Judith Hann shows how edible herbs can be used in mouth-watering recipes. Even the borage flowers, seen above, are used in several ways, including chilled borage and cucumber soup for a hot summer’s day. Judith is helped by Stella Mills, a food lecturer who is also RHS trained. She is a brilliant cook who shares Judith’s passion for herbs and gardening.

Stella and Judith demonstrate cooking techniques and equipment that are particularly useful with herbs. After visitors try out these techniques, the food is prepared, cooked and then eaten around a huge, antique table in the 19th Century barn. Judith explains how herbs transform the vinegars, spiced fruits, sugars and fruit jellies, which are available to take home.

Herb cookery classes are for up to 16 people and are an ideal opportunity to come along with friends to learn about herbs while cooking - and then eating - a delicious meal. The day starts by tasting dozens of different herbs and learning how to grow and use them. Recipes are demonstrated and many dishes tasted. Then there are sessions in the kitchen and herb garden before lunch is served with wine and fresh herbal teas. Later we walk around the gardens, spending most time in the large herb garden which we hope will inspire you to grow a greater variety of herbs in your own patch.

 There have been rave reviews for the 2010 courses and many repeat bookings. Some people have been to several different classes. This is one reaction from Steve who came in May:

" Dear Judith and Stella,

 Many thanks for a splendid day and your warm hospitality. It was very entertaining and has given me many ideas and instructions to be getting on with. I loved the way the day was split into a number of different activities and locations ... and what a fabulous setting inside and out. Congratulations on creating such a good setup. I have only been to one other similar experience ( a day of cooking at Gordon Ramsey's - Royal Hospital Road) and today knocked spots off it.

  Thanks so much - Steve."

Each day's course lasts from 10am to late afternoon.

For course dates click here.