dublin tea tour

✨From Jan '24 our pick up point is Stephens Green North, Dublin 2 - Across from Stephen Court ✨

Vintage Tea Trips

Afternoon tea the irish way.

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Dublin Afternoon Tea Trip

Enjoy our afternoon tea delicacies, good conversation and tap along to some fabulous old school crooners. This is afternoon tea with a difference. This is afternoon tea the Irish way.

• Hour Glass 70-80 minutes

Afternoon Tea Collection

Bring Afternoon Tea the Irish Way into your own home.

Give the Gift of the Vintage Tea Experience

Give the gift of afternoon tea the Irish way. Choose to either send an email gift voucher or instead have a beautiful gift card delivered to any address in Ireland for just €3.

Customise your Vintage Tour in Dublin

Hen parties, private & corporate events.

Take a step back in time with Vintage Tea Trips and experience Dublin in a unique way. Indulge in our afternoon tea treats, great conversation and tap your feet along to some fabulous 1950s jazz while taking in the sights of the city. You don’t have to be on your best behaviour on board our vintage Routemaster buses, or as we call them, our biscuit tin on wheels. This is, after all, afternoon tea the Irish way!

Five-Star Reviews from Our Clients

We were on the bus on a day with lashing rain, but that didnt ruin our day. Its a lovely old bus and we enjoyed a little trip around dublin under our blankets, while Ella did a wonderful job telling fun little stories about the different places. There was all the tea, coffee and hot chocolate you could drink (just remember, there is no toilet on the bus) with your scones and cakes, the only thing we would have loved is a bit more savoury treats instead of sweet. It was a fun way to do your afternoon tea and would recommend if you want to see a bit of Dublin while sipping tea :-)

I got this tour as a birthday gift for myself and my friends as part of their 30th presents. We had a lovely time on the tour,food was fab, tea was lovely and the staff were so pleasant. Couldn't fault anything except we would easily have stayed on it the whole afternoon!!

We LOVED our tea tour. The food was amazing and they beautifully accommodated our celiac dietary restrictions. The information was enjoyable and the host and hostess kind, warm and engaging. I highly recommend!

Great way to spend some time touring Dublin and eating cake at the same time. Perfect for my daughter's birthday. Lovely staff, very informative. Recommended!

Due to events in the City Centre during the June Bank Holiday weekend our tour route will experience updates, please scan the QR Code at the bus stop for more details! Read More

Vintage Tea Trips - Plan Your Tour

Travel around Dublin in style on the unique and award-winning Vintage Tea Trip bus tour. Combine sightseeing and afternoon tea as you step back in time and enjoy afternoon tea on the move on a vintage bus and discover Dublin in a unique way with friends and family.

• An afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, and delicious desserts
• Savour the scrumptious food and drink as you pass by historic Dublin attractions
• Great stories and entertainment from your on-board hosts
• Spotlessly clean buses deep-cleaned after every use.
• Want to best seats? VIP Seating Tickets available here

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

With wonderful displays on-board, a beautifully redesigned seating area and tasty cakes and treats on offer, the Vintage Tea Bus Tour has quickly become one of the coolest things to do in the city.

Enjoy your afternoon tea while taking in the city’s most iconic landmarks such as , Temple Bar, Guinness Storehouse, Phoenix Park, O'Connell Street, Trinity College, Merrion Square, St. Stephen's Green, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. All from the comfort of a vintage London 1960 Routemaster bus.

Voted as one of the Top Food & Drink Experiences in Dublin on Tripadvisor, the Afternoon Tea Trip is a fun and unique experience not to be missed in the city!

What's included on the Afternoon Tea Bus Tour?

Experience afternoon tea with a difference. You will hop on board a fully restored 1960s vintage Routemaster double decker bus (think of the old London buses!), and be transported back in time. Indulge in a delectable full afternoon tea with delicious homemade bakes such as lemon drizzle and almond bakewell, as well as Irish fruit scone and a trio of freshly made sandwiches. Sit back and relax with a cup of Barry's tea (other teas and coffees available) and let our Irish hosts regale you with their favourite tales and stories of the city. It's not a fully guided tour, so there is plenty of time for you and yours to have a wee gossip and catch up. This is afternoon tea with a difference. This is afternoon tea the Irish way.

Vintage Tea Trip Reviews

A Real Treat

"We celebrated a friends engagement on board, the guys looked after us extremely well and even let us bring some balloons and decorations. Great food, great insights about Dublin and all round a brilliant trip. Thanks to Megan and the team."

Lovely Experience

"Great experience. The cakes were delish. The bus is class. The staff working on it were brilliant! Happy days!"

WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO AROUND DUBLIN?

