This August, Belfast will become the centre of the traditional Irish music world as the city hosts Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Music and song will spill from festival venues to streets, squares and, naturally, into some of Belfast's best-loved pubs.

From centuries-old historic taverns to lively modern venues, you could spend a week exploring the pubs in Belfast and still leave with a long list of places to visit the next time. Whether you're here for a weekend, staying for the duration of the Fleadh or simply looking for the best place in Belfast to grab a great pint, this guide highlights some of the city's must-visit pubs and bars, along with what makes them worthwhile seeing.

Many already have long-standing reputations as hubs for live music, while others offer the perfect setting to either relax and unwind, or continue the celebrations long into the night. During the Fleadh week, several of these venues are also likely to host traditional music sessions and live performances, so be sure to follow your ears as closely as this guide.

In This Guide

 

The Crown Liquor Saloon

Perfect for: Victorian grandeur, historic snugs and first-time visitors

One of Belfast's most recognisable buildings, The Crown Liquor Saloon is one of the finest surviving Victorian pubs anywhere in the UK or Ireland. Dating back to the early 1800s, it still retains that unique old-world charm with its elaborate exterior, ornate ceilings, mosaic floors and the famous 'snugs' - each complete with the original antique bell system for calling bar staff.

A Grade A listed building that's currently owned by the National Trust, even visitors with no particular interest in pubs often make a point of stepping inside. The atmosphere can be busy at peak times, but it remains one of the best places in Belfast to soak up the city's history while enjoying a quality pint and freshly shucked oysters.

Good to know: Located directly opposite the Europa Hotel and a short walk from Grand Central Station, making it an easy first or last stop during your stay.

Kelly's Cellars

Perfect for: Traditional music, history and old Belfast atmosphere

Established in 1720, Kelly's Cellars is recognised as Belfast's oldest traditional pub and is famous for its original features, regular traditional music and storytelling sessions, as well as its historic ties to the Society of United Irishmen.

Its whitewashed walls, low ceilings and open fireplaces remain largely unchanged, creating a cosy atmosphere that feels like literally stepping back in time. There's a large outdoor seating area that hosts regular live music, and the pub is also known for a quality pint of Guinness and hearty food including Irish stew.

Good to know: The pub sits next door to the Mourne Seafood Bar, a great spot for dinner after drinks.

Bittles Bar

Perfect for: Pub heritage, premium whiskeys and local character

With its distinctive flatiron shape and triangular interior - with walls adorned with eclectic artworks that celebrate the island of Ireland's literary, sporting and political figures - Bittles Bar is unlike anywhere else in the city. Its ethos is refreshingly old-school: no food, no live music, just a focus on good drinks, good conversation and the unique character of one of Belfast's most iconic pubs.

Centrally-located and stocked with an excellent selection of beers, ales and spirits, it's also renowned as one of the city's top spots for a great pint of Guinness.

Good to know: With over 100 whiskies behind the bar, Bittles is ideal for those looking to sample something beyond the usual pint.

The Duke of York

Perfect for: Cathedral Quarter atmosphere and classic Belfast pub culture

Located in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, the Duke of York manages to be both a visitor favourite and a Belfast institution. The cobbled lane outside, decorated with its iconic colourful umbrellas and murals, has become one of the city's most photographed corners and a must-visit for anyone grabbing a snap for the 'gram.

Inside, you'll find fascinating decor with thousands of items of memorabilia, antique mirrors and photographs covering the walls, alongside a classic warm welcome and a wide selection of beers, ales, wines and whiskies. It works equally well as a daytime stop, or as part of an evening exploring the rest of the Cathedral Quarter area.

Good to know: Evenings offer an incredible atmosphere, but aim for an early daytime visit if you want to grab a seat and take in the decor.

The Dirty Onion

Perfect for: Live music, outdoor socialising and groups

Set within one of Belfast's oldest surviving buildings, The Dirty Onion has become a focal point for live music in the Cathedral Quarter. Blending a classic Belfast pub atmosphere with lively modern energy, contemporary live bands and acoustic acts feature regularly alongside traditional sessions, while the spacious beer garden makes it a great option for groups.

