Make your own bread, jam and wine at Acton Scott

What could be nicer than sitting down to a slice of homemade bread, spread with strawberry and rose petal jam, and followed by a glass of summer hedgerow wine…and all made by yourself?

Well this is all possible thanks to a new ‘Baking, preserving and wine-making’ section in Acton Scott Historic Working Farm‘s ‘Traditional Rural Crafts & Trades Courses’ 2011 programme.

Award-winning master baker Peter Cook from Ludlow’s SC Price and Sons will be running an ‘Introduction to Breadmaking’ day on Thursday 9 June 2011 and again on Thursday 15 September 2011.

The course covers basic breadmaking techniques, including how to mix, knead, ferment and bake dough in an everyday domestic oven, and also uses Acton Scott’s traditional wood-fired bread oven.  Participants will return home with a collection of freshly-baked, delicious and wholesome breads, as well as the knowledge to be able to produce them in their own kitchen.

Nothing reminds us more of summer than the taste of fresh strawberries and the aroma of scented roses.  On Saturday 2 July 2011 there is the opportunity to learn the basic methods and techniques of making beautiful preserves, including a lovely strawberry and rose petal jam, a rose petal jelly and a refreshing strawberry and rose cordial.

The course will be run by Sara-Jane Brough, who started her business The Ludlow Jam Pan in October 2008, making handmade quality preserves following traditional methods, and using seasonal produce.

Finally, have you always wanted to learn how to make inexpensive home made wine that is as good as, if not better, than those expensive bottles you buy?

On Saturday 4 June 2011 you have the chance to join tutors Richard Stephenson and Sue Dolman to make wine from hedgerow ingredients easily found in the early summer. Step-by-step you will be taken through the process of making wine and discover how to make up your own recipes and how to embellish others.  And you will leave the farm with a gallon of wine to ferment and instructions for aftercare together with an enthusiasm for experimenting yourself to create wonderful and interesting wines at home.

There are a host of other courses on offer at Acton Scott throughout the year, from learning brickwork skills to corn dolly making.  If you would like further details or to book a place, please phone Acton Scott on 01694 781307.

Course numbers are limited so early booking is advised on these popular courses.