Sometimes, a brew at the kitchen table just won’t cut it. Whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day or looking for a fun day out – sip your worries away with an afternoon tea fit for a queen
The Castle Hotel, Co Dublin
A stone’s throw from O’Connell Street, indulge in a Classic Afternoon Tea at the Old Music Shop Restaurant at The Castle Hotel in Dublin city centre. Expect a selection of freshly cut sandwiches, miniature desserts and homemade buttermilk scones served in elegant Georgian dining rooms and the calming garden terrace.
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea from €25pp sharing, choose Classic or Vegetarian. Kids Afternoon Tea from €15 (serves 2) also available. oldmusicshop.ie
G Hotel, Co Galway
Head to the west coast for tea and a treat with the g Hotel’s Never Ordinary package for spring. The hotel’s four-star spa is a sight to behold, and the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Afterwards tuck into fresh scones, sweet treats and savoury sandwiches washed down with one of the hotel’s Ronnefeldt Loose Tea Collection teas including The g Melange and Chocolate Chai, or a coffee.
The Never Ordinary Spring Afternoon Tea and Spa Package €125pp. This includes a 55-minute ESPA treatment (facial or full body massage) and Spring Afternoon Tea per person.
Cork International Hotel, Co Cork
Whether or not you celebrated Valentine’s this year, there’s plenty of time for a Galentine’s day out, as the specially-curated (with love) afternoon tea at the Cork International Hotel runs right through to the end of February. There are classic savoury sandwiches, and customary scones, but the real treat comes in the form of the desserts – white chocolate and raspberry puffs, red velvet cupcakes, the list goes on!
Galentine’s Afternoon Tea is available until the end of February, or enjoy the classic at €25pp. Pre booking is essential.
Killashee, Co Kildare
Served in The Terrace Restaurant, the afternoon tea at Killashee is a serene experience that will make for the ideal gift or daytime getaway this spring. From raspberry and pear crumble to smoked salmon rillette there are flavours and delicacies to discover from top to bottom of the tea tray, all washed down with fresh tea or coffee, or prosecco if you’re feeling adventurous.
Afternoon tea starts at €30, with vegan options available. For more information or to make a reservation, see killasheehotel.com.
Luttrellstown Castle, Co Dublin
The Castleknock castle is a sight to behold, and the afternoon tea is one that thoroughly fits in with the sumptuous surroundings of the hotel. After all, it was frequented by Queen Victoria in 1900, so they’ve been serving tea for well over a century. Seasonally, the castle runs special packages for everything from Valentine’s Day to Mother’s Day, with designated delicacies from the pastry chef and team.
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at Luttrellstown Castle starts at €55pp, with a children’s version available from €22.50. See luttrellstowncastle.com to book.
Haddington House, Co Dublin
For a totally new take on the tea tradition, try Haddington House in Dún Laoghaire. Tea at the Parlour is a unique experience where diners can expect a seasonal menu complemented by a glass of Champagne. So what’s different? Think gougères noir with nettle gouda, panipuri with pistachio purée, shortbread scones and plenty more surprises.
The Parlour Afternoon Tea is served every Saturday and Sunday 12.30 to 4pm, priced at €50pp, and includes a glass of Champagne. To book, visit haddingtonhouse.ie.
The Merchant Hotel, Co Belfast
At the Merchant Hotel in Belfast the tea service is as decadent as it is delicious. While they offer a traditional afternoon tea, there are many variations that make it a special occasion, from Champagne and cocktail add-ons to vegan, vegetarian or nut-free alternative offerings. And what’s more, it’s all served in “Belfast’s grandest dining room” to boot. An afternoon well spent.
Afternoon tea at The Merchant is available seven days a week, starting at €41.50 approx. See themerchanthotel.com for more.
