Blue Book: Afternoon delights

Afternoon tea has to be one of the ultimate indulgences. Whiling away an afternoon nibbling on finger sandwiches, miniature cakes and desserts, and sipping loose-leaf tea from delicate china – what could be more luxurious? To step up the indulgence one bit further, you might add a glass of bubbly to the mix. Here are six hotels around Ireland that are adding a touch of sparkle to afternoon tea

Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry

Need a treat after a morning spent sightseeing or shopping in the Walled City? The Bishop’s Gate Hotel serves up afternoon tea in the Edwardian surroundings of the Hervey Library or the more contemporary Gown restaurant.

Three tiers of dainty finger sandwiches, fluffy home-baked scones and decadent desserts are perfectly accompanied by a glass of bubbles. Sparkling afternoon tea is priced at £25 per guest or £18.99 for ...