Bars & Nightlife

Belfast

Bars & Nightlife in Belfast

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Bars & NightlifeGuide was updated: May 30, 2025

Belfast is awash with slick new bars, as well as plenty of old-style pubs, many with traditional music sessions several nights of the week, as well as DJ-nights at weekends. Remember that pubs usually close around 11:30pm, so make sure to start your night out pretty early. The club scene is vibrant and top-quality live music can be found at several venues throughout the city. The late-night action really kicks off south of the centre, around the Golden Mile, Queen’s Quarter and Lisburn Road.

Crown Liquor Saloon

Crown Liquor Saloon

Sit in a cosy snug with a pint of Guinness and admire the mirrors, the coloured tiles and the gas lighting. The Crown Liquor Saloon calls itself 'the world’s most beautiful bar,' so take the opportunity to discover one of the prominent symbols of this city's nightlife.

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White’s Tavern

White’s Tavern

White’s Tavern was founded in 1630, and it is the oldest pub you will find in Belfast. This ancient establishment, that features a big turf fire and traditional music nights, is a cosy hideaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday-life. It offers live music from Thursday to Saturday.

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The John Hewitt

The John Hewitt

The John Hewitt, founded in 1999, is named after a socialist poet. Come here to grab a cold one while enjoying traditional music sessions three nights a week and live jazz on Fridays, as well as regular exhibitions and great food.

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Kelly's Cellars

Kelly's Cellars

Kelly's Cellars, one of Belfast’s oldest pubs, is a venue full of character and a great place for a hearty Ulster fry. Here you can spend a great evening in a warm atmosphere enjoying traditional music sessions which are held on a regular basis, and order first class beers.

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The Errigle Inn

The Errigle Inn

The Errigle has great a variety of food options, also for vegetarians, excellent beers and some outdoor seating during the summer. This is also home to the Real Music Club, a haven of folk, country, rock and blues. Treat yourself to a few pints and some exciting entertainment.

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Duke of York

Duke of York

The Duke of York is a great, cosy and friendly bar with live traditional music on Thursday nights and DJs on the weekends. It hosts Ireland's largest Whiskey collection. An interesting fact to know about this pub is that the Sinn Fein leader, Gerry Adams, used to be a barman here.

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The Belfast Empire Music Hall

The Belfast Empire Music Hall

Empire is not only home to Belfast’s longest running comedy club, in operation from September to June, it also hosts various musical events offering its guests the chance to enjoy a variety of genres. Moreover, you will definitely fall in love with the sumptuous and sophisticated interior design of this venue.

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Fibber Magees

Fibber Magees

Another great traditional Irish pub that features a vibrant atmosphere thanks to the amazing music nights. Come here to discover the essence of Ireland by having a Guinness and listening to traditional Irish music at this cosy hidden gem.

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Boombox Belfast

Boombox Belfast

Situated on the corner of Union Street and Donegall Street in Belfast City centre, Boombox nightclub and The Maverick Bar is the place to head for when it comes to drag cabaret shows and disco club nights. They are open five nights a week with free admission.

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Bert’s Jazz Bar

Bert’s Jazz Bar

Bert's Jazz Bar, at the luxury five-star Merchant Hotel in Belfast City, is the ideal place to have a relaxing evening while listening to live Jazz music. The bar oozes a sleek elegance of the art deco era, and the handpicked list of cocktails enhances the whole experience.

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The Cocktail Bar

The Cocktail Bar

At this multi-award-winning bar you will be met by knowledgeable staff who will be pleased to help you with your selection from the highly renowned drink menu. The decor and the lighting is simply majestic, with many original interior design features. Antique chandeliers, damask walls and elegant curtains are just some of those.

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Lavery's

Lavery's

With six different venues under one roof, Lavery's offers something for everyone. Lavery’s Public Bar is a great place to drink and eat, while Lavery’s Back Bar and Beer Garden is a bohemian bar with free entertainment every night. At the Lavery's Ballroom and Roof Terrace, you will find 22 pool tables and two roof terraces, while every Saturday night it becomes an alternative club. Last but not least is the Pavilion Public Bar, a Victorian style exquisite bar and Pavilion Boutique Bar with live music, comedy clubs and DJ sets.

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Belfast Pub Crawl

Belfast Pub Crawl

Explore some fantastic traditional pubs with some excellent Irish music by joining this Traditional Irish Pub Crawl. At this well organised tour, you will be shown the nightlife of the city, its sights and sounds, and some interesting stories will be told along the way. Mingle, have fun and meet some new friends; it will certainly be a night to remember.

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Harp Bar

Harp Bar

Located alongside its big brother, the incredibly famous Duke of York, Harp Bar is another must-see establishment where the bar offers independent draught beers and extensive whiskies. This is also a live music venue, hosting national talents in a welcoming atmosphere.

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Voodoo

Voodoo

Opened in October 2011, Voodoo has become a Belfast hot spot and brought a different beat to the heart of the city. Both the vibe and the red and black decor, with skull and crossbones, attract the younger, alternative clientele. Rock, punk and alternative live gigs will entertain you here.

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