Inside, the pub features a rustic interior with exposed wooden beams and the original brick walls. You can sit and enjoy a drink by the open peat fire, or grab a bite to eat at the upstairs restaurant Yardbird.

Good to know: The pub is dog friendly and offers a bespoke menu for pets, including treats and even dog friendly beer.

The Empire Music Hall

Perfect for: Live gigs, comedy and a legendary Belfast night out

Originally a Victorian-era church, The Belfast Empire is now one of Belfast's best-known live entertainment venues. Spread across two floors, it hosts everything from comedy gigs to rock concerts, club nights to folk performances and more.

A popular spot to grab a drink, a bite to eat and to watch live sports during the day, the venue will also host a number of official Fleadh Cheoil events throughout the festival week. Be sure to check the programme early, as special performances are likely to sell out quickly.

Good to know: Current gig listings and upcoming comedy nights can be found via the Empire's official website.

The Dark Horse

Perfect for: Coffee, cocktails and admiring the quirky decor

A quirky, antique-filled coffee house and bar tucked away in the Cathedral Quarter, The Dark Horse combines the character of a traditional Victorian-era Belfast pub with an eclectic and striking interior. Home to one of the famous Game of Thrones Doors, it also hosts regular live music sessions and is a popular stop for visitors and locals alike.

To the rear, the bar features a large outdoor courtyard covered in murals of historical and cultural figures, alongside famous quotes and Irish poetry. Alongside local beers and ciders, it also serves exclusive Lusso coffee and a food menu that includes soup, sandwiches, homemade scones and traybakes.

Good to know: A great option for visitors who enjoy traditional pub surroundings but are also looking for wider drinks options.

The Sunflower Public House

Perfect for: Alternative Belfast, outdoor beer garden and wood-fired pizza

The Sunflower Public House has earned a devoted following thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, eclectic music and arts programme and strong connection to Belfast's creative community. One of its most distinctive features is the heavy security cage that still stands at the entrance, a rare surviving reminder of a very different era in the city's history.

Alongside regular live music and one of Belfast's best beer gardens, visitors can also enjoy handmade wood-fired pizzas from the on-site pizza kitchen, which have become almost as popular as the pub itself.

Good to know: Situated in the heart of the city's vibrant street art scene, take time to see the dozens of colourful murals on Union Street and neighbouring Kent Street.

The Morning Star

Perfect for: Excellent pub grub and local seafood

A Grade 2 listed Victorian building, and one of the only buildings in this area of the city to survive the Belfast Blitz, The Morning Star still maintains many of its original features including the vast mahogany bar and terrazzo flooring.

Tucked into the historic Pottinger's Entry just a short walk away from City Hall and the Cathedral Quarter, it's also home to one of the city's most respected pub kitchens. The ideal spot for visitors looking for more than a quick bite between events, it serves up fresh seafood and classic pub dishes made using local ingredients, and also boasts a large selection of local craft gins.

Good to know: An excellent lunch stop if you're spending the day moving between venues and performances.

The John Hewitt

Perfect for: Real ales, local craft beer and regular live music

A favourite among Belfast beer lovers, The John Hewitt has built its reputation on quality pints and its warm, unpretentious atmosphere. Live music including traditional sessions is a frequent fixture, while the pub's relaxed surroundings make it just as appealing for a quiet afternoon pint as an evening out.

The bar is particularly well known for its range of real ales and ever-changing selection of local craft beers. Alongside familiar favourites, you'll often find seasonal brews and more adventurous offerings on tap. Named after the poet and Freeman of Belfast, John Hewitt, the pub is owned by the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre, with profits helping to support its community work.

Good to know: Franky's Lasagneria operates an in-house pop-up kitchen from Tuesday to Sunday, serving a menu of Italian street food favourites.

Explore More Food & Drink In Northern Ireland

For many visitors, Fleadh Cheoil 2026 will be the perfect introduction to Belfast's food, drink and music scene, but while the city's historic pubs are a great place to start, they're only one part of the story. From historic distilleries to contemporary cocktail bars and award-winning restaurants, there's plenty more to discover across Belfast and beyond.

So while you're here for the Fleadh, be sure to make time to explore a little further. You never know where you'll find your new favourite pub, the best meal of your trip, or the session you'll still be talking about long after the festival has ended.