perhaps a few extra scones to share. However, keep in mind that this workshop is quite short—just an hour—which makes it perfect for a quick cultural treat, but may leave those looking for a more intensive baking session wanting a bit more.
This experience suits foodies, culture lovers, solo travelers, or families looking for a memorable, interactive activity. It’s a lovely way to spend an hour, especially if you appreciate the charm of local traditions with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Key Points
- Authentic British experience: Learn traditional scone-making techniques from expert bakers.
- Inclusive and hands-on: Make and enjoy four homemade scones, with one consumed during the class.
- Cultural insights: Discover the history and customs surrounding scones and English tea.
- Value for money: For around $45, you get a memorable activity, delicious food, and a certificate.
- Convenient location: Held on the first floor of De Hems Dutch Café Bar, easy to find on Macclesfield Street.
- Family friendly: Suitable for children (accompanied by adults), but not for those with dietary restrictions or mobility issues.
A Closer Look at the Scone Workshop
This workshop is a straightforward yet charming introduction to a beloved British treat. Situated in the bustling heart of London, the venue is part pub, part culinary classroom—De Hems Dutch Café Bar. The setting combines a relaxed pub atmosphere with the focus of a small, organized baking class.
Check-in and Arrival:
You’re asked to arrive 10 minutes early—arriving late means missing out, as latecomers aren’t allowed to join. When you arrive, signs and friendly staff will guide you upstairs to the workshop space. If you get there early, you’re welcome to enjoy drinks or snacks in the pub, which can be taken into the class—an unexpected bonus that adds to the relaxed vibe.
The Activity:
Led by an engaging instructor, the class lasts about 60 minutes. You’ll get a brief overview of the history of scones and their role in British culture, which many reviewers find as enjoyable as the baking. The instructor’s humor and helpful tips make all skill levels feel comfortable, from total novices to seasoned bakers.
The hands-on part involves mixing, shaping, and baking your own classic British scones. The process is described as “quite easy and quick” by past participants, emphasizing the accessible nature of the activity. The ingredients and supplies—aprons, flour, baking tools—are provided, and the instructor guides you through each step, ensuring everyone achieves a good result.
Taste and Takeaways:
One of the highlights is tasting the warm, freshly baked scones right at the end of the session. You’ll enjoy the comforting aroma and flaky crumb that makes scones such a British staple. You are also given a certificate confirming your baking skills, a fun souvenir to keep. Participants also get to take home three additional scones, perfect for sharing or savoring later.
The Food and Drink:
The class includes tea, the drink of choice for this tradition. Reviewers mention enjoying the tea served alongside the baking, and some note that alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the bar if you want a tipple to pair with your scones.
The Price and Value:
At just under $50, this workshop provides a great value for an interactive, memorable experience. For many, it’s not just about the food but the cultural insight and the fun of doing something uniquely British. The reviews frequently mention how much participants enjoyed the friendly guides, tasty scones, and the sharing of history and customs.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective
Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the session engaging and informative. One review highlights a host named Ron, noting his patience and humor as key to the experience. The social aspect also shines through—people of all ages, including families, have described making new friends and enjoying the convivial atmosphere.
Several reviews emphasize the quality of the scones themselves—delicious, crumbly, and perfect for jam and clotted cream, which is the actual authentic way to enjoy scones in Britain. The fact that you get to eat your creations during the class, plus take extras home, feels like a bonus rather than just a souvenir.
Participants also appreciated the historical tidbits about scones and tea, making the activity both fun and educational. Some remarks mention how it’s a cozy, charming way to spend an hour amid a busy city, giving a taste of British culture without any fuss.
Note for Travelers with Dietary Restrictions:
The workshop isn’t suitable for vegans, gluten intolerant, or lactose intolerant guests, so plan accordingly if you have those needs. Also, wheelchair users might find the venue less accessible, as it’s not specified as wheelchair-friendly.
Practical Details That Matter
Location:
Held at 11 Macclesfield St, easily reachable in central London, this makes it convenient to combine with sightseeing or other activities.
Duration:
The class runs for about 60 minutes, making it a perfect quick cultural fix—don’t expect a lengthy baking session, but enough time to learn, bake, and taste.
Price:
At about $45.80 per person, it’s a reasonable investment for a memorable experience that includes instruction, ingredients, tea, and a certificate.
Availability and Booking:
You can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance—a plus for uncertain travel plans.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This workshop is perfect for curious travelers who want to get hands-on with British tradition. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy interactive activities, socializing, or simply want a fun break from sightseeing. Families with children will find it suitable, provided kids are accompanied by adults. If you’re a foodie eager to learn a quick, authentic recipe, or a history buff curious about the cultural significance of tea and scones, this class hits the mark.
Those looking for a serious baking experience or with special dietary needs might find this too simplified or restrictive. However, for most visitors wanting a relaxed, engaging, and delicious way to spend an hour, this workshop delivers.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
In the end, the London Traditional English Scone Making and Tea Workshop offers a delightful way to dip into British culinary customs. It combines learning, tasting, and a bit of fun, all wrapped in a cozy central London setting. You’ll walk away with new skills, a certificate, and plenty of tasty memories.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this experience provides an authentic taste of British hospitality—friendly guides, delicious scones, and a warm cup of tea. It’s a small but meaningful part of your London adventure that you’ll likely remember long after the last crumb.
FAQs
How long does the workshop last?
It runs for about 60 minutes, making it a quick but satisfying activity perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.
Where is the workshop held?
At 11 Macclesfield St, on the first floor of De Hems Dutch Café Bar in central London.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers instruction from an English guide, four homemade scones (with one eaten during the class), aprons and supplies, tea, and a scone-making certificate.
Can I take my scones home?
Yes, you will receive three additional scones after baking, which you can take home to enjoy later.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by a paying adult. However, non-participating guests can’t join the class itself.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.
To sum it up, this workshop offers a blend of fun, education, and authentic taste—not to mention the chance to walk away with a new skill and a certificate. It suits travelers who appreciate cultural experiences that are relaxing, social, and delicious. Ideal for a quick cultural fix, it makes for a memorable part of any London trip.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Workshops & Classes in London
More Tour Reviews in London
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in London we have reviewed
- London: Historic Pub Walking Tour for Small Groups
- London: East End Instagrammable Street Art & Graffiti Tour
- London: Medieval Tales and Martyrs Walking Tour
- London: Cold War Tour
- Small Group Tower of London, Crown Jewels & White Tower Tour
- London: VIP Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Day Trip
- From London: Stonehenge Tour with Return Transportation
- London: The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience Ticket
- London National Gallery Professional Tour
- London: Private travel vacation photoshoot -Romantic Special
- Eating London: Southwark & Bankside Food Tour
- London: Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transfers