One of the biggest draws of Belfast has got to be its range of historic Irish watering holes. Between pints of Guinness and locally crafted beers, warming stews and modern menus, live folk music and dog-friendly spaces, these traditional pubs have something for everyone. Check out our list of the city's classic spots and make your next drink a memorable one.
Last edited by Anisah Audu
If you're looking for one of the best traditional pubs in Belfast, this city centre spot should fit the bill. Owned by the National Trust, this perfectly-preserved old gin palace fronts original tiling, a menu of classic grub and some beautiful pints of Guinness.
A dog-friendly boozer situated near St Anne's Cathedral, Sunflower Public House is a great traditional pub in Northern Ireland. Make your way to the Union Street stalwart for student-friendly drinks prices, wood-fired pizza and locally-sourced craft beers from Boundary Brewing Co, Heaney and beyond.
Between historic pubs and traditional favourites, this city is heaving with great watering holes. If you're after all the public house feels with a delicious menu to match? The John Hewitt Bar has you sorted. Think draught beers, chargrilled jerk chicken burgers, Irish cheeseboards and more.
This Berry Street pick is offering a menu of ales, stouts and draught beers set to the scene of live sports and music. Whether you're heading to Maddens after a day of shopping at CastleCourt or watching the All Ireland final, this casual spot will keep you entertained and hydrated.
With a striking bar area that features drop lighting, plush bar stools and reddish wooden furnishings, The Northern Whig is quite a looker. Check out this city centre pub for wines, beers and cocktails soaked up by a menu of gastro favourites created by head chef Rick Orr.
One of the best pubs in Northern Ireland, The Duke of York is touting photo-worthy interiors, a mirrored whiskey bar and vintage decor. Make your way up the cobbled alleyway, past festooned lighting and into this quirky space where live music sets the tone in a bustling space.
One of the most historic pubs in Belfast, Fibber Magee's is bringing you old-school charm and live folk musicians through the week. With a roaring fireplace, cosy seating and a menu of Irish stews, steak and Guinness pies, boozy coffees, beers and classic cocktails, this should definitely be on your list for a traditional Irish pub crawl.
Located just minutes from St George's Market, Bittles Bar is a traditional Irish pub that's serving up some of the best whiskey in town. Head to the flat iron-shaped building on Musgrave Channel Road for a historic feel with leather seating and kitsch decor.
