Background

Maddens: Belfast’s Quintessential Traditional Pub

Authentic Belfast pub with lively traditional music, top-quality Guinness, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the city centre.

★★★★★4.7 (1256)

Maddens is a beloved traditional Irish pub located at 74 Berry Street in Belfast’s city centre. Known for its authentic atmosphere, lively traditional music sessions, and friendly local vibe, Maddens offers visitors a genuine Belfast pub experience with excellent pints of Guinness and warm hospitality in a no-frills setting.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Maddens

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
74 Berry St, Belfast, BT1 1FJ, GB
🕒
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
💷
Mid ranged
🏛
Indoor
📶
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Monday
11:30 am-1 am
Tuesday
11:30 am-1 am
Wednesday
11:30 am-1 am
Thursday
11:30 am-1 am
Friday
11:30 am-1 am
Saturday
11:30 am-1 am
Sunday
1 pm-12 am

Explore places near Maddens

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Maddens

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Bus

    Take the Metro bus routes 1A or 1B from Belfast city centre to Berry Street; journey time is approximately 10-15 minutes with frequent service. A single fare costs around £2.50. Note that buses run regularly but check schedules for late-night service availability.

    Taxi

    A taxi from Belfast city centre to Maddens typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available and provide a convenient option for late-night returns.

    Walking

    If staying in central Belfast, Maddens is accessible on foot within 15-25 minutes from major city centre hotels. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, though some streets may be busy in peak hours.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Information Boards

    Local tips

    Visit during live traditional music sessions upstairs for an immersive cultural experience.
    Try the Guinness, often praised as one of the best pints in Belfast.
    Arrive early on weekends to secure a seat, as the pub can get busy.
    Engage with the friendly locals and bar staff to get a true sense of Belfast hospitality.

    Maddens location weather suitability

    Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.

    Weather icon
    Any Weather
    Weather icon
    Rain / Wet Weather
    Weather icon
    Cold Weather
    Weather icon
    Mild Temperatures

    Discover more about Maddens

    A Genuine Belfast Pub Experience

    Maddens stands out as a classic, no-frills Irish pub right in the heart of Belfast. Its wooden furnishings, old-school bar stools, and traditional décor create an inviting atmosphere that feels both familiar and authentic. The pub is cherished for its warm, welcoming environment where locals and visitors mingle freely, making it a perfect spot to soak in the true spirit of Belfast nightlife.

    Live Traditional Music and Local Culture

    One of Maddens’ defining features is its vibrant live traditional Irish music sessions, often held upstairs. These sessions showcase young musicians carrying on Ireland’s rich musical heritage, providing an engaging and lively soundtrack to your visit. The music, combined with the friendly chatter of patrons, creates an atmosphere full of cultural energy and conviviality.

    Exceptional Drinks and Friendly Service

    Maddens is renowned for serving some of the best pints of Guinness in the city, praised for their quality and creaminess. Alongside Guinness, the pub offers a good selection of other drinks, including the Harp lager. The bar staff are known for their fast, efficient, and friendly service, often treating visitors like regulars and making everyone feel at home.

    Location and Accessibility

    Situated on Berry Street, Maddens benefits from a central location in Belfast’s bustling city centre, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The pub opens from late morning until after midnight, offering a flexible schedule for casual drinks or a lively night out. Its proximity to other central attractions and transport links adds to its convenience.

    Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

    The pub’s atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with a mix of locals and visitors creating a genuine community feel. The interior’s traditional wooden paneling and intimate nooks invite patrons to linger over drinks and conversation. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet pint or joining in the spirited music sessions, Maddens offers an authentic slice of Belfast’s pub culture.

    Notable Anecdotes and Local Charm

    Stories from visitors highlight the warmth of the staff and the welcoming nature of the regulars. One visitor recounts being treated like a regular and even receiving a lift back to their hotel, exemplifying the pub’s friendly and inclusive spirit. Maddens’ charm lies in its ability to make every guest feel part of the local fabric, a true gem for anyone seeking an unpretentious Irish pub experience.

    A brief summary to Maddens

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

    A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.

    Busiest months of the year

    Seasonality

    Busiest hours of the day

    Footfall
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Titanic Belfast HDR.jpg - Wikipedia

    More about Belfast

    Discover Belfast: A city where history meets modernity, offering rich cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and a vibrant arts scene in the heart of Northern Ireland.

    Tell me more about Belfast

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.