7 Best Classes and Workshops in London

London is not only a city to see, but also to experience. Beyond its museums, markets and monuments, the British capital offers a myriad of classes and workshops that allow you to immerse yourself in its culture in a fun and practical way. From learning how to make the perfect British cocktail to discovering the secrets of authentic English tea, here are some of the best experiences you can have in London.

London is famous for its cocktail scene, with signature bars and speakeasies tucked away in every corner of the city. In this class, you'll learn how to make British classics such as the Pimm's Cup, the Bramble or an elegant Gin & Tonic, under the guidance of a professional bartender. The workshop usually includes an introduction to distillates and mixology techniques, plus the opportunity to create your own personalised drink. The experience lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, and costs around £40-£60, depending on the venue and drinks included.

If there's one thing that defines British culture, it's a passion for tea. In this workshop, you'll discover the history of afternoon tea, the difference between varieties such as Earl Grey and Darjeeling and the best way to make the perfect cup. You will also learn about the most traditional pairings, such as scones with clotted cream or finger sandwiches. The tasting usually takes place in historic tea rooms and lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours and costs between £30 and £50.

London is a vibrant city, but it can also be exhausting. For those seeking a moment of calm, attending a meditation class at a Buddhist temple is a unique experience. In this workshop, you will learn mindfulness, conscious breathing and relaxation techniques in a tranquil setting, such as the London Buddhist Centre in Bethnal Green or Wat Buddhapadipa Temple in Wimbledon. Sessions usually last 1-2 hours, with prices ranging from voluntary donations to £20-£40, depending on the centre.

While London may not be the first city to be associated with pasta, its international food scene has made Italian cuisine a must-try. In this workshop, you'll learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch, kneading and shaping ravioli, tagliatelle or pappardelle, all with high-quality local ingredients. The experience usually includes dinner with wine and the satisfaction of tasting your own creation. Duration is 2-3 hours, with prices ranging from £50 to £80.

London is home to one of the largest Chinese communities in Europe, and its Chinatown is the ideal place to learn how to make traditional dumplings. In this workshop, you will discover the secrets of the dough, the different types of fillings and how to seal them perfectly and then steam or fry them. The experience usually takes place in restaurants or specialised cooking schools and lasts approximately 2 hours, with prices ranging from £40 to £60, including a dumpling tasting at the end.

For those with a sweet tooth, a chocolate making class in London is a delicious experience. In this workshop, you'll learn about the cocoa transformation process, how to temper it properly and how to make your own handmade chocolates and truffles. Many of these courses are held at iconic chocolatiers such as Hotel Chocolat or Melt London, and allow you to take your creations home with you. The duration is 1.5 to 2 hours, with prices ranging from £50 to £80, depending on the ingredients used.

London's East End has been a hotspot for artists and makers for years, and pottery workshops have become one of the most sought-after experiences. On this course, you'll learn to work with clay, moulding your own cup, plate or bowl in a specialised studio. In addition, many classes include the chance to paint and glaze your pieces for collection a few days later. The experience lasts between 2 and 3 hours, with prices ranging from £50-£90, depending on the studio.

London is a city you don't just visit, you live it. And what better way to do that than by learning something new, whether it's making a classic cocktail in a hidden bar, kneading fresh pasta or discovering the history behind British tea. These classes and workshops will not only teach you new skills, but also allow you to connect with the city in a more authentic way. What will be your first London experience?