Our cocktail making classes in London: An inside look

Think back to your last attempt at making cocktails at home. Maybe it was that mojito that had too much sugar. Or that martini that made your friends wince. We've all been there.

Now, picture this: you’re standing behind a gleaming bar counter, surrounded by sleek mixing tools, fresh garnishes, and a rainbow of spirits. A knowledgeable mixologist guides your every move—how to hold the shaker, what ratios of sweet to sour to aim for, and which subtle ingredients will make your cocktail sing. 

In a matter of minutes, you’ve transformed from a curious novice to the confident creator of a perfectly balanced drink. Sounds like a fantasy? Certainly not with Twist Events.

If you’ve been searching for cocktail making classes in London, you’ve likely noticed the city is awash with options. But if you’re looking for a truly memorable, hands-on, and inspiring experience—one that marries expert instruction with genuine hospitality—our cocktail making classes might just be the perfect fit. 

In this post, we’ll show you:

• What makes our cocktail making classes in London stand out
• The kind of experiences you can expect
• How a few hours of mixing, shaking, and stirring can leave you with skills that last a lifetime
• Why these classes make great team-building activities, sensational party starters, and even thoughtful gift experiences

What sets our London cocktail making classes apart?

For starters, learning directly from professional bartenders gives you an insider’s perspective you can’t get from a recipe book or a YouTube tutorial. With Twist Events’ cocktail making classes in London, you’re not just an observer—you’re an active participant. It’s a hands-on learning experience that walks you through proper techniques, the origins of classic drinks, and the artistry that goes into balancing flavours.

More importantly, these classes are designed to be fun, interactive, and inclusive. Our instructors welcome questions, encourage experimentation, and cater to all experience levels. 

By the end of your class, you won’t just know how to mix a martini—you’ll understand why you stir certain drinks, the role of aromatics in a well-crafted cocktail, and how to adapt recipes to your personal taste.

Why you’ll love our London cocktail making classes

1. Pick up new skills (and impress your friends)

Let’s face it: there’s something undeniably cool about whipping up a round of cocktails at home that rivals what you’d find at a high-end bar. After our cocktail making class, you’ll leave with a toolkit of techniques—proper shaking, stirring, muddling, layering, and garnishing—and the confidence to apply them. Plus, you’ll get to learn the stories behind iconic cocktails and the subtle science that turns a simple drink into a masterpiece.

2. Bond with your group

Cocktail making is inherently social. In our classes, you’ll laugh with friends, cheer each other on, and maybe compete a little to see who can create the night’s best concoction. It’s an ideal activity for team-building sessions, hen parties, or even just a night out with pals. Incorporating a cocktail class into your next work gathering can help break down barriers, especially when hosted as part of a corporate event.

3. Discover new flavours and ingredients

Have you ever tasted a cocktail infused with fragrant herbs, unusual bitters, or unexpected spices? Our cocktail making classes in London encourage exploration. You might discover a new spirit you never considered before or learn how to create your own syrups. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a newfound love for, say, smoky mezcal or delicate elderflower liqueur.

4. Adapt your skills to any occasion

The great thing about learning to make cocktails is that the skill is endlessly adaptable. Hosting a wedding reception and want a signature drink that tells your love story? You can do that. Putting together a family holiday party and want to add a personal touch to the drinks menu? No problem. Our classes give you the foundations to tweak recipes, try new techniques, and impress any crowd.

Cocktail making classes in London: what to expect

We know that trying something new can feel a bit intimidating. Rest assured: our classes are designed to be welcoming, informative, and just plain fun. Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you:

A warm welcome

From the moment you arrive, our friendly team sets the tone. You’ll be greeted with a smile and introduced to your expert instructor—a seasoned mixologist who lives and breathes the craft. You don’t need any prior experience, fancy equipment, or bar knowledge. Just come as you are, ready to learn and have a good time.

Interactive demonstrations

Before you pick up a shaker, you’ll see a live demonstration of the techniques and cocktails you’ll be making. Our instructors break down each step, explain why it matters, and encourage you to ask questions. Ever wondered why certain drinks are shaken vs. stirred, or how to properly muddle mint leaves? This is your chance to find out.

Hands-on practice

Now for the fun part: rolling up your sleeves and getting involved. We’ll provide all the equipment—quality shakers, jiggers, strainers, muddlers—plus a selection of spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Under the guidance of your instructor, you’ll build your first drink. Don’t worry if you spill a bit or forget the exact measurements. This is a safe space to experiment.

As you gain confidence, you can try your hand at multiple cocktails, exploring different flavour profiles and garnishes. By the end of the class, you’ll have a small repertoire of cocktails you can recreate at home. We’ll even send you off with recipes, so you don’t have to rely on memory alone.

Storytelling and cultural insights

One of the joys of learning to mix cocktails is discovering the rich history and culture that surrounds them. Each iconic drink, from the Negroni to the Margarita, has its own story—where it was created, who made it famous, and how it evolved over time. At Twist Events, we don’t just teach you the “how” of cocktail making, we also show you the “why,” adding depth and context to your new skills.

