Afternoon tea is a lovely tradition that involves enjoying a light meal in the afternoon. This meal typically includes tea, sandwiches, scones, and sometimes cakes. In Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, afternoon tea is not just a meal; it’s an experience that blends local hospitality with delicious treats.
Belfast is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, making it the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon tea. Whether you are visiting the city or a local looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, Belfast offers a variety of places where you can enjoy this delightful tradition. In this blog, we will explore some of the top spots for afternoon tea in Belfast, ensuring you know exactly where to go for the best experience.
Top 10 places for Afternoon tea in Belfast
1. The Merchant Hotel
Step into the luxurious setting of The Merchant Hotel, located at 16 Skipper Street, right in the heart of Belfast. This five-star hotel is not just known for its opulent accommodations but also for its exquisite afternoon tea service. As you sit in the grandeur of The Great Room Restaurant, you’ll be treated to an array of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delectable pastries. Each treat is crafted to perfection, making your afternoon tea experience both indulgent and memorable.
The atmosphere in The Merchant Hotel is elegantly vintage, with a decor that takes you back in time to a more genteel era. The price for this luxurious experience ranges from £30 to £50 per person, depending on whether you opt for the classic tea or enhance it with a glass of champagne. It’s a perfect spot to feel pampered and to soak in the sophisticated vibe of Belfast while enjoying your afternoon tea.
Address: 16 Skipper Street, Belfast BT1 2DZ, Northern Ireland
Price: Approximately £30-£50 per person
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2. Titanic Belfast
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For those fascinated by history and maritime heritage, the Titanic Belfast offers an afternoon tea that is both a culinary delight and a nod to Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy. Located at 1 Olympic Way in the Titanic Quarter, this museum not only explores the story of the world-famous ship but also serves afternoon tea overlooking the slipways where the Titanic was built.
Priced at around £28 per person, the tea here includes a selection of gourmet finger sandwiches, traditional scones with rich cream, and an assortment of sweet treats that are as exquisite as the stories surrounding them. The setting is contemporary with hints of nautical decor, providing a unique backdrop that complements the afternoon tea experience. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon steeped in history and elegance.
Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast BT3 9EP, Northern Ireland
Price: Around £28 per person
3. The Great Room Restaurant at The Merchant Hotel
Returning to The Merchant Hotel, The Great Room Restaurant deserves a special mention of its own. This spot shares its address with the main hotel at 16 Skipper Street and elevates the afternoon tea tradition to an art form. With its stunning glass dome and ornate interior, the restaurant offers a breathtaking setting that enhances the tea experience.
The menu features a sophisticated selection of teas, accompanied by artisan sandwiches and freshly baked goods that highlight local ingredients and flavours. Prices start from £35 per person, reflecting the premium service and atmosphere that this venue provides. The Great Room Restaurant is not just about tea; it’s about experiencing the luxury and elegance that Belfast has to offer in one of its most distinguished settings.
Address: 16 Skipper Street, Belfast BT1 2DZ, Northern Ireland
Price: From £35 per person
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4. Harvey Nichols Café
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Nestled within the bustling area of Arthur Street, Harvey Nichols Café at 30-34 Arthur Street offers a chic and stylish setting for enjoying an elegant afternoon tea. This café brings a slice of high-end retail ambiance to the dining experience, allowing guests to relax and indulge after a day of shopping. The afternoon tea menu is creatively assembled, featuring mini sandwiches, scones with all the classic accompaniments, and an assortment of miniature desserts that are both beautiful and delicious.Priced at approximately £22-£33 per person, depending on your choice of tea or champagne addition, this spot caters to those who enjoy a touch of luxury in their afternoon. The modern, sleek interiors of the café create a contemporary backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the traditional elements of afternoon tea, making this an ideal spot for those who appreciate the fusion of old and new.
5. The Ivory
Situated on the third floor of the House of Fraser in Victoria Square, The Ivory offers a unique vantage point with panoramic views over Belfast. This venue provides a slightly more casual yet equally delightful afternoon tea experience. At The Ivory, guests can enjoy a range of classic tea selections, complemented by an assortment of freshly prepared sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Each item is carefully prepared to ensure that every bite is a treat to the senses.With a starting price of around £20 per person, The Ivory presents a more accessible option for those looking to enjoy afternoon tea without the formality of more traditional settings. The contemporary decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon, catching up with friends, or even a casual business meeting.
