“Someone pour me up a double shot of whiskey. Everybody at the bar gettin’ tipsy!”
If that line got you craving a night out, then listen up! This anthem to good times perfectly describes Belfast’s legendary Crown Bar scene.
But before diving headfirst into the “everybody at the bar gettin’ tipsy” atmosphere, let’s ensure your experience is top-notch. This guide will be your insider’s peek into navigating the Crown Bar like a local like me.
So, grab your double shot and get ready to join the Belfast pub party!
What is the Crown Bar known for?
The Crown Bar Belfast, also known as the Crown Liquor Saloon, is a legendary pub in Northern Ireland with stunning Victorian-era grandeur. Owned by the National Trust, it has been restored and is considered a National Trust gem.
The pub boasts unique snugs from the Victorian era, providing a more private space for patrons. It serves classic pub fare in a truly inviting atmosphere and offers an eclectic drink selection, including local beers, whiskeys, and spirits to suit all tastes.
Best Time to Go to The Crown Bar
The Crown Bar, also known as The Crown Liquor Saloon, is a famous Victorian-era pub in Belfast, Northern Ireland, renowned for its beautiful interior and lively atmosphere.
To fully appreciate the historic decor and avoid crowds, plan your visit between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm for a more relaxed experience.
For a great lunch and a taste of traditional pub fare at reasonable prices, visit The Crown Bar between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm. This is a popular time for locals, so expect a bit of a buzz.
If you’re looking for a fun night out, evenings are the best time to go to The Crown Bar. Things start picking up around 5:00 pm, and the pub gets progressively livelier as the night goes on.
To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting The Crown Bar during the shoulder seasons, such as spring and fall, to avoid the peak tourist hours, especially during the summer months and around holidays.
How to Get to The Crown Bar
1. Bus
The Crown Bar is near several bus stops, and you can easily reach it by alighting at Wellington Place or Donegall Square West, which are just a short 3-5 minute walk away.
When arriving in Belfast, watch for the bright yellow Translink sign with route numbers displayed to find a bus stop. You can purchase a bus ticket using cash or contactless payment directly onboard.
2. Belfast Glider
The Glider network consists of two main routes: G1 and G2. G1 travels from West Belfast to East Belfast and the Titanic Quarter, passing through the city center, and G2 operates as a loop service connecting the city center to the Titanic Quarter.
The closest Glider stop to The Crown Bar depends on your starting point. If you’re coming from West or East Belfast, take the G1 and get off at the Wellington Place stop, just a short walk from The Crown Bar.
3. Belfast Bikes
Belfast Bikes is a convenient and accessible public bicycle rental scheme with over 50 docking stations spread across the city center. Cycling to The Crown Bar is scenic and allows you to explore Belfast leisurely.
Renting a Belfast Bike is an affordable and fun way to travel. With a free 30-minute period for each journey and reasonable rental fees for longer rides, it adds an active touch to your visit, making the journey to The Crown Bar an enjoyable experience.
What to do at the Crown Bar
1. Snap a photo in a snug booth.
The Crown Bar’s iconic snugs, dating back to the Victorian era, were designed for privacy and conversation. Today, they’re a beloved pub feature and a fantastic photo opportunity.
There are only ten snugs, each with a unique size and character, making snagging a seat for a drink challenging during peak hours. Be respectful of other patrons and keep your photo op quick, especially if people are waiting.
2. Try traditional pub food.
The Crown Bar offers a historic and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy traditional pub fare. The menu is filled with hearty and satisfying options, from perfectly cooked fish and chips to rich Guinness pie.
The Crown Bar’s generous portions and reasonable prices ensure that customers can savor an authentic and delicious pub experience without overspending.
3. Explore the architectural details of the pub.
The Crown Bar’s facade is a vibrant masterpiece, with colorful polychrome tiles arranged in a geometric pattern. The use of bronze, yellow, green, maroon, and pink hues creates a captivating first impression.
The interior boasts an ornate plasterwork ceiling intricately designed with arabesque patterns in red, gold, and primrose yellow shades. Additionally, it features a collection of ten intricately carved snugs guarded by lion and griffin figures.
Where to Stay Near The Crown Bar
1. The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Address: 1-3 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890442080
Pricing: €€€
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast offers a luxurious and stylish stay next to The Crown Bar. It combines contemporary design and Victorian grandeur, providing comfort and convenience.
The hotel features 146 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, each with elegant bathrooms and modern amenities. The exceptional service and attentive concierge team make it an unforgettable choice for a stay in the heart of Belfast.