Tasting and feedback

Yes, you do get to enjoy the fruits of your labour! After carefully crafting your cocktails, you’ll have the pleasure of tasting them. Our instructors will offer constructive feedback, helping you identify what works, what you might tweak, and how to enhance your drink’s balance. By the end of the session, you’ll know exactly what suits your palate and how to tailor cocktails to your preferences.

Types of classes and themes

Variety is the spice of life. That’s why we offer different types of cocktail making classes in London, each with a unique focus:

1. Classic cocktail classes

Love the timeless elegance of a Martini or the aromatic burst of a Mojito? Our classic classes cover the fundamentals, guiding you through a selection of beloved favourites. This is a great starting point if you’re new to cocktail making or if you simply want to master the drinks you’ll find on most menus.

2. Seasonal and themed classes

Looking to make festive drinks for your holiday party? Or maybe you want to celebrate summer with vibrant, refreshing cocktails? We regularly host seasonal and themed classes—think autumn spiced punches, Valentine’s Day romance in a glass, or Halloween potions with a twist. 

3. Spirits-focused workshops

Perhaps you have a favourite spirit—whisky, gin, rum, tequila—and want to explore it in-depth. Our spirit-focused workshops do just that, guiding you through the world of a single spirit, its history, flavour profiles, and the cocktails that highlight its best qualities.

4. Low and no-alcohol classes

We’re proud to offer low and no-alcohol serves that are just as delicious as their boozy counterparts. In these classes, you’ll learn how to craft zero-proof cocktails that can stand toe-to-toe with classics. It’s a great option if you or your guests prefer to keep things light.

Perfect for any occasion

Our London cocktail making classes aren’t just about learning a skill. They can be the highlight of your next celebration, a memorable date night, or a team-building activity that goes beyond the ordinary. Here’s how:

Team building and corporate events

Forget awkward icebreakers and dry presentations. A cocktail class is an interactive, enjoyable way to bring colleagues together. Working in groups to create drinks encourages communication, boosts morale, and leaves everyone with something to talk about back at the office. For more corporate event inspiration, check out our Corporate Events page.

Weddings and special celebrations

Planning a wedding and want to offer guests a unique experience? Incorporate a cocktail class into your rehearsal dinner or wedding weekend. Guests can learn to make a signature drink that reflects your love story, adding a personal touch that sets your celebration apart.

Private parties and birthdays

Whether it’s a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or a long-overdue get-together with friends, a cocktail making class provides built-in entertainment and interaction. Our Private Parties packages allow you to choose the theme, the cocktails, and even add-on services like food pairings or custom garnishes.

Gift experiences

Struggling to find the perfect present? Gift vouchers for a cocktail making class are a thoughtful, experience-driven gift that suits all sorts of personalities—from budding bartenders to epicurean adventurers. Giving the gift of a hands-on learning experience is a great way to show you care, and it’s much more memorable than a generic shop-bought item. 

Planning your cocktail making experience

Ready to take the plunge? Here are a few practical tips for planning your cocktail making classes in London:

1. Book in advance: Popular classes fill up fast, especially on weekends or during peak seasons. Check our availability and secure your spot as early as possible.
2. Consider group size: Are you booking a class for just a few friends, or organising a large corporate event? We can accommodate various group sizes, and our flexible approach ensures that each participant gets plenty of attention.
3. Location and venue: We’re proud to operate in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Our cocktail making classes in London can be hosted at our partner venues, at your office, or even at your home if you have the space. Just get in touch through our Contact Us page, and we’ll discuss the best setup for your needs.
4. Customisation options: Want to focus on a particular spirit, incorporate a cocktail competition element, or add bespoke garnishes related to your event’s theme? We’re all ears. We love working closely with clients to create tailor-made experiences. After all, no two gatherings are the same, and your cocktail class should reflect that.

Sustainability and responsibility

At Twist Events, we’re committed to making our experiences as sustainable and responsible as possible. We value local ingredients, eco-friendly materials, and minimal waste. As you learn to craft cocktails, you’ll also pick up tips on making greener choices—like using seasonal produce, reducing single-use plastics, and favouring ethical suppliers.

And of course, we encourage responsible enjoyment of alcoholic beverages. Our instructors can provide guidance on mindful drinking, and we’re always happy to accommodate non-alcoholic alternatives so that everyone can enjoy the experience. For more on this topic, consider reading about the rise of low-and no-alcohol beverages in the UK events industry.

Start your cocktail adventure 

In a city known for its culinary diversity and rich history, cocktail making classes in London stand out as both an art form and a social experience. We’re excited to share our passion and expertise with you, guiding you from novice enthusiast to confident home bartender (and beyond).

Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration, seeking a unique team-building opportunity, or simply looking for a new hobby, our classes offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and enjoyment.

In summary:

• Twist Events offers hands-on cocktail making classes in London designed for all skill levels.
• Our approach blends expert instruction with creativity, storytelling, and sustainable practices.
• Classes cater to various themes—classic cocktails, seasonal favourites, spirit-focused workshops, and low/no alcohol options.
• Perfect for corporate events, private parties, weddings, and team-building.
• Our friendly instructors and flexible formats ensure a fun, informative, and memorable experience.
• Book in advance, customise your experience, and discover a new way to appreciate London’s cocktail culture.