The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
Located in the heart of Belfast's city centre, The Spirit Circle offers an immersive sensory cocktail experience that blends interactive tastings with local spirits and bespoke mixology. Guests explore how their senses influence flavour perception through engaging experiments, culminating in a personalised cocktail crafted on the rooftop. This beautifully designed venue combines education, entertainment, and exceptional craft drinks in a memorable afternoon or evening experience.
A brief summary to The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
- 62 High St, Belfast, BT1 2BE, GB
- +442890457723
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive with an open mind and empty stomach—the experience includes multiple full-sized cocktails, not small tastings. Plan accordingly if you have other activities scheduled.
- Book in advance, especially for weekends or group visits. The intimate nature of the experience means capacity is limited to maintain quality.
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes if you plan to explore the rooftop bar. The experience involves standing and moving between different areas.
- Take notes during the sensory experiments if you're interested in recreating your favourite flavour combinations at home—the hosts are happy to share insights about spirits and techniques.
- Consider timing your visit for late afternoon to enjoy the rooftop finale during golden hour, combining the sensory experience with Belfast's skyline views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport (Bus)
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre near High Street, including services from Laganside Bus Centre and surrounding areas. Journey times from most Belfast neighbourhoods range from 10–25 minutes depending on origin. Fares are approximately £1.50–£3.00 for single journeys. Buses run frequently throughout the day, though evening services are less frequent after 23:00.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local firms) are readily available across Belfast. Travel time from Belfast International Airport is approximately 30 minutes; from the city's main train station (Central Station) is 5–10 minutes. Typical fares range from £8–£25 depending on origin. Services operate 24 hours, though surge pricing may apply during peak evening hours.
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Walking
The Spirit Circle is centrally located on High Street, making it accessible on foot from most city-centre hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Walking from Donegall Place or the Cathedral Quarter takes 5–15 minutes depending on starting point. Pavements are well-maintained, though the city centre can be busy during shopping hours (10:00–18:00).
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Parking (On-Street and Car Parks)
Limited on-street parking exists near High Street; paid car parks are located within 2–5 minutes' walk, including multi-storey facilities on Ann Street and Chichester Street. Parking costs range from £1.50–£3.00 per hour, with daily rates around £8–£12. Arrive early to secure spaces, especially during weekends and shopping season.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
A Sensory Journey Through Taste and Spirit
The Spirit Circle invites visitors into a world where cocktails transcend simple refreshment and become an exploration of human perception. Housed in a beautifully appointed venue on Belfast's High Street, this experience guides guests through a series of interactive sensory experiments designed to reveal personal taste preferences and how other senses—smell, sight, and touch—influence what we perceive on the palate. Using only the finest locally distilled spirits, the venue crafts drinks that tell stories of Belfast's rich distilling heritage while introducing visitors to flavour combinations they may never have considered.The Experience Unfolds Across Multiple Stages
The journey typically spans two to three hours and is structured to build understanding progressively. Guests begin by participating in sensory activities that demonstrate how taste works, exploring tinctures, aromatics, and flavour profiles through hands-on engagement. Throughout this educational phase, several substantial cocktails are served—not mere sips, but full-sized drinks that showcase different spirits and techniques. The experience is led by knowledgeable hosts who create an atmosphere of discovery rather than pretension, making the sessions equally engaging for cocktail enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.The Rooftop Finale and Personalisation
The crescendo of the experience arrives at the rooftop bar, where each guest receives a bespoke cocktail crafted specifically to their individual taste preferences. This personalised creation, informed by everything learned during the sensory experiments, becomes a tangible takeaway—a drink made precisely as the visitor likes it. The rooftop setting provides a memorable backdrop for this final act, offering views across Belfast while guests savour their custom creation alongside fellow participants.Venue Character and Atmosphere
The Spirit Circle's interior design reinforces its educational mission through thoughtfully integrated graphics and visual storytelling that embed Belfast's cocktail and distilling history into the physical space. The venue maintains a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance, with staff described as patient, friendly, and genuinely invested in making each visit special. The central location on High Street ensures accessibility, and the indoor setting makes it an ideal refuge during Belfast's frequent rainy weather while maintaining an atmosphere of discovery and indulgence.Occasions and Group Dynamics
While perfect for special occasions—anniversaries, celebrations, or milestone moments—The Spirit Circle equally serves as a fun afternoon or evening activity for friends, couples, or solo visitors seeking something beyond conventional entertainment. The experience accommodates various group sizes and creates an inclusive environment where participants learn together, taste together, and celebrate their discoveries collectively. The combination of education, entertainment, and quality spirits ensures that guests leave with both new knowledge and genuine enjoyment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Numbers' Wall
0.1 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
0.3 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.4 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.
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.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.4 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.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.4 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.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.4 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
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.
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.
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.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.5 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.5 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Unmissable attractions to see
High St
0.1 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
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.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s dynamic artist-led gallery showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art and fostering creative community since 1993.
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.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
The Crown Entry passage
0.2 km
Historic Crown Entry in Belfast, a moody passageway where revolutionary ideas once took root and the city’s oldest urban fabric endures.
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.
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.
Duke of York
0.2 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.
Queen's Square
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.2 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
Commercial Court
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover McHugh's Bar & Restaurant, a vibrant pub and dining experience in Belfast's Queen's Square, blending tradition with contemporary flavors.
Harp Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Essential places to dine
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 Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
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.
Taylor & Clay
0.1 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.
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.
Bootleggers
0.1 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Waterman Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
Mumbai 27
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Roam
0.3 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
OX Belfast
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Buba
0.3 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
0.3 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Coppi Restaurant
0.4 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
The Chubby Cherub
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.1 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.1 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.1 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.2 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.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.2 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Forsight Belfast
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
White Stuff Belfast
0.2 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.2 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
FatFace
0.2 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.2 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
0.2 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
0.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The National
0.0 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
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
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.
Ulster Sports Club
0.1 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
0.1 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
The Black Box
0.2 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.2 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
39 Gordon Street
0.2 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.
Bittles Bar
0.2 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.
The Tipsy Bird
0.2 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Margot
0.5 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
0.1 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.
Craics Ninety
0.2 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
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.
Kremlin
0.5 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.5 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.5 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
0.5 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Alibi
1.4 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.0 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
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Modern
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
