Festive afternoon tea in The Westbury...sounds like the dream day out.

Now that Halloween is over and November is here, the Christmas cheer has already started and there's no escaping it from Santa decorations in the shops to festive memes dominating social media. While it does seem ridiculously early, we do love a good afternoon tea and the news that one of Dublin's most-loved hotels is launching a festive offering has us more than a little excited. While there are some savoury delicacies including the Smoked Turkey Breast salad, pastries are the main event here...exactly as it should be, we say. There's the Christmas Snowman crafted from white chocolate and coconut tart; Choux pastries filled with Gianduja pastry crème and Mascarpone Chantilly; and a Christmas Opera cake, a divine creation of pistachio, raspberry and caramel.  YUM. Available from €55 per person and if you'd like to include some bubbles, it's from €70 pp when served with Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NVor Perrier - Jouët Blason Rosé NV. Of course, a hot drink would be most welcome after an evening of battling the Christmas crowds on Grafton street and there's also a flambé Irish Coffee available in WILDE, The Westbury's gorgeous restaurant just beside The Gallery where afternoon tea is served. Prepared at the table, it's a visual delight and of course, the perfect Instagram opportunity...if that's your thing. There's also the option of a vegan afternoon tea including sandwiches but with a spectacular twist (guacamole tostada with black bean, chilli and coriander and/or tofu and Asian cabbage slaw) and dessert options too. The Festive Afternoon Tea is available from November 18 until January 6 and we have to say, it sounds like the ideal way to treat yourself after a busy day of prepping for the most wonderful time of the year. Festive Afternoon Tea can be booked directly with the hotel on 01 6463311 or emailchristmas_westbury@doylecollection.com