Harp Bar
Plush Victorian pub in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter, pouring extensive whiskies, craft beers, and live music with authentic Belfast craic.
Nestled in Belfast's vibrant Cathedral Quarter, the Harp Bar is a plush Victorian-inspired pub renowned for its extensive whisky selection, live music sessions, and lively atmosphere. Adorned with antique furnishings and distillery memorabilia, it offers independent draught beers, traditional snacks like dulse and crisps, and nightly performances across two floors, capturing the essence of Belfast's spirited pub culture.
A brief summary to Harp Bar
- 35 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2NB, GB
- Click to display
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Harp Bar.
- Arrive early on weekends for prime seating before live music starts, as the bar fills quickly with music lovers.
- Sample the extensive whisky selection or ice-cold Harp lager, paired with traditional dulse for an authentic taste.
- Head upstairs for more spacious seating during peak hours, ideal for groups enjoying the performances.
- Visit Thursday to Saturday for the longest opening hours, extending from midday into the early morning.
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Getting There
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Walking
From Belfast City Hall, walk 10-15 minutes northeast along Donegall Place and Hill Street; flat pavement suitable for all, but crowded evenings may slow progress.
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Taxi
Take a black taxi from Belfast Central station, 5-10 minutes depending on traffic; costs £6-10, limited parking nearby increases demand on weekends.
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Bus
Board Glider G1 or G2 from Laganside Buscentre to City Hall stop, then 5-minute walk; services every 8-12 minutes daytime, £2.50 single fare, frequent but busier post-8pm.
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Driving
Drive from M2 motorway exit 1 to Hill Street, 5-8 minutes; no on-site parking, use nearby multi-storey like Cathedral Quarter at £2-4 per hour, congestion high on Friday-Saturday nights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Drink Options
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Harp Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Harp Bar
Victorian Elegance in the Cathedral Quarter
Step into the Harp Bar on Hill Street, where plush red velvet fabrics drape the walls and antique furnishings evoke the grandeur of Victorian Belfast. Originally tied to a bonded warehouse that served as headquarters for The Old Bushmills Distillery Company, the bar pays homage to its heritage through rare memorabilia displayed in cabinets and along the walls. The main room centers around a beautiful serving bar, dominating the space with its ornate design, while comfortable seating options invite patrons to linger amid the opulent decor.Whisky Haven and Craft Beers
The Harp Bar stands out as a haven for the discerning drinker, boasting an extensive collection of whiskies that draws enthusiasts from across Northern Ireland. Complementing this are independent draught beers, including crisp Harp lager served ice-cold and sparkling, alongside local brews like Hilden's Belfast Blonde. Simple yet authentic snacks such as crisps and traditional dulse provide perfect pub fare, paired with coffees for daytime visitors. This thoughtful selection recreates the authentic taste of Belfast's drinking scene.Live Music Across Two Floors
Music pulses through the heart of the Harp Bar, transforming it into a dynamic venue on two levels: the original space and extensions like the Dunville & Swinging Diddy Lounges, now incorporating The New Orpheus. Home-grown talent, echoing legends like Van Morrison, performs regularly, filling the air with covers, medleys, and original sets. The sound balances perfectly—not overpowering conversations yet energizing the crowd—making it ideal for both relaxed evenings and lively nights.Belfast Craic and Timeless Spirit
At its core, the Harp Bar embodies 'Belfast Craic' with a huge heart, blending the raucous energy of traditional Irish pubs with refined touches. Open from late morning on weekends to early hours, it attracts a diverse crowd unwinding over drinks in a space that feels both historic and welcoming. The bar's evolution from its 1970s predecessor maintains the famous atmosphere synonymous with golden pub eras, offering a genuine slice of Northern Ireland's social fabric.Atmospheric Nuances and Daily Rhythm
Daylight reveals a more relaxed vibe for coffee and casual bites, while evenings build to peaks of musical fervor. The upper floor provides spacious seating for groups, easing entry during busy times. Throughout, the bar maintains a welcoming spirit, with its decor and drink offerings creating an immersive experience rooted in Belfast's pub legacy.Explore the best of what Harp Bar has to offer
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