Christmas just calls for an afternoon tea in the beautiful surroundings of Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough. Step away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the indulgence of savoury sandwiches, mince pies, scrumptious scones, yule logs or Christmas Cake from tiers of tempting treats. Here are a few suggestions to try:
Castle Afternoon Tea Experience at Killeavy Castle Estate
Celebrate in true Killeavy style by the warm glow of an open fire with this exclusive Castle Afternoon Tea Experience. Start off with a glass of bubbly on arrival, followed by live music and unparalleled views across the Ring of Gullion, the perfect setting for a magical Christmas treat.
.jpg)
Afternoon Tea at The Burrendale Hotel, Newcastle
The Burrendale Hotel in Newcastle offers a charming afternoon tea experience in a cosy cottage style lounge or bright dining area, mixed with relaxed elegance and warmth of local hospitality. Set against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, this hotel provides a peaceful setting to enjoy a selection of finely prepared sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and jam, an assortment of delicate pastries. The Burrendale feels both indulgent and inviting, perfect for a leisurely catch-up, a special occasion or simply a quiet treat in beautiful surroundings. Afternoon Tea is served Monday – Saturday from 12.30 - 3.30pm. Please note 24 hours’ notice is required.
.jpg)
Afternoon Tea at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch
In Montalto Estate, your visit will begin with a warm welcome and introduction to the rich history of the estate. You will then have the privilege of having a private tour around the grandeur of the 18th century Georgian mansion, seeing its wonderful collection of original art and antiques. With many more surprises through the history, beautiful corridors and stunning rooms, you will then finish up the tour in The Chinese Room, a space that perfectly complements the traditional way of afternoon tea. Montalto tailor their afternoon tea towards the seasons with refreshing iced tea in the summer and festive mince pies in the winter, it is all served with beautifully delicate crockery.
Sittings begin at 12:30pm on a Wednesday and Saturday, starting from £25 with the option to upgrade to a sparkling afternoon tea. Children 12 years old and under are £15.
Bookings less than 48 hours in advance, please phone to check availability: 028 9756 6100.
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. Please note this in the comments of your booking.

Bookings less than 48 hours in advance, please phone to check availability: 028 9756 6100.
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. Please note this in the comments of your booking.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Millbrook Lodge Hotel, Ballynahinch
What better way to spend an afternoon than to indulge in the 19th Century tradition of Afternoon Tea in the Millbrook Lodge, reconnecting with friends and loved ones, this is what afternoons were made for.
Christmas Afternoon Tea. Available Monday - Saturday 12-4pm. Must be pre-booked 48hours in Advance.
Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle
The vibrant spread at the Slieve Donard Hotel is nothing sort of spectacular. Laid out on crisp white tablecloths and framed by the elegant ambience of the resort’s dining room, it’s an experience that invites you to linger. Once you begin sampling their dainty sandwiches and delicate sweets, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away.
Canal Court Hotel, Newry
The Canal Court Hotel in Newry City offers a sumptuous afternoon tea in the lap of luxury. It’s the perfect spot to settle down after a day out shopping. This is the real deal. The menu of teas has been selected to accompany the three tiers of food that come with the hotel’s wonderful offering. Enjoy a selection of finely cut sandwiches and miniature savouries, before working your way up to the freshly baked scones and delicate desserts. Such is the pride the hotel takes in its afternoon tea offering that it changes with the seasons, so you can expect something different on your next visit.
Tipsy Afternoon Tea at Golf Links House, Newcastle
Tuck into a fabulously festive twist on our famous afternoon tea in the stunning Golf Links House in Newcastle. Think warm mince pies, indulgent Christmas pudding, and all your seasonal favourites. We’re talking turkey, ham, and cranberry sandwiches…the whole joyful gang!
Sip, snack and soak up the cheer with a sparkling glass of prosecco. Saturdays 6 and 13 December from 2pm to 4pm, from £24.95 including prosecco.

Here’s to creating sweet memories and something special. To book, email Info@golflinkshouse.com or call 028 437 22054
Olive Bizarre, Newcastle
A selection of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, a variety of tray bakes and other goodies and delights. All served on tiered cake stands with a refreshing pot of tea or coffee, cosy included.
Hillyard House Hotel, Castlewellan
Located in the heart of Castlewellan is Hillyard house, a timeless, traditional venue with beautiful surroundings of their rustic yet modern Yard Restaurant. Hillyard House offer the perfect blend of elegance, flavour and relaxation making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Indulge in a mouthwatering selection of savoury and sweet treats that taste just as good as they look. From delicate finger sandwiches to decadent cakes and pastries, their culinary team has spared no effort in creating a memorable culinary experience.
All bookings must be made a minimum of 24 hours in advance and can be made via telephone on +44(0)28 4377 1010 or on their website.
From the twinkling of fairy lights to the comforting taste of seasonal treats, it’s an experience that lingers long after the cups are emptied. So, why not make this festive season extra special with an afternoon tea gathering that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious? Here's to creating sweet memories, one tea sip at a time!





