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The Hunt Dinner Party: A Unique Malahide Castle Dining Experience

Ornate invitation for "The Hunt Dinner Party" at Nugent's Hall, Malahide Castle. Features a floral border, vintage photo of a person with dogs, event details for Fridays and Saturdays at 6 PM.

Step Into a Bygone Era – A Gathering of Refined Elegance

Embark on a journey through time and taste at Malahide Castle.

Be greeted on arrival by majestic Irish Wolfhounds, a symbol of Ireland’s heritage. Then, step into Nugent’s Hall and imagine yourself part of a returning 18th-century Hunt Party as you savour a sumptuous four-course meal. Each table will be graced with a carafe of our house wine, replenished as you desire throughout the evening. You are about to be part of an engaging experience that brings the castle’s history to life. Book now for an unforgettable taste of Malahide’s past.

Take your seat at the table of 18th century Malahide Castle and play your part in the returning hunt party as they dine in the Nugent’s Hall.

Be greeted on arrival by majestic Irish Wolfhounds, a symbol of Ireland’s heritage. Begin your evening with a fine whiskey soda, leading into a moment of serene beauty with the melodic Irish harp. Dine in Nugent’s Hall, imagining yourself as part of a returning 18th-century Hunt Party. Savour a sumptuous four-course meal that includes a carafe of free-flowing house wine.

Prepare for an engaging evening with a side of comedy where the castle’s past unfolds through a uniquely entertaining and immersive experience.

Why is the dinner called ‘The Hunt Dinner’?

The name ‘The Hunt Dinner’ is a direct reference to the historical hunting traditions associated with Malahide Castle and the surrounding lands, including Lambay Island. We were particularly inspired by a captivating image of Lady Joyce, a former resident of the castle, returning from a shooting expedition with her Irish Wolfhounds. This event is designed to immerse our guests in the atmosphere of the 18th century, imagining themselves as part of a returning hunt party. It’s a themed dining experience intended to bring a unique aspect of the castle’s history to life in an engaging and entertaining way. Become part of the gathering.

A woman in a cloche hat and suit stands outside in front of ivy-covered walls, holding four large, shaggy Irish Wolfhounds on leashes—ready for The Hunt Dinner Party.

Lady Joyce, a former resident of the castle, returning from a shooting expedition with her Irish Wolfhounds.

What to Expect

  • A Historical Immersion Like No Other – Uncover the secrets of Malahide Castle after dark.
  • A Unique Setting – Dine in the quirky, atmospheric space of Nugent’s Hall.
  • An Unforgettable Feast – Enjoy a carefully crafted four-course meal accompanied by a carafe of our carefully selected house wine.
  • A Sprinkling of Storytelling & Heritage – Step into the past and experience history firsthand.
  • Fun – We guarantee an evening of spirited conversation, shared laughter, sure to be great craic!

Price: €110 per person

History comes alive in unexpected ways.

This is Malahide as you’ve never experienced it!
You gotta be a part of it!

A sophisticated restaurant interior with a long wooden dining table set for a whiskey tasting, complete with glassware and a floral centerpiece. Arched doorways and an artwork depicting a figure adorn the beige walls, offering guests a cozy, elegant ambiance reminiscent of an exclusive historical tour.

What You Need to Know

Q: What time should I arrive?

A: We encourage you to arrive from 5:30 pm to take advantage of a special photo opportunity with our magnificent Irish Wolfhounds!

Q: What does the experience include?

A: The Hunt Dinner Party is a unique and communal evening, blending a delicious meal with an engaging and entertaining show. Starting with a warm and novel welcome, a whisky soda, melodic harp playing and a chance to see the main rooms of the castle after dark, followed by great food and entertaining service from the castle’s staff. You’ll step back in time and share the experience with fellow guests, so come ready to mingle and enjoy!

Q: What should I wear? Is there a dress code?

A: Dress as you feel comfortable! Whether you make it ultra elegant or prefer a more relaxed style, suit yourself. It’s a special occasion, so feel free to express your personal flair.

Q: Is the menu set? Can you cater to dietary requirements?

A: Yes, the Hunt Dinner features a carefully curated set menu. If you have any specific dietary requests or allergies, please let us know in advance when booking so our chefs can do their best to accommodate you.

Q: Is this a traditional historical tour of the castle?

A: While you will get to walk through some of the castle’s historic rooms, this is not a traditional in-depth historical tour. Instead, the evening incorporates theatrical elements and light-hearted moments to bring the castle’s past to life in a uniquely entertaining way. (But do come back for the full castle tour on another occasion, it really is quite something!)

Q: Can children attend The Hunt Dinner?

A: The Hunt Dinner is primarily designed as an immersive evening experience for adults. While we welcome well-behaved older teenagers (16+) who have an interest in history and a sophisticated dining experience, the content and duration may not be suitable for younger children. Please consider this when making your booking.

Q: Is this experience something that would appeal to international visitors?

A: Absolutely! The Hunt Dinner offers a truly unique and memorable taste of Irish history and hospitality, set within the iconic Malahide Castle. It’s a fantastic way for global tourists to experience a different side of Dublin and Irish culture. This is an event designed for all who appreciate history, art, culture, food, music and fun! Unite through shared moments; begin as strangers, leave as friends, amidst a lively mix of locals and international guests in a rather unique and splendid setting. A lovely opportunity to get out of the city and see other parts of Dublin. Malahide is a gorgeous coastal heritage village, easily accessible, and the night is still young when the experience finishes – we encourage you to take it to the village and finish off your night in one of the many atmospheric and characterful pubs! Or jump on the Dart or an Uber for a ride into Dublin city – only 20 mins away.

Q: Will locals enjoy it too?

A: The Hunt Dinner is designed to be a special night out that will appeal to both locals and global tourists alike. It offers a unique and immersive way to experience Malahide Castle after dark, combining fine dining with engaging entertainment and a touch of history – something a little different from the usual Dublin evening. A must-attend event for all locals, Dubs and rest of Ireland visitors. Perfect for a unique night out, no matter where you are from. Whether you are just visiting or a familiar face, all are invited to be part of this experience.

Q: What makes this a special occasion?

A: From the grand welcome by the Irish Wolfhounds to the atmospheric setting of Nugent’s Hall, the sumptuous four-course meal, and the theatrical elements that bring the castle’s past to life, The Hunt Dinner Party is crafted to be a memorable and unique experience. It’s a chance to step outside the ordinary and enjoy an evening of historical intrigue and fine hospitality.

Q: How do I book this experience?

A: You can book your place for The Hunt Dinner on our website at:
https://bookings.malahidecastleandgardens.ie/Home

Terms & Conditions

  • Tickets are non-refundable upon purchase.
  • If you cannot attend, your tickets are transferable to another person.
  • This is a unique tourism experience, not a standard restaurant service.
  • Please present your ticket for entry.
  • Malahide Castle & Gardens reserves the right to make necessary event alterations.
  • For all dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, allergies, etc.), please email your preferences to:
    [email protected]

Four people in vintage clothing stand on a red carpet outside an ivy-covered building, ready for The Hunt Dinner Party, accompanied by four large dogs and one smaller dog. One holds a white parasol, another carries a white feathered fan.