The DoDublin Days Out Card  offers visitors and Dubliners a chance to visit 6 of the Capital's top attractions. Get ready to explore Dublinia , Saint Patrick's Cathedral , MoLI , the Little Museum of Dublin , EPIC  and Christ Church Cathedral !

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• Your Afternoon Tea experience will begin from St. Stephen's Green opposite Stephen Court

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Vintage Tea Trips

• Family friendly
• Cloudy days

Hop onboard the 1960s vintage bus and be transported back to a time where tea and chats reigned supreme. Allow the hosts to regale you with their favourite stories of Dublin as the city sights pass by. These stories won't be found in the history books. From atop Pauline or Kitty (or buses) take in Temple Bar, Guinness Storehouse, Phoenix Park, O'Connell Street, Trinity College, Georgian Dublin, Stephen's Green and two cathedrals.

Indulge in a full afternoon tea spread with heaps and heaps of delicious food and all the Barry's tea your heart could imagine. With this afternoon tea experience you don't have to be on your best behaviour. This is after all afternoon tea the Irish way.

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Vintage Bus Tour - Afternoon Tea

• Combine sightseeing and dining in one great experience!
• See Dublin’s most popular sites on-board the vintage London bus!
• Savour the amazing afternoon tea surrounded by 1950s Jazz music!
• Pass by and take photos of some of Dublin’s favourite landmarks including Phoenix Park and Guinness Storehouse!
• Hear some great stories of old Dublin from your on-board hosts!

Afternoon Tea with a Twist

Experience a Dublin afternoon tea with a difference on the unique Vintage Tea Trip Bus tour of Dublin. The vintage Routemaster bus will bring your and your friends around the streets of Dublin, taking in the city’s favourite landmarks, including the Phoenix Park, Georgian Dublin, Guinness Storehouse, and the stunning city cathedrals – Christ Church and St. Patrick’s! While you’re passing by these world-famous attractions, you can indulge in the fabulous Afternoon tea treats which are served on-board. 

Sightseeing & Savoury Treats

Unlock the heart of the city’s culture, landmarks and history on the famous Vintage Tea Trip buses (there are two – named Pauline and Kitty!) routemaster bus. Enjoy cups of Irish tea, and savour the stunning finger sandwiches, desserts, cakes, and pastries (there are dietary needs catered for – Traditional, gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options).  

Your welcoming Dublin bus driver, along with your lovely hosts will make you feel right at home as you travel around Dublin’s best sites. Although there is no formal commentary as such (like a hop-on hop-off tour ), your host will share some great stories as you pass by iconic sites around the capital. This informal approach strikes the perfect balance – allowing you to enjoy some city sightseeing, while also spending quality time with friends and family,  and of course sampling the great food on offer.

All tour durations are traffic dependent, but would usually last around 70-80 minutes. Your tour begins and ends at the same location in Temple Bar.

Vintage Tea Trip Menu

Your afternoon tea includes a selection of homemade finger sandwiches, scones, desserts,and delicious cakes. Choose from a traditional, gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan afternoon tea with Vintage Tea Trips.

Where does the Vintage Tea Tour begin?

4 – 6 Essex Street East, Temple Bar, Dublin 2.

Discover Dublin and enjoy afternoon tea in one afternoon on this unique experience! Hop on board a vintage sightseeing tour of Dublin, complete with 1950s jazz music, delicious afternoon tea, tasty treat, and welcoming hosts.

We will take a trip through the city taking in the Phoenix Park, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, Trinity College, Georgian Dublin, St. Stephens Green and more. Pick up at The CHQ, 1 Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1.

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

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Description

Embark on a Dublin sightseeing adventure coupled with a delightful afternoon tea experience on a vintage double-decker bus. The itinerary encompasses iconic landmarks like the Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christchurch, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, Trinity College, and Georgian Dublin. Revel in the scenic views as you sip on seasonal tea or coffee and savor delectable treats, combining cultural exploration with culinary delights.

• Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a relaxing tour
• Three departure times available throughout the day
• Enjoy the experience aboard a vintage front-engined double-decker bus

The Best Afternoon Tea Dublin Has To Offer: 9 Places To Try In 2024

By Author Dejan Badnjarevic

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

Searching for the best afternoon tea in Dublin? You’ve landed in the right place!

Since hitting the publish button on a guide to the best breakfast in Dublin a while back, we’d had heaps of emails from people asking about afternoon tea recommendations. 

So here we are! The Victorian tradition of tea served with a variety of savoury and sweet spreads in the afternoon has proved pretty popular in Dublin.

Below, you’ll find plenty of excellent places for afternoon tea in Dublin City Centre and beyond, for those of you that fancy a mid-day treat. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Where  we  think does the best afternoon tea Dublin has to offer

Photo via The Atrium Lounge on Facebook

The first section of our guide is what  we  think is the best afternoon tea Dublin has to offer. These are places that one or more of The Irish Road Trip Team have been to.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the swanky Shelbourne Hotel and the Merrion to the The Vintage Teapot and more.

