Our favourite pubs

pubs welcomeOur favourite where the is always giant

The Rostrevor Inn, Co. Down

No short break would be complete without embracing the pubs of Northern Ireland. So whether it’s a cosy pint, catching-up with friends and family, getting some spring sunshine in a beer garden or enjoying some live music... There’s something for everyone and you'll find lots of inspiration at discovernorthernireland.com Here’s a selection of lovely places to visit, where the craic is always on tap:

1/ The Lower House, Donaghmore, Co. Tyrone

Pretty as a picture, The Lower House in Donaghmore has stood its ground here since the 18th Century, but the family owners haven’t let the grass grow under their feet. Every detail here is as sharp as the edge on some of their finest whiskeys, gins and beers, and as finely-tuned as the music you’ll hear of a weekend.

2/ The Dirty Onion, Belfast, Co. Antrim

The old meets the new in The Dirty Onion. This traditional pub with a modern twist is a buzzing spot which has it all. Whether you’re in the mood to cosy-up by the peat fire with a pint or chill-out in one of Belfast’s biggest beer gardens, you’ll feel at home here. They’ve also got entertainment every night of the week, focusing on live bands and acoustic acts.

3/ Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh

Come for the history, stay for the food. Nestled down on Church Street, Blakes of the Hollow is one of the oldest Victorian pubs you’ll find in Ireland, with its Victorian bar to the front remaining untouched since 1887. Cosy-up in one of the snugs with a pint and some of the finest food you can find.

4/ The Harbour Bar, Portrush, Co. Antrim

A feast for the senses is the fine Harbour Bar. The buzzing pub is a perfect pit-stop to enjoy renowned pints of Guinness, a selection of the best gins and spirits around or some snacks and wood-fired bites to eat. And with live music seven days a week to top it off, you’ll find it hard to leave!

5/ The Rostrevor Inn, Rostrevor, Co. Down

Take a step back in time in The Rostrevor Inn. You can be sure to receive a warm welcome and a smile when you arrive at this historic and charismatic spot. Once you’ve had a look around its cosy rooms, be sure to grab a luxurious whiskey, a locally brewed craft beer or a pint of perfectly-poured Guinness. And when it comes to food, they like to keep it simple, with generous dishes made from local produce.

6/ The Coachman, Magherafelt

Ah, you’ll come in for one and make yourself comfortable at The Coachman. Known for its incredible gin selection, live music from local talent and unique cocktails, you’re in for one of the best nights around. It’s rare to find the staff without a smile on their faces. Oh, it’s also been said that it has the best pint in town. But we’ll let you decide that for yourself.

7/ The Hole in the Wall, Armagh

Step off Armagh’s busy Market Street to find The Hole In The Wall, dating back to 1615, which was a gaol in its previous life. Friends and relatives of the prisoners brought food and letters and passed them through a hole in the wall, hence the name. People now want in rather than out, as the old building – with lots of beams and pillars – exudes history. But watch out, it’s believed to be haunted by a friendly ghost called Wilfyis!

8/ Blackbird, Derry~Londonderry

If ever there was a bar that could sing its own sweet song it would be Blackbird. The locals just love to crow about its reputation for amazing food, live music and a selection of drinks from near and far. Still, it’s the electric atmosphere that would almost have you up with the dawn chorus just for another taste of it. Almost, mind, because the late nights here are some of the best late nights around.

9/ The Copper Tap, Omagh, Co. Tyrone

You just can’t miss it as you turn the corner on Castle Street. Why not spend a while at the vibrant and modern Copper Tap? A bar and restaurant with something for everyone, with cuisine on the menu from near and far and plenty of drinks to choose from. And if you find yourself here on a weekend, you can be sure you’ll catch some of the local musical talent.