Given that Cardinal Wolsey ensured that the kitchen and the dining hall were the first buildings completed when he first began to build Cardinal College in 1525, a Tudor banquet held in January seemed a most fitting way to kick off celebrations of Christ Church’s 500th Anniversary.

In the glow of the red candles, silver candleholders, and gold decorations, festivities began with music in Hall played by a Tudor string of Tudor minstrels. Hearing the Cathedral Choir then move seamlessly between the compelling college Grace (Nos miseri homines et egeni…) and the rousing Pastime in Good Compagnie penned, of course, by King Henry VIII, was a good reflection of the seriousness and jollity of Tudor times. The musicians’ announcement of High Table added an extra flair to proceedings, and is something I think we should do at more dinners…

The menu of Tudor-inspired delights was a testament to the skill of Chef Chris Simms and his team. A starter of deviled stuffed eggs and watercress, apparently as in vogue in the 1980s as they were in the 1580s, was followed by a lamb, prune and stout mincemeat alongside entremets of grand sallet and frumenty. This last dish, a thick boiled grain dish resembling porridge, caused something a buzz both before and after the dinner, and became the ‘word of the week’ amongst my friends.

Dessert was an equally exquisite affair, featuring a cheesecake dressed with fragrant rosewater and orange. It went down well with good conversation, excellent wine from the Buttery, and the joy of celebrating 500 years of Christ Church. Of course, all with the portraits of King Henry VIII and Cardinal Wolsey watching closely on.

Aaron James (2020, Modern Languages).