1. The Shelbourne (from €55 p/p)

Photo via The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection on Facebook

The Shelbourne is arguably the most historic setting for afternoon tea in Dublin City Centre. This lavish 5-star hotel is one of the most famous hotels in the country and its interior screams indulgence.

Their busy Lord Mayor’s Lounge offers elegant Afternoon Tea with an Irish twist. Expect to find foods like homemade scones with jam and clotted cream and whiskey-cured salmon with Guinness bread.

There’s a Classic Afternoon Tea for €55 per person and a Champagne Afternoon Tea from €73 per person.

2. The Vintage Teapot (€15 p/p)

Photo via The Vintage Teapot restaurant on Facebook

Make your way to the Vintage Teapot , a lovely tearoom spread over three floors that are famed for its charming décor (expect everything from silk cushions to oriental paintings).

This place has its own version of Afternoon Tea with delicacies such as macaroons, blinis, and a wide range of Asian sweets. They also offer an extensive range of traditional Chinese teas on their menu that is printed on bamboo.

If you wish to read a book while enjoying your Afternoon Tea, you can do so from the comfort of a little reading corner with both Chinese and English literature.

2021 Update:  I’ve just phoned the Vintage Teapot to check the price, as it seems too good to be true. However, they confirmed it’s still €15 p/p, making it the best value afternoon tea Dublin has to offer. 

3. The Atrium Lounge (from €49 p/p)

Situated inside the 5-star Westin Hotel, the Atrium Lounge is a good option if you’re looking for a refined setting for your tea and treats.

The inviting décor and the tastefully decorated courtyard make a perfect setting for an alfresco Afternoon Tea experience.

On the menu, you will find freshly baked scones, sandwiches, and delicate desserts. They also offer a Tome for Gin Afternoon Tea options that includes crayfish mayonnaise and popcorn panna cotta.

If you’re looking for the best afternoon tea in Dublin to mark a special occasion, what’s on offer at the swanky Westin Hotel is well worth checking out.

Related read : Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Dublin (from Michelin Star eats to Dublin’s best burger)

4. The Merrion Hotel (from €55)

Photos via The Merrion Hotel Dublin on Facebook

One of the most luxurious 5 star hotels Dublin , the Merrion Hotel takes Afternoon Tea to a whole new level.

This dining experience takes place in the hotel’s drawing rooms and includes a variety of treats ranging from miniature desserts inspired by artists to scones and sambos.

The Art Tea at the Merrion will set you back €55 per person. It is worth mentioning that former president of the US, Barack Obama, stayed at the Merrion back in 2011 during his visit to Dublin.

5. The Westbury (from €58 p/p)

Photos via The Westbury Hotel on Facebook

The Westbury is another fancy spot that tends to rank high in many guides to the best afternoon tea in Dublin, and for good reason.

Inside this elegant hotel, you will find the famous Gallery which boasts a lovely interior with an open fireplace during the colder months and piano music.

Their Afternoon Tea menu starts at €58 p/p and includes everything from petite sandwiches and pastries to crumbly scones, cakes, teas, and champagnes.

Other popular places for afternoon tea in Dublin City and beyond

Photos via Airfield Estate on FB

Now that we have where  we  think does the best afternoon tea in Dublin out of the way, it’s time to see what else the capital has to offer.

Below, you’ll find some of the other Dublin afternoon tea spots, each of which has racked up rave reviews online.

1. Vintage Tea Trips (from €49.50 p/p)

First up is arguably the most unique afternoon tea Dublin has to offer – Vintage Tea Trips (affiliate link). Those that climb aboard are in for an experience and a half!

You’ll board the vintage Routemaster bus from Temple Bar and listen to 1950s jazz as you munch away on all of the usual afternoon tea favourites.

You’ll also get a good look at Dublin City, as the bus passes everywhere from  St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church to Trinity College , the Phoenix Park and more.

Related read : Check out our guide to the best brunch in Dublin (or our guide to the best bottomless brunch in Dublin )

2. The Cake Café (from €27.45 p/p)

Photos via The Cake Café on FB

You will find the amazing Cake Café right behind Dublin’s bustling Camden Street. This sunny little tea room and bohemian bakery is one of the more popular cafes in Dublin .

Mainly thanks to the mouthwatering desserts and pastries, like cupcakes and chocolate brownies, that it dishes out each day.

The Afternoon Tea is served daily and includes delicious cakes, sandwiches, soups, and a glass of prosecco. If you are on a budget and wish to enjoy some tasty cakes, a visit to this venue is simply a must.

