Afternoon tea in Dromoland Castle is like stepping back in time for a few hours, where you can enjoy luxurious historic surroundings in a relaxed atmosphere, while treating your palate to a variety of mouth watering delicious sweet and savoury treats.

The original castle was built in 1014 by Donough O’Brien and was similar in structure to Bunratty Castle. Donough was a son of Brian Boru who ruled as High King of Ireland from 1002 to 1014 from his throne in Killaloe. The main building as we see it now was built between 1800 and 1836.

Though a castle, Dromoland is very cosy, and has an atmosphere thick with history, as you walk through the high-ceilinged plushly decorated hallways and imagine past occupants walking the same hallways, going about their daily business.

Afternoon Tea is served in The Earl of Thomond Restaurant, a bright room, with sparkling chandeliers and a breath-taking view of the lake.

We ordered Mrs Whites Afternoon tea, named after a kitchen maid who worked within the castle for many decades, and though there was a large group of us it was no problem for the professional friendly staff.

Gluten free, Coeliac Afternoon Tea

Three tiered silver stands, holding china plates packed with colourful, beautifully arranged scones, finger sandwiches with an array of fillings, and an assortment of French pastries were placed in front of us. My gluten free food looked just as delicious as everyone else’s. Taste buds tingled as we sampled each little mysterious surprise, and drank our specialised tea or coffee served from silver pots.

Full, happy and relaxed we lounged on the outdoor terrace,  and enjoyed the mild, bright October weather as we chatted.

Reception Dromoland October 30th celebrating Halloween

Dromoland Castle