Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Mary McBride's
Cushendun

You are here: Home > Food & Drink > Bars & Pubs

Places to Drink: Best Pubs in Northern Ireland

There’s no better way to find out about local life than in a local pub. Northern Ireland’s got all kinds - from those with ancient history to the new kids on the block. So settle in, strike up a conversation and make yourself at home.

Historic and Famous Pubs in Belfast

For sheer exuberance, there’s nowhere quite like The Crown Liquor Saloon. Originally a Victorian gin palace, it has a ceiling in primrose yellow, red and gold, an intricate mosaic-tiled floor, brocaded walls and beautifully etched glass. A testament to the skills of the Italian craftsmen who, brought to Belfast to work on the area’s churches, stayed to create something a little more worldly. It also has a fine line in real ales, hearty pub food and an equally hearty welcome. Plus cosy snugs – still with their original metal plates for striking matches.

The Duke of York, down a narrow cobbled alleyway, is famous for its huge selection of Irish whiskeys and traditional music. Modern music is made here too. This is where internationally-acclaimed local band Snow Patrol played their first gig.

The best of Belfast pubs come with a whole lot of history and Henry’s is no exception. Named after Henry Joy McCracken, Belfast industrialist and United Irishman, it does great traditional food, music and locally brewed beers. You’ll find McHugh’s Bar under the Albert Clock, in Belfast’s dock area. Just across the street from the Custom House where Jim Larkin addressed the crowds during the 1907 Dock Strike, it’s now firmly part of Belfast’s modern culture.

Kelly’s Cellars was built in 1720 and not a lot has changed since. You’ll certainly find the same old-fashioned hospitality, along with traditional music, a pint and homemade Irish stew. A more recent arrival is The John Hewitt. Unique among Belfast pubs, it’s an enterprise owned by The Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre and named for the poet, socialist and Freeman of Belfast.

Traditional Pubs in County Antrim

Musicians from all over the world have played at The Crosskeys Inn, 30 minutes from Belfast. The oldest thatched pub in Northern Ireland, stepping over the threshold is stepping back in time. In the past, it’s been a coaching inn, a shop, a post office and a bar, now stocked with its own legendary Crosskeys Inn Irish Whiskey. A mere child by comparison, The Thatch Inn has only stood in the pretty village of Broughshane since 1773. A great spot for food too, it’s a firm favourite with climbers descending Slemish, in the Antrim Hills – once home to St. Patrick.

At Ballymena’s Smoking Monkey, beside The Grouse Restaurant and Bar, two impressively large monkeys greet you. Created by a metalworker from the famous Game of Thrones® sets, they’re an interesting spot for a selfie. Also in town, celebrity favourite The Front Page does tradition with a modern twist. Next to the former newspaper offices, its walls are adorned with front pages from years gone by. Gleno’s Billy Andy’s mixes a traditional pub with contemporary food. And, at Matties Meeting House, the Steak and Guinness Pie goes down a treat with the fine selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Cider, Music and Pubs in Armagh

Armagh city’s Hole in the Wall pub was a jail in a former life, yet it still manages to be surprisingly cosy. It’s full of local character, and local characters who are always happy to make some new visiting friends. It’s also a popular music venue and, apparently, home to a ghost.

If you’re after some more local flavour, Keegan’s Bar & Restaurant hits the spot. As does the locally sourced food it serves, along with a helping of Irish ‘craic’. And if you like the sound of that, wait till you hear the live music.

Further afield, there’s Digby’s Bar and Restaurant in Killylea. It started life in 1910 as a pub and greengrocers and is now an award-winning gastro pub. Basil Shiels Bar and Restaurant is another favourite. And, of course, this is Orchard County. So be sure to try some of Armagh’s wonderful local ciders as you go.

Pubs and Bars on the Causeway Coastal Route

In the village of Cushenden, Mary McBride’s Bar is packed with character, music and interesting stories – many of them about its one-time landlady, Mary McBride herself. Monday nights here are quiz night. A perfect chance to quiz the locals about those old tales.

Northern Ireland’s highest bar, the Ponderosa is loved for its fresh seafood, local dishes and natural charm. And old meets new in seaside Ballycastle where the revamped Fullerton Arms offers a selection of Bushmills whiskeys, craft beers and gin.

Reputedly serving the best pint of Guinness in North Antrim, music nights at O’Connor’s Bar attract the best of local up-and-coming talent. Be prepared for a night of fun and music – or, as they say themselves, ‘craic agus ceol’. Johnny Joe’s (McCollums) in Cushendall has been in the family since the mid-19th century. A destination pub for musicians, it boasts no screens or game tables. Just rooms with turf fires, great conversation, poetry and song.

