When world travellers think of a night on the town, their minds might wander to London, Amsterdam, New York City, Bangkok, or even to Belfast’s more famous neighbour, Dublin. But while Dublin garners tourist crowds and centres around the Temple Bar District, Belfast boasts diversity and hidden gems that will make you want to stay well after closing. The city is home to a historic pub scene and has deep roots in music, being officially designated a UNESCO City of Music. According to BonusFinder Ireland, the following are some of the best ways to spend a night in Belfast.
The Tipsy Bird is all about whimsy with its quirky storybook decor and will instantly draw you in with a menu of delicious fruity cocktails. Whether you want to stop by for a drink with friends or see what’s happening at The Tipsy Garden, you’re sure to create a memorable night full of laughs and everlasting stories. You can always count on something to be happening here – cocktail masterclasses, drag brunches, DJ nights, live music, and friendly competition with some garden games.
Address: 90-100 Ann St
If chill rooftop gardens with stylish surroundings are more your speed, check out Tetto on the top floor of the Bullitt Hotel. Serving up Italian-style eats, fresh local seafood, and Aperitivo-inspired cocktails, you can stop by for an after-work drink or spend a weekend evening at this lively spot. There’s even an opportunity to marvel at the Belfast skyline as you indulge in the Tetto Garden’sgarden parties and resident DJs, who always bring the energy.
Address: 70-74 Ann St
For over 100 years, Lavery’s has been a staple in Belfast’s social scene. It’s the city’s oldest family-owned pub and has maintained that down-to-earth feel with a touch of modernisation. There are several areas across three floors at Lavery’s, including a few indoor bar areas, the outdoor Shipyard for live music and sports, the Cobbles for a pour-your-own Guinness experience, the Woodworkers for craft beer, and several pool table spaces to start a game in.
Address: 12-18 Bradbury Pl
The Bone Yard is the ultimate hangout spot for ice-cold drinks, delicious food truck-style eats, and good conversation, all in an outdoor bar and food place. It’s an eclectic outdoor beer garden made entirely from repurposed shipping containers for a youthful, casual atmosphere. A real favourite among locals, you can expect to chill out at a picnic table with a big group of friends, grab a cocktail jug, and enjoy some live music. The best part? Pups are welcome.
Address: 29 Bedford St
Feeling sophisticated? Then head over to Belfast’s only dedicated jazz bar for classic jazz melodies, food, and drink to satisfy your palate. Bert’s Jazz Bar is open every night for bebop, swing, vocal jazz, and other subgenres in a swanky 1930s New York-inspired hotel bar. To complement the evening, there’s also a mixed drinks menu inspired by jazz capitals of the world and an elevated French bistro menu from their 1 AA Rosette restaurant.
Address: 16 Skipper St
While modern bars and creative nightlife venues continue attracting attention, traditional pubs promise timeless craic and nostalgia that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Kelly’s Cellars was built in 1720, making it the oldest pub in town. This long-standing structure encourages everyone of age to stop by for a drink, pick up a stool, and stay for the live music. For those wanting a taste of tradition – Kelly’s Cellars is the place to be.
Address: 30-32 Bank St
Located on the roof of a linen mill turned social venue, The Perch is a rooftop cocktail bar for alfresco drinks, small plates, and a good time. To pay homage to the name, you’ll find an assortment of hanging birdcages and a main bar that overlooks the icons of Belfast. The bar changes with the seasons, going from a summery theme with fruity cocktails and grassy decor to fairy lights and warm drinks in the winter. The Perch also plays host to weekend DJs, bottomless brunch, seasonal events like a terrarium-making class, and other fun events.
Address: 42 Franklin St
White’s Tavern, Garden & BeerHall
White’s Tavern adds another superlative to this list as the first-ever tavern in Belfast. Established in 1630, this venue is steeped in history and has carried that charming reputation into the future. The Tavern was effectively brought back to life following its 2019 renovation with pops of colour and a botanical feel. It invites people for Sunday Roasts, live music, cocktails, and to simply enjoy each other’s company. It’s the perfect place for Guinness and Irish favourites like beef stew and a Belfast bap.
Address: 2-4 Winecellar Entry
Stroll down the cobbled alleys under the neon umbrellas, and you’ll find The Duke of York Bar, a place that embodies Belfast to the fullest. Step into the bar, and you’ll see that it’s the real deal – old photos of the city, memorability, street signs, and murals all make up the very fabric of the establishment, all working to capture you in a moment in time. Grab a drink at the mirrored whiskey bar and soak in the jovial atmosphere and traditional tunes.
Address: 7-11 Commercial Ct
Ox Cave is a minimalist, wood-laden wine bar for those who want to savour fine wines and pair them with refined eats. It’s a tantalising setting for a first-class evening where you can get the best of the best at reasonable prices. If you’re hungry for more, you can hop over to the Michelin-starred OX restaurant for delicious, quality multi-course menus featuring thoughtfully designed dishes from local suppliers that can be paired with recommended wines.
Address: 3 Oxford St
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