Muckross Park Hotel Afternoon Tea

Muckross Park Hotel serves afternoon tea daily in Monk’s Lounge, set inside Killarney National Park a short walk from Muckross House. It is a step up from a casual cafe stop, run by Executive Chef Scott Kapitan’s kitchen, and works well as a way to break up a day of walking the park’s lakeside trails or visiting the traditional farms.

What to Expect

The spread follows the classic three-tier format: delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones served with preserves and cream, and artisan pastries from the hotel’s own pastry section, paired with fine teas by Ronnefeldt. Sittings run daily at either 1pm or 3pm, and an optional champagne enhancement can be added for anyone marking an occasion. The hotel asks for 24 hours’ notice to book, and cancellations inside that window are charged €35 per person, so it is worth locking in a slot rather than turning up on spec, particularly in peak summer when the lounge fills quickly.

Good to Know

• Days: daily
• Times: 1:00pm or 3:00pm sittings
• Venue: Monk’s Lounge, Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, Muckross, Killarney
• Price: €45 per person, with an optional champagne upgrade
• Booking: online at muckross-park-hotel.tablepath.com, by phone on +353 (0)64 66 23400, or by email to reservations@muckrosspark.com; 24 hours’ notice required

Getting There

Muckross is about a 10 to 15 minute drive or taxi from Killarney town centre, on the road into Killarney National Park, with hotel parking on site. The hotel is also on the Killarney National Park jaunting car and cycle routes, so it is a realistic stop for anyone touring the park by bike or on foot rather than only by car.

While You’re in Killarney

Muckross House and Gardens, Muckross Abbey and the traditional farms are all within easy walking distance, making the hotel a natural lunch or tea stop mid-walk rather than a destination on its own. The lakeside path around Muckross Lake and the walk to Torc Waterfall are both close by for anyone wanting to work up an appetite first. There is more to see in Killarney and across Co. Kerry.