The Lady Ardilaun Afternoon Tea Experience

This December, Ashford Castle will host a themed festive afternoon tea that pays tribute to Lady Ardilaun on the 100th anniversary of her passing. Available from 1st December 2025 to 5th January 2026, this experience invites guests to step into the world of the Guinness family and explore their rich history through the culinary lens of Lady Ardilaun’s legendary hospitality.

Along with her husband, Sir Arthur Guinness, Lady Ardilaun transformed the estate into one of Ireland’s most elegant and carefully curated country residences. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lady Ardilaun devoted immense energy to landscaping the grounds, commissioning extensive tree planting, lakeside walks, and ornate gardens that still define the castle’s character today. Known for her love of horticulture and her philanthropic spirit, she helped shape Ashford Castle not only as a symbol of refinement but also as a cultural and social hub in the west of Ireland.

Having once hosted the most distinguished of guests at Ashford Castle, Lady Ardilaun also had an incredible talent for making everyone feel at home. The afternoon tea experience, designed by Executive Head Chef Liam Finnegan in collaboration with Dr Kevin Egan, Guinness family historian, draws on Lady Ardilaun’s legacy of refined gatherings and the family's love for nature, family, and tradition. The team has crafted a menu inspired by the timeless flavours and stories that shaped Ashford Castle and its enduring connection to the Guinness family:

Clementine Mousse & Shortbread Biscuit

A warm welcome to Ashford Castle always began with tea and a biscuit. So beloved was tea in the Guinness household that Bryan Guinness, Lady Ardilaun’s grandnephew, brought back a cherished blend from China on his honeymoon, which was served for over 40 years.

Choux Bun with Orchard Apples

Made using apples from the Guinness estate's orchard, this pastry evokes the family’s strong connection to the land they cultivated and cherished, capturing their love for fresh, local produce.

Redcurrant Mousse with Spiced Notes

Inspired by the redcurrants that have flourished on the Ashford Estate for over 150 years, this dessert pays homage to Lady Ardilaun’s fondness for the fruit. Infused with gentle notes of cinnamon, clove, and star anise, it reflects both her love of simple estate-grown produce and the warmth of her celebrated hospitality.

Valrhona Chocolate with Guinness Foreign Extra

Rich, bold, and robust, this pairing nods to the Guinness Foreign Extra which is the oldest type of Guinness still sold today, dating all the way back to 1801. A perfect end to a wonderful experience.

Served in The Connaught Room of the castle, once the Drawing Room of the Guinness family, the Lady Ardilaun Afternoon Tea promises an atmosphere of festive grace and timeless indulgence. You can choose from seasonal teas, bioorganic teas, or a winter drink inspired by the produce and seasonal flavours of the estate.

Guests will be surrounded by the warmth of the fires and Christmas decorations, making it a perfect treat to share with loved ones or the perfect prelude to a winter stay at Ashford Castle.

Prices start at €78 per person, with a 15% service charge. Reservations are essential, as this is a limited experience available for a short time only.

Beyond afternoon tea, guests can enjoy all that Ashford Castle has to offer during the festive season. From winter walks through the 350-acre estate to indulgent spa experiences and fine dining, every moment at the castle is designed to capture the magic of Christmas in the west of Ireland. Whether relaxing by the fire, exploring the estate’s rich history, or simply taking in the beauty of Lough Corrib, a stay at Ashford Castle promises timeless memories in Ireland’s most enchanting setting.