Tasty Mediterranean cuisine with healthy food with hummus plate. (vicushka (123RF))
Thinking of the Middle Ages often conjures up images of dashing knights, noble lords and ladies seated upon thrones and, of course, an enormous wooden table surrounded by jovial guests ready to do some serious damage to a giant turkey leg and a large goblet of mead. If you have ever wanted to experience a more authentic version of Medieval Times, you’re in luck! After all, you are in Europe, home to incredible castles and opportunities to step back in time. Here are five fantastic places to experience a feast fit for a king or queen.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park - Bunratty, Ireland
Stroll through the grounds of this 15th-century Irish fortress and folk park. Complete with a fairy garden for little ones, a replica Victorian-era village street and a Regency garden reminiscent of “Bridgerton,” it is easy to work up an appetite by exploring the area. The award-winning evening banquet is not to be missed. Sip on mead and nosh on ribs or chicken while being entertained by minstrels and tales from the days of yore. Book tickets at www.bunrattycastle.ie.
Cochem Castle - Cochem, Germany
Within day-trip distance of Kaiserslautern and Wiesbaden, this beautifully restored castle is perched high above the Mosel River and award-winning vineyards. Treat yourself to the Knight’s Meal, a four-hour spectacle full of medieval comfort food, music, entertainment and, of course, Mosel wine. While turkey thighs and pork hocks are the meal’s highlights, vegetarian options are also available. To make reservations, visit reichsburg-cochem.de.
Schönbrunn Palace - Vienna, Austria
If harkening back to the Middle Ages is not quite your cup of mead, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna offers a more civilized affair. Held in the ornate palace orangery where Mozart once played, enjoy a three-course meal and a classical concert courtesy of the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra. Admission starts at 107 euros per person. Book your visit at www.palaceconcertsvienna.com/en.
Coombe Abbey Hotel - Coventry, U.K.
A little over two hours west of RAF Lakenheath is the medieval market town of Coventry. Just on the outskirts of the city is the Coombe Abbey Hotel. This impeccably restored manor was once one of England’s prominent monasteries and also a home for royalty. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy a raucous and rousing four-course feast with wine and various cocktails. Keep the festivities going with a post-show after-party, or even stay in one of their themed hotel rooms. The feast is for more mature audiences, ages 18 and older. To reserve your spot, visit www.coombeabbey.com.
Medieval Tavern U Krále Brabantského - Prague, Czechia
Known for iconic panoramas of the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and picturesque Old Town Square, the Medieval Tavern U Krále Brabantského whisks visitors into the dark underground. Translated as “King of Brabant,” the oldest tavern in Prague opened in 1375 and was notorious for the secret dealings of kings and smugglers. Diners can choose between a three- or five-course meal with unlimited drinks. Belly dancers, fire breathers and sword fighters will entertain and enchant you. Book your tickets at www.krcmabrabant.cz/en.
Take a step away from the ordinary and head back in time. Enjoy a unique and one-of-a-kind dining experience at a medieval banquet — no cheering for knights required.
