Minas Cookery School

Axminster, Devon

5.0(17)·From £65.00·3h 30m

With classes from £65 and bottomless refreshments whilst your dough develops at its own pace, Minas Cookery School offers a thoroughly unhurried approach to sourdough baking near Axminster in Devon.

The school specialises in the ancient craft of sourdough, welcoming bakers at all levels to discover the fundamentals of naturally fermented bread. Their three-and-a-half-hour Sourdough Making classes embrace the essential truth that good bread cannot be rushed, allowing plenty of time for tea and coffee whilst your dough works its magic through each stage of development.

The hands-on sessions cover the complete sourdough process, beginning with understanding what a starter is and how this living culture transforms flour and water into the foundation of exceptional bread. You'll master the stretch and fold method, a gentle technique that develops gluten structure without intensive kneading, then learn to judge dough readiness through the window pane test before moving on to final shaping techniques. The class also explores the variables that separate adequate loaves from perfect ones, giving you the knowledge to troubleshoot and improve your home baking.

Each participant leaves with a comprehensive gift bag containing everything needed for that crucial first home bake: a portion of the school's own starter, essential bread-making tools, organic flour, and the master recipe that forms the backbone of their method. This thoughtful provision means you can continue your sourdough journey immediately, armed with both knowledge and materials.

The school suits anyone drawn to the meditative rhythm of traditional bread making, particularly those who appreciate learning in an unhurried environment that respects the natural timing of fermentation.

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Reviews

5.0 on Google

17 reviews - Read on Google Maps

Location

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The Old Barn, The St, Axminster EX13 7RJ, Devon

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Traps steam inside the pot, giving sourdough the burst it needs in the oven. The closest you can get to a professional deck oven at home.

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Book

Tartine Bread - Chad Robertson

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Information last checked: April 2026