Afternoon tea at Culloden Estate and Spa is the real deal. The former Bishop of Down’s residence and 19th-century manor house boasts classic elegance, sweeping views of its 12-acre grounds and Belfast Lough.

I happened to be there on Mother’s Day. This was my first time in Belfast, and I was already in love with this bucolic sanctuary, perfectly located on the outskirts of the city yet just 10 minutes from the action. You can read the full account of my stay here.

This was a special tea, to be sure. Afternoon tea is normally served in Vespers, the elegant dining room which doubles as the main restaurant, but on Mother’s Day the demand was such that tea was also being served in the drawing room and gallery. Mother’s Day is the busiest day of the year for afternoon tea in any establishment that offers it, and the kind folks at Culloden were more than ready for us.

Our tea was impeccable — an extra-special accolade given the sheer volume of guests being served that day.

As an afternoon tea stickler, I was delighted to see the tea served in the traditional order, although there was so much food, the sandwiches had to be served on a separate plate! I was thrilled to be given my favorite starter: a glass of Prosecco.

The savory tier included a mini Stilton and thyme sausage roll, and a selection of sandwiches on Irwin’s breads: Northern-Irish chicken, lettuce and spiced mayonnaise; Irish roast beef, rocket (arugula), and Pommery mustard; cucumber and cream cheese; and egg mayonnaise and cress.

I love to see a mini sausage roll included in afternoon tea. This was a classic touch, complemented by the fact that the sandwiches hadn’t been messed with too much. The quality of the ingredients was allowed to shine. I’ve had teas where there has been an earnest attempt to reinvent the wheel with sandwich fillings, and there really is no need.

Our scones were traditional plain, as well as raspberry and white chocolate, served with Erin Grove preserves and clotted cream.

Personally, I think macarons are de rigueur at afternoon tea. I am still dreaming of the exquisite rosewater macarons we were served that day. I might have to ask nicely (read: “beg”) for the recipe.

Said macarons were accompanied by miniature lemon meringues, pistachio éclairs, opera cake, and a white chocolate and strawberry mousse. It was the perfect mix of afternoon tea flavors.

Aside from the Prosecco, we chose from a selection of loose-leaf teas from Thompson’s. Coffee drinkers can enjoy a choice of estate blends.

Please note that this was a special menu for Mother’s Day, but the current afternoon tea is every bit as stunning.

Let me tell you about dining in general at Culloden. Local ingredients are taken very seriously — so seriously that when you go to breakfast at Vespers, you’ll find a booklet on your table detailing the provenance of everything you are eating.

Northern Ireland has only six counties, so ingredients hail from less than two hours away, not just for Vespers but also for the Culta Inn, the excellent pub/restaurant on Culloden’s grounds.

At the end of our meal, our leftover goodies were boxed (there was no way we could finish everything), and we went back to the stunning Bishops Suite where we were staying. Shortly afterwards, there was a knock at the door announcing the delivery of even more treats. Dinner became a sugar fest. We were far too full to contemplate the fabulous options at Vespers or the Culta Inn.

Next time I go to Culloden Estate, I’m trying the Spa-tisserie, which combines a 50-minute treatment with afternoon tea in the spa. At a very reasonable £135 per person, this is a lovely way for a couple or friends to spend time together.

It breaks my heart that Northern Ireland is so often overlooked on visits to the Emerald Isle. Next time you’re planning a trip there, base yourself at Culloden and give yourself time to explore. Belfast is a UNESCO City of Music, with a vibrant musical heritage and an increasingly exciting contemporary scene, while the Causeway Coast offers some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenery. Make time for the Giant’s Causeway and the dramatic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, too. Culloden Estate and Spa is a Virtuoso property, so I am very well equipped to help you plan a visit.

Hours: Daily, 1:30 PM to 3 PM.

Reservations needed: 24 hours in advance.

Price: £45; £57 with a glass of Prosecco.

Children’s tea: £26.

Special diets: Vegan and gluten-free are accommodated. Please advise when reserving.

Dress code: Officially “smart casual,” but it’s always nice to dress up to match the lovely surroundings.

Do I recommend? That would be a heartfelt yes.