What Did the Tudors Eat? KS1

Swan, jellied eels and pig’s ears – what exactly was on the Tudor menu?

Pupils head into Burghley’s Tudor kitchen to discover how food was prepared 500 years ago and what life was like for the servants doing the hard work behind the scenes. They’ll investigate unusual objects, explore the very different diets of rich and poor Tudors and uncover what food can tell us about everyday life.

Then it’s time to join the feast, as pupils take on the role of guests at William Cecil’s banquet and discover whether Tudor fine dining is quite what they expected. 

What pupils do

• Visit the Tudor Kitchen in Burghley House and discover the roles of the servants who worked there.
• Explore original features including the spit, skulls, jelly moulds and butter churn.
• Discover the foods eaten by rich and poor people in Tudor England, including swan, jellied eels and pig's ears.
• Take part in a Tudor banquet, taking on the role of guests at William Cecil's feast. 

What to expect

• Takes place in the Old Kitchen and a classroom-style learning space set out as a Tudor banquet.
• Led by a costumed educator.
• Delivered in groups of up to 30 pupils.
• The session lasts approximately 30 minutes.
• A mixture of seated and interactive activities.
• Original and replica Tudor objects are used, including food items and items associated with preparing, serving and eating food.
• Pupils are encouraged to ask and answer questions throughout.
• Discussion-led session.
• Adaptable to suit pupils' knowledge and engagement.
• The session is delivered at an age-appropriate level for Key Stage 1 pupils.

SEND & accessibility

• The session takes place in level-access learning spaces.
• Pupils explore the Old Kitchen alongside other visitors, making this a calmer and quieter learning environment.
• The Old Kitchen contains many historic objects, and accompanying adults may be asked to support pupils throughout the visit.
• Easy access to outdoor space is available should a pupil need time away from the activity with an appropriate adult.