3. The Morrison Hotel (from €32 p/p)

Photos via The Morrison Hotel on Facebook

If you’re in search of an alternative version of afternoon tea in Dublin, then this next place should be right up your street.

Offering a modern take on the traditional Afternoon Tea, the Morrison Hotel is famed for its chic décor and upbeat vibe.

There are several different options to choose from: The Fancy Pants Tea, The Gentlemen’s Tea, the Vegan Afternoon Tea and the Wheat Free Afternoon Tea.

4. Airfield Estate (update: currently on hold)

Located in Dundrum, Airfield Estate is a great place to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the Dublin city centre.

The seasonal Afternoon Tea menu includes both savoury and homemade sweet treats and a nice selection of teas. They only use the freshest seasonal produce which actually grows in the estate’s gardens.

If you are looking for a relaxing destination where you can enjoy tasty foods and admire magnificent garden and mountain views, make sure to stop by the Airfield Estate for Afternoon Tea.

2021 Update: I just called Airfeld (Nov 10th) to check if this was still running, and they said that it’s on hold at the minute, but that it’s likely to be back soon.

5. The Hazel House (€20 p/p)

Photos via The Hazel House on Facebook

Next up is arguably the most unique afternoon tea Dublin has to offer (it’s also a great spot to bring kids!). Welcome to the Hazel House, an Irish craft café, woodwork shop, and a petting farm.

Located outside the city centre in Tibradden , this cool venue offers everything from delicious foods to live music and a bunch of different workshops.

Their version of Afternoon Tea comes with a glass of prosecco. If you are feeling adventurous, go on a hike to the summit of the nearby Tibradden Mountain.

2021 Update:  I’ve just called these lads to check prices. They said you need to book this at least a day in advance.

Afternoon tea Dublin: Where have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant places for high tea in Dublin City Centre and beyond.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best afternoon tea in Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from where to get a boozy afternoon tea in Dublin to which place does the funkiest spread.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best afternoon tea Dublin has to offer?

The Atrium Lounge, The Vintage Teapot and The Shelbourne are three of the best afternoon tea Dublin spots in 2024.

What is the most unique place in Dublin for afternoon tea?

In our opinion, the most unique afternoon tea Dublin has to offer is the one from Vintage Tea Trips. You’re on a vintage bus, after all.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 15th of January 2023

is there an age requirement? I would love to take my two year old but in the states you have to be three.

Keith O'Hara

Monday 16th of January 2023

Hey Valerie - just going off my own personal experience, no, but I'd say you're best off ringing in advance just to check with them!

Sunday 21st of August 2022

Wall & Keogh Tea in Portobello is an obvious omission

Sunday 2nd of January 2022

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel in Killiney offers afternoon tea, if you book 24 hours in advance

Maureen Hessel

Sunday 8th of May 2022

Thank you for this info. We will be staying there post cruise in July and will definitely book tea at the Fitzpatrick.

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The 12 best places for afternoon tea in Dublin

Stock up on cakes, sarnies and more at one of the best places for afternoon tea in Dublin. Yes, afternoon tea in Dublin.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what could possibly be better than a sandwich, we’ve got the answer: it’s a tiny little mini sandwich. In fact, tiny mini cupcakes are better than normal cupcakes, and the same goes for all cakes, especially when they’re paired with prosecco (and also tea). 

And yes, if you hadn’t guessed it by now, we’re talking about afternoon tea. And if you’re in the mood for all things tiny, you’re in luck – Dublin is actually one of the best cities for cream tea you’ll ever find, with plenty of lovely hotels and vintage tearooms to explore. From high-end to more low-key spots, here are the best spots for afternoon tea in Dublin. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝 The best restaurants in Dublin 🏨 The best hotels in Dublin 🎥 The best cinemas in Dublin 📍 The best things to do in Dublin

This guide was written by Shilpa Ganatra , a writer based in Dublin. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best high tea in Dublin

1.  house.

Why go?  Enjoy a few cocktails in the name of afternoon tea. Part club, part restaurant, but mainly a hangout for beautiful people, House ’s proposition is loosey-goosey enough to throw in an afternoon tea without raising eyebrows. With chilled-out beats on the sound system, the vibe lends itself to one of their specially-concocted afternoon tea cocktails. Try the Bramble, made with gin and blackberry liqueur, to get the tea party started.

Price:  Mid-range

2.  Silk Road Café

Why go? Because mini-food tastes so much better than normal food. Within the calming surrounds of the Chester Beatty Library, the Silk Road Café ’s afternoon tea is traditional in portion size only. Forget egg sandwiches and dig in to globally-inspired bite-sized treats like stuffed aubergines, chicken paella pots, and honey and lavender mousse, with halal, veggie and celiac alternatives available. Served on gingham tables with mismatched crockery, it’s cuteness overload.

