London: Magnum Club Dinner

London: Magnum Club Dinner offers a truly unique evening in South East England, where history, gastronomy, and viticulture blend seamlessly. For $197 per person, you’ll descend into the crypt of St Etheldreda’s Church, a site that has hosted royal festivities since Henry VIII’s time, and enjoy a spectacular five-course gourmet meal, expertly paired with six wines carefully selected from New Zealand’s finest vineyards. Led by Master of Wine Peter McCombie, this experience is held monthly, and each event has a different theme, making every visit a fresh exploration.

What we love most about this experience is the setting—deep beneath London, in a 600-year-old crypt, which adds an ambiance of secrecy and reverence to the meal. The other highlight is the expert wine pairing; it’s not just about drinking wine but learning about the nuances of each glass from a master wine connoisseur. One small drawback? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, which is understandable given the sophisticated nature of the experience, but worth noting if you’re traveling with younger family members. This tour is perfect for lovers of history, wine, and fine food who want an authentic, intimate experience away from the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Historic Venue: Set in a 600-year-old crypt, adding a layer of authenticity and ambiance.
• Gourmet Experience: Five-course meal paired with six wines from New Zealand, each selected by a Master of Wine.
• Monthly Themes: Each event offers a different focus, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.
• Expert Guidance: Led by Peter McCombie, a respected Master of Wine, providing insights into wine pairing.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Age Restriction: Not suitable for those under 18, emphasizing a mature, refined atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Magnum Club Dinner Experience

The Historic Setting: A Crypt Deep Beneath London

One of the most compelling aspects of this tour is the venue itself. Located beneath the church of St Etheldreda, this crypt has been a site of celebration for over six centuries. Originally hosting a legendary three-day wedding feast for Henry VIII in 1509, it’s steeped in history and adds an almost reverent feeling to your meal. As you descend into this ancient space, you’ll likely notice the stone walls and low ceilings, which lend an intimate, almost clandestine atmosphere—perfect for savoring fine wines and food in peace.

Several reviewers mention the ambiance positively: “The setting is stunning, and there’s a real sense of stepping back in time.” Others note that the crypt’s quiet and historic feel makes the experience feel exclusive and special. This is not your typical restaurant; it’s a carefully curated experience that marries London’s past with modern culinary artistry.

The Culinary Journey: A Five-Course Gourmet Feast

The menu is designed to surprise and delight, with each course thoughtfully prepared to showcase the chef’s skills. You can expect a gourmet meal that balances creativity with finesse. While the exact dishes vary by theme, the focus remains on quality ingredients and presentation. Reviewers have expressed satisfaction with the generous portions and delicious flavors. One guest described it as a “spectacular five-course gourmet experience” that exceeded expectations.

The Wines: Six Carefully Selected Vintages

Wine lovers will appreciate the pairing of six distinct wines, each chosen by Master of Wine Peter McCombie. The focus is on New Zealand wines, highlighting both North and South Island varieties. The expert guidance turns this into an educational experience as well—learning to distinguish different flavors and aromas. The wines aren’t just an accompaniment but an integral part of the meal’s storytelling, enhancing each dish.

Multiple attendees have remarked on how much they appreciated the insights from Peter McCombie, who explained the nuances of each wine, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. “It’s like having a private wine lesson in a historic setting,” one reviewer noted.

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Thematic Variations and Monthly Focus

Every month features a different theme, which keeps the experience fresh for repeat visitors. This means you might explore wines from a specific region or pairings centered around a particular culinary style. It adds an element of anticipation and discovery that many guests find appealing.

Practical Details: Booking, Duration, and Value

Price-wise, at $197 per person, this experience is quite competitive given the setting, the quality of the food, and the expertise involved. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel 24 hours in advance. The event generally lasts around a couple of hours, making it a manageable and enriching evening.

Group sizes are typically small, ensuring a personalized experience. While the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, it’s ideal for adults who enjoy good wine, history, and fine food.

Real-World Experiences and Feedback

Many participants praised the combination of history and gastronomy. One person said, “The crypt’s atmosphere made the meal unforgettable,” and others appreciated the knowledgeable guidance from Peter McCombie, which added depth to the tasting.

Some reviewers noted that the seating is intimate, so if you’re looking for a lively, bustling environment, this might not be your first choice. But for those seeking a quiet, refined experience, it’s perfect.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for adults who appreciate good wine and gourmet food and enjoy places with a story to tell. History buffs will love the setting, and wine enthusiasts will find the pairing insightful. It’s great for a special occasion or a unique date night, especially if you’re looking to combine London’s history with culinary education. If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and atmospheric evening, this is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

The London Magnum Club Dinner offers a memorable journey into history, fine dining, and wine appreciation—all in a setting that feels like stepping into a secret chapter of London’s past. For around $200, you get more than just a meal; you get an experience that touches on culture, education, and indulgence in equal parts. It’s a perfect pick for mature travelers who value the combination of storytelling and sophistication.

While it’s not designed for families or those seeking a lively party atmosphere, it excels as a quiet, refined evening with a touch of the extraordinary. The interactive wine pairing and the historic setting make this a standout experience for those looking to deepen their appreciation of wine and history.

If you’re after a unique, intimate, and educational night out in London that blends past with present, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the sophisticated nature of the wine pairing and the setting.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and choose to pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts around a couple of hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers a five-course gourmet feast paired with six wines from New Zealand, guided by Master of Wine Peter McCombie.

Is the menu fixed or flexible?
The menu varies by month and theme, but all options focus on high-quality ingredients and excellent presentation.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The setting in a historic crypt may have some limitations; it’s best to inquire directly for specific accessibility needs.

What makes this experience special?
The combination of historic ambiance, expert-led wine tasting, and gourmet cuisine creates a memorable and educational evening, unlike any other in London.

Can I attend more than once?
Absolutely—since each month features a different theme, frequent visitors can enjoy new discoveries and pairings each time.

You can check availability for your dates here: