Half Term in the Historic Kitchens

Soap making sessions

Join us this May half term for the sessions listed below.

Weekends

24 - 26 May, 31 May, 01 June 2025

Stain removal and laundry techniques.

Weekdays

27 - 30 May 2025

Soap making, stain removal, antibacterial experiments. 

Important information

Our experimental historians follow original recipes, use original techniques and replicas of historic kitchen tools while attempting to show how our Historic Kitchens functioned in the past.   

The fire in the kitchen is real and is hot and as with a modern kitchen, the tools being used may cause injury if misused or mishandled. Please remember that surfaces may not appear hot, and tools may not appear sharp.

While we are keen for you to enjoy an authentic and hands on visit to the kitchens, please ask before touching items that the cooks are using and follow any safety instructions they, or our Palace Hosts may give.   

Please ensure children are supervised at all times while visiting the kitchens. 

Please note that the ingredients used to make soap can cause mild irritation if they come into contact with the eyes. Please ask before touching and follow any safety instructions that are given.  

Allergen notice

Many historic recipes contain ingredients now known to be allergens. While every attempt is made to reduce their use, and while none are available for consumption, please note that these demonstrations may include the use and processing of almond (Nuts), flour (Wheat), Eggs, Mustard, Oats, Fish, Molluscs, and dried fruits (Sulphites) 

Access information

Henry VIII's Kitchens include sound and light effects. Historic cookery will be presented by staff in modern uniform.