The Northern Whig: Historic Bar & Grill in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter
Historic Belfast bar and grill blending 19th-century charm with modern style in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
The Northern Whig is a renowned bar and grill located in a historic 19th-century building at 2-10 Bridge Street in Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter. Originally constructed between 1819 and 1820 as a multi-purpose civic building, it has evolved through centuries, surviving wartime damage and extensive refurbishments. Today, it blends old-world charm with modern style, offering a lively atmosphere for dining, cocktails, and socializing in the heart of Belfast.
A brief summary to The Northern Whig
- 2, Northern Whig Building, 2-10 Bridge St, Belfast, BT1 1LU, GB
- +442890509888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 1 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in the early evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere as the venue transitions from dining to bar mode.
- Try their signature cocktails alongside a selection from the grill menu for a full Northern Whig experience.
- Explore the surrounding Cathedral Quarter to appreciate Belfast’s rich cultural and historic environment.
- Check opening hours as they extend late into the night on weekends, perfect for nightlife seekers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Northern Whig 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 The Northern Whig
A Storied Beginning in Belfast’s Early 19th Century
The Northern Whig building was originally constructed between 1819 and 1820, with its foundation stone laid on St. Patrick’s Day 1819 by the 2nd Marquis of Donegall. Designed by architect John McCutcheon, this three-storey structure replaced a row of two-storey thatched cottages and was built at a cost of £20,000. It initially housed a hotel, newsroom, assembly room, central piazza, and commercial offices, serving as one of Belfast’s first prominent civic buildings with classical architectural aspirations, including a giant Ionic colonnade made of Leinster granite.Transformation and Resilience Through the 20th Century
In 1919, the Northern Whig Newspaper acquired the building and undertook major alterations, including rebuilding the Bridge Street facade in red brick and adding printing works and office space. The building suffered severe damage during the Belfast Blitz in May 1941, when a Luftwaffe bomb and subsequent fire devastated much of it. Despite this, the Northern Whig building was the only premises on Bridge Street to survive the Blitz. Post-war restoration efforts rebuilt the facade and inserted new shop fronts, with the last works completed by 1959. The newspaper ceased production in 1963, and the building was converted for commercial office use in 1965.Modern Revival as a Vibrant Social Venue
Since 1997, the ground floor has been home to The Northern Whig bar and restaurant, operated by Botanic Inns. A £1.2 million refurbishment between 1999 and 2000 revitalized the upper floors for office use while preserving the building’s historic character. Today, The Northern Whig offers a unique blend of historic ambiance and contemporary style, making it a standout destination for locals and visitors seeking quality dining, cocktails, and a warm Belfast welcome in the lively Cathedral Quarter.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Northern Whig building is B1 listed, recognizing its architectural and historic importance. Its classical style, granite colonnade, and red brick facade reflect Belfast’s early 19th-century civic pride and evolving urban fabric. The venue’s location at the gateway to the Cathedral Quarter places it in one of Belfast’s most culturally rich and dynamic neighborhoods, known for its arts, nightlife, and heritage.Atmosphere and Experience Today
Visitors to The Northern Whig enjoy a vibrant yet comfortable setting that combines old-world charm with modern comforts. The venue caters to diverse crowds, from relaxed lunches to lively evening gatherings, and is celebrated for its cocktails, grill menu, and social energy. Its historic walls provide a tangible connection to Belfast’s past, enriching the contemporary experience with a sense of place and continuity.Legacy of the Northern Whig Name
The Northern Whig name traces back to a political club formed in Belfast in 1790, known for its advocacy of liberty and reform. This legacy of spirited debate and civic engagement resonates through the building’s history as a newspaper office and social hub, continuing today in its role as a gathering place for conversation, celebration, and community in Belfast.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Weekend Getaway
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
