Visit the Vampire's Kitchen: Free family workshop

Mackintosh at the Willow, The National Trust for Scotland and University of Glasgow present...

Chapter One: Saturday 4th October 2025. Choose either 10.30-12.30 or 14.00-16.00

Chapter Two: Saturday 11th October 2025. Choose either 13.30-14.45 or 15.00-16.15

Are you a family living in Glasgow or the Central Belt? Join us to take part in a University of Glasgow research project about sugar awareness, ethical choices, and the sweet and spooky history of sugar.

During the sessions participants will

• Design their own ‘sweet-and-spooky’-inspired afternoon tea stand to take home and use
• Make elaborate sugar-craft cupcakes with pastry chefs from David Duncan Sugarcraft School
• Learn more about the history of sugar through spooky stories and true tales from the past to develop a better understanding of why we crave sugar and how we can consume it ethically and in moderation to avoid becoming ‘a sugar vampire’ .

Workshops are suitable for children 7-12 years old and one accompanying parent. Places are limited to one child per adult and booking is essential.

Please note: The workshop runs across two Saturdays and participants will be expected to attend both dates. Please select one timeslot for each chapter when booking your tickets.

To enquire further please contact [email protected]

For information on accessibility please visit https://www.nts.org.uk/accessibility/mackintosh-at-the-willow-accessibility-guide

Dr Laura Eastlake is James Murray Beattie Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Glasgow. She is an expert in vampire stories and is currently researching histories of sugar.

David Duncan Sugarcraft School is Scotland's most awarded cake boutique and their sugarcraft experts will teach a range of skills for decorating spooky cupcakes.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Mackintosh at the Willow, 215 217 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom