Market · Southwark
Bread Ahead Bakery School
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Bread Ahead Bakery School is a celebrated baking school located in the heart of London's Southwark, just a stone's throw from Borough Market. Housed within the Bread Ahead bakery on Cathedral Street, the school offers a range of hands-on classes for all skill levels, from beginners to aspiring professionals. Participants learn to make artisan breads, sourdough, croissants, doughnuts, and other pastries under the guidance of expert bakers. The classes are intimate, typically with small groups, allowing for personalized instruction. The bakery itself is famous for its sourdough and filled doughnuts, which you can sample during breaks. What makes Bread Ahead distinctive is its focus on traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, combined with a relaxed, encouraging atmosphere. After your class, you can explore the nearby Southwark Cathedral or the bustling Borough Market for fresh produce and street food.
Don't miss
- Take a sourdough masterclass and learn to maintain your own starter
- Master the art of laminated dough for croissants and pain au chocolat
- Make and decorate iconic Bread Ahead doughnuts
- Visit the adjacent Borough Market for gourmet food shopping
- Explore Southwark Cathedral's medieval architecture nearby
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Bread Ahead Bakery School
You can visit on your own (paid entry, book classes online in advance; prices vary by class. no walk-in tickets for classes). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
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How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes and tie back long hair; aprons are provided.
- Book classes weeks in advance, especially for popular courses like sourdough.
- You'll take home what you bake, so bring a bag or container.
- Arrive early to grab a coffee from the bakery's café before class.
A bit of history
Bread Ahead Bakery was founded by baker Matthew Jones, who started selling bread at Borough Market in 2010. The bakery school opened soon after to share his passion for artisan baking, becoming a popular destination for food lovers in London.
Common questions
Do I need baking experience to attend a class?
No, classes cater to all levels, from complete beginners to advanced bakers.
Can I buy bread from the bakery without taking a class?
Yes, the bakery shop is open to the public and sells fresh bread, pastries, and doughnuts.
Are classes suitable for children?
Some classes are family-friendly; check the website for age recommendations.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 7+ days in advance receive a full refund; check the school's policy for details.
Is there parking nearby?
Parking is limited; using public transport is recommended. The nearest car park is at London Bridge.
Do you provide recipes to take home?
Yes, you'll receive a recipe booklet for the items you bake in class.
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