Price:  Budget

3.  Póg

Why go?  Afternoon tea is given a healthy-ish – but no less delicious – twist at Póg . In their busy Tara Street branch, their vegan menu forgoes the sandwich/scone combo for dainty portions of vegan burger, sourdough toast topped with avo, beetroot hummus, vegan cheesecake and banoffee pie. It’s all served with unlimited coffee or tea – including premium drinks like the charcoal latte and matcha tea. That makes their Prosecco add-on seem quite reasonable.

4.  The Atrium Lounge

Why go? For the airy, light-filled setting and inventive afternoon treats. Good weather is rare in Dublin, so make the most of it from the Atrium Lounge in the Westin Hotel, where afternoon tea is served with views of the sky above. But it’s not easy to take your eyes off the table; there are delicate finger sandwiches, cuts of moist cake and a bright array of tempting sweets decorated with edible flowers.

Price:  High-end

5.  The Westbury

Why go? For five-star elegance in a relaxed setting, veer off Grafton Street to find The Westbury , offering all the fanciness without the formality. Tea is served in its bright first-floor lounge, and it’s so huge that staff are usually happy to leave guests to catch up, leaf through magazines or people-watch for hours on end. Most importantly, they have an actual Champagne trolley.

Price:  Blowout

6.  The Shelbourne Hotel

Why go?  Get your posh on at this history-drenched five-star hotel. You’ll feel richer just by taking a plush velvet seat in the busy Lord Mayor’s Lounge alongside old-moneyed elders and affluent residents. The Shelbourne ’s elegant afternoon treats are mostly traditional but Irish twists – like the whiskey-cured salmon with Guinness bread – give the British version a run for its money.

7.  The Merrion Hotel

Why go? The Art Tea is almost too beautiful to eat. Almost. The precision-cut sandwiches and crumbly scones with homemade lemon curd and raspberry jam are impressive, but it’s the sweet course that’ll have you furiously Instagramming. It’s inspired by some of the 90 pieces of artwork around Dublin’s most formal hotel, making the Art Tea a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds.

8.  The Vintage Teapot

Why go?  Seconds from the hubbub of O’Connell Street, the Vintage Teapot is a homely east-meets-west tearoom filled with charming oriental paintings, antique teapots and silk cushions. Continuing the theme, their signature afternoon tea is presented in multi-tiered bird cages, in which you’ll find delicacies like blinis with lemon cream and smoked salmon, and crisp, chewy macaroons. Naturally, there’s an extensive range of traditional Chinese teas to sample, with the ancient, organic Yuan Baozi their speciali tea .

9.  The Cake Café

Why go?  Fuss-free afternoon tea, made with love. Tucked away down a back lane behind a stationery shop, the Cake Café is a dinky gem of a bohemian bakery. Their afternoon tea offers a mini-selection board of the day’s sandwiches and cakes, served with a glass of prosecco and a hot drink. To add to the Irishness, it might well come with soup. Because why not.

Price:  Budget

10.  The Dylan Hotel

Why go?  While away an afternoon in the bold contemporary setting of The Dylan . Well known as a neighbourhood hotspot for affluent Southsiders, this hotel’s afternoon tea is, unsurprisingly, rather good. Given the clientele and the cosy, exclusive atmosphere, the emphasis is more on enjoying an unhurried tea than indulging in carbs. But we’d dare anyone to leave a lick of their creamy white chocolate mousse.

Price?  High-end

11.  The Morrison Hotel

Why go?  Because fellas deserve afternoon tea indulgence, too. If finger sandwiches are too dainty for manly hands, The Morrison’s Gentlemen’s Tea is the answer. In the hotel’s stylish surrounds overlooking the Liffey, treats include a 3oz steak sandwich, paprika chips and a smoked rasher and cheddar scone, washed down with a bottle of Wicklow Wolf beer. They also accommodate special diets – just give them a heads-up.

12.  Vintage Tea Tour

Why go?  Perfect for multitaskers, tour Dublin’s sights while enjoying afternoon tea. Efficient or decadent? We can’t decide. Either way, the Vintage Tea Tour whizzes around Dublin on an actual 1961 Routemaster piped with jazz music, with a traditional afternoon tea served to all on board. Best of all, hot drinks are served in an unlikely-to-spill reusable mug that guests can keep. Bus tours will never feel the same again.

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

VINTAGE TEA TRIPS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

For something different: a delightful Dublin vintage tea tour

by Anne Betts | Jan 7, 2024 | Ireland | 0 comments

Tea and travel are a compatible combination. Adding a vintage double-decker bus and a ride through the streets of Dublin suggest a unique experience. A Dublin vintage tea tour  was one of my top things to do on a visit to the Irish capital.

