About

Smoked, salted, pickled, preserved

Imagine a world without fridges, supermarkets, or all year-round produce. For most Tudors, the difference between feast and famine depended on age-old preservation techniques, from smoking and salting to pickling and potting.

Waste not, want not

Not everyone needed to preserve food to not perish. At Henry VIII's court, extravagant feasts showcased fresh and imported foods. However, people outside of the palace walls relied on skill to make their food last through winter. But what did they eat? And why did courtiers clamour for a place at court when supplies ran low?

Uncover the magic, and science, behind food preservation and learn how to make food go further, the Tudor way. Watch demonstrations and help our historic cooks preserve food, ready for winter.

You may even take home some practical tips on how to make your own butter, preserves and pickles.