The 4 best bars in Belfast for an exceptional night out

Belfast is celebrated globally for its warm hospitality, historic pub culture, and exceptionally vibrant nightlife. The Northern Irish capital is home to a diverse array of drinking establishments, ranging from heritage Victorian pubs serving perfectly poured stouts to contemporary rooftop venues offering panoramic views across the city skyline. Whether you are seeking a lively evening of traditional folk music or a sophisticated bar for hand-crafted cocktails, finding a venue with authentic character is key. We have evaluated the city's leading bars, reviewing them on their heritage, atmosphere, beverage selection, and hospitality to present four outstanding venues for a memorable night out.

1. Duke of York

Media credits: dukeofyorkbelfast

Website

Contact details: +44 28 9024 1062

Operating hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 11:30 am to 1 am
• Sunday: 1 pm to 9 pm

Price: $

Tucked down a picturesque cobbled alleyway in the Cathedral Quarter, the Duke of York is a legendary Belfast pub steeped in local history. The cosy interior is a treasure trove of dark mahogany fittings, vintage mirror advertisements, and decades of local memorabilia. Known for its energetic ambiance, the pub hosts regular traditional Irish music sessions alongside acoustic performances from Thursday to Sunday. The bar is exceptionally well-stocked, offering a stellar range of rare Irish whiskeys alongside a great choice of local beers.

Pro tip: This pub is renowned for serving one of the best pints of stout in Belfast; secure a spot in the outdoor alleyway seating on warm evenings to enjoy the atmosphere.

2. The Dirty Onion and Yardbird

Media credits: thedirtyonion

Website

Contact details: +44 28 9024 3712

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 12 pm to 1 am

Price: $$

Housed in one of the city's oldest remaining structures, dating back to 1780, The Dirty Onion offers a clever blend of heritage architecture and contemporary socialising. The building's historic timber beams and exposed brickwork frame a spacious, heated outdoor beer garden. The bar serves an excellent selection of local craft ales and Irish whiskeys. Upstairs, Yardbird offers a relaxed dining setting specialising in rotisserie chicken, while the downstairs courtyard features live acoustic sets and traditional music sessions every night.

Pro tip: Take advantage of their free bodhran hand-drum lessons, which are hosted in the bar on Tuesday evenings for anyone wanting to learn traditional Irish beats.

3. The Perch Rooftop Bar

Media credits: perchbelfast

Website

Contact details: +44 28 9024 8000

Operating hours:

• Thursday: 3 pm to 12 am
• Friday: 3 pm to 1 am
• Saturday: 1 pm to 1 am
• Sunday: 1 pm to 11 pm

Price: $$

Set on the fifth floor of a beautifully converted Victorian warehouse in the Linen Quarter, The Perch Rooftop Bar offers magnificent panoramic views across the city. The venue boasts a heated outdoor terrace filled with greenery, complemented by a stylish indoor bar featuring exposed brick. Guests can enjoy a creative list of seasonal cocktails alongside freshly baked stone-baked pizzas. DJ sets over the weekend draw a chic crowd, making this a premier spot for open-air drinks.

Pro tip: The Perch maintains a strict smart-casual dress policy, so ensure your outfit meets their guidelines to prevent any entry delays during peak weekend nights.

4. The Garrick Bar

Media credits: thegarrickbar

Website

Contact details: +44 28 9032 1984

Operating hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 11:30 am to 1 am
• Sunday: 12 pm to 12 am

Price: $$

Founded in 1870, The Garrick is one of Belfast's most beloved Victorian taverns. Its beautifully preserved interior features rich wood panelling, cosy leather seating, and decorative period tiles. The pub is celebrated for its dedication to local craft breweries, quality ciders, and a superb selection of Irish whiskeys, along with their famous Irish coffees. The front bar is a dedicated space for acoustic folk sessions, while the back room regularly hosts local music clubs and resident DJs.

Pro tip: Get there early on Saturday and Sunday afternoons to secure a seat in the front room, as the live traditional music sessions attract large crowds.

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