Commercial Court, Belfast’s Historic and Vibrant Alleyway
Discover Belfast’s charming Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley rich in history, colorful murals, and lively pubs in the Cathedral Quarter.
Commercial Court is a charming cobbled alley nestled in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, once the city’s bustling commercial heart. Known for its colorful umbrellas, striking murals depicting famous Northern Irish figures, and historic architecture, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. The alley is lined with small pubs, boutique shops, and invites visitors to explore Belfast’s rich trading past and artistic present.
A brief summary to Commercial Court
- Commercial Ct, Belfast, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the colorful umbrellas and murals.
- Stop by The Duke of York or The Dark Horse pubs for a taste of local atmosphere.
- Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the street art and historic architecture.
- Explore nearby Cathedral Quarter attractions to enrich your cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Metro buses serving Belfast city center, with frequent routes stopping near Cathedral Quarter. Travel time from Belfast Central Station is approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£3. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Belfast City Centre to Commercial Court takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £5 to £8. Taxis are widely available but can be more expensive during peak hours or late at night.
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Walking
Commercial Court is accessible on foot from central Belfast landmarks such as Belfast City Hall or the Grand Opera House within a 15-20 minute walk. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors, with cobbled surfaces in the alley itself.
Commercial Court location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Commercial Court
A Storied Past in Belfast’s Commercial Hub
Commercial Court stands as a testament to Belfast’s industrial and commercial heritage. Historically, this narrow alley was home to whiskey merchants, pottery makers, and iron foundries, reflecting the city's prominence as a key trading center. Its location in the Cathedral Quarter situates it within one of Belfast’s oldest and most culturally rich neighborhoods, where commerce and craftsmanship thrived side by side.Architectural Charm and Artistic Flair
The alley’s cobbled streets and historic buildings create an intimate and atmospheric setting. Visitors are greeted by vibrant murals that celebrate notable Northern Irish personalities and events, turning the walls into a visual storytelling canvas. The colorful umbrellas suspended overhead add a whimsical touch, creating a striking contrast with the traditional stonework and enhancing the alley’s photogenic appeal.A Hub for Socializing and Boutique Shopping
Today, Commercial Court is a lively destination featuring a collection of small pubs and boutique shops. The famous red benches scattered along the alley invite visitors to pause and soak in the surroundings. Pubs such as The Duke of York and The Dark Horse offer authentic local experiences, making the court a favored spot for both tourists and locals seeking a blend of history, culture, and conviviality.Part of the Cathedral Quarter’s Cultural Fabric
Situated within the Cathedral Quarter, Commercial Court contributes to the area’s reputation as a vibrant cultural and nightlife district. The quarter is renowned for its historic walking areas, galleries, and theaters, with Commercial Court adding a unique, intimate alleyway experience that complements the broader neighborhood’s artistic and historic offerings.Visual and Sensory Experience
Walking through Commercial Court, you encounter a sensory blend of sights and sounds—from the cobblestones underfoot to the colorful murals and bustling pub chatter. The alley’s scale and design foster a cozy ambiance, enhanced by the interplay of light through the umbrella canopy and the warmth spilling from pub windows, inviting exploration and relaxation.Celebrated for Its Beauty and Atmosphere
Recognized as one of the most aesthetically pleasing streets in Northern Ireland, Commercial Court’s charm lies in its harmonious mix of history, art, and social vibrancy. It offers visitors a distinctive glimpse into Belfast’s past and present, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the city’s cultural heart.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.3 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Treasure Trails
0.4 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Back Of Boots
0.5 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Beacon of Hope
0.5 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.5 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.5 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.5 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.5 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trade union mural
0.0 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Duke of York
0.0 km
Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Harp Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.1 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
The Cloth Ear
0.1 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
0.1 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral’s Romanesque beauty, historic mosaics, and the soaring Spire of Hope in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
0.1 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Mural
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant mural at 1 Church St, a vivid testament to the city’s history, culture, and dynamic street art tradition.
Whites Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Irish culture at Whites Tavern in Belfast, where history, music, and delectable cuisine come together in a lively pub atmosphere.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.2 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.2 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
High St
0.2 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Essential places to dine
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.0 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Waterman Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
Mumbai 27
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Northern Whig
0.1 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Coppi Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Academy Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Taylor & Clay
0.3 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
City Picnic
0.4 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
Bank Square Brasserie
0.4 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.2 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Forsight Belfast
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.2 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Fuzz Vintage
0.2 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
Top Gift
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Born and Bred
0.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.3 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dark Horse
0.1 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
0.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Spaniard
0.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
39 Gordon Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The National
0.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Ulster Sports Club
0.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Sunflower Public House
0.3 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
The Reporter. Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Maddens
0.4 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The Tipsy Bird
0.4 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bittles Bar
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Craics Ninety
0.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
0.2 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.2 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Kremlin
0.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
0.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.4 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.3 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly