The Smokin’ Elk BBQ School: Live Fire Classes in Hampshire with Elky Whittaker

Elky Whittaker, better known across the fire cooking world as The Smokin' Elk, spent twenty years building a career in IT sales before making the decision to follow his live fire dream full time. Over the last five years he has grown a following of hundreds of thousands through his content on Instagram and YouTube, and has become a Kamado Joe Fire Squad brand ambassador as well as a familiar face at events such as Pub in the Park.

His BBQ shack in Cowplain is decked out with the tools of his trade, from the distinctive red ceramic grills of the Kamado Joe range to kit from The Braai Man, Masterbuilt and Kamado Space, with a fridge stocked full of cold drinks and oak barrels dotted about for good measure.

It is as much a social space as a teaching one, and that is entirely the point.

Classes at the Smokin' Elk BBQ School run from 11am to 4pm and cover everything from BBQ fundamentals to guest chef collaborations with names from across the fire cooking world. A typical session might start with the basics of ceramic BBQs, charcoal choice, airflow and clean smoke, before moving into hands on cooking. Past classes have covered dry rub chicken wings cooked direct on the Kamado Joe, whole cuts using the split level method, and guest led masterclasses with chefs such as Josh Katz of Berber & Q and Dan Toombs, The Curry Guy, bringing their own culinary traditions to the fire. Expect to leave with new techniques, a full stomach and a proper understanding of your equipment.

This is a hands on day rather than a watch and learn one. Guests get stuck in from the start, working with Elky's own collection of Kamado Joe grills and other live fire equipment while he talks through technique, temperature control and troubleshooting as you go.

The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with drinks flowing from the moment you arrive. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality and generosity of the food produced during the day, along with Elky's hospitality and clear enthusiasm for passing on what he knows. Expect to come away not just better at BBQ, but genuinely fired up about it.

Courses are non-refundable and non-transferable once booked, so it's worth checking dates carefully before confirming a place.

Classes are held at Elky's BBQ shack in Cowplain, just off the A3 and a short drive from Portsmouth, with the exact address given on booking confirmation.

Dates are released in batches throughout the year and popular guest chef sessions sell out quickly, so it is worth keeping an eye on upcoming availability.

Cancellations made more than two weeks before a class are eligible for a full refund or can be rescheduled subject to availability.

Visit: The Smokin' Elk