Drink

Sunflower Public House – a real corner pub, free of gimmicks, with some of the friendliest bar staff in Belfast. Well stocked craft beers, ales, ciders, and spirits. And if you’re peckish, check out their wood fired pizzas.

The Black Box – Well worth checking out the busy performance schedule at this arts venue. The Green Room café and bar has a changing craft on tap menu. It’s also a gallery, with monthly exhibitions, and some of work is available to buy.

The John Hewitt – A more traditional style bar with Irish music nights, owned by The Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre. An extra feel-good reason to visit

The Duke of York/Commercial Court/Murals Square – Nestled along a narrow cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area, the Duke offers a traditional Belfast welcome of craic, music and humour. Check out the street art in the courtyard outside. An instantly Instagram-able location!

Harp Bar – A proper pub with a huge Belfast Spirit, nibble on local dulse (seaweed), while you peruse their extensive whiskey menu. Often live acoustic music in the bar, and a music venue upstairs hosting home-grown talent.

Ulster Sports Club – Unique and quirky, this tardis-like venue has gained popularity over the last few years as a place to go and regularly hosts live music and events. Whether you just want to chill or play a game or two of pool, this is a cool bar that has embraced the former social club’s retro feel.

Bert’s Jazz Bar – at the Merchant Hotel will take you back to the glamour of the 1930’s New York and the Jazz Age in Belfast. Sophisticated atmosphere, a handpicked list of cocktails and an extensive drinks selection, often with live jazz music.

Kelly’s Cellars – Built in 1720, Kelly’s is Belfast’s oldest traditional Irish pub. It’s famous for the best pint of Guinness in Belfast, served with homemade Irish beef stew. Located on Bank Square, a short skip from Royal Avenue.

The Crown Liquor Saloon – A traditional pub dating back to 1826 and now owned by the National Trust. You might be lucky enough to get a seat in one of the snugs! Known for its eclectic range of real ales and its heartily classic pub food. Located opposite The Europa Hotel, and close to The Grand Opera House

The Garrick – retaining its Victorian charm in the front bar, with a relaxed back bar and restaurant, the Garrick is a hidden gem. It hosts regular DJ nights and live music and screens most of the top sporting fixtures. A short walk  east from Belfast City Hall

Maddens Bar – exterior walls adorned with street art Maddens is one of the oldest traditional bars in the city. A warm welcome is always assured in the establishment which survived many years of the Troubles in Belfast and often features folk music, both planned and spontaneous as musicians gather, the craic is mighty!  A short walk from Bank Square

Lavery’s – a Belfast institution and the city’s oldest family owned pub, this sprawling complex includes several bar areas, a pool room with 18 tables, roof terrace, several outdoor spaces and now includes The Woodworkers.

Town Square – A 300 seater café bar and a very popular spot for brunch, lunch, dinner, beer and cocktails! Check out the fully-covered outdoor booths for some people watching on the busy Botanic Avenue. Located opposite The Empire

The Belfast Empire Music Hall – Not only a key Festival location but also features three floors of bars and music, including blues, rock, jazz and traditional Irish acts, plus comedy.

The Jeggy Nettle – For whiskey lovers, coffee drinkers, dog walkers, pint pals and everything in between. Located in Stranmillis, a short walk south of Queens and Botanic Gardens