Things to do in Dublin

The usual sights of Dublin made it to our list. The Kilmainham Gaol , the free Sandemans Dublin Walking Tour, Guinness Storehouse, EPIC Emigration Museum, Famine Memorial on Custom House Quay, Temple Bar District, Irish Whiskey Museum Tour, Trinity College, a traditional Irish meal at Darkey Kelly’s with live music, Christ Church Cathedral, Molly Malone statue, day trips from Dublin by train … yet there was something about a Vintage Tea Tour that captured my interest.

A Vintage Tea Tour felt different. It was a way to merge two of my favourite travel experiences — vintage public transport and a food tour — on a leisurely ride around the streets of Dublin.

Vintage public transport feels nostalgic. It takes us back to an earlier era of conductors, paper tickets, and open platforms. The 1961 Routemaster bus reminded me of the earlier versions of the red double-decker buses that dominated the streets of London when I lived there in the early 1970s.

Taking the plunge

I was visiting Dublin with three women friends. One was willing to indulge my enthusiasm for the tea tour. The others had more pressing interests.

Janet and I signed up for the tour.

A Dublin vintage tea tour

Passengers boarded through the platform at the back, and we were ushered to the top deck. Awaiting us was an array of treats promising a delectable experience.

Presiding over our two-person setting was a two-tiered tray containing a sumptuous arrangement of dainty crustless finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, jam, and clotted cream. A non-slip doily kept the table setting in place.

Our host, Megan, took our drink orders. One member on the tour chose, heaven forbid, COFFEE and was met with an appropriately delivered playful admonishment. Drinks were served in souvenir screw-top insulated cups, kept secure in circular wells set into each table.

Next came a lesson in scone etiquette. Megan explained how to correctly add layers of butter, strawberry jam, and clotted cream.

Thankfully, we weren’t graded on the results of the lesson. I gave the scones top marks for taste.

With 1950s jazz music playing in the background, Megan shared information on the sights and Dublin’s intriguing history. The informative commentary was interspersed with delightful Irish humour that added to the joyful ambience of the occasion.

Our non-stop vintage tea tour lasted about 90 minutes, starting from the EPIC Emigration Museum. We passed sights that included St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christchurch Cathedral, Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and the grand buildings of Georgian Dublin.

Good to know

On our tour, all passengers were seated on the upper deck. VIP Top Deck Seats are the front four seats. Adult seats are the remaining seats on both the upper and lower decks. Seats are sold on a first-booked, first-served basis, starting on the upper deck.

Currently, the tour begins in Temple Bar. It includes the Guinness Storehouse, Phoenix Park, O’Connell Street, Georgian Dublin, and Christchurch Cathedral. However, traffic, road works, and road closures are monitored and may affect the route.

The verdict?

I loved it.The tour was a different way to experience the city and it became one of my top things to do in Dublin. The commentary was engaging and entertaining while enjoying the delights of a traditional afternoon tea.

For more information, visit Vintage Tea Trips .

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one of the social media buttons. Is Ireland in your travel plans? If so, the following posts may be of interest:

• Don’t miss Kilmainham Gaol when visiting Dublin
• Tips on renting and driving a car in Ireland
• Visit Titanic Belfast where the legendary Titanic was designed and built

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This post is neither sponsored nor solicited, and I’ve received no rewards from the service provider. I paid the full fare for my ticket on the Vintage Tea Tour.

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Vintage Tea Tours

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price €31 to €50
• Cuisines Afternoon Tea
• Hours of operation Wed–Sun 1:15 pm–3:30 pm
• Phone number (01) 526 6961
• Website http://www.vintageteatours.ie/
• Payment options AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Casual Dress
• Catering Afternoon Tea<br />Traditional sandwiches<br />Fruit scones with clotted cream & jam<br />Sweet treats <br /> <br />A selection of teas & coffees<br /><br /><br />
• Location 1 Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin, Co. Dublin D01 T6K4
• Neighborhood Killester
• Parking details Park Rite - www.parkrite.ie/carparks/ifsc<br />Metered Street Parking available in The IFSC<br />
• Public transit Take the 14, 15, 27 bus to Amiens Street/Connolly Station<br /><br />Train<br />• From Connolly Station – 5 minute walk<br />• From Pearse Station or Tara Street Station – 7 minute walk<br /><br />Tram (LUAS)<br />• LUAS Red Line – George’s Dock stop<br />• LUAS Green Line - Cross to LUAS Red Line @ Marlborough stop to George's Dock stop
• Entertainment 1950's Jazz
• Additional Cafe, Entertainment, Gluten-free Options, High Tea, Non-Smoking, View, Weekend Brunch

Afternoon Tea Tour

Take a step back in time with Vintage Tea Tours and experience Dublin in a unique way. Climb on board, snuggle up and allow us treat you to a little bit of nostalgia. Enjoy our renowned Afternoon Tea delicacies, good conversation and tap along to some fabulous 1950's jazz. This is Afternoon Tea with a difference. This is an experience.There's no better way to experience the city than on our Vintage Routemaster.

