No visit to Northern Ireland is complete without visiting a local Irish pub. From cosy, traditional pubs to lively city bars, they’re at the heart of Irish culture. Whether you’re after a requisite pint of Guinness, delicious food or live music, you’ll find that – along with a warm welcome – in a Belfast pub.
One of the beauties of Belfast is that many of its best pubs are right in the heart of the city centre. Here, we’ll share our insider tips to help you have a great night out in Belfast city centre’s best bars and pubs.
What is the most well-known pub in Belfast?
It has to be The Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street. If you’re going to pick just one pub to tick off your list in Belfast, this is it.
The Crown Liquor Saloon was built in 1826 and has retained much of its traditional Victorian design. Take in its polychromatic exterior tiles, carved wood, stained glass, snugs (private booths) and gas lighting for starters. Whilst it feels like you’ve stepped into a bygone era, it still has a great buzz and real charm. Grab a pint of Guinness or local craft beer, soak up the atmosphere and take your time to notice the incredible Victorian details.
Our tip is to go earlier in the evening if you want a seat and more relaxed vibe. Later at night it gets pretty busy.
What are the must-visit pubs in Belfast for a first-time visitor?
If you’re a first-time visitor to Belfast city centre, you’d do well to visit the Crown Liquor Saloon for its wonderful blend of history and local culture. As a first time Belfast pub experience, it’s a great one.
But, the Duke of York on Commercial Court in the Cathedral Quarter is another great example of a wonderful Irish pub and a must-see for first time visitors. It’s a lively, authentic Belfast pub where you feel part of the local scene. Rich in pub memorabilia and an awful lot of original mirrors, there’s a lot to catch your eye as you look around this traditional pub.
Yes, it serves pints of Guinness and ale. But it’s also known for its impressive selection of Irish whiskeys.
What are the top-rated pubs to visit in Belfast?
Look through Belfast travel guides and most agree that these are the best pubs in the city centre. If you’re after a fine drink and great craic, check out these wonderful establishments.
- Kelly’s Cellars: For over 250 years, this Belfast’s city centre has been serving up good beer and a friendly atmosphere. As one of Belfast’s oldest pubs, it’s full of character and charm. You can catch live music here too.
- Maddens Bar: Maddens is instantly recognisable due to the vibrant mural on its exterior. But inside is pretty eye-catching too as its festooned with Irish memorabilia, vintage signage and posters. Some say it serves the best Guinness around.
- White’s Tavern: Another of Belfast’s oldest pubs, on first appearance White’s Tavern seems like a cosy traditional pub. And it is, in the tavern. But after a recent refurb, it now boasts
a relaxing outdoor space, a beer hall complete with roaring fire and great pub food, and Northern Ireland’s first Guinness-only bar! - Bittles Bar: You’ll be struck by the building’s distinct frontage and flatiron shape. This pub dates back to the 1860s when it was known as The Shakespeare. Its heritage is evident inside too where unique features abound.
- Harp Bar: This place is full of character and characters. You’ll hear brilliant stories between these memorabilia-filled walls. It was once a bonded warehouse for Old Bushmills Distillery. The décor leans into that heritage with plush red-velvet fabrics and antique furnishings.
And of course, it has an extensive selection of Irish whiskeys.
What are the top-rated pubs in Belfast for live music?
Live music’s a big part of the Belfast city centre scene. You’ll find traditional Irish music bands along with contemporary rock stars in venues across the city. Settling down with a cold pint of Guinness in a traditional pub and enjoying local talent playing live music is such a pleasurable way to spend an evening in Belfast.
- The Sunflower: This is a great pub for live music, open daily for local acts. If you want somewhere with live music and local energy, The Sunflower’s a top pick.
- The Dirty Onion: This venue on Hill Street has one of the biggest beer gardens around. It hosts live music and entertainment every night of the week. And it’s free entry too. Head here to discover the best in contemporary local talent along with traditional Irish music too.
- Winnie’s cafe bar: Don’t forget, we host live music sessions by local musicians every night at 6pm in room2 Belfast. Head to our on-site bar for a pint of Guinness, a local lager, a fine selection of wines and fantastic cocktails along with incredible live music.
Enjoy your night out at a Belfast pub (or two)
Belfast city centre – The Cathedral Quarter in particular – boasts a brilliant selection of excellent Irish pubs and bars. You’re spoiled for choice. Luckily, many are located near each other so you can easily sample several on your night out.
Our traditional pubs give you more than just a pint. You get history, atmosphere, live music and a genuine feel of Belfast’s pub culture. They can get busy, so it’s a good idea to get there early if you want a seat. Irish pubs are social spaces. Take your time to chat to the bar staff and locals, and soak in the atmosphere. Then, you’ll discover the craic that this city is known for.
room2 Belfast is located in heart of the city centre and within easy reach of these brilliant pubs and bars. Book your stay with us and enjoy everything Belfast has to offer.