A Mother’s Day to Remember

anasthaseselena
3 days ago
3 min read

Celebrate with French Flavour & Soul

There are certain things in life that never go out of style, Chanel No. 5, a crisp glass of Sancerre, and the warm bond between a mother and daughter. This Mother’s Day, why not step away from the predictable and dive into something unforgettable? Imagine this, rolling hills of the Loire Valley, the scent of fresh croissants wafting through sun-dappled air, and the sizzle of butter as it hits the pan, all shared with the woman who taught you your first recipe (even if it was just how to stir the batter).

Welcome to The Walnut Grove Cookery School, where culinary dreams and French art de vivre meet. Whether you’re planning a surprise escape or looking for a unique bonding experience, our bespoke cooking retreats offer the perfect blend of elegance, discovery, and indulgence.

🌸 Why France? Why Now?

France isn’t just a destination, it’s a mood, a ritual, a lifestyle. From the cobbled streets of Paris to the pastoral beauty of the Loire, the country invites you to slow down and savor. What better way to honor your mother, or your daughter, than with a timeless experience that channels the very essence of joie de vivre?

The French understand the value of time spent together, especially around the table. Meals aren’t rushed, they’re celebrated. It’s where stories are shared, wine is poured, and laughter lingers longer than the dessert.

This is the spirit we bring to life at The Walnut Grove Cookery School.

🍷 A Bespoke Getaway for Two

We specialize in tailored culinary experiences, and Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge. Picture this, a curated itinerary designed just for you and your mother (or daughter), from hands-on cooking classes in our stunning French country kitchen to market tours bursting with local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and crusty baguettes still warm from the oven.

Prefer a more social vibe? Join one of our group sessions and connect with fellow food lovers from around the world. Our warm, inclusive setting makes everyone feel like part of the family. It’s not just a class, it’s a celebration.

🥐 A Recipe for Bonding, Tarte Tatin à Deux

Here’s a little taste of what you might create together during your stay, a simple, elegant dish with classic French roots, the beloved Tarte Tatin. Sticky, golden, and unapologetically indulgent, it’s the perfect recipe to make side-by-side.

TARTE TATIN (Serves 6): Time: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy |

Ingredients:

5–6 apples (Golden or Braeburn)
100g unsalted butter
150g caster sugar
1 sheet of quality puff pastry
A pinch of sea salt
Optional, a splash of Calvados for a little French kick

Instructions:

Peel, core and halve the apples.
In a heavy, oven-proof frying pan (about 24cm), melt the butter and sugar together over medium heat until it caramelizes into a golden amber syrup. Don’t rush it, this is foreplay.
Arrange the apples tightly in the pan, round side down. Cook for about 15–20 minutes until the caramel deepens and the apples soften.
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Drape the puff pastry over the apples, tucking in the edges like a blanket.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
Let cool slightly, then, hold your breath, flip it onto a serving plate.

Serve with crème fraîche or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Voilà!

This isn’t just dessert. It’s a memory, warm and golden, shared over laughter and stories of old times.

💬 The French Touch

At The Walnut Grove Cookery School, we don’t just teach recipes, we immerse you in French culture. You'll learn why butter matters (and it does), how to choose the right wine with your meal, and the subtle art of lingering at the table. We’ll talk about Escoffier, M.F.K. Fisher, and maybe even a little Edith Piaf over aperitifs.

Want to stroll through Château gardens between classes? Or explore a village market in search of the perfect chèvre? We’ve got that too.

💝 The Perfect Gift, Wrapped in Experience

This Mother’s Day, skip the flowers that wilt and the cards that collect dust. Give the gift of experience, flavor, and shared time in the French countryside. Whether you join us for a bespoke stay or hop into a group session, you’ll leave with more than just skills, you’ll leave with stories.

At our cooking school, the kitchen is our heart, and we can’t wait to welcome yours into it.