Belfast is an idyllic small town situated along the Passagassawakeag River near Penobscot Bay with an active social and cultural life.
Madden’s is a hidden gem located down an alley in the Cathedral Quarter that continues to stand up for old-school values like warmth and friendship while offering exceptional pints!
1. The Duke of York
The Duke of York Pub offers an old-school atmosphere and serves up great music with some refreshing pints. Tucked away down an alleyway in Cathedral Quarter, it has long been a favorite spot to grab a drink and soak up some great Belfast culture. Adorned with photographs and memorabilia of Belfast city itself, its walls boast photos and memorabilia to remember your visit while it offers a wide range of beers and whiskeys for you to sample!
The food at Duke of York is nothing short of incredible, and drinks are affordable as well. Additionally, their staff is extremely welcoming and will make you feel right at home – making this place perfect for an evening out with friends or family.
This bar should not be missed when visiting Belfast. A classic Irish pub with an eccentric interior and some stunning memorabilia on display, its friendly staff provide outstanding customer service, while its delicious cuisine makes this stop a must-visit destination.
At The Duke of York, you can enjoy delicious dinners and drinks for very reasonable prices, with fast and efficient service that won’t break the bank. Situated close to Belfast city center, The Duke of York will leave a lasting impression with its quality cuisine and services.
Visit this restaurant when in Belfast; it is an old-school bar with an energetic vibe, friendly and fast service, an extensive menu (from pasta dishes to burgers and fries), delicious cocktails, and wine to accompany your meal.
The Duke of York offers the perfect setting for date nights and outdoor patio seating to take in the beautiful weather. Relax after a stressful day at work in comfort; drinks here are affordably priced, while its warm, welcoming environment ensures an enjoyable visit.
2. Fibber Magee’s
Fibber Magee’s is one of Belfast’s historic bars, beloved by both locals and visitors. This charming pub features an impressive Titanic memorabilia collection as well as serving drinks and food like burgers, Irish stew, pies, and plowman’s platters – plus live music sessions every night!
Fibber Magee’s is an Old School Dublin bar known for hosting authentic Irish folk music sessions every night – with live traditional folk music sessions. Furthermore, guests can also take part in other entertainment, such as bodhran drum lessons and music sessions at this establishment.
Fibber McGee and Molly’s radio show featured many memorable running gags, but one in particular stood out: Fibber’s closet was so jam-packed full of items that opening it was like opening Pandora’s Box of chaos – now an idiom in English parlance for any disorganized or chaotic space or state of being.
Old School Belfast offers plenty to see and do beyond its prominent attractions, including visiting the Belfast Central Library – built in 1905 as a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture and home to an extensive selection of books and resources – making for a beautiful way to spend some time.
Old School Me Belfast provides many museums that provide insight into its past for those wishing to expand their knowledge. One such institution is the Belfast Historical Museum – it should not be missed!
There are also a variety of restaurants and pubs nearby offering good food at great prices, like The Morning Star located at 3 Hill Street – a classic Victorian pub that provides an authentic Old School Belfast experience, boasting an extensive whiskey and cider selection.
3. Kelly’s Cellars
Built-in 1720, this pub harkens back to the early days of Belfast. Offering traditional decor with cozy seating arrangements and live music from local musicians. There is also an impressive collection of whiskeys and beers on offer and a restaurant offering an assortment of dishes for dine-in and takeout customers alike.
Old School Belfast Bar features old mirrors and memorabilia adorned with warm tones and a large dining room with a fireplace. It boasts an inviting ambiance that makes this an excellent place for friends to come together and listen to great Irish music; their doors open Thursday-Sunday for music sessions that feature both traditional and acoustic tunes!
Kelly’s Cellars was once a frequent meeting spot for journalists, businesspeople, bankers, and athletes of all kinds – journalists, businesspeople, bankers, and sportspeople alike. Rumor has it that many crucial local football signings occurred here in one of its snugs – Bob Wilson even began compiling signatures of numerous former managers such as Matt Busby, Bill Shankly, and Jimmy MacRory during this era.
Kevin O’Kane purchased his pub in 1961 with the intent of modernizing its interior, eliminating snugs, and raising its knee-high counter to waist height. Additionally, he installed new doors, replaced its old polished wood floor with plywood flooring, and installing a plywood surfaced one for better functionality.
In 1972, he sold his property to Croft Inns as his clientele changed from middle-aged professionals to younger people, leaving him no time or desire to run it himself. To commemorate their efforts at reforming political systems during 1791-1798, a blue plaque commemorating them was placed by Ulster History Circle on this building.
In 2015, the Department of Environment proposed delisting The Crown Pub from Belfast’s list of protected buildings; this decision was overturned due to campaign efforts led by locals and international supporters. On January 22, 2017, marks its 250th birthday celebration – it remains popular and well-visited today!
4. White Tavern
This intimate city center pub was granted its tavern license back in 1630 and boasted the oldest pub in Belfast with its traditional downstairs bar adorned with original mirrors and drinking memorabilia, as well as offering live Irish music performances from Thursday to Saturday nights.
Located in Belfast’s Old Market Square, this traditional bar is an absolute must-see if you want to experience its best offerings. A real hidden gem, it boasts low oak beams, exposed brick walls, and an inviting open fire for added ambiance and a great conversation starter. Plus, they serve a fantastic selection of food, from soups to hearty stews – don’t miss it!
Not just locals come out to this traditional Irish pub to experience its good craic; former US President Bill and First Lady Hillary Clinton hosted an intimate reception here during their recent trip to Northern Ireland.
An absolute must-visit for lovers of traditional Irish pub grub, Guinness, and history! The menu is straightforward yet satisfying, and prices are highly affordable. Dine in the Green Room for a more intimate dining experience, or dine at one of their traditional tables!
The Bar is an idyllic old-style pub situated at the heart of the historic Half Bap District. Guests are always warmly welcomed into this inviting environment filled with friendly locals. Perfect for enjoying a pint of Guinness in front of an open fire while listening to some traditional Irish music!
Discover a charming and rustic bar located in an exquisite old-style building dating back to the 1780s in the historic Half Bap area, formerly home to warehouses and industries. It is known for its friendly atmosphere and good times that usually spill onto cobbled alleyway or courtyard areas, and it also hosts regular Irish music sessions ranging from trad to harp to bluegrass!
