MASTERCLASSES & EXPERIENCES
Explore the incredible array of experiences and food & drink masterclasses on offer at this year’s Falmouth Oyster Festival! From cruises on the Fal Estuary slurping on Fresh Oysters & Fizz to getting hands on in the kitchen with a cookery masterclass from our incredible chef lineup – there’s something for everyone in 2026.
Oyster Shucking with a Fal Oysterman
Thursday 8th October, 2pm – Friday 9th October, 12pm – Saturday 10th October, 12pm & 2pm – Sunday 11th October, 12pm
Discover the craft behind one of Cornwall’s most iconic shellfish. In this lively session, a traditional Falmouth oysterman demonstrates how to shuck oysters safely and properly, sharing stories from the water along the way. Learn about Cornwall’s oyster heritage, different varieties, and how to serve them at their best. The session includes three fresh oysters and a glass off fizz per every participant.
BOOK HEREFish Filleting & Ceviche with My Fish Kitchen
Friday 9th October, 2pm
Learn the essential skills of preparing fresh fish in this hands-on practical session. Watch as Annie Seabourne, of My Fish Kitchen, breaks down a whole fish step-by-step, sharing tips on technique, knife skills and sourcing the best catch.
The session finishes with a demonstration on turning beautifully fresh fish into vibrant, flavour-packed ceviche for each participant to take away.
BOOK HERE
Flavoured Butter with Jude Kereama
Friday 9th October, 3:30pm
Discover the art of compound butter in this hands-on masterclass with chef Jude Kereama & Cornish Dairy. Using the finest Cornish butter, Jude will show you how to create a rich and flavour-packed Café de Paris compound butter, packed with herbs and savoury flavours.
You’ll make your own butter to take home and learn how to use it to elevate everything from seafood to steak, vegetables and fresh bread. All ingredients and equipment are provided – just bring your appetite!
BOOK HEREOysters & Fizz on the Bay
Friday 9th October, 5pm
A fantastic collaboration between the Oyster Festival and FalRiver. Embark on a boat trip around the Carrick Roads, offering panoramic evening views of the Docks and the town.
Boat departs at 17:00 sharp so please arrive at 16:50. The cruise takes roughly 90 minutes. Trip includes a complimentary glass of Camel Valley sparkling wine, and two fresh native oysters, shucked aboard by Falmouth’s oystermen.
BOOK HERE
Seasonal Cocktails with Chris Jarrett
Friday 9th October, 5pm & Saturday 10th October, 4pm
Join the ‘Bearded Barman’ Chris Jarret of Kona for a seasonal cocktail making class. As a WSET approved tutor, what Chris doesn’t know about spirits simply isn’t worth knowing!
Chris will take you through flavour profiles and pairings, so you know how to get the best out of your home bar – no matter how dusty the bottle! You’ll learn how to make and enjoy three cocktails, using premium spirits over a 45-minute session – and be armed with new skills and top tips to take home.
BOOK HERESupermarket Super-Wines: Get Out of Your Wine Rut
Friday 9th October, 6pm
Think supermarket wine is boring? Think again. Sommelier Elly Owen will take you on a tasting of six brilliant bottles that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to discover something exciting.
Each wine has been carefully selected for its ability to pair beautifully with Falmouth oysters and seafood, so expect plenty of delicious discoveries and a few surprises along the way.
BOOK HERE
Fal Oyster Fishery Cruise
Saturday 10th October, 10am
Guided by a traditional Fal Oysterman, you’ll journey up the river with Fal River to the Fal Oyster Fishery for a firsthand look at where these legendary molluscs are grown and harvested.
During this 2-hour boat ride aboard a Fal River Cruise, you’ll discover the rich heritage of local oyster fishing while soaking in sweeping views of the Carrick Roads.
BOOK HEREBest Fizz for Your Fish: From Camel Valley to Champagne
Saturday 10th October, 6pm
Bubbles and seafood are a match made in heaven. Join Elly Owen for a sparkling wine tasting exploring some of the best fizz to pair with fish and shellfish – from Cornwall’s Camel Valley to Champagne.
Taste your way through a selection of sparkling wines and discover what makes the perfect pairing for the fruits of the sea.
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Children’s Crafts
Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th
We have a fantastic line-up of coastal-themed crafts running from 10am-4pm on Saturday & Sunday of the festival in the entrance to the National Maritime Museum:
Wooden Fish Ornament Painting, Oyster Shell Painting, Sea Creature Bracelets, Seaside Sensory Tuff Trays.
Crafts are free to join, and children can take their ocean masterpieces home!
Coastal Wines: Where the Ocean Meets the Vine
Sunday 11th October, 3pm
What happens when vineyards meet the sea? Join Elly Owen for a tasting journey around the globe, exploring wines made in coastal regions and discovering how proximity to the ocean can influence the grapes, vineyards and wines we drink.
From crisp, saline whites to elegant reds, discover the distinctive character of wines shaped by the coast.
BOOK HERE