A medieval banquet is one of the more theatrical evenings on Tenerife. The show takes place in a castle-style venue in San Miguel de Abona, inland from the southern coast, where guests sit at long tables around an arena and are served a multi-course dinner while a cast of actors, riders and stunt performers act out a story of knights, kings and rivalries. The format is playful and loud: audiences are split into teams, cheer for their own knight and are encouraged to eat in the medieval way, with minimal cutlery. Horses are a big part of the show, with riding displays and mock battles, and there are sword fights, flames and a good deal of audience participation. It is aimed at families and groups rather than at quiet diners, and it is very popular with children, though adults who enjoy a theme night often have just as much fun. The tickets we link to cover the dinner and the show, and the product page explains the pickup arrangements, so check which departure point and which menu options suit your party before you book.
How it works
You choose a date, show your voucher at the castle on arrival and are guided to a seat, usually at a long shared table with your own group. Some departures include transport from the resorts, which is useful because the venue is inland and the road home after dark is not one you want to drive after a long dinner.
The programme runs through several courses, with drinks served throughout, and the show takes place in the arena between and during the courses. Vegetarian and other dietary needs are usually possible if you tell the organiser at the time of booking.
What to expect
It is an evening of noise, colour and food, so do not expect a quiet restaurant. The audience is divided into groups, each supporting a different colour of knight, and the actors involve the crowd in the contest. The food is hearty and simple, chicken, soup, bread and potatoes in the spirit of the setting, and you are invited to eat with your hands.
The show lasts a couple of hours, and the whole evening, with transfers, runs from late afternoon into the night. Children enjoy it, but younger ones can find the noise, flames and horses a little overwhelming, so sit near the exit if you are unsure.
Making the most of it
Arrive on time, as the evening is scripted and latecomers miss the opening. Wear comfortable clothes you do not mind getting slightly messy, bring a light layer because the venue can be cool after dark and book a day when you are not planning an early start. If you have mobility needs, tell the organiser in advance so that you get a seat that is easy to reach. It pairs well with a quiet beach day beforehand, since the evening itself is lively.
Good to know
The show is staged in Spanish and English with plenty of physical comedy, so language is rarely a barrier. Arrive hungry, as portions are generous, and keep in mind that drinks beyond those included may be charged separately. If you are travelling with a pushchair or a wheelchair, ask the organiser about access to the seating areas. Evenings can end late, so plan a slow morning afterwards, and keep children close in the crowded entrance after the show, when everyone leaves at once.
What to expect
The experience
A seated multi-course dinner around an arena while actors, riders and stunt performers act out a medieval story.
Best time
An evening, when the show is staged and the venue is lit.
How long
Plan on three to four hours, longer if transfers are included.
Tips
Arrive on time, tell the organiser about dietary needs when you book and bring a light layer for the evening.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and groups looking for an entertaining dinner out in the south.
- Families
- A hit with children who enjoy knights and horses, though flames and noise can be a lot for the youngest.
- Couples
- Fun and lively rather than romantic, best for couples who like a theme night.
- Pair with
- A beach day or a morning visit to Camel Park before the evening.
- Time needed
- An evening of three to four hours.
Good questions
Where does the show take place?+
It is held in a castle-style venue at San Miguel de Abona, inland from the southern coast of Tenerife.
Is a transfer included?+
Some departures include hotel pickups from the resorts, while others are venue-only. Check the details of the ticket you choose.
Do you really eat without cutlery?+
Yes, part of the fun is eating in the medieval way, with minimal cutlery, though staff can help if you prefer otherwise.
Is it suitable for children?+
Children usually love it, but the flames, horses and noise can be intense for very young ones. Families often sit close to an aisle.
Can vegetarians be catered for?+
Most organisers can provide vegetarian and other dietary meals if you request them when booking.
