Make Your Own Amazing Chocolate in Notting Hill: A Sweet London Experience
If you’re wandering through the charming streets of Notting Hill and craving something sweet and hands-on, the Make Your Own Amazing Chocolate workshop is a treat worth considering. For around $75, you’ll spend about 90 minutes with a small group (max 8 people) at Melt Chocolates, a boutique shop just a stone’s throw from Portobello Road. Led by knowledgeable chocolatiers, this experience combines learning, tasting, and creating — all wrapped into one delicious package.
What we love most is how interactive and informative the workshop is — you actually get to make three personalized chocolate bars with your choice of flavors and decorations. Plus, the chance to taste chocolates from different regions adds depth and context, making it not just fun but also educational. The intimate group size means plenty of individual attention, which makes it engaging and relaxed.
One thing to consider is the duration — at around 1.5 hours, it’s a fairly quick experience, so if you’re craving a more extensive tasting or culinary adventure, you might want to pair this with other activities. This tour is best suited for those who love chocolate, enjoy creative hands-on activities, and want a memorable, authentic experience in a neighborhood famous for its style and vibe.
Who Should Book?
This experience suits curious travelers, families, or couples who want a taste of local London craftsmanship. Those interested in learning about the process of chocolate-making from bean to bar will find it especially appealing, as the guides are praised for their warmth, humor, and expertise.
While in London, here are other experiences we've covered
Key Points
- Hands-On Experience: Make three personalized chocolate bars to take home.
- Educational Focus: Learn about chocolate from cacao bean to finished product.
- Small Group Setting: Max 8 participants for personalized attention.
- Location: Situated in the heart of Notting Hill, with great shops and people-watching.
- Tasting Opportunities: Sample chocolates from different regions and percentages.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, a hit with kids and teens alike.
Exploring the Chocolate Workshop in Notting Hill
A Perfect Slice of Notting Hill Charm
From the moment you arrive at 59 Ledbury Rd, you’ll notice the intimate, boutique vibe of Melt Chocolates. This small shop is more than just a retail space; it’s a place where passion for chocolate turns into a memorable experience. You’ll meet your instructor, whose warmth and knowledge shine through, making the session both fun and informative.
The setting is ideal for those who appreciate authentic neighborhood character—think cobblestone streets, colorful shops, and the buzz of Portobello Market nearby. It’s a lovely backdrop for a workshop that’s both relaxing and stimulating for your sweet tooth.
What’s Included in the Workshop?
You’ll spend about 90 minutes with a small group, often fewer than nine people, which means plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized tips. The course begins with a brief lesson on the journey from cacao bean to chocolate bar, highlighting the different chocolate origins and percentages.
Then, under the guidance of the chocolatiers, you’ll get to transform raw cocoa into your own chocolate bars. This involves melting, mixing, and pouring chocolate, followed by adding customizable decorations and flavors. The entire process is explained in simple yet detailed terms, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned chocolate fans alike.
- White Cliffs of Dover & Historic Canterbury Day Tour from London
- Pub Crawl of Central London
- Guided Paris Day Trip from London by Train with Seine Cruise
- Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower
- Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour
- London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs
The Making Process
Participants make three bars, each about 45 grams, which they then wrap themselves — a satisfying feeling of accomplishment. You might find that the guides are especially praised for their warmth, humor, and expertise, helping even first-timers feel confident crafting their confectionery.
The process isn’t just about the actual making; it’s about understanding the different chocolate types and how regional flavors influence taste. You might sample chocolates from Africa, South America, or Asia, learning how geography and percentage impact the flavor profile.
Tasting & Learning
While you work on your bars, the guide will walk you through a short walk explaining where cocoa comes from and what makes certain chocolates unique. This added context enriches the experience, turning it into more than just a craft activity but an insight into global chocolate culture.
Guests often comment on how much they enjoyed the tasting aspect, with reviews praising the variety of chocolates sampled and the educational value provided by the instructor. As one reviewer noted, “We also ate a LOT of different chocolate types,” which highlights how much flavor exploration happens during the session.
The Takeaway
At the end of the session, you leave with three beautifully wrapped, handcrafted chocolate bars. These are a delightful souvenir and a delicious reminder of your London culinary adventure.
