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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.

Refine your tastes at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast

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 with a touch of class at the magnificent Merchant Hotel and pick a cocktail or drink from its whopping one-hundred-and-twelve page drinks 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.

Young, quirky and cool

For a younger crowd and quirkier vibe, head to the Filthy Quarter on the Dublin Road which has several bars within one ‘quarter’ Afterwards, head on into Filthy McNasty’s and listen to the next big thing on stage. Just make sure it’s not a mannequin you end up talking to at the end of the night - you’ll see what we mean when you go.

Another 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.

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.

Out and around at Boombox, Kremlin and The Foundry

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 LGBTQi+ scene.

Come down to The Foundry for their Thursdaze night where club-goers put on their most eccentric and edgy outfits in hope of being picked for the free-entry or maybe check out the student nights at the Limelight 1 and Limelight 2.

Cocktails in Culloden and Bangor

Take a short train ride from Belfast to Holywood and step into the Crozier Lounge at Culloden Estate and Spa Hotel. The cocktail menu here offers more than 25 types of gin and a range of sumptuous cocktails to enjoy them in. Up the road in Bangor, The Nines offers a combination of classic and creative cocktails on its menu and while you’re in town why not dip your toe in the welcoming waters, and pints, of The Goat’s Toe. This quirky establishment has a spectacular beer garden surrounded by superhero imagery and even features a sit-in caravan.

Get eclectic in Ballymena

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’.

Picture postcard perfection in Toomebridge

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.

Surf and sip in Portrush

Back down at sea-level you can sit out and enjoy the rolling waves and a gin based cocktail at the Ramore Wine Bar before getting your groove on at Lush, the ultimate nightclub with over ten bars and music from mainstream pop to commercial R’N’B - an all-round mega nightlife must.

Drinking delights 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. Another wee gem is The Grand Central Bar on the lively Strand Road. It’s not too grand in size, it surely has a larger-than-life personality, with friendly staff, great food and excellent beer menu.

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.

If your feet are still up for it, the Sugar Nite Club in the city centre is an absolute must for clubbers. Alternatively, you could try Envy. With plenty of drink offers and pumping pop music, don't miss out on a trip to Derry's gay hotspot.

Try Tyrone of beer and beats

Tyrone ain’t no slouch on the couch when it comes to night-time entertainment. The bustling beer garden in the Main Street Complex in Omagh 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 Saturday evening. Up in Cookstown, Time’s ‘Beautiful People’ night on Saturdays features a burlesque show as well as other live performers and celebrity guests while The Central in Strabane is a great gay venue open seven nights a week for karaoke, dancing and bingo.

Spectacular food, drink and views in the Sperrins

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.

Free to chill in County Fermanagh

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.

Make a break for it to Armagh

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.

Drink and dance the night away 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 here for a tasty bite to eat and relax in the Hogg Snog.

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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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.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
68 reviews
Sandino's Cafe Bar

Derry~Londonderry

Address

Water Street, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 6BQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7130 9297

Type

Type:

Bar

A major live music venue in the city ranging from traditional through jazz to world music and the best DJs in town. Popular with visiting students, artists, musicians and chess players

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
530 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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
6801 reviews
Crown Liquor Saloon

Belfast

Address

46 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT2 7BA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 3187

info@crownbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

You will find The Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast within a short stroll of Europa Hotel, Grosvenor Road and Glengall Street - however, you won't find another like it.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
607 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
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
174 reviews
Sunflower Public House

Belfast

Address

65 Union Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2JG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 2474

sunflowerbelfast@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Sunflower is a simple corner pub, it is free of gimmicks or themes, and it is one of the few remaining. It is instantly recognisable by the security cage on its front door, a relic from 1980s Belfast. Music is very much part of the pub's life.

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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

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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
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
809 reviews
Anchor Bar Complex

Portstewart

Address

86-87 The Promenade, Portstewart, County Londonderry, BT55 7AG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7083 2003

info@theanchorbar.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Situated within easy access to Portstewart's picturesque promenade and all of the local amenities, the Anchor Bar Complex, incorporating the Anchorage Inn, Anchorage Bistro and Aura Nightclub, is known throughout Ireland for its convivial atmosphere.

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
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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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.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
158 reviews
The Dark Horse

Belfast

Address

34 Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 7807

darkhorse@dukeofyorkbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Dark Horse is a European style coffee house nestled along a narrow cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area of the Cathedral Quarter.
Available for private hire Thursday - Saturday.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
985 reviews
McHugh’s Bar & Restaurant

Belfast

Address

29-31 Queen’s Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3FG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9050 9999

info@mchughsbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

McHughs is within a grade A listed building, built between 1710 and 1720, making it officially the oldest building in the city of Belfast, enjoying a long history and a sometimes colourful reputation.

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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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Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
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
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
471 reviews
Bert's Jazz Bar

Belfast

Address

The Merchant Hotel, 16 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2ZY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9026 2713

berts@themerchanthotel.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Belfast’s and Northern Ireland's first authentic Jazz Bar offering Live Jazz seven nights a week - located within the elegant Merchant Hotel, Berts offers great live entertainment and mouth watering food.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
314 reviews
Fountain Lane

Belfast

Address

16-20 Fountain Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5ED

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 4769

hello@fountainlanebelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

With a wealth of history as a tavern for the city, call in for good food, great drinks, local music, live sport

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
215 reviews
Dufferin Arms

Killyleagh

Address

35 High Street, Killyleagh, County Down, BT30 9QF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4482 1182

dufferinarms@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Proper Irish pub est 1802. Famous for its traditional music sessions and singer songwriter evenings featuring many well-known artists. Our infamous and very popular seafood chowder is also not to be missed.

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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…

More Info
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