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Pubs, Clubs & Bars

Northern Ireland has always been a great place for a night out. That’s mainly down to the genuine soul of the people who have sustained a vibrant pub and club culture over countless decades so that today there are plenty of traditional, modern and quirky pubs, bars and nightclubs serving traditional pints of Guinness as well as refined cocktails and the dynamic flavours of locally-produced spirits and beers.

Popular Nightlife Spots

Northern Ireland’s largest and busiest city has always been abuzz after dark and in recent years it’s gone even buzzier. Start your night in Belfast with a touch of class at the magnificent Merchant Hotel and pick a cocktail or drink from extensive menu. This hotel houses some of the finest champagne sipping spots in Belfast and includes the 1930’s New York inspired Bert’s Jazz Bar.

Come down to The Foundry and pick your poison with one of their bold and boozy cocktails or check out the student nights at the Limelight 1 and Limelight 2. If it's atmosphere you're after, Common Market offers street food with live entertainment and three fully-stocked bars with the best beer, wine and cocktails!

Tyrone ain’t no slouch on the couch when it comes to night-time entertainment either. The bustling beer garden, The Jailbird in Cookstown provides live music and entertainment at the centre of its surrounding bars and restaurants. While this space plays host to regular concerts, events and markets, it is at its liveliest every Friday and Saturday evening. Or head to Sallys of Omagh for a lowkey pint with the locals.

Unique & Quirky Bars in Belfast

A bar bursting with bohemian charm is The Treehouse at AM:PM. This quirky rooftop bar features fairy lights, comfortable furnishings and a retractable roof for the perfect cocktail catch up or romantic evening. The Perch offers something similar on their five-storey high escape from the bustle of Belfast’s busy city centre. Sumptuous cocktails are not to be missed at this quaint and quirky open space.

For the ultimate in upscale sophistication, The National Café’s cocktail bar serves up city views and premium liquor in a prime location. Or watch the drinks price change at a stock market in Haymarket while enjoying interactive darts and competitive shuffleboard!

It might be time to get dirty. Down at the Dirty Onion in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter the extensive beer and whiskey menu on offer is the perfect accompaniment to the lively sounds of trad and bluegrass at this authentic yet modern bar.

If you can peel yourself away from the craic in there, make your way down the narrow lane of Winecellar Entry to White’s Tavern. The city’s longest serving tavern dating back to 1630, White’s retains real authenticity in its cosy décor. Music lovers and those who like the locals free of gimmickry, should get over to The Sunflower and catch some gypsy swing, trad or bluegrass.

Top LGBT+ Venues in Northern Ireland

If this place has got your toes a tappin’ then why not take the rest of your body out for a bit of a bop at Boombox Belfast - a quirky gay club that attracts huge audiences and pop culture headliners alike.

Not too far from here you’ll find Kremlin, the centrepiece of Northern Ireland's gay nightlife, featuring a two-floor disco bar, a sleek cocktail lounge and a two-floor club area with performances you’ll not see anywhere else. As the first gay-owned, managed and friendly nightclub in Northern Ireland, this is not to be missed for those wishing to experience the core of Northern Ireland's LGBT+ scene.

Union Street Bar & Restaurant is a hotspot with top quality entertainment 7 nights a week. Spanning over 3 floors and 4 different areas, there is something for everyone.

Best Cocktails in Northern Ireland

Take a short train ride from Belfast to Bangor, ad find The Nines. They offer a combination of classic and creative cocktails on their menu. Come back to try all 9 signature cocktails available daily.

Speaking of quirky, The Smoking Monkey in Ballymena offers an extensive range of delicious traditional, classic and signature cocktails and gins with something for everyone. It also boasts 2 vintage outdoor spaces as well as a dog friendly licenced pavement café for those who prefer to enjoy their cocktails alfresco with ‘a man’s best friend’.

If it’s all getting a little hot under the collar for you, check out the Blaney Bar at the lovely Lough Erne Resort in County Fermanagh. This place has the stunning backdrop of Castle Hume Lough and an equally stunning selection of Irish whiskey-based cocktails.

