The very best 12 nightlife spots in Belfast, United Kingdom

Welcome to Belfast - the city that knows how to party! If you're in the mood to shake your tail feather, fear not, for we have scoured the streets to find the 12 best nightlife spots just for you. Get ready to unleash your inner dancing diva at The Dirty Onion, where Irish tunes and toe-tapping beats will have you jigging all night long. For a touch of history with your cocktails, head to The Spaniard, a quirky pub adorned with ship memorabilia that will make you feel like you're sailing through booze-soaked adventures. And last but not least, don't miss The Belfast Empire, a legendary venue where live music, comedy, and drinks flow freely in one glorious concoction. Let the good times roll!

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1. Thompson's Garage

3 (164)

3 Pattersons Pl, Belfast BT1 4HW, UK

Nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of Belfast's vibrant streets, Thompson's Garage oozes eccentric charm and excitement like no other. With its quirky vintage signage and mismatched car parts decor, this place screams "hip and happening." Step inside and brace yourself for a sensory overload - the thumping beats, sweat-drenched dancing aficionados, and questionable fashion choices will leave you exhilarated and possibly bewildered, but hey, it's all part of the Thompson's Garage experience!

clubthompsons.com

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2. Filthy McNasty's

4 (1665)

45 Dublin Rd, Belfast BT2 7HD, UK

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Belfast, Filthy McNasty's is a cheeky and lively watering hole that will tickle your funny bone (and your taste buds!). With its whimsical décor resembling an Irish pub straight out of a surreal dream, you'll find yourself surrounded by walls adorned with vintage curiosities, mismatched chandeliers, and the laughter of delighted patrons. As you sip on their lip-smacking cocktails and indulge in their hearty pub grub, get ready to embrace the wonderfully eccentric ambiance that could only be described as Filthy McNasty's...delightfully unique!

www.thefilthyquarter.com

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3. The Harp Bar

4.5 (2860)

35 Hill St, Belfast BT1 2NB, UK

Welcome to The Harp Bar in Belfast, where the mellifluous sounds of the Irish harp mingle with the clinking of glasses and the laughter of the locals. Situated in the heart of the city, this lively establishment effortlessly combines the warmth of traditional Irish hospitality with the cool vibes of a trendy hangout. So, pull up a stool, order a pint of the finest ale, and get ready to embark on a musical journey that will have your toes tapping and your belly aching from all the hilarious banter.

dukeofyorkbelfast.com

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4. The Perch Rooftop Bar

4 (1054)

42 Franklin St, Belfast BT2 7GE, UK

Welcome to The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast, the sky-high haven for high-spirited individuals! Nestled atop the city, this charming establishment is where you can elevate your drinking experience and your spirits – quite literally. Take a break from street-level shenanigans and embark on a vertical adventure, sipping craft cocktails while pretending you're part of an elite bird society; after all, who doesn't want to perch with the best? With its inviting ambiance, delicious libations, and stunning panoramic views, The Perch Rooftop Bar is truly the place to flock to for a soaring good time!

perchbelfast.co.uk

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5. Berts Jazz Bar

4.6 (900)

16 Skipper St, Belfast BT1 2DZ, UK

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Belfast, Berts Jazz Bar stands proud, like a cool cat with a bow tie. As you step in, you'll be greeted by the smooth sounds of jazz, creating an ambiance that's jazzier than a penguin wearing shades. The bartenders here are masters of mixology, whipping up cocktails that will soothe your soul and make your taste buds do a lil' happy dance.

www.themerchanthotel.com

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6. Muriel's Cafe Bar

4.4 (1154)

12-14 Church Ln, Belfast BT1 4QN, UK

Nestled in the heart of Belfast lies Muriel's Cafe Bar, a whimsical wonderland where dreams and caffeine collide. Step through the doorway and prepare to be captivated by the quirky decor that wouldn't be out of place in Alice's Wonderland - think mismatched vintage furniture, walls adorned with mysterious birdcages, and chandeliers that seem to have fallen from a psychedelic dreamscape. With its charming staff decked out in eclectic outfits, Muriel's is the perfect spot to sip your cappuccino and contemplate life's most pressing questions, like why no one has invented a way to teleport cake from the display straight into your mouth.