Also Read: Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Hampshire
6. Malmaison
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Located at 34-38 Victoria Street, Malmaison offers a bold, boutique take on the classic afternoon tea. This venue is known for its vibrant decor and laid-back yet chic environment. Malmaison puts a creative twist on afternoon tea, serving up not only the traditional scones and sandwiches but also introducing innovative savoury items and sweet treats that change seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available.The cost for this delightful experience starts at £20 per person. Malmaison is perfect for those who enjoy a more modern and adventurous approach to their dining experiences. It’s a place where tradition meets contemporary flair, making it a standout choice for afternoon tea enthusiasts looking for something a little different in Belfast.
7. Hilton Belfast
Located at 4 Lanyon Place, the Hilton Belfast offers a luxurious setting for those who enjoy their afternoon tea with a view of the River Lagan. The hotel’s elegant surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a traditional afternoon tea experience, where guests can savour an assortment of finely crafted sandwiches, warm scones with rich clotted cream, and a variety of delicate pastries. Each item is beautifully presented, making your afternoon tea both a visual and culinary delight.
With prices starting at approximately £25 per person, the Hilton Belfast is a great choice for those seeking a classic afternoon tea in a prestigious hotel environment. The service here is impeccable, ensuring that every guest feels pampered and special throughout their visit.
Also Read: Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Kent
8. Maryville House
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For a more quaint and intimate setting, Maryville House at 2 Maryville Park offers a charming Victorian tea room experience. This bed and breakfast is tucked away in a quiet residential area, providing a cosy and homey atmosphere for afternoon tea. The menu features homemade scones, a selection of fine sandwiches, and scrumptious cakes, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
The cost for an afternoon tea at Maryville House starts from just £18 per person, making it an affordable yet delightful option. It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate the warmth and personal touch of a smaller establishment, where every detail is carefully considered to enhance your afternoon tea experience.
9. Café Parisien
Situated in Cleaver House at 56-58 Donegall Place, Café Parisien offers a uniquely French twist on the traditional Belfast afternoon tea. Inspired by the chic Parisian bistros, this café serves a sophisticated menu of classic French pastries along with traditional British tea favourites. The setting is stylish and contemporary, with decor that transports you straight to the heart of Paris.
Priced around £20 per person, Café Parisien is an ideal spot for those looking for a European flair in their afternoon tea experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a touch of France in the heart of Belfast.
Also Read: Best Places for Afternoon tea in Bath
10. Benedicts of Belfast
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Last but not least, Benedicts of Belfast at 7-21 Bradbury Place offers a vibrant and eclectic setting for afternoon tea. Known for its lively atmosphere and colorful decor, Benedicts combines traditional elements with a modern twist. The afternoon tea menu includes all the classic components like scones and sandwiches but adds some quirky, innovative treats that make each visit exciting.
Starting at £17 per person, Benedicts of Belfast provides a fun and budget-friendly option for afternoon tea enthusiasts. It’s perfect for those looking for a casual yet flavorful afternoon tea experience in a more upbeat and contemporary environment.
Also Read: Best Places for Afternoon tea in Bloomsbury
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the delightful world of Afternoon Tea in Belfast, it’s clear that this charming city offers something truly special for everyone. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the city, indulging in an afternoon tea can transform a simple afternoon into a memorable experience. From luxurious hotels to quaint cafes, Belfast prides itself on a tradition that not only offers a taste of local hospitality but also showcases a diverse range of culinary delights.Much like the famed afternoon tea Brighton UK, Belfast’s tea scene is vibrant and rich with variety.
The tradition of afternoon tea might feel quintessentially British, but each city has its own unique twist on this delightful custom. In Belfast, each venue we explored offers its own unique ambiance and specialty, much like the best afternoon tea Brighton options where the focus is also on quality and experience.
If you’re ever in Belfast and wondering where to find the best afternoon tea Brighton style experience, the places we’ve discussed are a must-visit. Each location not only provides delicious food and exquisite teas but also an atmosphere that enhances every sip and bite. Whether you choose the opulent Merchant Hotel, the historical Titanic Belfast, the chic Harvey Nichols Café, or the cosy Maryville House, you are in for a treat.
Moreover, the affordability and diversity of afternoon tea in Belfast cater to all preferences and budgets, making it accessible to everyone. It’s an experience that encourages taking a break from the rush of daily life to enjoy the simpler pleasures—conversation, relaxation, and of course, great tea and treats.Belfast’s afternoon tea offerings are a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and hospitality. They provide not just a meal, but a cherished cultural experience that locals and tourists alike should not miss. So the next time you’re in Belfast, take a moment to indulge in this delightful tradition and make your afternoon as enriching as it is delicious. Whether you’re seeking the grandeur of a luxury hotel or the charm of a small café, Belfast has the perfect spot for your afternoon escape.