Fantasy, fine dining and spectacular entertainment

Guests stepped into a world of fantasy, fine dining and spectacular entertainment as Brighton's Royal Pavilion hosted its first-ever Palace of Dragons Banquet.

Spokeswoman Gina Hollands said: “For one unforgettable evening last week, the historic palace was transformed into a mythical realm, where guests were welcomed with Dragon's Breath Punch in the Great Kitchen before enjoying enchanting live entertainment in the magnificent Music Room. The evening culminated beneath the Royal Pavilion's iconic dragon chandelier in the Banqueting Room. Diners enjoyed a theatrical three-course feast inspired by the legends and symbolism of dragons, with the unique dragon egg dessert stealing the show.

“The immersive experience combined storytelling, live music, atmospheric performance and beautifully presented food to create one of the most distinctive dining events ever staged at the Royal Pavilion. Guests embraced the spirit of the evening in fantasy-inspired attire, adding to the magical atmosphere inside King George IV's extraordinary seaside palace.

“The event also marked a unique milestone in the Royal Pavilion's history, becoming the first known occasion on which a Chinese banquet has been served within the palace's walls.”

David Purdue, senior events manager at the Royal Pavilion, said: “The Palace of Dragons Banquet exceeded all our expectations. Seeing guests completely immersed in the atmosphere, from the moment they arrived in the Great Kitchen to the final course beneath the dragon chandelier, was incredibly special. The Royal Pavilion is unlike anywhere else, and this evening showed just how magical the building becomes when its extraordinary interiors are brought to life through food, music and storytelling.”

Following the success of the Palace of Dragons Banquet, the Royal Pavilion has more evenings in store later this year.

The annual Christmas Banquets return on December 17, 18 and 19, offering guests another unforgettable after-hours experience inside one of Britain's most spectacular historic buildings.

“The evening begins with festive drinks in the Great Kitchen before guests are treated to a beautiful traditional carol concert in the grand Music Room. Dinner is then served in the famous Banqueting Room where a three-course menu inspired by the flavours of India will be accompanied by live classical music. Blending history, atmosphere and exceptional dining, the Christmas Banquets have become a cherished seasonal tradition and the perfect way to celebrate the festive season.”