Research

Food & Diet

What did people eat? We can explain what foods were available before foods from the 'New World' (such as potatoes) became an established part of our diet.

Through our demonstrations we can discuss the seasonal variation in availability of foodstuffs, and what people did to extend the available periods. We also lay emphasis on the religious restrictions on the diet, observing feast days, as well as fast days where appropriate.

At the majority of events, we focus on the ordinary person's diet, the staples of which were bread and ale.

We can demonstrate on a small scale how ale was made and explain its importance in the diet, who drank it and when. Hopped beer had been introduced, but was uncommon. The reasons for this, and for its eventual acceptance can be explained.

What else did people drink?
How were the soldiers fed whilst on campaign? Where did they get the food from, what sort of food did they get and how was it prepared?

We have done specifically food-focused events, such as during National Food Week in Barley Hall, York, and participated in a 'Food through the Ages' event at Donington-Le-Heath Manor House, Leicestershire.