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ABOUT

Learn More About Leeds Cookery School

We’re a social enterprise supporting the Leeds-based charity Zest, using food as a tool to build health, wealth, and social change in our community. Our kitchens bring people together to learn, cook, eat, and grow — all while giving back.

OUR VENUES OFFER PROFESSIONAL AND AWARD WINNING

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Fun Foodie Experiences

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Corporate Away Days

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Private Kitchen Hire

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Training Programmes

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Market Research and Product Development

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Food Education in Schools

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WHO WE ARE

We’re all about good food, good fun, and giving back.

At Leeds Cookery School, we teach everything from sushi to street food in two stunning kitchens — one in a restored fire station, the other in Europe’s largest indoor market.

We’re proud to support our charity partner, Zest, using food to spark connection, build skills, and drive positive change across Leeds.

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OUR INGREDIENTS

We source ethically and locally wherever possible — from fresh seafood at Leeds Kirkgate Market to quality meats from Sykes House Farm in Wetherby. Our seasonal classes highlight fresh, local produce, and we’re happy to accommodate dietary and ethical needs. We minimize waste, avoid plastic, and compost what little is left.

 

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AWARDS

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Old Fire Station at Gipton

In 2014, the West Yorkshire Fire Service decommissioned its Gipton fire station. From the ashes and with thanks to the Leeds Community Foundation and the late Jimi Heselden, the space was renovated into a Community and Enterprise hub. Leeds Cookery School first opened its doors at The Old Fire Station in September of 2017 and has been delivering mouth watering dishes and happy customers ever since! Let’s face it, if you set off a smoke alarm at one of our workshops, you're in the right place! This beautiful and practical setting has provided many enjoyable days out for corporate activities, private parties and kitchen hires. We really do have something for everyone. Parking is free and ample. There are even several EV charging points! We are also fully licensed if you would rather get a taxi.

Kirkgate Market

Launched in January 2024, our purpose built kitchen is designed with community at its very core. This new venue is made in partnership with charity and our stakeholder Zest. Zest’s projects will also run from the kitchen, bringing people together through food. Located in the heritage part of Leeds Kirkgate market, we are surrounded by wonderfully fresh and diverse ingredients. All you need to do is come along and put it all together. Much like our venue in Gipton, we also offer corporate away days as well as offering up the space to hire for product launches, training and focus groups.