Coombe Abbey Hotel in Coventry: A Perfect Venue for Celebrity MasterChef’s Medieval Challenge

Published on December 7, 2025

The Coombe Abbey Hotel in Coventry is mixing history with modern celebrity talent in the 12th century building for the next episode of the celebrity version of the hit BBC One cooking competition Masterchef. Once the acting celebrities step into their roles in the medieval cooking challenge, they will have the abbey’s historical ambiance and master the medieval cuisine, to surely create culinary artistry.

Medieval Cooking Challenge in a Historic Setting
The Celebrity MasterChef semi-final takes place in the magnificent Coombe Abbey Hotel, a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1150. The abbey has been transformed into a hotel, retaining its medieval charm while offering modern comforts. The chefs will prepare a grand banquet for 80 medieval enthusiasts, recreating a feast fit for royalty.

Contestants will split into teams, each tasked with preparing a lavish medieval spread. They will have three hours to cook using traditional ingredients such as venison, pork, trout, cod, pearl barley, and root vegetables. The menu must include a meat, fish, and vegetarian dish, alongside a medieval-inspired dessert. As the clock ticks down, the pressure mounts, with judges Grace Dent and John Torode overseeing the competition.

Coombe Abbey’s Rich History
Coombe Abbey Hotel is not only known for its stunning grounds and award-winning Medieval Banquets but also for its fascinating history. Once home to royalty, the abbey hosted Princess Elizabeth, daughter of James I, in the 17th century. The story goes that she was linked to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 when conspirators planned to place her on the throne as a ‘puppet’ queen, only to be thwarted. The hotel also boasts a Grand Feature bedchamber named after Princess Elizabeth, providing guests with a taste of the past.

In the 1600s, the Craven family acquired Coombe Abbey, and it remained in their hands for around 300 years. The property is now surrounded by the breathtaking gardens of Capability Brown, an English landscape architect. In 1995, Coombe Abbey was converted into a hotel, celebrating 30 years of operation this year.

A Feast for All Senses
For those visiting Coombe Abbey, the hotel offers more than just a stay; it provides an experience. Coombe Abbey is renowned for its Medieval Banquets, an interactive and theatrical dining experience. The award-winning banquet includes a four-course meal featuring medieval-inspired dishes, accompanied by mead cocktails. Guests can enjoy a dramatic stage show, where royal forces burst in to seize the treasures of the abbey, adding an exciting twist to the dinner.

Visitors can enjoy an evening where the tranquillity of the abbey is shattered by surprise “attacks,” creating an unforgettable evening filled with fun and history.

Celebrity MasterChef: A Medieval Culinary Adventure
The Celebrity MasterChef semi-final challenges contestants to step into a medieval kitchen, preparing dishes with traditional ingredients such as venison, dark ales, and barley. In a race against time, the celebrities must prove their culinary skills under the watchful eyes of judges Grace Dent and John Torode. John Torode will also oversee the kitchen’s efficiency, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The medieval-themed challenge will be followed by a pie-making task in the MasterChef kitchen, where contestants must prepare a pastry-filled pie. This second task is a test of creativity, with sweet or savoury options on the table. The pie competition will eliminate two contestants, leaving just seven to continue in the running for the title of Celebrity MasterChef.

Guide for Travelers
Coombe Abbey is a must-visit destination for history buffs and culinary enthusiasts alike. Situated in Warwickshire, it is easily accessible for day trips from Coventry, Birmingham, and other nearby cities. The hotel offers a range of medieval-themed events throughout the year, from banquets to seasonal celebrations. Guests can book a stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms, each offering a blend of historical charm and modern comfort.

Exploring Coombe Abbey Hotel

• Location: Coombe Abbey Hotel, Brinklow Rd, Coventry, CV3 2AB
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially for Medieval Banquets and seasonal events.
• What to Do: Attend a Medieval Banquet, explore the abbey’s beautiful grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy the luxurious hotel facilities.
• Travel Tips: Check availability for events in advance, especially during the busy holiday season. Be sure to explore the abbey’s gardens, which are famous for their beauty.

For more information about visiting Coombe Abbey and booking events, check the official Coombe Abbey website.

Conclusion
The history and experiences at Coombe Abbey Hotel show why it is an icon and is featured in the semi finals of Celebrity MasterChef. People can both compete and enjoy the themed challenge cooking in medieval times. Fans of Coombe Abbey or MasterChef or both will find even more value in this unique and historic attraction.