Timings

This is a 3 1/2 hour Course - Course Size  6-12 People - Course Times   06:00am - 09:00am - Please arrive at 05:45 for registration

 Techniques covered

Choose the fish or shellfish that you wish to prepare and we will show you how to do it.

 What to Expect

Visiting the market during trading hours is exciting and well worth an early start. During this course you will spend time on the market with our team of experts learning about the many global species of fish and shellfish on offer, gain an understanding of how the market works and importantly - buy some seafood to work with.

Aim to arrive promptly at 05:45.  To kick start the session we will give you an over view of the market, where the seafood comes from, a little bit of history and talk through seafood options you can purchase to work with and take away. Don't worry if you don't know what to choose - we will give you recommendations and an idea of what is at its seasonal best. 

Head out onto the market, escorted by our team, to choose and purchase your seafood and enjoy a tutored visit to understand best quality and what the sustainable choices are.  

After a thorough look around, we take you back to the kitchen to tuck into one of our fish breakfasts, prepared by our kitchen chef team.  There is a chance to chat to the market visit team and warm up before putting on an apron to cut your fish. 

After breakfast you will work with our expert fishmongers to learn how to prepare your chosen seafood.

Popular choices for the preparation session include sea bass or bream, lemon sole, brill or turbot, monkfish, scallops and hake. If you don't know what to choose we suggest you come with a favourite recipe idea and we can suggest the best fish for the dish!

You will need to bring cash to make your purchase. You will have time to prepare 2 of the same types of seafood during the practical hands-on session.

And finally - if you would like to purchase a knife to take away and practice at home or need some recipe suggestions for your prepared fish, there is always someone on hand to help you. We look forward to welcoming you to Billingsgate.  

 Who should attend

Anyone who wants to try new species of fish or learn some top tips on how to prepare it at home. We can also arrange private visits for small groups. If you want a more substantial fish breakfast (or even a glass of Bucks Fizz after the visit) we can arrange this at a competitive rate. Just email or contact us by 'phone to discuss the options.

 What you take home

Your prepared fish and an understanding of how Billingsgate market operates during trading hours.

 Can I buy fish?

As much as you like, although we will only have time to work on a single species of fish with you during the session. Just bring cash and a cool bag.