

Pretty, delicious – and, of course, bubbly. No wonder we can’t resist the allure of afternoon tea. Perhaps the most quintessential of British customs, the ritual was popularised in 1840 by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford. She would become hungry at around four o’clock in the afternoon and couldn’t wait for her late evening meal, so requested tea, cake and bread and butter to be brought to her room. This soon became a fashionable event and spread across the country. Today you can experience some of the best afternoon tea in Europe, in some of the grandest surroundings – just like Anna herself. Here are our favourite exponents:
Best afternoon tea in Europe for arty bites:
The Merrion: Dublin, Ireland

Image source: Merrion Hotel
Merrion Hotel’s tantalising ‘Art Tea’ is a feast to behold. It’s undoubtedly the quirkiest and grandest afternoon tea in Ireland: 19th- and 20th-century art superbly served on fine china as edible miniature creations. Sweet treats are inspired by the works of J.B.Yeats, William Scott and Louis Le Brocquy. They’re almost too beautiful to eat, but we’ll let you take that as a challenge. You’ll dine in the five-star hotel’s Drawing Rooms, an exquisitely gracious setting before wandering the 18th-century-style gardens.
Best afternoon tea in Europe for a mix of classic and contemporary:
St George’s Hotel: Llandudno, Wales

Best afternoon tea in Europe with a story to tell:
Naas Fabriker Hotell & Restaurant: Gothenburg, Sweden

Best afternoon tea in Europe with a garden:
Hunter’s Hotel: Rathnew, Ireland

Settle into a snug country house with a truly unique ambience for a gorgeous afternoon tea in Ireland. Hunter’s Hotel is renowned for its splendid afternoon teas, which you can savour in the hotel’s picturesque gardens and feel like you’re living in a real painting. The time-warping coaching inn is the oldest in the country, ran by the fifth generation of the same family.
Best afternoon tea in Europe for seaside views:
Holm House: Penarth, South Wales

When only a classic option will do then Holm House – where leisurely travellers have sipped tea and champagne since 1926 – is the ultimate dream. Served on dainty china in the hotel’s chic dining room with coastal views galore, the delightful surrounding complement the traditional menu. Expect savoury treats such as finger sandwiches and homemade fruit scones topped off with a whole range of teeny desserts and freshly baked cakes. Add some bubbles if you’re celebrating – or even if you’re not.