Melt’s Amazing Bonbons making in Notting Hill

If you’re a chocoholic visiting London, the Melt Chocolates Bonbons Making Class in Notting Hill promises a sweet escape. This 2-hour hands-on experience, hosted by a trained chocolatier, invites you to craft your own luxurious chocolate bonbons while exploring sensory memories tied to childhood treats. It’s a small-group activity—capped at 10 participants—making it more intimate and personalized than many generic chocolate workshops.

What we particularly like about this experience is its focus on evoking nostalgia through chocolate, transforming a simple activity into a multi-sensory journey. You not only get to learn insider tips and tricks from an expert, but you also walk away with a box of your handmade chocolates to enjoy or gift.

One thing to keep in mind is that several reviews mention some limitations in the actual ‘making’ process, with some participants feeling it was more about filling premade shells rather than full-on bonbon creation. For those considering the value, this is worth noting, especially if you’re expecting a more comprehensive hands-on experience.

This tour suits travelers eager for a creative, relaxed activity that combines culinary curiosity with personal reflection. It’s ideal for those with a sweet tooth, fond memories of childhood sweets, or anyone curious about the artistry of chocolate.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: With a maximum of 10 participants, you get personalized attention and a chance to ask all your chocolate questions.
• Nostalgia & Sensory Focus: The experience emphasizes evoking childhood memories through taste, smell, and touch, making it more than just a cooking class.
• Learn Insider Tips: Your host will share secrets behind good chocolate-making, enhancing your understanding of the craft.
• Take-home Treats: You’ll create and leave with a box of your own handmade bonbons, adding value and a tangible souvenir.
• Price vs. Value: At around $75, the experience offers a creative, educational activity that’s more about the memory and craft than a full chocolate-making course.
• Location & Accessibility: Set in the charming Notting Hill, the meetup point at 59 Ledbury Rd is near public transport and easy to find.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting at the heart of Notting Hill, the class kicks off in a cozy, friendly setting. The meeting point at 59 Ledbury Rd is easy to access, just a short walk from public transportation, making it convenient even if you’re not staying nearby.

What makes this class memorable is its focus on sensory exploration. The host, an experienced chocolatier, guides you through tasting different types of chocolates to appreciate their unique flavors, textures, and aromas. This isn’t just about making chocolates but about reawakening your senses, often linked to memories from childhood. For instance, some participants have noted that trying scents like clementines or pine evoked vivid memories of joyful moments, such as holiday oranges or seaside holidays.

The core activity involves creating bespoke bonbons—choosing flavors, scents, and textures that resonate with your childhood memories. According to some reviews, the actual process involves filling premade shells rather than full-on chocolate molding from scratch. One reviewer specifically mentions the shells were pre-bought, and the melting process was shared among three people, which could feel a bit limited for those wanting a more involved experience.

However, you do get to experiment with flavor combinations, and the host shares insider tips, making the process educational. Expect to play with different textures, from molten chocolate to flakes and tempering techniques, all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The highlight is definitely walking away with a box of your carefully crafted bonbons, customizable with your chosen scents and flavors. This makes the experience not just fun but also an opportunity to take home a sweet gift or enjoy personalized chocolates over the following days.

The Downsides & Considerations

While many reviews praise the atmosphere and learning experience, some participants found the activity a bit basic. One reviewer called it “super basic,” pointing out that the shells were premade, and the whole process was minimal. For those expecting to learn complex chocolate-making techniques or to mold chocolates from scratch, this might fall short.

Another reviewer mentioned that the class was more about filling bonbon shells and tasting chocolate rather than full creation from scratch, which could be disappointing if you’re after a deep dive into chocolate craftsmanship.

On top of that, the cost of around $75 per person may seem steep, especially considering the limited hands-on involvement for some. But on the flip side, it does include tasting, learning, and a take-home box of chocolates, which adds some value if you’re seeking a memorable, sensory experience rather than a full production class.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for chocolate lovers interested in a relaxing, sensory journey with a nostalgic twist. It’s suitable for those wanting a fun, low-pressure activity that combines education with creativity. Families or groups of friends looking for a memorable activity in Notting Hill will likely enjoy the cozy setting and personalized attention.

However, if you’re a serious chocolatier or expect to learn advanced techniques, you might find this experience too light. Likewise, those seeking a full hands-on molding or tempering workshop may want to explore other options.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: Around 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 people, which encourages interaction but keeps the atmosphere intimate.
• Price: Approximately $75.26 per person – good value when considering the personalized instruction and take-home chocolates.
• Booking & Cancellation: Confirmations are immediate, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance—ideal for flexible plans.
• Accessibility: Located near public transport, so getting there should be straightforward.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Melt Bonbons Making Class in Notting Hill offers a charming, sensory-focused experience that emphasizes nostalgia and creativity over intensive chocolate craftsmanship. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, fun activity that feeds the senses and evokes childhood memories. While some may find the activity limited in scope or depth, many will appreciate the chance to learn insider tips, sample delicious chocolates, and walk away with their own creations.

The experience’s strength lies in its intimate setting, friendly guides, and the joy of crafting personalized chocolates. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with the magic of childhood treats, all while enjoying one of London’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

For travelers looking for a sweet, memorable activity that won’t break the bank and offers plenty of personal touches, this class could be a delightful addition to your London itinerary.

FAQ

Is this a full chocolate-making course?
Not exactly. The class mainly involves filling premade shells with chocolate and flavoring them, rather than molding chocolates from scratch.

How long does the activity last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity between sightseeing or shopping.

Will I make my own chocolates to take home?
Yes, you will leave with a box of your own handmade bonbons, customized with scents and flavors you choose.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly advertised as a children’s activity, the sensory and creative aspects could appeal to older children or teenagers with supervision. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

How many people are in each class?
The group size is capped at 10, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.

Is the price of $75.26 worth it?
For the experience, the tasting, learning, and take-home chocolates, many would find it a good value—especially given the small-group setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the activity, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In the end, Melt’s Bonbon Making class offers a sweet taste of London’s Notting Hill with a focus on sensory memories and personalized chocolates. Whether you’re a casual chocolate fan or seeking a fun, intimate activity, it’s a charming option to add a little more sweetness to your trip.