Just like that, the summer of 2021 has come to a close. The occasional bout of early September sunshine was a welcome autumnal surprise, but frosty mornings and dark, cosy evenings are on the horizon.

And as the leaves on the trees start to turn from shades of vibrant green to muted yellows and earthy oranges, there’s only one thing on our mind: the festive season is approaching!

After a challenging year, we’re holding out hope that this Christmas will feel a little more normal than last. Should all go to plan, it’ll soon be time to dust off that multi-pack of crackers as we prepare to celebrate the season with colleagues once more.

‘Tis the season to eat and be merry

After spending so much time working remotely, separated from our colleagues and the usual office chit-chat, we’re sure everyone is especially excited about their Christmas do this year.

Getting organised early helps everyone get into the spirit — and minimises some of the inevitable Christmas chaos. And what’s the thing that makes or breaks the festive season? It has to be the food!

Mountains of pigs-in-blankets. Succulent roast turkey with seasonal vegetables. The blue flames of a lit brandy-soaked Christmas pudding and piles of warm mince pies smothered in brandy butter. Delicious.

Festive food isn’t all traditional turkey and cake, though; it’s also the perfect time to indulge in a variety of winter warmers and party favourites — from lobster mac and cheese to bite-sized mini hamburgers.

But with so many plans to make up for, our schedules are likely to be as busy as Santa’s elves this year. So, it’s never too early to start getting dates in the diary!

Sleigh the Christmas do this year

The logistics of planning the office festivities can be time-consuming and stressful. Plus, you rarely get the opportunity to catch up with everyone during a manic meet-up at a pub or sit-down dinner where you can only chat with the people sat next to you.

That’s what makes an afternoon or evening with us so special. Not only will you have a laugh learning how to create and enjoy some truly delicious food under the expert guidance of our chefs, but the occasion doubles as a team-bonding activity. And, perhaps, you’ll get to know some of those familiar faces you’ve only ever seen on Zoom!

We’ll welcome you with coffee and pastries or a glass of something crisp and cold (depending on the time of your visit) before splitting you into teams to prepare and cook different parts of a menu — designed just for you. You can even include a fun, competitive element to your course if you wish, such as a bake-off or sushi-making competition!

Plus, we’ll cater for various dietary requirements and take care of all the organisation (and the washing up!) so that you can enjoy yourself alongside everyone else.

So, if you’re starting to think about organising your work’s Christmas function, why not opt for something a little different this year? Set in the picturesque village of Abinger deep in the beautiful Surrey Hills, there’s nothing quite like Christmas at the cookery school.

We welcome all ages and abilities onto our wide selection of courses, offering the ideal space for teams to come together in a fun environment to make and enjoy the very best of Christmas: the food! Isn’t that just the tonic we all need after the past year and a half?

Group and private bookings tend to be very popular during the festive period, so don’t leave it too late to book. Call us on 01306 730470 or email [email protected] to discuss your requirements.