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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.

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Number of results: 101

, currently showing 81 to 100.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
714 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
101 reviews
Keegan's Bar & Restaurant

Armagh

Address

41 Irish Street, Armagh, County Armagh, BT61 7EP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3751 7673

laura@keegansbararmagh.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Now here’s a place that wears its heart on its sleeve with its bright painted front and its dinky little windows. How could you not step in? Keegan's Bar is a family-run business, supplying Armagh with a fabulous, hard-to-beat price menu!

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
311 reviews
Mary McBride's

Cushendun

Address

Main Street, Cushendun, County Antrim, BT44 0PH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2176 1511

cormacmckeegan@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Mary's is a traditional Irish pub with lots of history and stories to be told. Come along and enjoy a homemade meal and a pint of Guinness. Our menu offers something for everyone whether it's our steak and Guinness pie or our delicious Cock and Bull.

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
270 reviews
Crowes Nest

Enniskillen

Address

12 High Street, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, BT74 7DQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6632 5252

feargalshannon1@yahoo.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

One of the oldest pubs in Enniskillen Situated in the heart of the main shopping area and a popular amongst the locals and visitors. The Crowes Nest was recently awarded Fermanagh Regional Winner for Best Bar at the 94th National Pub & Bar Awards…

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The Morning Star

Belfast

Address

17-19 Pottingers Entry, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4DT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 5986

info@themorningstarbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Welcome to our beautifully restored Victorian 120-seater historic restaurant venue in the heart of Belfast city centre, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication. Perfect for weddings and special celebrations, our unique space offers a…

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (charge)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
- Ramp to main entrance
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Rostrevor Inn

Rostrevor

Address

33-35 Bridge Street, Rostrevor, County Down, BT34 3BG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4173 9911

therostrevorinn@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Famous for delicious, great value food & welcoming ambience, the award-winning Rostrevor Inn hosts a popular bistro, atmospheric traditional bar. The beautifully renovated 1800s building is yards from Kilbroney Park, the gateway to the Mournes.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
53 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
618 reviews
The Hillside

Royal Hillsborough

Address

21 Main Street, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, BT26 2AE

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9268 9233

info@hillsidehillsborough.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

The Hillside is a charming, rustic pub situated in the historic village of Royal Hillsborough, County Down, only 15 minutes drive from Belfast city centre. The Hillside first opened its doors in 1752 and has been enjoying a busy trade since, thanks…

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Lower House Bar

Donaghmore

Address

Main Street, Donaghmore, Donaghmore, County Tyrone, BT703EZ

Telephone
+44 (0)7493 268 490

info@thelowerhouserooms.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Pretty as a picture is this fine place in Donaghmore, which is a good-looking kind of a town to begin with. The Lower House has stood its ground here since the 18th Century, but the family owners haven’t let the grass grow under their feet. Every…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
373 reviews
Lavery's Belfast

Belfast

Address

Laverys Gin Palace, Bradbury Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1RS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9087 1106

info@laverysbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Laverys Bar has long been a favoured drinks emporium for more seasoned individuals, a place to meet, eat, drink, converse and have almighty craic with the punters and staff.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
173 reviews
Guildhall Taphouse

Derry~Londonderry

Address

4 Custom House Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6AD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7136 4888

will@guildhalltaphouse.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Guildhall Taphouse is steeped in history, yet offers a fresh, alternative take on the traditional bar. Serving craft beer, cocktails and the finest food seven days a week. Food served daily 12:00 - 18:00.

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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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
160 reviews
Friels Bar & Restaurant

Maghera

Address

2 - 4 Kilrea Road, Swatragh, Maghera, County Londonderry, BT46 5QF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7940 1206

hello@friels.ie

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Friels Bar and Restaurant is currently run by the fourth generation of the Friel family. The bar has been in the family name for over 150 years. In the bar, you will get a real feel of the old world, with pictures and memorabilia of bygone times

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
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,…

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
224 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.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
30 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.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (charge)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Bridge Bar

Newry

Address

North Street, Newry, County Down, BT34 1DD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3026 1777

info@bridgebarnewry.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Bridge Bar situated in the heart of Newry has built loyal customers near and far for generations, due to its great selection of drinks, the cosy and traditional interiors and the convivial atmosphere and friendliness of pub goers and staff.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
19 reviews
The Front Page Bar

Ballymena

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 1953

info@thefrontpagebar.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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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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The John Hewitt Bar & Restaurant

Belfast

Address

51 Donegall Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2FH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 3768

info@thejohnhewitt.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Located in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter, The John Hewitt first opened its doors in December 1999. The bar is unique in its ownership as it is owned by The Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre.

More Info