Tea, Downton style

Afternoon tea is taken to a new level of comfort at Ashford Castle in Co Mayo, which thanks to a lavish refurbishment – and new double glazing throughout – is now Downton-esque in its splendour. We’ve heard word of stratospheric thread counts, magnificent breakfasts and staff who are unfailingly attentive and appreciative of the new South African owners.

But back to the tea: it’s rather grandly called the Lord and Lady Ardilaun Traditional Afternoon Tea in memory of the original owners, who, back in 1868, had the habit of taking time over tea “to discuss the events of the morning and plans for the evening ahead”. Indeed.

The menu includes Connemara smoked organic salmon, Heggarty’s mature cheddar and rocket leaves, and roast chicken and Tonka bean stuffing followed by baskets of freshly-baked raisin and chocolate scones served with clotted cream, homemade jams and lemon curd, pastries and cupcakes.

Ashford is generous with its sittings and there are two: one from 2 to 4pm and a second from 4 to 6pm. €29.50 per head, with children welcome at €14.50 per person. But book ahead and do be punctual. ashford.ie