Before launching our new Afternoon Tea treats at
The Bushmills Inn, we decided to do a bit of research into how this quintessential English tradition originated...
Afternoon tea was introduced to Britain by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, in 1840. The Duchess would become hungry around four o’clock in the afternoon and frequently asked that a tray of tea, bread and butter and cake be brought to her room. This became a habit of hers and over time she began inviting friends to join her.
This pause for tea then became quite fashionable as a social event, especially during the 1880s. Upper-class and society women would change into long gowns, gloves and hats and gather in the drawing room between four and five o’clock.
Nowadays, Afternoon Tea is officially back in fashion and while we no longer tend to drape ourselves in ballgowns for the occasion,
Afternoon Tea at The Bushmills Inn is still every bit as indulgent.
The perfect gourmet experience for all, The Bushmills Inn brings a fresh twist to tradition. With seasonal savouries, the daintiest of sandwiches, delicate buttermilk scones with clotted cream and preserves and a medley of mouth-watering mini desserts, there’s something for everyone. To accompany this delicious spread are a choice of fine teas. All as pretty as a picture and twice as nice to eat.
When you visit The Bushmills Inn, there’s always the option to add even more indulgence. Alongside the essential elements of your traditional Afternoon Tea, why not turn your afternoon treat into a truly decadent experience with a glass of fizz or perhaps a gin cocktail? Go on, treat yourself.
The Loft of our original Coach House is the ideal location to indulge in a slice of the finest Afternoon Tea. It’s an elegant yet cosy space boasting a relaxed ambience and lush décor. The perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon with friends or family.
Served on Friday and Saturday afternoons, you can enjoy this indulgent tradition whilst experiencing the superior service for which The Bushmills Inn is renowned.
See our
Afternoon Tea Menu.
Reservations must be made in advance and all allergies made known at the time of booking so please call our team on
028 2073 3000 to book a table.
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