A Sweet Collaboration: Peter Sawkins Brings Unique Flavours to the Royal Botanic Garden

Peter Sawkins, the 2020 Great British Bake Off champion and Edinburgh native, has joined forces with our team at Heritage Portfolio to create a delightful range of exclusive bakes available only at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Inspired by the garden’s seasonal produce, the collection includes charming carrot patch cupcakes, tangy rhubarb and orange cake, and delicately flavoured apple tarts. Each treat reflects the beauty and bounty of the garden.

The Inspiration Behind the Bakes

Peter shared his vision for the range, saying, “The bakes I’ve crafted for this collaboration are designed to align with the Garden itself, focusing on fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The apple tart, for example, has a custard infused with lemon thyme, adding a gentle zing and floral note. The carrot patch cupcakes look like they could be growing in the kitchen garden, while the rhubarb and orange cake brings a balance of sweetness, sharpness, and bitterness. It’s my personal favourite and is also gluten-free, making it accessible to even more visitors. I hope these treats bring an extra touch of joy to a day out at the Garden!”

Our Excitement for the Collaboration

Clare Short, Head of Commercial Sales at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, shared her enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Peter to the Garden, alongside our trusted partner, Heritage Portfolio. His cakes, exclusive to the Garden, are made even more special as they showcase his talent right here in Edinburgh. Visitors can enjoy Peter’s creations while experiencing produce grown onsite in our kitchen garden—a unique, flavourful collaboration we hope everyone enjoys!”

The Launch Event

The partnership’s launch was celebrated in style at the John Hope Gateway in July. Guests enjoyed an up-close experience with Peter Sawkins and his creations, savouring the flavours and taking part in an engaging Q&A session where Peter shared baking tips and stories behind his cakes. The highlight was a meet-and-greet with Peter himself, making for a truly memorable, sweet celebration.

Try These Unique Flavours for Yourself!

Peter’s exclusive cake range is available at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s cafés for a limited six-month period. Don’t miss your chance to taste these one-of-a-kind bakes that celebrate the seasons and the beauty of local produce!