Pubs with Live Music in Derry~Londonderry

Don’t be confused by the grocer décor, the world-famous Peadar O’Donnell’s is the place for live traditional and contemporary music and a draw for visitors from all over. The Dungloe Bar is another music favourite. Badgers Bar and Restaurant is a great spot for a shopping break. And you’ll find cocktails and a fantastic atmosphere in the Blackbird.

Distilleries and Gastropubs in Northern Ireland

The StillHouse is a family-owned Distillery Gastropub, producing the stunning RubyBlue range of Potato Vodkas, Gins and Liqueurs on site. There’s magic brewing too at Hilden Brewery - Northern Ireland's oldest independent brewery. (closed until 2026).

Hillsborough brings you The Parson’s Nose, with outstanding food, drink and hospitality. It has a listing in The Michelin Guide to prove it. Or check out The Plough Inn’s friendly pints and The Hillside’s rustic charm and cobbled courtyard.

Off Sketrick Island in Strangford Lough, Daft Eddy's Bar and Restaurant promises wonderful hospitality – plus fresh oysters and lobster (pre-order to be sure). There’s excellent food and drink too at The Cuan. Family-run pub, the Fiddlers Green in Portaferry has a handy B&B attached. Another fine family-owned pub is the pretty as a picture Maghera Inn. While the Primrose Bar and Restaurant serves up tasty cuisine and warm hospitality in equal measure.

Best Pubs and Bars in Fermanagh

One of Northern Ireland’s most famous Victorian pubs, Blakes of the Hollow has sat on County Fermanagh’s shores for over 125 years. The snug is just the place to enjoy a pint or a delicious Irish coffee.

In Enniskillen, Magee’s Spirit Store and Bar - the town’s oldest pub - is a big hit with the trendiest clientele. No doubt attracted by the top class beers, spirits and cocktails. And music that ranges from funk and soul to disco and house. Or try the Devenish Lounge or the family-run Horseshoe Bar and Saddlers Bistro & Wine Bar.

Top Pubs and Bars in Tyrone

In the welcoming village of Moy, you’ll find Tomneys Bar. Old-style, traditional and one of the most fun places you could be. The music is live, the craic is phenomenal and the locals can’t wait to meet you. The Auction Rooms has a great drinks menu and exceptionally friendly staff. Try the Ceili House - a pub where ceilis seem to happen at the drop of a hat. Or Sallys in Omagh, serving premium drinks and fantastic food in a very chilled atmosphere.

Northern Ireland’s pubs are as varied as its people and the people who come to visit them – happily playing host to everything from foot-tapping sessions to the most cosmopolitan of cocktails. And always happy to welcome you.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 99

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1410 reviews
Burrendale Hotel, Lounge and Bar

Newcastle

Address

51 Castlewellan Road, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0JY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4372 2599

reservations@burrendale.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Burrendale Hotel, Country Club & Spa is a leading four-star Hotel in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland, nestled beneath the Mountains of Mourne. Located just 45 minutes from Belfast or Newry, The Burrendale Hotel, Country Club & Spa is…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Cabaret Supper Club

Belfast

Address

38-42 Upper Arthur Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4GH

Telephone
02890249009

marketingandpr@cabaretbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Night Life

Step into the lavish embrace of Cabaret Supper Club, where every guest is a star amid the glitz reminiscent of 1920s Hollywood. Immerse yourself in an environment brimming with live melodies, tantalising burlesque, captivating drag performances,…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Hearth Pub Ballyhackamore

Belfast

Address

199 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 3JB

Telephone
+44 (0) 2890921920

hello@hearthpub.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Hearth - warmth, stories, a place to gather and share memories (a place so dear to everyone's heart, it even has heart in the name.)

More Info
The Harbour Bar Portrush

Portrush

Address

Harbour Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT568DF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7506 990 345

booking@ramorerestaurant.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A feast for the senses is the fine Harbour Bar. This buzzing pub is a perfect pit stop to enjoy renowned pints of Guinness, a selection of the best gins and spirits around. With great views overlooking Portrush harbour there's no better place to…

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1544 reviews
Revolución De Cuba

Belfast

Address

25 - 39 Arthur Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4GQ

Telephone
02895909249

bookings-belfast@revoluciondecuba.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Belfast’s authentic Cuban bar and restaurant within a breathtaking Art Nouveau building in the heart of the city. Freshly prepared Latin menus, inspired and innovative cocktails and – yep, you guessed it – plenty of rum.