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7. Ollie's Nightclub

3.4 (108)

35 - 39 Waring St, Belfast BT1 2DL, UK

Hidden in the vibrant heart of Belfast, Ollie's Nightclub emerges like a shiny disco phoenix, beckoning party-goers from all corners of the land. Step into this hallowed den of revelry and you'll be greeted by a cascade of pulsating lights and electrifying beats that make even the most rhythmically challenged wish they were John Travolta. With a dance floor bigger than Beyoncé's shoe collection and a cocktail menu that would make James Bond swoon, Ollie's promises a night of epic shenanigans that will leave you both exhausted and with a newfound appreciation for the phrase "dance like nobody's watching."

www.olliesbelfast.com

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8. The Crown Liquor Saloon

4.4 (5385)

County Antrim, 46 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BA, UK

Welcome to The Crown Liquor Saloon, the crown jewel of Belfast's pub scene! From the moment you step inside this Victorian gem, you'll be transported back in time to an era when handlebar mustaches and petticoats ruled the fashion world. With its ornate tiles, stained glass windows, and a bar that stretches longer than a giraffe's neck, this place is practically begging you to have a drink or two (or three, we won't judge). So grab a pint, raise your glass, and thank your lucky stars you found this quirky watering hole where you can drink like royalty (or at least pretend to).

www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

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9. Limelight

4.2 (2608)

17 Ormeau Ave, Belfast BT2 8HD, UK

Welcome to Belfast's very own Limelight, where the night springs to life like a startled hedgehog. Nestled in the heart of the city, this lively venue is the perfect concoction of fantastic tunes, sparkling conversations, and unforgettable dance moves. Prepare to have your eardrums tickled by a diverse range of music, as Limelight's carefully curated lineup will leave you swaying like a tree caught in a sudden gust of enthusiasm. Pro tip: bring your best footwork and a sense of humor, as unexpected dance-offs have been known to erupt on the sticky floor.

www.limelightbelfast.com

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10. The Dirty Onion

4.4 (4244)

3 Hill St, Belfast BT1 2LA, UK

Tucked away in the heart of Belfast's Cathedral Quarter, The Dirty Onion is a lively pub that's as charmingly rustic as its name suggests. Step inside this treasure trove of craic (Irish for "fun") and soak up the boisterous atmosphere while savoring a pint of aromatic local brew. Be sure to keep an eye out for the friendly ghost of Ned, who is said to roam the premises in search of misplaced pint glasses - an unexpected tour guide, to say the least!

www.thedirtyonion.com

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11. Duke of York

4.6 (3763)

7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast BT1 2NB, UK

Nestled in the heart of Belfast, the Duke of York is the epitome of charm and cheer. This pub, known for its eclectic decor and lively atmosphere, is like a delightful treasure trove waiting to be explored. Unleash your inner explorer as you navigate through the crowd and hunt for the perfect pint amidst shelves stacked with an impressive array of whiskey bottles resembling a museum for the spirited.

www.dukeofyorkbelfast.com

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12. The Spaniard

4.5 (1322)

3 Skipper St, Belfast BT1 2DZ, UK

Nestled in the heart of Belfast, The Spaniard is like that friend who always brings the party. This quirky bar exudes a lively atmosphere that will make you want to flamenco your way through the door. With its whimsical nautical theme adorned with all things pirate, The Spaniard promises a treasure trove of laughter, cocktails, and maybe even some unexpected encounters with mischievous buccaneers.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Belfast, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport. Both airports offer both local and international flights, including major airlines such as British Airways and Ryanair.

Car

Driving to Belfast from most parts of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is relatively simple, as both countries are connected by a well-maintained motorway network. In addition, several car rental agencies can be found at major airports and cities throughout the region.

Train

While there is no direct train from outside Northern Ireland to Belfast, it is possible to take a train to Dublin and then transfer to a train to Belfast from there. The Dublin-Belfast route is served by Irish Rail Corporation, with trains departing from Dublin Heuston Station.

Boat

Taking a ferry to Belfast is possible from several ports in Great Britain, such as Liverpool and Cairnryan. The two main ferry companies operating these routes are Stena Line and P&O Ferries.

Bus

There are several intercity bus companies that operate routes to Belfast, such as Bus Éireann and Ulsterbus. One of the more popular options is the Belfast Express, which runs from Dublin to Belfast and vice versa every day.

More guides

Discover Belfast: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

A trip to Belfast on a limited budget will allow for a journey through the history of the United Kingdom. Explore the Titanic Museum, the city's many murals, and take a scenic drive up to the Giant's Causeway. Accommodation can be found in budget-friendly hostels or short-term rentals, and a variety of affordable dining options offer traditional Irish cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Belfast: A 5-Day Adventure

Explore the vibrant city of Belfast on a budget-friendly trip. Visit historical landmarks like the Titanic Belfast museum and the Belfast Castle. Savor local cuisine at the St. George's Market and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture at the Ulster Museum.

Discover Belfast's Best in 2 Fun-Packed Days

Visiting Belfast, you can discover the rich history of the city with a political mural tour or a visit to the Titanic Museum. Take a stroll through St. George's Market on the weekend and try some local cuisine while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The city's vibrant pub scene offers traditional Irish music and a wide selection of craft beers.

Romantic Day Trip: Belfast, UK

A romantic trip to Belfast, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, culture and modernity. From exploring the iconic Titanic Belfast Museum and strolling through the beautiful gardens of Botanic Park, to enjoying the bustling nightlife and delicious food at St. George's Market, there is something for every couple to cherish. The stunning views of the Causeway Coastal Route and the serene ambience of Giant's Causeway make it an unforgettable romantic experience.