The hotel is built on the ramparts of Viroconium — Roman Britain’s fourth largest city.

While guests can explore the Roman history at the site, they can also take an active part in the ancient way of life.

Roman banquets are held at least twice a week but on May 3, the hotel is offering people the chance to join them for an open banquet.

“This is a rare culinary experience and we want people to get in the spirit and dress up for the occasion,” said Hannah Hall, of The Wroxeter.

The banquets are based on the feast of Trimalchio, a character in the section called Cena Trimalchionis of The Satyricon by Petronius.

For the starters, or Gustatio, there is a dish to represent every sign of the zodiac.



“While Romans enjoyed tucking into dormice, some adjustments have been made for modern taste and the unavailability of the more ‘exotic’ ingredients,” said Mrs Hall.


“We encourage guests to eat with a knife, spoon and their fingers but don’t worry too much as forks are available if you want them.



“It’s just a fun way for people to see how the Romans might have dined, while enjoying the truly authentic setting we have here at Wroxeter.”



Some of the delicious starters include diced lamb kidneys pan-fried with onions in butter.



“We have omitted testicles and sow’s womb from this dish to suit modern tastes,” Mrs Hall added. 



“We also serve crab cakes made with swede, carrot and capers whereas Trimalchio served an inedible crown of Myrtle, which is a plant related to capers.



“In the absence of Scorpion Fish, to represent Scorpio, we serve peppered sardines with ‘a sting in their tail’. The Romans loved gourmet food and we are certainly following that tradition.”



The main course or prima mensa consists of a rack of pork ribs cooked in a fermented fish sauce with special Roman spices, accompanied, of course, by Vinum Falsum – watered wine.



The Ancient Romans are also well known for their love of desserts and dinner guests can tuck into sweet tarts stuffed with nuts and raisins, filo pastry layered with nuts and honey or fresh seasonal and preserved fruits.



“We encourage people to dress up in Ancient Roman attire and really get involved. Our chefs love cooking this menu and it’s certainly a gives a meal out an unusual twist,” Mrs Hall said.



Roman banquets can be held for any number of diners and the cost is £35 per person for 16 dishes and wine.



For the event on May 3, there is a 25 per cent discount for bookings of four or more.

For more information, call (01743) 761256 or email info@thewroxeterhotel.co.uk