The Tudor Merchants’ Feast

The Tudor Merchants’ Feast

St Nicholas Priory, Exeter

Saturday 27th February 2027

Beyond the ancient wooden doors of Exeter’s oldest house, a different age awaits.

Once part of a thriving Benedictine monastery, St Nicholas Priory stood as a place of prayer, contemplation and devotion. Yet when King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries, its fortunes changed forever. The surviving buildings were transformed into the residence of a prosperous Tudor merchant, where wealth, hospitality and influence replaced the quiet rhythms of monastic life.

Now, for one special evening, you are invited to step back into February 1536 and become a guest within these remarkable walls.

Your journey begins deep within the atmospheric undercroft, where the haunting sounds of Benedictine monks chanting echo through the ancient stonework. Here, by flickering candlelight, you will be welcomed with a glass of mead or fruit juice as the centuries slowly slip away.

From there, you will ascend to the parlour to partake in the traditional washing of hands before collecting your pre-ordered beverages. Then comes the moment of anticipation as you enter the magnificent Great Hall and take your place amongst fellow guests.

All await the arrival of a most distinguished visitor.

King Henry VIII himself has accepted the invitation to dine at the expense of the householder, and it is only after His Majesty has offered Grace that the feasting may begin.

The tables will be laden with food, inviting you to indulge in a generous medieval-style banquet. As you dine, the sounds of Tudor music will drift through the passageways and chambers, whilst tales from the Tudor court, laughter, entertainment and lively revelries bring the past vividly to life around you.

For those seeking an even greater honour, there is the opportunity to be ceremonially welcomed into the Tudor Court by the King himself and bestowed with the title of Lord or Lady of the Manor in full Tudor splendour.

Leave the twenty-first century at the door and surrender yourself to an evening of history, hospitality and unforgettable atmosphere.

Your Evening Includes

• A glass of mead or fruit juice on arrival
• Exclusive access to Exeter’s oldest house
• Medieval banquet-style dining
• Tudor-themed entertainment and revelries
• Historical stories and courtly traditions
• Opportunity to be ceremonially honoured as a Lord or Lady of the Manor

Important Information

Date: Saturday 27th February 2027

Arrival: 7.00pm

Carriages: 10.45pm (doors will be locked at this time)

Please note that there are no bar facilities available at the venue. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages supplied by Tudor Feasts must be pre-ordered and paid for when booking your places.

We are pleased to offer a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines. Guests are welcome to bring their own soft drinks; however, no alcohol other than that supplied by Tudor Feasts is permitted. Any unauthorised alcohol brought onto the premises will be confiscated.

This promises to be a memorable evening of good food, great atmosphere and good company, all set within one of Exeter’s most historic and atmospheric buildings.

From £55 per person

Advance booking is essential.

Please note there are no changing facilities onsite, if you are planning on wearing Tudor attire, you must arrive wearing it. 

Any questions or queries please email info@iamhenry.co.uk not go directly to the venue, as they won’t be able to help you.