Discover the art of sourdough baking amid the historic charm of Parkwood National Historic Site. Join Melina from Sourdough Simplified for a hands-on workshop that will transform your baking skills and connect you with a time-honored tradition. ---
Discover the art of sourdough baking amid the historic charm of Parkwood National Historic Site. Join Melina from Sourdough Simplified for a hands-on workshop that will transform your baking skills and connect you with a time-honored tradition. ---
Book with Parkwood National Historic Site
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Parkwood National Historic Site · Oshawa, Ontario
Located within the historic grounds of Parkwood National Historic Site, this beginner’s sourdough workshop offers a hands-on dive into the art of bread baking. Led by Melina from Sourdough Simplified, attendees will learn fundamental techniques that turn simple ingredients into crusty, flavorful loaves. Unlike typical cooking classes, this experience roots you in a centuries-old process that combines science and skill, making it perfect for anyone curious about sourdough or seeking to elevate their baking game.
The workshop focuses on creating a mature starter from scratch and maintaining it, a practice that connects bakers to a tradition dating back thousands of years. Participants gain confidence by baking their own loaf, understanding fermentation, and caring for their starter in a supportive, engaging setting. The historic site offers a unique backdrop—its brick walls and heritage details add a sense of timelessness to the craft of breadmaking.
This experience is ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of sourdough. Melina’s friendly guidance ensures that even those new to baking leave with skills they can continue at home. The site itself provides a peaceful environment conducive to learning, with plenty of outdoor seating and scenic views that make for a relaxing day.
While primarily a bread-making course, it also offers insights into the history of sourdough in North America, enriching your understanding of this culinary tradition. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, this workshop makes a memorable, practical stop that combines history, skill, and delicious results in an inspiring historic setting.
easy.
2–3 hours.
No special fitness needed, just be ready to knead and learn.
No, this workshop is designed for beginners with no prior experience.
All necessary ingredients and tools are provided, but bring an apron and a reusable container for your starter.
Yes, you will be guided on caring for your starter so you can continue baking at home.
Participants should be 12 years or older; minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Classes typically host 8-12 participants for an intimate learning experience.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are refundable; late cancellations may incur fees.
Parkwood National Historic Site is a former estate turned heritage site, preserving early 20th-century architecture and grounds, offering an authentic historic atmosphere for this hands-on workshop.
Efforts to preserve the historic structures and natural landscape ensure that visitors can enjoy the site sustainably.
Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Ontario preserves a rich cultural setting and offers a broad calendar of public programming that blends historic interpretation with hands-on experiences. The site presents guided tours and interpreted performances such as Servants' Tours and themed walks, alongside practical workshops in crafts, food, and floral design. Programming includes seasonal markets like Retro Fest Vendor Market and Winter Fest Vendor Market, community-focused events such as Parkwood Christmas Tours and The Way Home Film Location Bus Tour, and creative workshops covering stained glass, candle making, holiday wreaths, pottery, perfume making, and culinary demonstrations. Several workshops are taught by named instructors or partners noted in event listings — for example, stained glass sessions led by Emilie Shipman-Wight and Meghan Murphy and perfume-making presented by Dakaari Fragrance House. Parkwood also stages horticultural programs in its greenhouses, including floral arrangement workshops and guided garden tours led by site staff. Parkwood’s event listings show a mix of ticketed and free events and seasonal sell-outs, reflecting active community engagement. The site's public programs combine interpretive tours with hands-on learning opportunities across craft, food, horticulture, and holiday-themed experiences. All descriptions and event listings are presented in third person and reflect the programming and partnerships publicly listed for Parkwood National Historic Site.
Book with Parkwood National Historic Site