Kelly's Cellars: Belfast's Oldest Historic Pub
Step into Belfast’s oldest pub, Kelly’s Cellars, where history, traditional music, and hearty Irish fare blend in a timeless city-centre setting.
Established in 1720, Kelly's Cellars is one of Belfast’s oldest pubs, steeped in history and tradition. Located at 30-32 Bank Street, this iconic Irish pub is famed for its vaulted ceilings, worn wooden bar, and connections to the 1798 United Irishmen rebellion. It offers hearty traditional fare, live Irish music sessions, and a genuine old-world atmosphere in the heart of Belfast city centre.
A brief summary to Kelly's Cellars
- 30-32 Bank St, Belfast, BT1 1HL, GB
- +442890246058
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12:30 am-1 am
- Wednesday 12:30 am-1 am
- Thursday 12:30 am-1 am
- Friday 12:30 am-1 am
- Saturday 12:30 am-1 am
- Sunday 12:30 am-1 am
Local tips
- Visit during traditional Irish music sessions to experience authentic local culture and lively atmosphere.
- Try classic Irish dishes alongside a pint of Guinness for a full traditional pub experience.
- Look for the blue plaque commemorating the United Irishmen’s meetings during the 1790s.
- Explore the vaulted ceilings and historic interior details that evoke its 18th-century origins.
- Be mindful that the pub can get busy during evenings and weekends, so plan accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus services 1A or 8A from Belfast City Centre, with a travel time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes. The stop near Bank Street is within walking distance to Kelly's Cellars. A single fare costs around £2.50.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Belfast City Centre to Kelly's Cellars typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares range from £6 to £10. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and provide direct access to the pub's doorstep.
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Walking
If you are staying within central Belfast, Kelly's Cellars is accessible by foot within 10-20 minutes from major landmarks such as City Hall or Royal Avenue. The terrain is flat and suitable for all mobility levels.
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Car
Driving to Kelly's Cellars is possible but parking is limited in the immediate area. Nearby public car parks are available but can be expensive and busy during peak times. Expect to pay £5-£10 for parking within a short walk.
Kelly's Cellars 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 Kelly's Cellars
A Storied Legacy Rooted in Belfast's History
Kelly's Cellars stands as a testament to Belfast’s rich past, reputedly established on March 14, 1720. This two-storey, whitewashed brick building with black trim is one of the city’s oldest surviving pubs, located on Bank Street just off Royal Avenue. Originally known as Kelly’s Vaults or Kelly’s Stores, it began as a bonded warehouse selling rum, gin, and whiskey. The pub’s vaulted chambers and cavity walls were ideal for storing spirits, reflecting its early commercial function.Crucible of Rebellion and Political Intrigue
The pub’s historical significance is heightened by its role as a meeting place for the Society of United Irishmen in the late 18th century. Figures such as Henry Joy McCracken gathered here to plan the 1798 Rebellion against British rule. Local lore tells of McCracken hiding behind the bar during a raid by British soldiers, underscoring the pub’s place in Ireland’s revolutionary history. A blue plaque commemorates this heritage, marking Kelly’s Cellars as a site of political and cultural importance.Architectural Character and Atmosphere
Despite alterations over the centuries, Kelly’s Cellars retains much of its old-world charm. The interior features low vaulted ceilings, an elbow-worn wooden bar, and walls adorned with bric-a-brac that evoke a bygone era. Large front windows with many panes and small upper windows contribute to its distinctive façade. Though surrounded by modern commercial buildings, the pub’s historic character endures, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Belfast’s past.Evolution Through the Twentieth Century
The pub endured damage during the Belfast Blitz in 1941 but was restored and changed hands several times. Notably, James Tohill purchased it in 1942 and introduced a cocktail bar upstairs in 1948, followed by the Tudor Lounge in 1954. Ownership passed through various hands, including Guinness’s Croft Inns division in the 1970s. Despite modernization attempts that altered some original features, efforts have been made to preserve its historic fabric.A Living Venue for Tradition and Community
Today, Kelly’s Cellars continues to serve traditional Irish fare alongside pints of Guinness and other beverages. It hosts regular traditional music sessions, maintaining its role as a vibrant social hub in Belfast’s city centre. The pub also historically served as a venue for wakes, reflecting its deep ties to the local community. Its accessibility and welcoming atmosphere make it a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.Preserving Heritage Amid Change
In 2015, the pub faced a proposed delisting that threatened its protected status, sparking a successful campaign to preserve it. This episode highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining Belfast’s architectural heritage amid urban development. Kelly’s Cellars stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural memory, bridging centuries of Belfast’s social and political life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
