There’s nothing quite like ending a hectic week with a proper afternoon tea. My friends and I have this little tradition – we gather at a lovely spot, order a pot of steaming tea, and spend hours catching up over delicate sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Of course, finding the perfect place for this ritual is key. Over the years, we’ve explored countless tea rooms and cafes, discovered hidden gems, and savored delightful treats.
I’ve rounded up our go-to spots for afternoon tea that serve delicious goodies and create the perfect atmosphere for sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these hidden gems—let’s dive in!
1. Adare Manor
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Website: https://www.adaremanor.com/
Address: Adare, Co. Limerick, V94 W8WR, Ireland
Contact details: +35361605200
Pricing: $$$
Adare Manor is a stunning 19th-century estate about luxury and charm. Executive Pastry Chef Olivier Stievenar crafted the menu, which iisa delightful mix of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine.
If you decide to partake in the afternoon tea, you’re in for a treat. Served every day from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM, you’ll get to dig into this impressive three-tiered stand. It’s filled with savory sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a beautiful assortment of pastries.
You can choose from fine teas worldwide, including Adare Manor’s signature blend for the tea collection. The service there is incredibly attentive without being overbearing, letting you savor each moment while enjoying this tradition.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the scones! They are freshly baked and served warm, making them the perfect canvas for slathering on rich clotted cream and tangy lemon curd.
2. The Merrion Hotel
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Website: http://www.merrionhotel.com/
Address: Merrion St Upper, Dublin 2, Ireland
Contact details: +35316030600
Pricing: $$$
The Merrion Hotel offers a fabulous Art Afternoon Tea that elevates the experience. The tea is served in the stunning drawing rooms, which feature rich fabrics and classic decor that make you feel cozy and sophisticated.
Now, let’s talk about what’s on the menu. You start with various finger sandwiches made with traditional Irish brown bread. Then, the freshly baked scones are served with clotted cream and homemade jams.
But the real showstopper is the pastries—the hotel’s impressive art collection inspires each one. I learned that some are even crafted to reflect works by artists like J.B. Yeats and Louis Le Brocquy.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their Vegan Afternoon Tea option if you want something plant-based. It’s packed with delicious vegan delights that even non-vegans rave about!
3. Kilronan Castle
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Website: https://www.kilronancastle.ie/
Address: Castletenison Demesne, Ballyfarnon, Co. Roscommon, F52 R867, Ireland
Contact details: +353719618000
Pricing: $$$
Kilronan Castle is this gorgeous 18th-century castle tucked away in the scenic County Roscommon. One of the best experiences there is the afternoon tea. The menu is crafted by the award-winning Executive Chef Daniel Willimont and his team/
Picture this: homemade pastries that melt in your mouth, savory bites like turkey and ham brioche, and sweets, including this sublime Baileys & White Chocolate Cheesecake.
The prices range from around €40 to €56, depending on whether you want to add Prosecco or Champagne. The Drawing Room and Palm Court are stunning, decorated with elegant furnishings and fabrics that reflect the castle’s past.
Pro tip:
The afternoon tea service is available daily from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., but to reserve your spot, you must book at least 24 hours in advance.
4. The K Club
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Website: https://www.kclub.ie/
Address: Straffan, Co. Kildare, W23 YX53, Ireland
Contact details: +35316017200
Pricing: $$$
The K Club, tucked away in the stunning countryside of Co. Kildare, has a history dating back to 1832! It has an impressive AA 5 Red Star rating, a gold star in the hospitality world.
Afternoon tea is served in the charming Chinese Drawing Room. Imagine hand-painted wallpaper and oversized antique vases. The views from the picture windows are breathtaking, framed by manicured gardens.
You can pop in every day between 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM and find classic and festive-themed teas. One of my favorite touches is those mini jars of confiture sourced from local producers.
Pro tip:
Be sure to try their scones, renowned for their shortbread-like crispness and buttery flakiness. Pair them with a selection from their impressive tea menu for a truly indulgent experience!
5. Waterford Castle Hotel
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Website: https://www.waterfordcastleresort.com/
Address: The Island, Little Island, Ballinakill, Co. Waterford, X91 Y722, Ireland
Contact details: +35351878203
Pricing: $$$
Waterford Castle Hotel is an amazing retreat on its private island. Its mix of old-world charm and modern comforts is spot-on, and it’s honestly one of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea.
You’ll sit in the Fitzgerald Room with gorgeous rich fabrics and elegant chandeliers that scream luxury. The afternoon tea starts at around €30 per person. Everything is crafted by an award-winning team led by Head Chef Tom Spruce.
