Stories | Christmas
The Merry Tree: Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Christmas Gatherings at Rathwood
Whether you've just finished the woodland walk, said hello to the deer or survived a morning at the Ark, the Merry Tree is where the day slows down. A good coffee, a proper lunch and something sweet before the drive home.
The Merry Tree has had a refresh, and it now has its own home online at merrytree.ie. Here's what's on.
Good food, easy moments
The Merry Tree is open every day, 10am–4pm, and walk-ins are always welcome.
- Carvery-style lunches. Hearty, home-style plates with no booking needed. Perfect after a walk in the woods.
- Seasonal plates. A menu that changes with the seasons, made for family lunches and weekend gatherings.
- Coffee and cake. Freshly baked treats, scones and desserts. Guests regularly mention the fruit scones.
Our new menu is on its way, so keep an eye on merrytree.ie.
Afternoon tea
Delicate sandwiches, freshly baked treats and something sweet to finish. It's made for birthdays, catch-ups and "just because" afternoons.
- €19 per person
- €25 per person with a glass of Prosecco
Please book at least 24 hours ahead so we can have everything ready for you. A small deposit secures your table and comes off your bill on the day. Let us know about any dietary needs when you book.
Find out more about afternoon tea →
Planning a Christmas get-together?
Groups of 8 or more can book a table ahead, which is ideal for office lunches, family reunions and festive catch-ups.
For something bigger, the Shillelagh Room is our private function room:
- Seats up to 50 guests
- €150 for the day, including tea, coffee, biscuits and water
- Free Wi-Fi, plus a projector and screen
- Soup and sandwiches can be added
It suits Christmas parties, team meetings, birthdays, christenings, communions and showers. Christmas dates are already being asked about, so get in touch early.
Make a day of it
The Merry Tree is the perfect stop in the middle of a day at Rathwood:
- Morning: Park for free, take the 2.5km or 5km trail through Fox's Park and visit the Deer Park. Deer food is available at reception.
- Lunch: Walk into the Merry Tree for lunch, no booking needed.
- Afternoon: Try the Maze of Ireland, let the kids loose at the Ark Playcentre, or settle in for afternoon tea.
This winter, the Santa Train is back too. Lunch at the Merry Tree before or after makes it a full Christmas day out.
Find us
The Merry Tree, Rathwood, Rath East, Tullow, Co. Carlow
Open daily, 10am–4pm. Some weekends before Christmas we're open until 5pm.
