Host a Christmas party in a potting shed?
A gardener’s shed is not a usual venue for a Christmas party. However this Christmas many a glass of mulled wine will be enjoyed in The Potting Shed at The Magdalen Chapter in Exeter.
This quirky private dining room is nestled within the grounds of this city centre hotel. Overlooking the manicured kitchen gardens, The Potting Shed is a sophisticated yet homely space that can seat up to 10 diners. Guests will not find a trowel or plant pot in sight. Instead sumptuous furnishings, a private lounge area and state-of-the-art technology awaits them.
The Potting Shed is within easy reach of the hotel but stands alone away from the main building providing that little bit more privacy. Guests step inside to find a cosy seating area, just right for a glass of champagne before dinner or to enjoy those last moments of the late evening.
The Christmas menu for The Potting Shed is designed with friends and family in mind. The styles of the dishes centre on the essence of sharing.
To start, guests can enjoy a sumptuous antipasti board in the centre of the table, laden with cured meats from Trealy Farm, olives, cheeses and other delicacies. Groups will then be asked to choose a selection of main courses which all can enjoy.
This could be braised venison with dried fruits and spices, a tender lamb shoulder cooked with rosemary and garlic or pot roast chicken served with smoked bacon and white port. Other options include salmon baked in pastry with currants and ginger. Main courses will be brought to the table for guests to serve themselves.
The dessert menu includes the highly popular sticky toffee pudding, tangy lemon tart, caramel poached pears or a rich chocolate mousse.
For parties that are slightly bigger than 10, The Magdalen Chapter has a larger private dining room. Chapter 1 can be found in the heart of the hotel and can accommodate 14 diners.
For those parties that are slightly smaller, The Circle - which is set just off the Restaurant - is a perfect place for up to 8 guests to enjoy a private dinner.
General Manager Fiona Moores, from The Magdalen Chapter, said: “Christmas is a time when families and friends come together and enjoy each others company. Private dining is the perfect option for people who want to celebrate together. The Potting Shed and our other private dining rooms provide groups with their own private space and personalised service. It is a perfect solution for family get-togethers, friends enjoying a Christmas night out or a corporate dinner. It is like being in someone’s home while enjoying the service and culinary delights of a top hotel.”
The Magdalen Chapter opened its doors earlier this year. Formerly the West of England Eye Hospital, it is a building that is steeped in history and character. It now houses 59 contemporary bedrooms, a luxury spa and a top restaurant headed up by renowned chef Ben Bulger.
Christmas Private Dining menus in The Potting Shed start from £30 per person including fizz on arrival, a three-course meal plus coffee. Canapés can be added for just £5 per person. Private dining in Chapter 1 starts from £35 per person.
For more information on Christmas Private Dining at The Magdalen Chapter, visit www.themagdalenchapter.com or call 01392 281000
