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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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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
706 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
1508 reviews
Revolución De Cuba

Belfast

Address

25 - 39 Arthur Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4GQ

Telephone
02895909249

bookings-belfast@revoluciondecuba.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Belfast’s authentic Cuban bar and restaurant within a breathtaking Art Nouveau building in the heart of the city. Freshly prepared Latin menus, inspired and innovative cocktails and – yep, you guessed it – plenty of rum.

Dates

From:

1 Dec 2024to23 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

24 Dec 2024to26 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

27 Dec 2024to1 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
361 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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The Nook At The Giant's Causeway

Bushmills

Address

48 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 2993

ross@portnaboe.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

In an historic listed building, dating from 1850's, built as the original school house; this sympathetically restored and renovated edifice encapsulates all the original Victorian features. Found right at the entrance to the Giant's Causeway.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
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
52 reviews
Halfway House Country Pub

Broughshane

Address

143 Carnlough Road, Broughshane, County Antrim, BT43 7JW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2568 4225

info@eventbarsolutions.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Historic country pub and restaurant located halfway between Ballymena and Carnlough at the foot of impressive Slemish Mountain, offering a friendly welcome to the weary traveller and locals alike serving great food and drink!

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
The Dirty Onion

Belfast

Address

3 Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 3712

info@dirtyonion.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Dirty Onion is Belfast's oldest building, dating back to 1780, the building was used as a bonded spirit warehouse from 1921. It was then known as ‘STACK N’ – a reference to its position on the north side of Waring Street.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
209 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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
26 reviews
Hagan's Bar

Dungannon

Address

39 - 43 Irish Street, Dungannon, County Tyrone, BT70 1DB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8772 2628

info@hagansbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

This lively wee spot is a go-to party spot for fun lovers. Head in for a bite of pizza, then grab one of the delicious cocktails or a beer for you and a friend and head to see the live DJ, with music that will keep you up on your feet. Chances are…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
497 reviews
Ben Madigan's Bar & Kitchen

Belfast

Address

169 - 175 Cavehill Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 5BP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9692 2009

info@benmadigansbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Join us in Ben Madigans at the foot of Cavehill, belfast home of friendly atmosphere and award winning local food and drink, sure to make you want to stay a while at your new local.

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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
968 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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The Coachman

Magherafelt

Address

Rainey Street, Magherafelt, County Londonderry, BT45 5AH

Telephone
+44 (0)28 7963 3527

Type

Type:

Bar

Ah, you’ll come in for one and make yourself comfortable at The Coachman. Known for its incredible gin selection, live music from local talent and unique cocktails, you’re in for one of the best nights around.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
150 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

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
116 reviews
Groucho's On The Square

Richill

Address

1 The Square, Richill, County Armagh, BT61 9PP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3887 1874

mervyn@grouchosonthesquare.com

Type

Type:

Bar

These premises have been evolving for some 350 years into what may be one of the finest Café Bars in Ulster. Be it Italian specialist coffee, home cooked food or something a bit stronger from our extensive listing of world brands.

More Info
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
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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1130 reviews
Walled City Brewery

Derry~Londonderry

Address

70 Ebrington Square, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT47 6FA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7134 3336

info@walledcitybrewery.com

Type

Type:

Brewery

The Walled City Brewery craft uniquely local, premium quality, fabulously flavoursome food and beer in their multi-award winning brewhouse, restaurant and new taproom. If you truly want a flavour of the North-West, it is a must-visit!

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
53 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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