The Winter Chapter is an intimate immersive live-fire dining and masterclass experience taking place on the 13th and 14th February 2026. The five-hour sensory journey blends fire-led gastronomy, hands-on workshops, and deep connection to the land, all set in the extraordinary surroundings of Shimpling Park Farm in Suffolk.
Guests will be immersed in an unforgettable five-hour journey of live-fire cooking, flavour infusion, and masterclass workshops — a place where elegant dining meets hands-on culinary discovery. Exquisite food and drink await, prepared and served in the warm, atmospheric setting of these beautiful barns. Perfect for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a Valentine’s celebration with a touch of magic. You will learn all about cooking over fire in a live fire theatre and feast – with Chef Julian Brown – part of the team who set up Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly squat restaurant in the Cotswolds. There will be an artisan sourdough workshop, gourmet mushroom and fungi discovery session, as well as a farm and woodland tour. Before enjoying a shared feast with pairing wines and leaving with a goody bag.
Friday 13th: Arrival 14:30 – Carriages 20:30
Saturday 14th: Arrive 14:30 – Carriages 20:30
Strictly Limited Spaces: BOOK NOW
Live Fire Masterclass
Under the expert guidance of Master Live Fire Chef Julian Brown, you’ll unlock the art of cooking over open flames — learning not just how to light and control the fire, but how to command it. Then, immerse yourself in a dramatic hands-on cookery session, preparing estate-reared venison and lamb in a theatrical, live-fire experience that engages all the senses.
Workshops
Guests will enjoy two immersive 30-45-minute breakout sessions designed to delight food lovers and adventurers alike. Discover the art of Sourdough baking with Dominic founder of Biddle’s Bread, the farm’s own artisan bakery. Then step Into the Wild World of Gourmet Mushrooms and dive into a fascinating exploration with mushroom and fungi expert Samuel Keeley, Co-founder of MYCOTEK LTD
Candlelit Fire Feast
Finally, gather around long communal tables to savour a four-course, fire-cooked feast — a menu guests have helped bring to life. Each dish is beautifully paired with curated local wines, handcrafted cocktails, or small-batch craft drinks. Surrounded by candlelight and the warm glow of open flames, the evening becomes more than a meal — it’s a sensory journey celebrating flavour, fire, and connection.
Nightcap & Farewell
Then as the evening draws to a close beside the glowing embers, with guests enjoying a warming cocktail or a rich spiced hot chocolate in hand. Before departing, everyone receives a beautifully curated gift bag, featuring a hand-shaped sourdough loaf, a snuff tin of Maldon Salt, Smoke & Fire rub, recipe cards, and a special bag of Shimpling Park Farm flour — along with unforgettable memories of a truly unique experience.
About Shimpling Park Farm Suffolk: A fourth-generation family farm, Shimpling Park Farm has been at the forefront of innovative, natural farming methods — producing exceptional food while allowing the land and wildlife to thrive. The farm’s combination of tradition and forward-thinking approach provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive culinary experience. For The Ember Lounge – Winter Chapter, the barns are transformed into an intimate, atmospheric space — glowing with candlelight, the crackle of open fires, and the warm scent of wood smoke. Surrounded by rolling fields and ancient woodland, the venue offers a setting that is both rustic and refined, creating an unforgettable midwinter escape.
The Ember Lounge – Winter Chapter
Shimpling
Bury Saint Edmunds
Suffolk
IP29 4HY
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