2. Premier Inn
Address: Alfred St, Belfast BT2 8ED, United Kingdom
Pricing: €€
Premier Inn Belfast City Centre (Alfred Street) provides a prime location just a short walk from The Crown Bar, offering easy access to Belfast’s main attractions and nightlife.
The hotel offers modern comfort with clean, comfortable rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and on-site dining at the Thyme restaurant, providing a convenient dining option for guests.
3. Europa Hotel
Address: Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7AP, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890271066
Pricing: €€€
The Europa Hotel in Belfast is a luxurious 4-star establishment known for its spacious and elegantly decorated rooms. It also offers a variety of restaurants serving delicious cuisine and a sophisticated bar for evening drinks.
Despite enduring 36 bomb attacks during The Troubles, the Europa Hotel remains a Belfast landmark, showcasing resilience and history. It also boasts excellent conference facilities and event spaces for business and leisure travelers.
4. Leonardo Hotel Belfast
Address: Great Victoria St, Belfast BT1 6DY, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890533500
Pricing: €€€
If you’re planning a trip to Belfast, consider staying at Leonardo Hotel Belfast. The hotel offers spacious rooms just steps away from The Crown Bar. It blends historic charm with modern amenities, including fast Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
Leonardo Hotel Belfast combines its historic location with modern conveniences. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant with a contemporary menu and a Costa Coffee bar for a convenient pick-me-up.
5. Malone Lodge Hotel
Address: 60 Eglantine Ave, Malone Rd, Belfast BT9 6DY, UK
Pricing: €€€
The Malone Hotel is an elegant Victorian townhouse located in Belfast’s historic Queen’s Quarter. It offers spacious and chic interiors that perfectly blend classic charm and modern comfort.
Conveniently situated on a peaceful avenue, The Malone Hotel provides a tranquil escape just minutes from the city center. The hotel’s friendly staff is dedicated to delivering warm Irish hospitality and personalized attention to ensure a memorable stay.
Where to Eat Near The Crown Bar
1. Robinsons Bar
Address: 38-40 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BA, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890247447
Pricing: €€
Robinsons Bar, established in 1895, is one of Belfast’s oldest establishments. Five distinct areas under one roof offer visitors a diverse experience, from a classic pint in the wood-paneled Saloon to a refined dining experience in the upstairs Bistro.
This unique venue beautifully blends Victorian heritage with contemporary style, creating a visually captivating and inviting space for patrons. It features classic pub dishes and a wide selection of drinks, including local beers and international wines.
2. Kelly’s Cellars
Address: 30-32 Bank St, Belfast BT1 1HL, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890246058
Pricing: €€
Established in 1720, Kelly’s Cellars is Belfast’s oldest pub. It offers an authentic taste of history and traditional Irish pub fare. The pub retains its original charm, with a vaulted ceiling and a variety of bric-a-brac, creating a genuine historic atmosphere.
The menu at Kelly’s Cellars celebrates classic Irish pub cuisine, featuring hearty stews, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. It’s a dining spot and a lively hub of local culture featuring live music nights.
3. Duke Of York
Address: 7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast BT1 2NB, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890241062
Pricing: €€
The Duke of York, established in 1895, is a historic pub in Belfast with original Victorian décor and a rich collection of mirrors. The pub offers lively entertainment with live music nights featuring traditional Irish tunes and up-and-coming rock bands.
Renowned for its extensive whiskey selection, which is claimed to be the largest in Ireland, The Duke of York is the perfect place for whiskey enthusiasts to explore and enjoy a wide variety of choices guided by knowledgeable staff.
4. Brennan’s Bar
Address: 48 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890242986
Pricing: €€
Brennan’s Bar offers a cozy atmosphere and local charm with its traditional mahogany and brass bar, open fire, and classic snug seating. The pub’s location and daily drink specials make it a budget-friendly option for an authentic pub experience.
The pub’s menu features delicious fare with a local focus, including hearty steak and ale pie, golden fish and chips, and comforting stew made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
5. Molly’s Yard
Address: 1 College Green Mews, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LW, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890322600
Pricing: €€
Molly’s Yard is a renowned restaurant known for its modern Irish cuisine and inviting ambiance. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century stable block, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a charming enclosed courtyard.
Their menu features modern takes on classic Irish dishes, tempting seafood options, and succulent steaks. It also boasts an award-winning selection of craft beers, including Molly’s Chocolate Stout, and the opportunity to peek at Belfast’s first microbrewery.
