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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.

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: 101

, currently showing 1 to 20.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
210 reviews
Dunsilly Bar & Grill

Antrim

Address

20 Dunsillly Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 2JH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9446 2929

info@dunsillyhotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Dunsilly Hotel serves food all day everyday, from the coffee bar with pastries and light snacks to an extensive grill menu served in the grill. Using the best local produce and trained in allergy awareness there is something for everyone.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
701 reviews
Bentley Bar

Derry~Londonderry

Address

3-5 Market Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6EF

Telephone
028 7127 9185

info@thebentleybar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Bentley Bar is situated by Ferryquay Gate, in the heart of a shopper's paradise and close to most of the city's historical sights.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
317 reviews
The Thatch Inn Bar & Restaurant

Broughshane

Address

57 Main Street, Broughshane, County Antrim, BT42 4JP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2586 1366

thatchinnfo@outlook.com

Type

Type:

Bar

18th century thatched, family friendly bar and restaurant set in the award winning village of Broughshane with a great choice of menu and unique historic features.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
558 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
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
29 reviews
Blakes Of The Hollow

Enniskillen

Address

6 Church Street, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, BT74 7EJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6632 2143

blakesofthehollow@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Renowned for its traditional Irish heritage, Blakes of the Hollow is one of the most famous and well recognised Victorian pubs in Ireland. It is a must see attraction which has graced County Fermanagh’s shores for over 125 years.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
28 reviews
Hickson's Point at Titanic Belfast

Belfast

Address

1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9EP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9076 6386

welcome@titanicbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Inspired by one of the first ship builders in the city, Hickson’s Point at Titanic Belfast offers an authentic 1900s public house setting.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (charge)
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
The StillHouse

Moira

Address

61 Main Street, Moira, County Down, BT67 0LQ

Telephone
028 9278 0735

hello@stillhousemoira.com

Type

Type:

Pub/Inn

Formerly known as The Four Trees, it was once a thriving pub equalled by few outside of Belfast but it needed some TLC to restore it to its former beauty.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
169 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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1025 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
18 reviews
The Front Page Bar

Ballymena

Address

9 Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6AL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 1953

frontpagebar@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A “traditional-meets-modern” award winning and innovative pub in the centre of Ballymena, which offers a friendly welcome and has established itself as a popular drinks and entertainment venue with celebrities, locals and visitors of all ages.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
51 reviews
The Rocking Chair Bar

Derry~Londonderry

Address

15-17 Waterloo Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6HA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7128 1200

manager@rockingchairbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Rocking Chair Bar, or ‘Rocker’ to the locals, is one of Derry’s most famous pubs in Derry. Located in the shadow of the famous Derry Walls and overlooking the Bogside, we have the atmosphere of a local with the energy of a pub in the heart of…

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The Botanic Inn

Belfast

Address

23-27 Malone Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 6RU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9050 9740

info@thebotanicinn.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Trading since 1867 The Botanic Inn, which is more affectionately known as ‘The Bot’, is a Belfast institution. One of the city's top destinations for anyone seeking great food, quality drinks, a lively night out & big screen sports.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
172 reviews
Carrick-a-Rede Bar & Restaurant

Ballintoy

Address

21 Main Street, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6LX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2241

Type

Type:

Bar

This restaurant in Ballintoy features stunning views of Sheep Island, Rathlin Island and even Scotland!

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
The Copper Tap

Omagh

Address

McConnell Place, Omagh, County Tyrone, BT78 1BY

Telephone
028 8283 9815

omagh@thecoppertap.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

You just can’t miss it as you turn the corner on Castle Street. Why not spend a while at the vibrant and modern Copper Tap? A bar and restaurant with something for everyone, with cuisine on the menu from near and far and plenty of drinks to choose…

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Limelight 1 & Limelight 2

Belfast

Address

17 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 8HD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 7007

info@limelightbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established as one of the most famous venues for live music in the country, The Limelight Complex has recently enjoyed a multi-million pound refurbishment. The venue, now encompasses The Limelight & Limelight 2 venues, as well as Katy's Bar.

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Orisha

Belfast

Address

19 Fountain Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5EA

Telephone
02896209618

info@orishabelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Orisha is an intimate city centre venue for cocktails, coffee and everything in between. Sister bar of Voodoo Belfast, the venues name draws inspiration from an ancient Afro-Carribbean faith.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Sallys of Omagh

Omagh

Address

33-35 John Street, Omagh, County Tyrone, BT78 1DW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8224 2521

info@sallysofomagh.com

Type

Type:

Bar

One of Northern Ireland's most celebrated venues, Sallys has been trading under the brand name in Omagh for 30 years building up a reputation for excellence in food, drink and live entertainment.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
98 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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
18 reviews
Millar's Bar Ballycarry

Ballycarry

Address

46 Main Street, Ballycarry, County Antrim, BT38 9HH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9337 2042

info@millarsbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established in 1754, Millar's Bar in Ballycarry offers traditional fare and refreshing drinks in an historic setting. Patrons can also enjoy live sports and entertainment in this cosy establishment with a rich history. Dog and family friendly.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside - In certain areas only
Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
149 reviews
The Glencloy Inn

Carnlough

Address

1 Bridge Street, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0ET

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2888 5226

theglencloyinn@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Historic family owned, traditional Irish bar and restaurant located in the picturesque village of Carnlough, offering great food, drink and hospitality on the Causeway Coastal Route.

More Info