Afternoon tea

From the very formal to the slightly retro, the quirky to the cool, there are as many ways to enjoy afternoon tea here in Northern Ireland as there are people enjoying it. Here are some of the best spots to book in for a memorable occasion.

The Merchant Hotel, Belfast 

As you’d expect of the Belfast’s Merchant Hotel (5*), Afternoon Tea here is an event. Finger sandwiches, delicate pastries and scones with clotted cream are served in the sumptuous surroundings of The Great Room Restaurant. A truly elegant and, of course, delicious experience it’s only matched by their very own Cocktail Afternoon Tea – complete with a seasonal cocktail expertly crafted by Merchant Hotel bar staff.   Served Monday to Friday from 12-4pm, with two Saturday sittings and another on Sunday, it’s an experience not to be missed. 

Galgorm Resort & Spa, County Antrim 

Set in 450 acres of lush parkland and with the spectacular River Maine flowing through it, it’s hard to beat the Galgorm (4*) as a location.

Though, happily, the Gold Edit Afternoon Tea here is just as stunning as the setting. Miniature savouries such as Brie, onion chutney bruschetta or a demitasse of soup, buttermilk or cherry scones and salted caramel macaroons or a passionfruit pastille are just some of the delights that might feature on your menu. 

Perfectly finger-sized and perfectly delicious, it’s served daily in the exquisite Conservatory overlooking the river. (And, of course, the award-winning Spa is always worth a visit if you feel like making a day of it.) 

Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh 

It can be difficult to drag yourself away from the stupendous views over Castle Hume Lough for long enough to focus on your Afternoon Tea. Though, of course it’s well worth the effort. 

Served on the world-famous and local Belleek Pottery China, while you relax on super-comfortable sofas, the enticing selection of finger sandwiches, patisseries and freshly baked scones make Afternoon Tea at Lough Erne Resort (5*) a truly indulgent experience. And that’s before you get to the tea itself. Earl Grey, Morning Dew, Rhubarb Cream, Peach and Ginseng Oolong, Sweet Nana, Irish Whiskey Cream, Ginger Orange Chai, Rooibos Strawberry and Cream and Classic English Breakfast are just some of the teas on offer here. Served on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 1-3pm.

Ballydougan Restaurant & Coffee Lounge, County Armagh 

For something a little different, pay a visit to Ballydougan Restaurant & Coffee Lounge in their wonderfully restored Linen Barn. There’s no better place to relax and enjoy scones and sweet treats, all freshly prepared in the kitchens using the finest local produce. Open for afternoon tea from Monday-Saturday 3-5pm, booking is essential. They even make the plates here too. Don't forget to stop by the delightful gift shop on the way out. 

Everglades Hotel, County Londonderry 

The Hastings Everglades Hotel (4*) is the perfect spot for an afternoon tea when you’re in County Londonderry. There’s a vast range of aromatic brews and plates of dainty sandwiches, fluffy scones, buttery cakes, pastries and, as they promise here, copious amounts of tea or coffee. Served daily, 12.30-4pm. 

By the way, they also serve a Derry Girls Afternoon Tea, featuring a cream horn, a cone of chips and the famous Derry sausage roll bap. But that’s a whole other story. 

The Old Inn, County Down 

As a former coaching inn, they’ve a long history of refreshing weary travellers here. So it’s no wonder The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn (4*) is the ideal hideaway for a quiet and relaxing afternoon tea. 

Sink happily into a comfortable chair and enjoy a Victorian-style tea, complete with specialty teas, homemade bakes and little sandwiches. Or spoil yourself and add a glass of sparkling wine or champagne. Served daily, between midday and 5pm. 

Corick House Hotel and Spa, County Tyrone

In the heart of the Clogher Valley, the idyllic Corick House Hotel and Spa (4*) does history with a decidedly modern flourish, offering a haven of tranquillity and a very relaxing afternoon tea experience. 

Gourmet sandwiches, breads, scones, seasonal berry preserve and Irish clotted cream await you here, along with an assortment of home-baked cakes and pastries – and specialty teas, coffee or a glass of Prosecco.  Served Monday to Saturday, 12-3.30pm. 

The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast

The Fitzwilliam Hotel offers a luxurious Afternoon Tea in Belfast city centre. Enjoy a selection of fine finger sandwiches and sweet treats such as french macaroons, Dulce De Leche and citrus Lemon Drizzle Cake in exquisite five star surroundings. Served Monday-Friday 1:30-3pm and Saturday-Sunday 1:30-3:30pm.

For those of you who prefer something a bit more hearty – the Crafternoon Tea experience is the just the thing for you! Tuck into delectable mini pork pies, tantalising mini steak burgers, delicious chocolate brownies and sumptuous warm scones accompanied by two locally hand-crafted beers from Whitewater Brewing Co. Served between 1.30-3:30pm every Saturday & Sunday.

That’s our round-up of the top tea spots. Though, of course, you know wherever you go in Northern Ireland you’ll find someone just waiting to put the kettle and welcome you with a good cup of tea.