Edinburgh is a fantastic city for food lovers wanting to get hands-on with local flavors. Its mix of historic pubs, innovative restaurants, and lively markets make it a perfect backdrop for cooking classes that go beyond just recipes—they offer genuine insight into Scottish cuisine and culture. We particularly like the Modern Scottish Cooking Class & Lunch in Fiona’s Edinburgh Home for its intimate setting and stunning views, and the Traditional Scottish Cooking Class & Dinner with Nell for authentic hospitality. Whether you’re after a fun afternoon making shortbread or a more comprehensive culinary experience, Edinburgh’s cooking classes deliver both flavor and fun.
In this guide, we’ve lined up six of the best cooking experiences in Edinburgh. From baking Scottish shortbread to exploring Mediterranean and Scottish fusion dishes, each offers a unique angle on local and regional fare. We’ve checked reviews, prices, and what’s included to help you choose the perfect class.
The 6 Best Cooking Classes in Edinburgh
1. Modern Scottish Cooking Class & Lunch in Chef’s Edinburgh Home
At number one, this hands-on Scottish cooking class combines instruction with a lovely meal in Fiona’s open-plan kitchen. Located on Corstorphine Hill, the setting offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh—a perfect backdrop for learning Scottish cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Hosted by Fiona, a Leith-trained chef passionate about seasonal, local ingredients, you’ll spend about four hours preparing a two-course menu with a small group of foodies.
What makes this experience stand out is Fiona’s warm, informal style and the stunning panoramic windows that frame the city skyline. You’ll start with tea or coffee and Scottish shortbread, then roll up your sleeves to prepare dishes that highlight the best of seasonal produce. The class is suitable for all skill levels, and reviews confirm it’s enjoyable and well-organized. One guest called it “most enjoyable,” with the meal described as “excellent for us both.”
Bottom line: If you love intimate, scenic cooking classes with a focus on modern Scottish dishes, this class offers excellent value for a memorable day.
2. Traditional Scottish Cooking Class & Dinner with Edinburgh Local
Next on our list is a traditional Scottish cooking experience hosted in Nell’s historic 200-year-old home in central Edinburgh. For around $179, you’ll spend about three hours learning Scottish culinary secrets before sitting down to a three-course dinner. The class begins with a warm introduction, offering homemade cheese oatcakes and Edinburgh Scottish rhubarb and ginger gin liqueur—an authentic taste of Scottish hospitality.
Under Nell’s guidance, you’ll prepare a classic Scottish cullen skink (smoked haddock soup), a hearty main course, and a delicious pudding. This experience is particularly appealing for those interested in authentic local dishes and culture. Reviewers note the welcoming atmosphere and memorable hospitality, with one saying, “Thank you Nell for welcoming us to your lovely home.”
The class offers insight into Scottish food culture in a cozy, historic setting—ideal for travelers seeking genuine local experiences.
Bottom line: This class is perfect for food lovers looking for a warm, hospitable introduction to Scottish cuisine with a dinner that’s as memorable as the cooking itself.
3. Edinburgh: Scottish Baking Class with Three Recipes
For those with a sweet tooth, this Scottish baking class offers a fun, two-hour session focused on making scones, shortbread, and Cranachan muffins. While the description doesn’t specify reviews or exact prices, it’s a fantastic choice for beginners or anyone wanting to learn classic Scottish baked goods.
The class emphasizes traditional recipes and techniques, making it easy for participants of all skill levels to succeed. You’ll learn how to make fluffy scones perfect for teatime, crumbly shortbread, and muffins infused with Scottish flavors like raspberry and whisky. It’s a social, relaxed environment, ideal for meeting fellow baking enthusiasts and taking home your freshly baked treats.
Bottom line: If you’re after a quick, hands-on baking experience with a focus on Scottish treats, this class offers a tasty way to spend an afternoon.
4. Edinburgh: Scottish Cooking Class with City Views
At number four, this private cooking class provides a personalized experience in a small group—up to eight people—focusing on preparing a two-course Scottish meal. The class lasts about four hours and includes a warm welcome with Scottish shortbread and tea or coffee. The setting offers stunning views of Edinburgh, making it a scenic backdrop for your culinary efforts.
The chef guides you through making a seasonal main course and pudding, catering to dietary needs and preferences. Participants appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the chance to learn techniques from a professional chef in a relaxed environment. Many reviews mention that the class is well-paced and provides generous portions, making it excellent value for money.
Bottom line: For a more personalized, scenic experience with hands-on cooking and a focus on seasonal Scottish dishes, this class is a top choice.
5. Edinburgh: Scottish Mezze Cooking Class
This Scottish-Mediterranean fusion class offers a unique twist on Scottish flavors, blending local produce with Mediterranean techniques. For $114 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours creating mezze-inspired dishes, such as small plates that highlight local ingredients with international flair.
The class brings a creative, adventurous approach and focuses on balancing flavors and textures. It’s perfect for those who like experimenting in the kitchen and want to leave with flexible recipes that can be adapted at home. The emphasis on using Scottish produce links the flavors of the land with broader culinary influences.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in exploring fusion cuisine and enjoy hands-on cooking, this class offers a fun, flavor-packed experience.
6. Edinburgh: Scottish Shortbread Baking Class
Finally, for those who love baking or want a simple, interactive experience, this Scottish shortbread class focuses purely on perfecting this iconic treat. It’s a two-hour session where you learn to make traditional shortbread using an old family recipe, with tips on presenting it in three different ways.
Participants get to experiment with flavorings and presentation, then take home their delicious shortbread. The class is suitable for all skill levels, making it a great choice for families or solo travelers wanting a relaxed, fun activity.
Bottom line: For a straightforward, engaging baking class that results in a delicious souvenir—Scottish shortbread—this experience hits the sweet spot.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Edinburgh
When selecting a cooking class, consider your budget, time availability, and culinary interests. For a scenic, intimate experience with a focus on modern Scottish cuisine, the Modern Scottish Cooking Class & Lunch in Fiona’s Home is hard to beat. If you prefer a traditional setting with hearty dishes, the Nell’s Scottish Dinner offers authentic hospitality and cultural insights.
For baking enthusiasts, the Scottish Shortbread Baking Class provides a hands-on, fun activity, while the Scottish-Mezze Fusion Class is perfect for those wanting to try something more adventurous. If you’re short on time but want an immersive experience with great views, the Private Scottish Cooking Class combines scenery and personalized instruction.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh offers a wide range of cooking classes suited for all tastes and skill levels. For a scenic, modern Scottish experience, Fiona’s class is a standout, while traditionalists will enjoy Nell’s warm hospitality. Baking lovers should definitely consider the shortbread class for a quick, satisfying activity.
Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon, a cultural deep dive, or a chance to perfect Scottish baking, these classes bring culinary tradition and local flavor directly to your kitchen. Book early, plan around your interests, and get ready to cook up some memories in Edinburgh.