Tours €40.00

We run three tours a day Wednesday through to Sunday at 11am, 1.15pm and 3.30pm. Takes approximately 1.5 hours. Please note there is no guided commentary but our team will share some of their personal favourite Dublin stories. Please ensure you arrive 15 minutes before departure time.

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1 Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin, Co. Dublin D01 T6K4

• Public transit Take the 14, 15, 27 bus to Amiens Street/Connolly StationTrain• From Connolly Station – 5 minute walk• From Pearse Station or Tara Street Station – 7 minute walkTram (LUAS)• LUAS Red Line – George’s Dock stop• LUAS Green Line - Cross to LUAS Red Line @ Marlborough stop to George's Dock stop
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Old Dundalk Society announce details of 2024 summer tour

T he Old Dundalk Society continues its long-time summer tour tradition, which for the past 40 years has become the highlight of the year for the society’s membership and friends alike. Over the years the tour has visited historical building and archaeological sites all over the island of Ireland, from Hillsborough Castle in Co Down to Trim Castle in Co Meath.

Times have changed over the 40 years of touring around Ireland. In times past patrons paid the princely sum of £5 for a day out which included dinner. Many hundreds of would-be historians from Dundalk and the surrounding area have enjoyed their ‘day out’ over the years and have many stories to tell of their adventures.

One story tells the tale of old bus returning from Dublin which was unable to negotiate Tullyesker Hill outside Drogheda. The unfortunate passengers were asked to vacate the bus and walk to allow the bus to negotiate the steep incline of the hill.

Of course, today’s tour passengers would never have to endure such hardship, and now the tour travels by luxury coach. The 2024 tour departing on Saturday June 8 offers a full day out to Co Cavan visiting Corravahan House and Gardens, a listed 1840s Georgian style house, a tour and visit to the ruins of Drumlane Abbey and round tower, a fascinating monastic site over 1500 years old. The final stop of the tour will be a visit to the award-winning Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff. where tour participants will also get an opportunity to see what life was like on the battlefield at the World War 1 Trench Experience.

Afterwords the tour will go directly to the 4-star Cavan Crystal Hotel, in Cavan Town for dinner before departing directly afterwards home.

The Society are so lucky to have the wonderful cooperation of one of Dundalk’s oldest retail outlets, Connell and Co. Drapers, Church Street who have been looking after our tour booking for 40 years.

The all-in tour subscription is ‎€75, included in this figure is coach fare, morning tea/coffee scones, dinner, entry fees and. all gratuities.

Get ahead of the day with the morning headlines at 7.30am and Fionnán Sheahan's exclusive take on the day's news every afternoon, with our free daily newsletter.

15 Obsession-Worthy Gifts for Olivia Rodrigo Fans

By Abby Jones

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

We can’t help it: We’re so “Obsessed” with all things Olivia Rodrigo . Aside from being ultra-talented and breaking numerous chart records, the “Vampire” singer also has excellent taste. There’s a whole breadth of options to choose from when it comes to picking out gifts for her fans.

Rodrigo stays busy. In the past year alone, she dropped Guts (Spilled) , the deluxe edition of her sophomore album; she joined No Doubt onstage to sing “Bathwater” at Coachella ; she even contributed to the Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes soundtrack with “Can’t Catch Me Now.” Not to mention she’s in the thick of her Guts World Tour , with newly added legs in Asia and Australia set to commence this fall. If you’re shopping for a Livie this graduation season – or year-round – we’ve narrowed down a few of our top picks that they’d love to receive.

Olivia Rodrigo ‘Guts’ Tour T-Shirt

Celebrate Rodrigo’s Guts concerts by gifting this Target-exclusive merch inspired by the singer-songwriter’s global trek.

Guts Tour Tickets

The best gift for Olivia Rodrigo fans is the chance to see Olivia Rodrigo herself. Once she wraps up the European leg of the Guts Tour on June 20 in Madrid, she’ll resume her North American dates on July 19 at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center. Following a four-night Los Angeles run, she’ll begin her first-ever Asia tour in Bangkok, Thailand on September 16 at the Impact Arena. For deals on tickets to upcoming shows, you can use our exclusive Rolling Stone promo code RS2024 on the Vivid Seats mobile app.