Traditional Pubs

For those on the lookout for the picture postcard Irish pub there can’t be a quainter or more delightful than the thatched and whitewashed Crosskeys Inn in Toomebridge. As well as its inherent cosy vibe expect some goosebumps when the singing and storytelling starts.

If you’re stopping in Armagh, and we really think you should, keep an eye out for the ironically named Hole in the Wall - it used to be a jail. Today the only inmate is Casper the friendly parrot. You’ll find both him, a warm welcome and an open fire when you stop by.

You might get goosebumps for other reasons up at The Ponderosa in the Sperrin Mountains. This is Ireland’s highest pub and restaurant sits in an idyllic out of the way spot and it’s never short of locals with plenty of craic and banter.

And of course, The Duke of York must be included on this list. This historic bar offers a traditional Belfast welcome of craic, music and humour.

Drinks in Derry-Londonderry

When it comes to nightlife in Derry-Londonderry, you’ll find it full of great places for traditional music and tasty beverages. Famed for its great pints of Guinness and even better traditional music, make sure you visit Peadar O’Donnell's. This is a lively bar which hosts conventional and contemporary music each and every night.

Cocktail hunters should keep an eye on what’s going on at Coppins Bar in the City Hotel - the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a delicious cocktail after a day of sightseeing and exploring.

Drink and dance in County Down

On a sunny Sunday The Four Trees bar is a summer’s dream in Moira, Craigavon. Do not let the small exterior deceive you, as this popular spot has a large and lusciously green beer garden as well as a cosy cobbled courtyard. Daft Eddy’s is cast away on Sketrick Island, on Strangford Lough, and you need to drive over a causeway – or moor a boat – to get there. The journey is well worth it for incredible views and an atmosphere that are second to none.

Nestled on the shores of Carlingford Lough, and surrounded by the magnificent Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula, the Whistledown Hotel in Warrenpoint is a must-visit during the summer months. Sit back and watch the world sail by whilst taking in the panoramic views of the lough.

In the heart of Newcastle you’ll find Hugh McCann's. This spot is filled with intimate charm and dog lovers will love the welcome that their pooch receives. After a brisk walk along the promenade, stop off at The Dundrum Inn for a tasty bite to eat and a drink.

As Van Morrison said, “in the night-time, yeah that’s the right time”. So get out and about and let your hair down in Northern Ireland.

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Number of results: 96

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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.

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

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
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Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
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- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
170 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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
56 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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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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1231 reviews
Granny Annie's Belfast

Belfast

Address

81 Chichester Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4JE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 1331

belfast@grannyannies.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Oozing rustic charm and ‘Home of Live Music’ – Traditional & Modern. Located 5 minutes walk from Belfast City Hall, Granny Annies is the perfect venue for your Gastro dining experience, our menus include some of Granny’s favourites.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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
The Maypole Bar

Holywood

Address

High Street, Holywood, County Down, BT18 9AB

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9042 2588

Type

Type:

Bar

The Maypole Bar builds on its roots and keeps a tradition perfectly pairing alongside the rustic, classy and traditional interior. The Maypole Bar is a feel-good bar and you know fine rightly upon entrance you will be given a big greeting and made…

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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.

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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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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
681 reviews
The Smoking Monkey Cocktail & Sports Bar

Ballymena

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 5234

info@grouseballymena.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Ballymena's newest cocktail and sports bar, The Smoking Monkey, is a space like no other in the heart of this bustling market shopping town.

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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
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.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
178 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 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
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
212 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.

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The Dirty Duck

Holywood

Address

Kinnegar Road, Holywood, County Down, BT189JN

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9059 6666

Type

Type:

Bar

The Dirty Duck situated looking over Belfast Lough, known for their delicious food and cold pints is a great spot to meet with friends and have great times while embracing the beautiful view.

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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
533 reviews
Badgers Bar And Restaurant

Derry~Londonderry

Address

16-18 Orchard Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6EG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7136 0763

Badgersbar@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Located in the heart of the city, this award-winning bar and restaurant is home to the famous Derry Girls Mural. For over 30 years, Badgers Bar and Restaurant has been serving the freshest in food and drink from local suppliers to its customers.

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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