What to Do Near The Crown Bar
1. Explore Northern Ireland’s history at the Ulster Museum.
Address: Botanic Gardens, Belfast BT9 5AB, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890440000
The Ulster Museum offers a captivating journey through time with collections spanning art, archaeology, and natural sciences. Start your exploration from prehistoric Ireland and the story of the Spanish Armada shipwreck off the Irish coast in the 16th century.
Art lovers will appreciate the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries and continents, including masterpieces by European masters like Caravaggio alongside works by renowned Irish artists.
2. Explore the story of the RMS Titanic at Titanic Belfast.
Address: 1 Olympic Way, Belfast BT3 9EP, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890766386
Titanic Belfast offers a compelling journey through the ship’s history, with nine interactive galleries that explore its design and construction, the lives of its passengers and crew, and the legacy of its tragic maiden voyage.
The attraction is a must-visit for those intrigued by maritime history and engineering accomplishments and for anyone fascinated by the enduring story of the Titanic.
3. Step back in time and explore Crumlin Road Gaol.
Address: 53-55 Crumlin Rd, Belfast BT14 6ST, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890741500
Crumlin Road Gaol is a historic attraction in Belfast that served as a prison for over 150 years. Today, visitors can take guided tours through the well-preserved wings, visit the execution chamber, and learn about the harsh realities of prison life.
The jail once housed political figures, suffragettes, and notorious inmates, offering a chilling and thought-provoking experience for history buffs and those interested in Belfast’s unique story.
4. Explore the HMS Caroline.
Address: Alexandra Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890454484
HMS Caroline, a restored World War I light cruiser, is now a floating museum. Visitors can learn about life at sea during the First World War by exploring the restored cabins, engine room, and sick bay onboard the historic vessel.
The HMS Caroline’s role in both World Wars and its remarkable survival story make it a special place to learn about Belfast’s maritime heritage and the sacrifices made during wartime.
5. Explore the sprawling Belfast Botanic Gardens.
Address: College Park Ave, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890314762
The Belfast Botanic Gardens is a sprawling 110-acre public garden offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. Visitors can wander through meticulously maintained flowerbeds and explore the impressive Palm House, which is filled with exotic flora.
Additionally, the gardens feature a cafe and a curator’s house that’s open to the public, offering a glimpse into Victorian horticultural history.
Where to Shop Near The Crown Bar
1. St. George’s Market
Address: 12 East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890435704
Located just a short walk from The Crown Bar, St. George’s Market is a historic gem dating back to the 1890s. Explore a treasure trove of stalls overflowing with fresh, local ingredients, such as seasonal vegetables, artisan cheeses, and baked goods.
Beyond the food stalls, St. George’s Market offers a haven for craft enthusiasts. Here, you can buy handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and artwork from talented local artisans.
2. Victoria Square
Address: 1 Victoria Square, Belfast BT1 4QG, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890322277
Victoria Square Shopping Centre is a shopper’s paradise with a vibrant mix of stores catering to all tastes and budgets. There’s something for everyone, from high-street favorites like Topshop and Zara to luxury brands like House of Fraser and Apple.
The complex’s centerpiece is the stunning glass dome, which provides panoramic views across Belfast. Free hourly tours are available to learn about the dome’s architecture and enjoy breathtaking city vistas.
3. Queen’s Arcade
Address: Queen’s Arcade, Belfast BT1 5FE, United Kingdom
Queen’s Arcade in Belfast is a luxurious Victorian shopping arcade with a rich history and high-end retail offerings. The ornate Victorian facade and unique boutiques make it a must-visit for discerning shoppers.
In addition to luxury brands like Rolex and Montblanc, Queen’s Arcade features independent retailers offering unique gifts and locally crafted souvenirs.
4. CastleCourt Shopping Centre
Address: Royal Ave, Belfast BT1 1DD, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890234591
CastleCourt Shopping Centre offers a convenient and diverse shopping experience with over 80 stores. It also incorporates local flavor with pop-up stalls featuring products from Northern Irish artisans and hosts live music performances.
The center provides family-friendly amenities, including a dedicated play area, baby changing facilities, and over 1600 car parking spaces with options for electric vehicles.
5. On the Square Emporium
Address: A3, County Antrim, Sydenham Business Park, 17 Heron Rd, Belfast BT3 9LE, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890434290
On The Square Emporium is a sprawling warehouse offering over 14,000 square feet of vintage furniture, homeware, collectibles, and industrial salvage. It embraces sustainable practices and upcycling and helps breathe new life into vintage finds.
Their knowledgeable staff are more than salespeople – they’re expert curators who can guide you through the vast collection and showcase the work of local craftspeople.