The Harp Bar: Belfast’s Plush Live Music Pub with Historic Charm
A plush Victorian-inspired pub in Belfast famed for live music, rich whiskey, and authentic local craic in a historic setting.
Located at 35 Hill Street in Belfast, The Harp Bar is a vibrant public house known for its plush Victorian-inspired interiors, extensive whiskey selection, and lively live music scene. It offers a welcoming atmosphere with two floors hosting home-grown talent, complemented by antique furnishings and memorabilia linked to Belfast’s distilling heritage. Open from mid-afternoon to late night, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Belfast craic and quality drinks.
A brief summary to Harp Bar
- 35 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2NB, GB
- +442890329923
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-1 am
- Thursday 2 pm-1 am
- Friday 11:30 am-1 am
- Saturday 11:30 am-1 am
- Sunday 4 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on Friday or Saturday for the liveliest live music and full atmosphere.
- Try the local draught beers and extensive whiskey selection for an authentic taste.
- The upstairs seating area offers a comfortable space during busy nights.
- Arrive after 5pm on weekdays when the bar opens to enjoy a relaxed start.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Harp Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Harp Bar
Historic Roots and Distinctive Ambience
The Harp Bar stands on Hill Street, Belfast, occupying a building once linked to The Old Bushmills Distillery Company. This heritage is reflected in the bar’s interior, richly decorated with plush red velvet fabrics and antique furnishings that evoke Victorian Belfast. Walls and cabinets showcase rare memorabilia, creating an atmosphere that blends history with comfort. The bar’s design recalls the grandeur of a bygone era, making it a unique setting for enjoying drinks steeped in local tradition.A Hub for Live Music and Belfast Craic
More than just a pub, The Harp Bar is a vibrant live music venue spread over two floors. It regularly hosts performances by local artists, continuing a legacy of Belfast’s rich musical culture. The venue’s lively atmosphere is infused with “Belfast craic,” a spirited social vibe that welcomes diverse crowds. Music ranges from traditional Irish tunes to contemporary acts, making it a cultural hotspot where visitors can experience the city’s artistic pulse.Drink Selection and Culinary Offerings
The bar caters to discerning drinkers with an extensive whiskey collection and a focus on independent draught beers. It also serves crisps, dulse, and coffees, providing a variety of options beyond the typical pub fare. The Harp Bar is noted for serving beers like Harp lager and local brews such as Hilden’s Belfast Blonde, often praised for their quality and freshness. This dedication to drink excellence complements the venue’s vibrant social scene.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors find The Harp Bar to be plush and comfortable, with ample seating options that encourage relaxation and socializing. The venue’s layout includes a spacious upstairs area, often used during busy times, ensuring a comfortable experience even on crowded nights. While some reviews note variability in staff friendliness and service, many patrons appreciate the welcoming vibe and the balance between lively music and conversational comfort.Operating Hours and Accessibility
The Harp Bar operates primarily in the late afternoon and evening, with opening hours from 5pm to 1am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 2pm to 1am on Thursdays, and from 11:30am to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Sundays see a shorter schedule from 4pm to midnight, while Mondays are closed. This schedule caters well to both after-work crowds and late-night revelers, making it a staple of Belfast’s nightlife.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Harp Bar carries forward a storied legacy as a Belfast institution, once known as a premier punk venue in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Although the original punk scene closed in 1982, the current venue honors this heritage by fostering local music talent and maintaining a strong connection to Belfast’s cultural identity. It remains a place where history, music, and community spirit converge, offering visitors a genuine taste of Belfast’s character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
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Albert Memorial Clock
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Castle Buildings
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Beacon of Hope
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Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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Treasure Trails
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DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
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Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
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Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
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Belfast City Hall Tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Cathedral Quarter Belfast
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Trade union mural
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Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
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Commercial Court
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The Cloth Ear
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Cathedral Quarter Moural
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The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
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Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
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The MAC
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The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
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High St
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High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Custom House Square
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Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Essential places to dine
Waterman Restaurant
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The Muddlers Club Restaurant
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Six By Nico Belfast
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Buba
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Dumpling Library
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The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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The Northern Whig
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Coppi Restaurant
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Academy Restaurant
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Taylor & Clay
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Bootleggers
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Roam
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City Picnic
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Forsight Belfast
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Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
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Fuzz Vintage
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Urban Outfitters
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Søstrene Grene
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Born and Bred
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Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
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Top Gift
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Live Music
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