You kick things off with some delightful savory bites followed by the highlight: freshly baked scones! To wrap it up, there’s an impressive selection of desserts, including chocolate ganache and raspberry mousse that melt in your mouth.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their Lobster Hot Dog. It’s a standout dish that’s both indulgent and delicious!
6. Castlemartyr Resort
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Website: https://www.castlemartyrresort.ie/
Address: Castlemartyr Resort, Castlemartyr, Cork, P25 X300, Ireland
Contact details: +353214219000
Pricing: $$$
Castlemartyr Resort is a gorgeous 18th-century manor house with the ruins of an 800-year-old castle right next door. One of the resort’s highlights is the Afternoon Tea, served daily at the charming Knights Bar.
You get a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an array of tiny pastries. You can sip on a lovely teapot or buy freshly brewed specialty coffee.
The atmosphere is cozy yet classy, thanks to this stunning Rococo-style Lafranchini ceiling, which begs you to look up in awe. If you have any dietary restrictions, they have gluten-free options and even a children’s afternoon tea, so no one is left out.
Pro tip:
If you want something more glamorous, you can even level up your experience with their Champagne Afternoon Tea. It’s a special treat, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook during your time there.
7. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
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Website: https://www.ballynahinch-castle.com/
Address: Recess, Connemara, Recess, Co. Galway, Ireland
Contact details: +3539531006
Pricing: $$$
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is a stunning 700-acre estate. Its Owenmore Restaurant stands out, and its afternoon tea has been recognized as one of the finest in Ireland.
It just snagged the title of Ireland’s Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant of the Year in January 2024! Chef Danni Barry puts so much heart into her menus, showcasing local produce that bursts with flavor.
The afternoon tea experience happens every Saturday from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Guests enjoy a beautiful selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, and a mouthwatering array of pastries and cakes.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on trying their homemade scones, which pair well with a pot of their finest tea for an authentic Irish experience.
8. The Brehon Hotel
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Website: https://www.thebrehon.com/
Address: Muckross Rd, Poulnamuck, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 RT22, Ireland
Contact details: +353646630700
Pricing: $$$
The Brehon Hotel is a gem tucked away in the gorgeous Killarney National Park.
One of my standout moments was the afternoon tea, a celebration of local flavors!
I was delighted by the spread featuring smoked salmon, duck liver pâté, and mini scones. They even have exquisite desserts, like lemon drizzle cake and crème brûlée. Afternoon tea is served daily from 2 to 5 p.m. for €32 a person.
You’ll be blown away by the views overlooking the Killarney National Park when you find yourself in the mezzanine area, where they serve afternoon tea. It’s a serene and calming backdrop while you sip your tea and nibble on those delicious treats.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their freshly made scones—served warm and accompanied by clotted cream and jam, they are truly a highlight of the afternoon tea experience
9. The Westbury Hotel
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Website: https://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-westbury-hotel
Address: Balfe St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Contact details: +35316791122
Pricing: $$$
The Westbury Hotel has got that five-star vibe and just nails the whole Irish hospitality thing. Now, if you’re a fan of Afternoon Tea, you can find it in their Gallery Lounge, where you can enjoy a delectable menu and gaze out over Grafton Street.
When it’s tea time, you’re in for a treat! Served daily from noon to 5 PM, you can choose from a bunch of fragrant teas sourced from around the globe, all elegantly poured into delicate silver teapots.
Over a million euros worth of Irish art showcases Dublin’s vibrant culture. For something a little extra special, check out their Lady Gregory Afternoon Tea. It features desserts inspired by legendary plays from the Abbey Theatre.
Pro tip:
If you’re celebrating something—or just want to feel like royalty—try the Champagne Afternoon Tea.
10. Vintage Tea Tours
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Website: http://www.vintageteatrips.ie/
Address: Unit 14 Unit 50 Rosemount Drive, Rosemount Business Park, Co. Dublin, D11 NH50, Ireland
Contact details: +35312551777
Pricing: $$
So, let me tell you about my cool experience in Dublin—a Vintage Tea Trip. You hop on a beautifully restored 1960s double-decker bus. As we cruised by iconic landmarks, we were treated to a sumptuous spread of scones and pastries.
The upper deck has elegant table settings—think doilies and cute souvenir cups for your drinks. The decor is this whimsical mix of retro charm and modern comfort, creating an inviting space to kick back with your friends or family.
At tea service, you get a tiered tray filled with homemade treats—lemon drizzle cake, almond Bakewell, and classic Irish fruit scones. The menu offers many options, including traditional, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on trying their Irish fruit scone. It’s a highlight that pairs perfectly with the rich clotted cream and jam!