The National
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The National occupies a striking listed Victorian building on Belfast's High Street, blending historic grandeur with contemporary flair. This multi-level venue spans cafe, bar, grill, and breakfast spot, offering all-day dining from brunch classics to evening cocktails in an airy, sophisticated space. Open daily from 10am to 1am, it features outdoor seating, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
A brief summary to The National
- 62 High St, Belfast, BT1 2BE, GB
- +442890311130
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-1 am
- Tuesday 10 am-1 am
- Wednesday 10 am-1 am
- Thursday 10 am-1 am
- Friday 10 am-1 am
- Saturday 10 am-1 am
- Sunday 10 am-1 am
Local tips
- Opt for brunch specials like brisket hash or Cobb salad for a hearty start, available from 10am.
- Head upstairs to explore the five unique bars, each with its own atmosphere and drink focus.
- Catch live music in the evenings, especially weekends, for an authentic local vibe.
- Reserve outdoor terrace seats on sunny days to enjoy the Cathedral Quarter buzz.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
The National location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The National
Victorian Elegance Reimagined
Housed in a beautiful listed Victorian building, The National transforms historic architecture into a modern social hub. Tall ceilings, expansive windows, and preserved period details create an airy sophistication that draws visitors into its multi-story layout. Spanning five distinct bars across levels, each offers a unique vibe—from intimate corners to lively gatherings—making it a versatile spot amid Belfast's bustling High Street. The ground floor cafe hums with morning light filtering through grand panes, while upper spaces unfold into cozy nooks and open bars, all connected by sleek staircases that echo the building's heritage.All-Day Culinary Journey
From dawn breakfasts to late-night indulgences, The National serves Irish, British, international, and cafe fare. Brunch highlights include hearty hashes, fresh salads like Cobb, and deli sandwiches such as Reuben, prepared with local influences. Evenings shift to bar-grill offerings, paired with an extensive wine, beer, and cocktail selection. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options cater to diverse palates, emphasizing fresh, approachable dishes in a setting that bridges casual cafe bites with more substantial grill plates.Dynamic Spaces and Entertainment
The venue's five-bar structure provides variety: a sunlit beer garden for outdoor relaxation, indoor areas for intimate chats, and stages for live music that animates evenings. Highchairs and wheelchair accessibility ensure inclusivity, while full bar service, credit card acceptance, and free WiFi add convenience. This layout fosters everything from solo coffee breaks to group celebrations, with the outdoor terrace shining on sunny days and live performances adding rhythm to nights.Cathedral Quarter Heartbeat
Nestled at 62 High Street in Belfast's vibrant Cathedral Quarter, The National pulses with the area's creative energy. Surrounded by historic sites, trendy eateries, and cultural draws like nearby Muddlers Club and Merchant Hotel, it embodies the neighborhood's mix of heritage and innovation. Its central position makes it a natural pause in explorations of cobblestone streets, street art, and landmarks, offering a stylish respite without leaving the action.Atmospheric Versatility
Daylight reveals a bright, welcoming cafe ideal for brunch; twilight ushers in a lively bar scene with cocktails flowing and music resonating. The space adapts seamlessly—tranquil for mornings, energetic for evenings—its Victorian bones grounding the modern buzz in timeless charm. Whether seeking a quick coffee, full meal, or night out, The National delivers layered experiences in one iconic address.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
0.2 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Queen's Square
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
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.
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.
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.
Forsight Belfast
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
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.
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.
FatFace
0.2 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.2 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
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.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
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.
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
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
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
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
