The Best Weekend Escape from Edinburgh: Why Cooking at Yarrow Is the Ultimate Day Out

The Yarrow Cookery School
Jun 3
3 min read

Just 19 minutes by train from Edinburgh Waverley, tucked on the beautiful East Lothian coastline, lies one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets: The Yarrow Cookery School.

Whether you're planning a fun day out with friends, looking for a meaningful gift, or just craving a break from city life, a visit to Yarrow is the kind of experience that stays with you—equal parts relaxing, inspiring, and delicious.

🎬 As Seen on Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes

We were absolutely thrilled to welcome Robson Green and the BBC crew to Yarrow this month as part of the upcoming series of Weekend Escapes, airing on BBC Two in January 2026.

Filming with Robson (and the brilliant Mark, who’s been part of every series) was such a buzz—and a true testament to what makes this place special. They came for a taste of what we do—and left with full bellies, new skills, and lots of laughs.So if you're looking for a place that’s officially been TV-tested and camera-approved, you’re in the right spot.

🍴 Why Choose a Cookery Class for a Weekend Escape?

Because it’s something to do—not just something to consume.You won’t just sit back and watch. You’ll chop, mix, taste, laugh, and learn. Our hands-on classes are designed for everyone—from complete beginners to passionate home cooks. Think of it as a day out where the activity is the reward, and the food at the end is just the (very delicious) cherry on top.

🌿 The Setting: State-of-the-Art Meets Sustainable

The Yarrow Cookery School is based at the 400-year-old Longniddry Steading—just minutes from the coast, yet fully immersed in countryside calm. The space is fossil-fuel-free, solar-powered, and beautifully restored with a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen that still feels warm, welcoming, and distinctly Scottish. It’s the kind of place where the knives are sharp, the garden is wild with herbs, and the kettle is always on.

🍞 What You’ll Learn

From our Flatbread Feasts to Knife Skills, every class is an experience—blending practical learning with seasonal ingredients and a strong dose of feel-good fun. We cook everything from scratch, always with the seasons, and always with a focus on local produce. You’ll leave with new skills, recipes to take home, and the rare feeling of having done something totally different with your weekend.

🧡 A Day That’s All About You (and Food, Glorious Food)

You’ll cook, eat, and gather around the table—no stress, no pretension. Just good food, good people, and the kind of atmosphere that makes strangers feel like old friends.

Whether you’re looking for something to gift for Father’s Day, an unforgettable birthday plan, or simply a chance to get out of the city and do something real, this is your sign.

🌿 Real-Life Connection, No Screens Required

At Yarrow, we invite guests to put their phones away, roll up their sleeves, and be fully present. Cooking here isn’t just about what ends up on the plate—it’s about the joy of doing something with your hands, of connecting face-to-face, and of sharing a meal you made yourself.

It’s a mental health boost, a confidence-builder, and an excuse to gather with others around food in the most relaxed, welcoming way. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or meeting new people, you’ll leave feeling nourished in every sense.

Our tranquil fig garden and courtyard offer space to breathe, sip a drink, and soak up the fresh air before and after class—it’s all part of the experience.