Dates

From:

1 Dec 2024to23 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

24 Dec 2024to26 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

27 Dec 2024to1 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Hugh McCann's

Newcastle

Address

119 Central Promenade, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4372 2487

info@hughmccanns.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Hugh McCann's has a spectacular location opposite Newcastle's new promenade with panoramic sea views. The two hundred year old building is fully restored with antique fixtures and fittings.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
The Spaniard

Belfast

Address

The Spaniard Bar, 3 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2DZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 2448

spaniardbelfast@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Hidden within the Cathedral Quarter is this little gem of a bar. We pride ourselves in offering the most intimate atmosphere along with an outstanding selection of Rum. Join us and sip on our famous Dark n Stormy or Extraordinary! Not to be missed!

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
The Dundrum Inn

Dundrum

Address

143-145 Main Street, Dundrum, County Down, BT33 0LX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 84375 1211

phil.patterson@approachablegroup.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Dundrum Inn is situated in the beautiful village of Dundrum on the shores of Dundrum Bay. UK Pub of the Year 2022, best in County Down. Northern Ireland’s Pub & Bar of the Year 2025.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2526 reviews
Ramore Restaurant

Portush

Address

1 The Harbour, Portush, County Antrim, BT56 8DF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7506990345

booking@ramorerestaurant.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Renowned for its fantastic tasting fresh food and lively atmosphere, Ramore is situated on the stunning causeway coast in the seaside town of Portrush. Here you'll find a unique range of restaurants & bars serving highly renowned dishes & drinks for…

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
51 reviews
The Crosskeys Inn

Toome

Address

40 Grange Road, Ardnaglass, Toome, County Antrim, BT41 3QB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7965 0694

info@crosskeys-inn.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Crosskeys Inn c.1654 is the oldest thatched pub in Ireland and one of Ireland's most famous traditional Irish music pubs. You can hear traditional music most Saturday nights and impromptu sessions on some Friday and Sundays.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
269 reviews
Pretty Mary's Bar Foodhouse

Moira

Address

86 Main Street, Moira, County Down, BT67 0LH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9261 1318

prettymarys@outlook.com

Type

Type:

Bar

We are a great local pub in the heart of Moira Village!

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
The Dirty Onion

Belfast

Address

3 Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 3712

info@dirtyonion.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Dirty Onion is Belfast's oldest building, dating back to 1780, the building was used as a bonded spirit warehouse from 1921. It was then known as ‘STACK N’ – a reference to its position on the north side of Waring Street.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
211 reviews
Silver Street (The River Inn)

Derry~Londonderry

Address

34-38 Shipquay Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6DW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7137 1965

info@riverinn1684.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The River Inn is Derry's oldest sited bar, established in 1684, with its history stretching back to before the siege.

More Info
The Coachman

Magherafelt

Address

Rainey Street, Magherafelt, County Londonderry, BT45 5AH

Telephone
+44 (0)28 7963 3527

Type

Type:

Bar

Ah, you’ll come in for one and make yourself comfortable at The Coachman. Known for its incredible gin selection, live music from local talent and unique cocktails, you’re in for one of the best nights around.

More Info
The Cloth Ear

Belfast

Address

16 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2DZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 4888

clothear@themerchanthotel.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Cloth Ear is The Merchant Hotel's comfortable public bar. The warm and welcoming interior provides the ideal environment to relax and enjoy yourself in style. Combining both modern and traditional design features with a healthy dose of eccentric!

More Info
McKendry's Lounge & Bar

Ballymena

Address

136 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 1EA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2588 1001

reservations@galgorm.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Located in the heart of Galgorm, McKendry’s Lounge & Bar offers the warm ambience and atmosphere of an eclectic Irish pub.

More Info
The Nook At The Giant's Causeway

Bushmills

Address

48 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 2993

ross@portnaboe.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

In an historic listed building, dating from 1850's, built as the original school house; this sympathetically restored and renovated edifice encapsulates all the original Victorian features. Found right at the entrance to the Giant's Causeway.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
140 reviews
Bryson’s Bar

Magherafelt

Address

28 Union Road, Magherafelt, County Londonderry, BT45 5DF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7963 2473

pubtc@aol.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Bryson’s Magherafelt is Mid-Ulster’s premier entertainment venue. Choose from four bars on three levels, or hire the private function areas for any occasion. Private car parking is also available.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
26 reviews
Hagan's Bar

Dungannon

Address

39 - 43 Irish Street, Dungannon, County Tyrone, BT70 1DB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8772 2628

info@hagansbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

This lively wee spot is a go-to party spot for fun lovers. Head in for a bite of pizza, then grab one of the delicious cocktails or a beer for you and a friend and head to see the live DJ, with music that will keep you up on your feet. Chances are…

More Info
The Belfast Empire

Belfast

Address

40 – 42 Botanic Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1JQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 9276

info@thebelfastempire.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A converted church in the heart of Belfast, boasting the city's most diverse offering of entertainment. Regular gigs include the Comedy Club, Blues Club and Supper Club.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info