There’s something oh so classy and sophisticated about indulging in afternoon tea. Gone are the days of feather boas and luminous pink hen parties. Us ladies want to feel very girly and grown up as we gossip with our gals over an obligatory glass of Prosecco in our manicured hands. The dainty sandwiches, pretty desserts and tiered silverware make us feel very important indeed. To help you organise the ultimate afternoon soiree, we chose the top places around the country where you can impress your pals with a delightful high tea.
The Royal Hotel & Merrill Leisure Club
A hidden gem in the garden of Ireland, The Royal Hotel in Bray is the perfect retreat for you and your bridesmaids. Right on Dublin’s doorstep, their Celebration Afternoon Tea Package will make you feel extra special. Enjoy cupcakes, a glass of Prosecco and an assortment of tea sandwiches and pastries for €25 per person. Ideal for catching up on all your wedding news ahead of your big day. Afterwards take a short ride to the Powerscourt Waterfall, capture the breath-taking scenery and get some selfies with the girls. Our idea of the perfect day.
The Millrace Hotel Leisure Club & Spa
Set in the picturesque town of Bunclody in Co Wexford, team your afternoon tea at The Millrace Hotel with a peaceful treatment at their Danu Spa. A glass of pink bubbly and some delectable treats will make your afternoon tea truly memorable. The tranquil surroundings of the spa will have you and your hens feeling relaxed and the stress of previous months will melt away. You will leave feeling rejuvenated and rearing to get over the final hurdle of your wedding plans. Contact the Danu Spa on 053 9375100 for more details on hen party packages.
Langton House Hotel
The David Collins designed Tea & Wine Rooms at Langton House Hotel will score you serious brownie points with the girls. Mingle in the simply stunning setting of the elegant dining room and intrigue your wanderlust as you taste a selection of exotic teas from around the world. The spicy hot chocolate with marshmallows on their menu sounds absolutely divine! Pop over to the Edward Langton Bar later in the evening for some cocktails before hitting the hen party capital that is the beautiful city of Kilkenny.
The Shelbourne Hotel
It should be mandatory that afternoon tea and The Shelbourne Hotel appear in the same sentence – forever. The cream of the crop when it comes to a luxurious 5 star experience. After all extra ordinary events call for an extra ordinary location! Situated in the heart of Dublin’s fair city, their world-famous afternoon tea is served in the elegant Lord Mayor’s Lounge. You and the ladies can bask in the historic surroundings while listening to the lounge’s resident pianist. Bliss.
Montenotte Hotel
Perched high above Cork City, enjoy breath-taking views from the beautiful Vista Bar. The luxurious ambiance will have you feeling like you walked into an elegant Parisian old-world movie set. In winter, watch as dusk sets over the city landscape and the setting sun flickers through the window shutters. Their dedicated and friendly staff will focus all their attention on you. The Montenotte Hotel is simply magical for an afternoon with the girls.
Limerick Strand Hotel
Sit by the river and watch the world go by in the comfort of The Terrace Cafe at the Limerick Strand Hotel. Nibble on a 3-tier platter of mouth-watering treats prepared by the in-house pastry team. Make it a girls day out by organising a shopping trip during the morning before taking a relaxing break for high tea. Famed for it’s nightlife, be sure to hit Limerick City with a bang following your fabulous lunch.
