If you fancy escaping the city and honing your culinary skills this summer, Gordon Ramsay Academy Woking is the answer. A short train journey from London’s Waterloo station, it’s a fabulous day out whether you’re hoping to master the art of the perfect Beef Wellington or simply level up your midweek dinners, and all levels are welcome from complete beginners to ambitious home cooks.

The chef’s successful culinary schools, which also include recently opened 22 Bishsopsgate, have a wonderfully relaxed, hands-on feel. You’ll learn by doing rather than standing around watching, with plenty of time spent in the kitchen actually cooking (and tasting, obviously). Classes are friendly, informative and genuinely inclusive, so whether you’re perfecting fresh pasta, tackling steak masterclasses or exploring the flavours of Southeast Asia, it never feels intimidating.

A the Woking Academy there are multiple purpose-built kitchens, a large demonstration space and plenty of room for both smaller groups and more sociable sessions. There’s also a cookbook library for a little inspiration and a cosy lounge where you can grab a coffee and regroup between dishes.

It’s not just one-off classes either. Alongside themed workshops, you’ll find culinary qualifications, WSET wine and spirits courses, online learning and private experiences too. It’s also a brilliant spot for celebrations and group events – and the gift vouchers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the food lover in your life.

Whether you’re learning kitchen basics or trying to bring a little restaurant magic into your own home, the Gordon Ramsay Academy makes cooking feel fun, achievable and genuinely exciting for all ages. No shouting required.