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Places to Drink

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.

Belfast’s landmark pubs

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.

Town and country pubs in 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 and more in the Orchard County

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.

Cheers to 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.

Music, tradition and 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.

Down to business

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.

Drinking in Fermanagh’s views

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.

Tastings 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.

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Number of results: 100

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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…

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
99 reviews
McBrides on the Square

Comber

Address

1-3 The Square, Comber, County Down, BT23 5DX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9187 1744

irissmcbride@aol.com

Type

Type:

Bar

For over 35 years McBride’s have been providing quality traditional meals using fresh produce sourced from local suppliers, especially shellfish and seafood from Portavogie.

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Elephant Rock Cocktail Bar

Portrush

Address

17 Lansdowne Crescent, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8AY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7087 8787

info@elephantrockhotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

The cocktail bar at Elephant Rock Hotel exudes a chic and sophisticated ambiance, offering panoramic ocean views that perfectly complement its dramatic Art Deco interior. Afternoon Tea is served in the cocktail bar 12:00 -16:00 on Fridays and…

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Saltwater Brig

Kircubbin

Address

43 Rowreagh Road, Kircubbin, County Down, BT22 1AR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4273 8435

info@saltwaterbrig.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The famous Saltwater Brig pub and restaurant lies just outside Belfast, between Kircubbin and Portaferry, on the Ards Penninsula. Established circa 1765.
"Destination Strangford Lough Tourist Information Point available in these Premises".

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The National Grande Café

Belfast

Address

62 - 68 High Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9031 1130

info@thenationalbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

From coffee and fresh pastries on the go, delicious soups and sandwiches for lunch and exquisite evening meals with wine or cocktails – there is something to satisfy every palate at any time of day. We also have one of Belfast's biggest beer gardens.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
92 reviews
Pavilion Bar

Belfast

Address

The Pavilion Bar, 296 Ormeau Road, Belfast, County Down, BT7 2GB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9028 3283

info@pavilionbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established in 1899, The Pavilion or "The Big House" draws its clientele from all over the city and beyond, and is a must for all who wish to experience a traditional Belfast pub with three floors, three bars, in one Big House with five-star food.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
177 reviews
Duke of York

Belfast

Address

7-11 Commercial Court, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 1062

info@dukeofyorkbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Nestled along a narrow-cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area, the Duke of York offers a traditional Belfast welcome of craic, music and humour.

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The Glensway Bar

Martinstown

Address

67 Glenravel Road, Martinstown, County Antrim, BT43 6QQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2175 8831

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Located in the Glens of Antrim, the Glensway Tavern is an attractive 74 seater restaurant, lounge bar and traditional Irish bar with live music at the weekends and quality fresh produce on the menu, complemented by local beers and whiskeys.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
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.)

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McAleers Bar

Dungannon

Address

Donaghmore Road, Dungannon, County Tyrone, BT701EZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8772 5485

info@mcaleersbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A great aul’ buzz can be found in McAleer’s Bar. Traditional meets contemporary in this nightlife hotspot. Bright and bustling, this bar certainly has something for everyone.

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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.

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The Reporter Bar Belfast

Belfast

Address

Union Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2JF

holly@thereporterbarbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Situated on Union Street, neighbouring the Irish News offices and the old Belfast Telegraph building, the intimate bar’s warm and welcoming interior is clad with artefacts and memorabilia, illustrating the city’s colourful history through the eyes…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
96 reviews
Katy Jane’s Bar & Beer Garden @ Curran Court Hotel

Larne

Address

6 Redlands Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1FD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2827 5505

info@currancourthotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Katy Jane’s Bar & Beer Garden at Curran Court Hotel near Larne port and on the Causeway Coastal Route offers a lively, walk-in experience with casual dining, diverse drinks, live music, sports, and an all-season outdoor terrace. Enjoy memorable…

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1044 reviews
Horatio Todd's

Belfast

Address

406 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 3EZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9050 9700

info@thehoratiogroup.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

This East Belfast bar and restaurant is family friendly with healthy choices for the kids, and creative choices for vegetarians. Serving up top notch local produce, such as Walter Ewing's salmon, and comber potatoes.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
201 reviews
Maginns Bar

Castlewellan

Address

9-11 Main Street, Castlewellan, County Down, BT31 9DF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4377 8235

info@maginnsbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Situated at the lower end of the town, 'Maginn’s of Castlewellan' is definitely the hot spot in Castlewellan with local and new customers, coming far and wide to enjoy everything this refreshing bar complex has to offer.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
567 reviews
Grace Neill's

Donaghadee

Address

33 High Street, Donaghadee, County Down, BT21 0AH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9188 4595

info@graceneills.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Reputedly "the oldest pub in Northern Ireland", Grace Neil's offers a safe haven from both the weather and the hustle and bustle of modern life. It is the perfect spot for award-winning food, a welcome drink with friends or some old-world character…

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
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
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
678 reviews
The Grouse Restaurant & Bar

Ballymena

Address

74-76 Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6AN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 5234

info@grouseballymena.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Grouse Restaurant & Bar has long been a favourite for food, drinks and live entertainment in the heart of Ballymena’s bustling town centre. It is renowned for its great location, luxurious traditional décor, roaring fires and relaxing atmosphere.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
The Market Inn

Draperstown

Address

St. Patricks Street, Draperstown, County Londonderry, BT45 7AJ

Telephone
+44 (0)28 7962 8250

maurice.regan2@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Market Inn situated in the historic village of Draperstown perfectly encapsulates the ambience and atmosphere that make irish pubs world famous.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
188 reviews
Charlie's Bar

Enniskillen

Address

1 Church Street, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, BT74 7DW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6632 5303

charliesbar358@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established in 1944, Charlie’s is one of Enniskillen's most established traditional, family run bars. Whether it's live music you're after or somewhere to relax in front of an open fire- you'll find it in Charlie's!

More Info
Facilities

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

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- Off site parking
- Parking (charge)
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available