The Ultimate Unique Dinning Experience In A 12th Century Castle – Malahide Castle
There are certain places in Ireland that feel like stepping straight into a storybook and Malahide Castle is definitely one of them. With its ivy covered walls, ancient towers and sprawling gardens, it’s the kind of spot that makes you want to slow down, breathe in the history and lets not lie just pretend for a moment you’ve stepped into a scene from Pride and Prejudice.
But recently, I had the chance to do more than just imagine. I attended the Hunt Dinner Experience at Malahide Castle. An immersive evening inspired by a dramatic and very real event in Irish history. The whole night unfolded like a scene from a period drama, and honestly? It’s one of the most unique things I’ve done in Ireland so far.
So, I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about this experience from the story behind it, to what the evening was like and why I’d definitely recommend putting it on your bucket list.
Let’s get straight into it!!
First, a Little History…
Dating back to the 12th century, Malahide Castle is one of the oldest castles in Ireland to have been continuously inhabited by the same family the Talbots for nearly 800 years. That’s right, the Talbots lived here from 1185 until 1975. Generations of stories, triumphs and trials are woven into every stone wall and wooden beam.
What makes the castle so special isn’t just its age, but the way it feels so alive. It’s beautifully preserved but not frozen in time. You can walk through elegant drawing rooms, admire portraits in the Great Hall, and wander gardens that stretch out like something from a dream.
And while Malahide Castle is open for daytime tours all year round, attending an event here in the evening like the Hunt Dinner offers a completely unique experience and a diffrent way to see the castle.
What to expect…
A warm welcome
Before your experience begins and entering the castle, outside you will be welcomed by 4 beautiful Irish Wolfhounds. You will be able to get up close and personal with these incredible animals and get some pictures, videos and all the content you need.
This isn’t just a cute photo op this is actually a nod to a photo of Lady Rose Talbolt with her famous dogs in front of the castle.
The Evening Begins…
with a private guided tour through the castle. This guided tour is a little diffrent to the usual day time tours though. You will be stepping back in time and meeting some of the Talbolts yourself with actors guiding you around the castle. Wandering through its grand rooms after hours gave me a real sense of how the other half lived back then and with no crowds around, it was much easier to imagine what life might’ve been like for the Talbots.
Every room has a story, from secret nooks to beautiful antique details, and our guide was full of charming facts without it ever feeling like a school trip. Just enough history to feel immersed without overwhelming you.
The Hunt Dinner: Candlelight, Charm & Irish Flavours
After the tour, we were led to one of the castle’s historic dining rooms where the Hunt Dinner takes place and oh wow. The room was glowing with candlelight, the table elegantly dressed with silverware, and soft classical music playing in the background by a harp player. It was one of those take a deep breath and soak it in moments.
The meal itself is a set menu of seasonal Irish dishes, with a focus on hearty flavours and locally sourced ingredients. Think warm, comforting courses with a touch of rustic elegance and served in a setting that makes every bite feel special.
The set menu has actually been crafted using a recipe book found here. The recipe book is said to have been used by one of the ladies of the castle, so this means your not just dining in the castle but you’re actually eating what they would have back in the day. How cool is that?!
Highlights of the Experience
The atmosphere – There’s something so magical about dining in a castle at night. The candlelight, the history in the walls, the quiet elegance… it honestly feels like you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel or the ballroom scene of a historical drama.
The tour – Getting to explore the castle after hours adds such a special feel. It’s more intimate, a little quieter and so much easier to appreciate all the tiny details.
The food – The menu was delicious and thoughtfully curated, with portions that felt generous without being heavy. If you love traditional Irish flavours with a refined twist, you’ll be in your element.
The setting – Between the castle interior and the gardens just outside, the entire evening feels luxurious but grounded in history and it’s the kind of slow, meaningful night that you’ll remember long after it ends.
Who It’s Perfect For
Couples looking for a romantic night out
Visitors wanting to experience Irish history in a hands on way
Locals looking for something unique and a little different
Anyone who secretly wishes they lived in a period drama (me, always)
A Few Tips Before You Go
Check dates online – The Hunt Dinner isn’t every night, so you’ll want to book ahead through the Malahide Castle events page.
Dress smart casual – It’s not super formal, but you’ll definitely want to lean into the moment (think long skirts, floaty dresses, or a jacket if it’s chilly).
Arrive a little early – The grounds are beautiful to wander before the dinner begins, especially in the summer months.
Don’t rush off – Stay after dinner and soak up the atmosphere. Even a quiet walk outside the castle feels cinematic.
Final Thoughts
The Hunt Dinner at Malahide Castle isn’t just about good food it’s about stepping into a slower moment in time. Whether you’re into history, romance, or just discovering something new in your own backyard, this experience offers all of that in one beautiful evening.
For me, it was a reminder that Ireland has some of the most incredible historical sights and places like these bringing them back to life is just what we need to keep its history alive for years to come. It is all about how Ireland’s castles are not just bricks and towers, but about the stories they hold and the moments you create inside them.
So if you’re looking for something memorable and completely unique this summer, you might just find it behind the candlelit walls of Malahide Castle. For more of Ireland’s most unique activities be sure to see my Irelands travel guides.