A cookery masterclass at the Castle at Taunton
Richard Guest, acclaimed head chef at the Castle at Taunton, will be hosting a very special cookery weekend at the hotel, with the theme of ‘flowers and herbs’, from 16th - 17th July 2010.
Richard is renowned for his passion for ingredients from the Somerset countryside, and will pass on recipes and tips to participants, lead cookery demonstrations, as well as host a tour of the herb garden at Hestercombe, a historic country house, with what is said to be one of the best Jekyll-Lutyens gardens open to the public. The weekend will cost from £345 per person for a one night package. For more information visit: the-castle-hotel.com
The Masterclass starts on Friday afternoon, when participants can settle into the luxurious surroundings of the Castle, before meeting Richard for a glass of wine, and dinner in the restaurant. Saturday morning will be spent in the hotel’s Penthouse, where Richard will demonstrate to the group (a maximum of six) how flowers and herbs can be used and combined to best effect in various seasonal dishes. He’ll be creating a real feeling of summer through dishes including salads and chilled soups, as well as accompaniments such as sauces and vinaigrettes that can add a special touch. There will be plenty of time for hands-on practical experience of both preparing and presenting the dishes, before a tour of the Castle’s kitchen, and a relaxing lunch.
The afternoon is given over to a tour of the herb garden at Hestercombe, where Richard can show examples of more unusual herbs, and suggest how they can best be incorporated into home cooking.
Participants are then free to spend another evening enjoying the hotel’s facilities, perhaps ahead of a day exploring the stunning countryside around Taunton; or depart for home.
The Castle at Taunton has gained a reputation and loyal following for its high levels of comfort and outstanding service, with a special emphasis placed on a personalized, welcoming atmosphere. The 44 bedrooms are tastefully designed by Louise Chapman with a theme of warmth rather than anodyne designer chic. They include five Garden Rooms, each overlooking the 12th Century remains of the old castle keep and moat wall in the gardens surrounding the hotel; and a Penthouse Suite with views over the Blackdown and Quantock Hills. This year, the Castle at Taunton will celebrate its 60th year under the custodianship of the Chapman family.
To book the cookery masterclass or for more information and prices on the Castle, including the 2010 calendar of events, visit: the-castle-hotel.com
Richard will also be doing a cookery demonstration on 29th September 2010.
The Castle Hotel, Castle Green, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1NF.