An Inviting Taste of Turkey in Hertfordshire
If you’re craving a laid-back, flavorful escape just outside London, this Turkish BBQ experience might catch your eye. For around $133 per person, you get a five-hour session combining traditional Turkish grilled dishes with a chance to unwind in a sunny outdoor pool and hot tub. The experience features a pick-up service from St Margret’s Herts station, making it accessible without the hassle of driving.
Two things I particularly like about this experience are the authenticity of the food—a hearty mix of meaty and vegetarian options prepared by a chef on site—and the relaxing outdoor setting. It’s a great way to enjoy the summer sun while savoring flavorful dishes like grilled halloumi and Turkish baklava. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the swimming pool is only available from April to September, so if you’re visiting in colder months, you’ll miss out on that part of the experience.
This experience offers a solid value for those wanting a unique blend of good food and leisure. It’s especially appealing for groups, families, or anyone eager to combine a cultural meal with outdoor relaxation. Just keep in mind that drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase locally.
Key Points and Takeaways
- Authentic Turkish cuisine served in a scenic outdoor setting.
- Relaxing amenities include a swimming pool and hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a hearty meal.
- Convenient pickup from St Margret’s Herts station simplifies logistics.
- Vegetarian and vegan options available, catering to different dietary needs.
- Duration is five hours, offering ample time to enjoy food, swimming, and socializing.
- Flexible booking and cancellation, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
A Closer Look at the Turkish BBQ Experience
When I picture a memorable outdoor meal, it often involves good company, flavorful food, and a comfortable setting—this experience checks all those boxes. It’s hosted by ukstaysandexperiences, a provider with a reputation for creating approachable, fun outings. The tour promises a five-hour journey, which is generous enough for a relaxed pace that includes everything from sitting down to eating, swimming, and chatting.
How the Day Unfolds
Your day begins with a pick-up service in a 7-seater vehicle from the designated meeting point at St Margret’s Herts station. This is a thoughtful touch, especially if you prefer not to worry about parking or navigating rural roads. Once at the venue, you’ll be welcomed into a beautifully maintained outdoor space, where the chef is preparing a Turkish Mangal BBQ.
The meal starts with a variety of salads—think Mediterranean, beetroot, and the classic Turkish lahmacun, a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs. Expect dips like hummus and yogurt with cucumber (cacik), along with grilled halloumi and mixed olives. These serve as great starters that showcase the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean.
Main Courses That Hit the Spot
The main course features a hearty mix of marinated chicken wings, chicken shish kebab, lamb shish kebab, traditional köfte (Turkish meatballs), and herbed vegetable skewers. What makes this stand out is the attention to marination and grilling—the chef aims for tender, flavorful bites. Accompanying the grilled meats are fresh pita bread and Turkish pilav (rice), rounding out the meal with authentic flair.
Dessert and Leisure
No Turkish meal is complete without baklava, and here it’s offered as a sweet finish. Its flaky layers and honeyed nuts are a satisfying end that’s not overly sweet. Afterward, you can unwind in the outdoor swimming pool or hot tub, if visiting from April to September. This pairing of good food and leisure feels indulgent yet simple—a way to genuinely relax.
Who It’s Perfect For
This experience suits families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a unique, relaxed outing. It’s ideal if you want a taste of Turkish cuisine without traveling to Turkey, combined with outdoor fun. Since group bookings and private options are available, it’s flexible for special occasions or just a fun day out.
Practical Tips
- Remember to bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—the outdoor pool is a key feature, and the sun can be strong.
- The swimming pool is closed from September 1 to April 1, so plan accordingly.
- Drinks are not included, so bring your own, or plan to buy locally.
- The experience is wheelchair accessible, which is great for mobility-impaired travelers, but note it may not suit those with significant mobility issues.
Price and Value
At $133.35 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. You’re not only getting a comprehensive Turkish feast but also access to leisure amenities and transportation. The combination makes it a good deal for a leisurely day out that covers food, relaxation, and a touch of culture. For the price, it’s a relaxed, all-in-one outing that’s well-organized and geared toward making visitors feel comfortable.
Is It Worth Your Time?
If your idea of travel includes good eats and outdoor lounging, this Turkish BBQ experience has a lot to offer. The authentic dishes and relaxing environment make it stand out from standard outdoor dining. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling as a family or with a group, as the private bookings and group rates add flexibility.
It’s worth considering that if outdoor swimming isn’t your thing or if you’re visiting during the colder months, you might want to look for similar experiences without the pool. However, during the warmer months, the pool and hot tub elevate this outing from just a meal to a memorable day of relaxation.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the experience includes a pick-up service in a 7-seater vehicle from St Margret’s Herts station, making it easy to reach the venue without stress.
What’s on the menu?
You’ll find a variety of salads, grilled meats (chicken, lamb, köfte), vegetarian options like grilled halloumi and vegetable skewers, along with pita bread, rice, and baklava for dessert.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be requested in advance, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the feast.
When is the swimming pool available?
The pool and hot tub are open from April 1 to September 1. Outside these dates, you can still enjoy the BBQ but won’t have access to the pools.
How long does the experience last?
It’s a five-hour experience, giving enough time to eat, relax, and socialize without feeling rushed.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is possible upon request, providing flexibility for your plans.
Is this experience suitable for children and families?
Absolutely, the experience is family-friendly and can cater to groups, with private bookings available for larger parties.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in authentic Turkish flavors, enjoy outdoor leisure, or both, this experience provides a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. It’s simple, authentic, and designed for relaxation—exactly what you need for a memorable day just outside the hustle of the city.