Practical Details & How to Get the Most Out of It
Meeting Point & Accessibility
The workshop begins at 59 Ledbury Rd, a location easy to reach by public transport, and the shop’s proximity to Notting Hill’s iconic sights makes it a convenient activity. The tour ends back at the starting point, so you can easily continue exploring the neighborhood afterward.
Group Size & Atmosphere
With a maximum of eight travelers, the class fosters a cozy, relaxed environment. Many reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides, like Paul, who make the class feel more like a fun lesson from a friend rather than a formal demonstration.
Price & Value
At $75.75 per person, the workshop offers good value for a hands-on activity that combines learning with tasting and crafting. Given the personalized attention and the quality of the experience, many consider it worth the investment—especially if you’re a chocolate enthusiast or traveling with family.
Cancellation & Flexibility
The tour has a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding a layer of flexibility for travelers making last-minute plans or adjusting schedules.
Authentic Reviews & Experiences
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable instructors and the fun atmosphere. One reviewer shared, “Paul was a wonderful instructed and the class is very informative, as well as fun,” highlighting how engaging and approachable the guides are. Another noted, “Our instructor was amazing! Not only did we make chocolate bars, we also learned a great deal about the history,” emphasizing the educational aspect.
Families find it especially enjoyable; one review mentions that even their teenage sons appreciated the experience, indicating that it’s suitable for all ages.
Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Right for You?
If you’re a chocolate lover eager to understand the craft behind your favorite sweet, this workshop is a superb choice. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, hands-on activity in a neighborhood packed with character. The small group size ensures an intimate setting where you can truly learn and enjoy.
You’ll appreciate the expert guidance and the opportunity to taste a variety of chocolates, making it a worthwhile addition to your London itinerary. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the experience offers a delightful blend of education and fun — with a sweet reward at the end.
FAQ
Is this workshop suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that their kids and teens enjoyed making chocolate here, making it a family-friendly activity.
How long does the workshop last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is perfect for a relaxed yet engaging experience.
What do I take home?
You get three hand-wrapped, 45-gram chocolate bars, personalized with your chosen flavors and decorations.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly mentioned, the workshop is held in a boutique shop in Notting Hill, so it’s best to check with the provider for specific accessibility questions.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled session.
Is this a good activity for a solo traveler?
Absolutely. The small group setting makes it easy to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a personalized experience.
What’s included in the price?
The workshop fee covers the instruction, ingredients, tasting, and your three finished chocolate bars.
Are there any age restrictions?
No specific restrictions are noted, but the experience is suitable for all ages, especially families with children.
Do I need previous experience with chocolate making?
Not at all. The guides are skilled at explaining each step, making it accessible for beginners.
How close is the location to public transportation?
It’s near public transit, making it easy to reach from different parts of London.
Final Words
This Notting Hill chocolate-making workshop offers a blend of educational insight, creative fun, and authentic craftsmanship. The small-group approach ensures personalized attention, and the location adds a quintessential London neighborhood atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want to deepen their appreciation for chocolate, enjoy a relaxed activity, and take home a tasty souvenir.
Whether you’re a dedicated chocoholic or simply seeking a memorable, tasty break from sightseeing, this experience promises a delightful, hands-on journey into the world of chocolate. It’s a chance to learn, create, and indulge — all in one of London’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
More Dessert Tours in London
More Tour Reviews in London
More London experiences we've covered
- London Hop-On Hop-Off 1-Day River Sightseeing + Painted Hall
- Make Your own Amazing Chocolate in Notting Hill
- London Beatles Tour
- Spitalfields & Borough Market Food Tour
- Gatwick Airport Taxi – Private Transfer to/from London
- The Alfred Hitchcock London Walk with Sandra Shevey
- Hever Castle – England’s Hidden Gem
- The Authentic London Food and History Tour
- Minibus from Heathrow Airport to Southampton via Netley Abbey
- Historic walk of East Londons Wapping Docks and its famous Pubs
- London’s Hidden Gems and Secret History Private Guided Tour
- Self-guided electric bike tour of Kent