Customizable Pageant Sashes

These made-to-order customizable pageant sashes are inspired by Rodrigo’s recent “Obsessed” music video and are custom inscribed with a superlative of your choice. Not only would this fabulously top off a Guts Tour outfit, but it could also commemorate your honoree’s special occasion – “Miss Birthday Girl” or “Miss Graduate,” perhaps? Better yet, make it a themed party and order sashes for the entire friend crew.

Olivia Rodrigo x Rolling Stone Crop T-Shirt

If the person you’re shopping for can’t make it to a show, a shirt is the next-best way for them to proclaim their Livie loyalty. Rodrigo graced the cover of Rolling Stone in 2023, and celebrated the milestone with an exclusive run of Olivia Rodrigo x Rolling Stone garb . Pick up this screen-printed cropped T-shirt featuring iconic photography from John Yuyi.

‘Sour’ Target Exclusive Vinyl

Go back to where it all started with this Target exclusive vinyl LP of Rodrigo’s debut album, Sour . The record includes hits like “Drivers License” and “Good 4 U,” plus even features a Target exclusive poster and transparent blue vinyl. (Revisit Rolling Stone ‘s Sour album review .)

Sony LinkBuds S x Olivia Rodrigo Earbud Headphones

$148.00 $199.99 26% off

Rodrigo recently teamed up with Sony for an exclusive edition of their LinkBuds , available in her signature shade of cool violet, and they make a great gift. These eye-catching noise-canceling earbuds are wireless and lightweight for uninterrupted jam sessions. What’s more, they boast two custom EQs tuned by Rodrigo, optimized for both of her studio albums. Guts and Sour have quite literally never sounded better.

‘Guts’ Vinyl LP

$27.50 $29.99 8% off

Can you even be considered a true Livie without owning the Guts LP ? OK, probably – but we’re not going to take any chances here. With bangers like “Get Him Back!,” “Love Is Embarrassing,” and “Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl,” a copy of Guts on vinyl is sure to get tons of mileage on your loved one’s record player. (And if they need one of those, too, check out our turntable recommendations .)

Dr. Martens Clarissa II Leather Platform Sandals

With warmer weather quickly approaching, the Clarissa IIs from Dr. Martens could be a useful addition to your giftee’s wardrobe. These strappy platform Docs capture the star’s style and the edgy essence of the brand’s classic boots alike.

Gemini Jewels “Orion” Star Necklace

One of Rodrigo’s fashion trademarks is silver statement jewelry, and luckily for those of us without a pop star’s paycheck, you can rock your own similar look with a piece from budget-friendly, L.A.-based shop Gemini Jewels. They offer plenty of trendy options for everyone on your shopping list, but you can’t go wrong with this gemstone-studded “Orion” star choker .

Silver Initial Rings

$6.66 $8.88 25% off

And while we’re on the topic of jewelry, what collection is complete without a good ring stack? Just one of these adjustable init i al rings would make enough of a statement on its own, but you could also take a page out of Rodrigo’s book and get your Livie a set of four rings spelling “GUTS” – or their favorite four-letter word – for a bolder look.  

Best Choice Products Full-Size Beginner Acoustic Guitar Set

No need to be “Scared of My Guitar” when this is the guitar in question. This acoustic beginner set from Best Choice Products comes with everything a first-timer needs to start strumming, including a gig bag, strap, capo, and tuner. With a price tag that can’t be beat, reviewers praise its sound quality, its ease of use, and its good looks; the 10 color options are a nice bonus.

Phantasy ‘I’m Just a Girl’ Tank Top

Want to find your own white ribbed tank like Rodrigo sports on stage? Look to small business Phantasy. We’re partial to the “I’m Just a Girl” slogan – a tribute to Gwen Stefani – and we think the O. Rod fan you’re shopping for will be, too.

‘Guts’ Target Exclusive CD

If the Livie on your list already has the Guts vinyl, why not complete their collection with this Target-exclusive CD release? Bonus: It even comes with an exclusive poster.

No Doubt T-Shirt

$23.80 $28 15% off

This vintage-looking No Doubt T-shirt is sure to get some use in a Livie’s closet, especially after Rodrigo performed with Stefani at Coachella. If your giftee is already stocked up on Guts Tour merch, why not branch out with a shirt repping another Rodrigo-approved throwback artist?

Doopz Olivia Rodrigo ‘Guts’ Album Cover Poster

What piece of home decor is cooler than a band poster? This chic Olivia Rodrigo poster features the Guts tracklist, Rodrigo’s signature, and an official photo with a tasteful splash of purple. It comes in a variety of sizes and framing options, so your giftee can use it to fill out an eclectic gallery wall or let it be a statement all on its own. Maybe it’ll even inspire the person you’re shopping for to write their own “Drivers License.”

In need of more Livie gift ideas? Marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon have plenty of additional gift options to choose from. You can also check out our wrap-up of Guts Tour outfit ideas for more inspiration.

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