McHughs Bar & Restaurant
Belfast's oldest surviving building since 1711: historic pub vibes, live music, and hearty Irish fare in Queen's Square.
Dating back to 1711, McHughs Bar & Restaurant stands as Belfast's oldest surviving building in the bustling Queen's Square area. This historic Georgian hostelry blends traditional Irish pub charm with modern gastropub dining, featuring a lively main bar, cozy restaurant spaces, and a basement venue for live music. Enjoy classic dishes like Irish stew, fish and chips, and boxty alongside a wide selection of drinks in an atmosphere rich with local art, artifacts, and craic. Open daily from midday (1pm Sundays) until late, it offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with live folk and traditional music several nights a week. Wheelchair accessible with outdoor seating and free WiFi.
A brief summary to McHughs Bar & Restaurant
- 29-31 Queen's Square, Belfast, BT1 3FG, GB
- +442890509999
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-1 am
- Thursday 12 pm-1 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 1 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Catch live folk music on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in the basement for an authentic Irish session.
- Opt for traditional dishes like Irish stew or fish and chips, paired with local brews for the full gastropub experience.
- Book the Lord Lucan room via the spiral staircase for private gatherings up to 30 people.
- Visit before 7pm with children, as the bar becomes adults-only afterward.
- Enjoy outdoor patio seating on pleasant evenings, with wheelchair access available.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
McHughs Bar & Restaurant 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 McHughs Bar & Restaurant
1711 Origins in Belfast's Docklands
Built in 1711 amid the thriving dock area under the shadow of the Albert Clock, McHughs embodies Belfast's maritime heritage. This end-of-terrace Georgian structure has endured centuries, restored to preserve its integral role in the city's past. Original features like the spiral staircase leading to the intimate Lord Lucan room whisper tales of bygone eras, where sailors and merchants once gathered. The building's restoration merged it with its neighbor, creating a multi-level haven that balances authenticity with contemporary comfort. Exposed wooden beams, ornate ceilings, and local artworks create a tapestry of history and culture, inviting patrons to connect with Belfast's enduring spirit.Main Bar's Timeless Social Heart
The main bar buzzes with energy, perfect for mingling over pints of local brews or Irish whiskeys. High ceilings and wooden bannisters overlook open spaces, fostering a convivial vibe filled with laughter and conversation. It's a spot where friends meet, stories unfold, and the day's worries dissolve amid the hum of clinking glasses. Filled with examples of the best local art and artifacts, the space celebrates Northern Irish creativity. Whether savoring a creamy Guinness or a crisp lager, the bar captures the essence of Irish hospitality in a setting that feels both familiar and enchanting.Gastropub Fare with Irish Soul
McHughs elevates pub classics into modern Irish dining. Tender lamb in rich Irish stew, beer-battered fresh fish with mushy peas and chips, and inventive boxty showcase seasonal, local ingredients. The menu spans brunch, lunch, and dinner, with after-hours bites available late into the night. Vegetarian-friendly options like hearty veggie stews and vegan dishes join gluten-free choices, ensuring broad appeal. Wheaten bread with Irish butter arrives as a welcoming touch, grounding every meal in tradition while plates burst with flavor and freshness.Basement Beats and Live Entertainment
Descend to the spacious basement bar for an electric twist, where live bands and DJs ignite Thursday through Saturday nights. Folk and traditional music sessions on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays draw crowds for foot-stomping tunes and spirited performances. Capacity for 160, it's a pulsating underbelly of rhythm and revelry. This hidden level transforms the historic venue into a nightlife hub, blending acoustic intimacy with high-energy sets. The air thrums with melody, encouraging spontaneous dances and shared cheers in true Irish fashion.Private Spaces and Versatile Gatherings
The Lord Lucan room, accessed via the 1711 spiral staircase, hosts intimate functions for up to 30 seated or 20 for meetings, equipped with projector and screen. The Larkin Room adds flexibility for smaller groups, while the restaurant upstairs seats 70 in a refined yet relaxed setting. Outdoor patio seating extends the experience on milder days, with highchairs and wheelchair access welcoming diverse visitors. Full bar service, table options, and credit card acceptance make it ideal for everything from casual lunches to private celebrations.Everyday Accessibility and Traditions
Open daily from 12pm (1pm Sundays) until 1am, food service runs until 10pm weekdays and 9pm Sundays. Age policies allow children until 9pm in the restaurant and 7pm in the bar, shifting to over-18s afterward. Features like televisions for sports, free WiFi, and a garden enhance its role as a neighborhood anchor.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Memorial Clock
0.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.1 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Beacon of Hope
0.2 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.2 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.
2-6 Waring St
0.3 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
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Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Treasure Trails
0.6 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Alec the Goose
0.6 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.6 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.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.6 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.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.6 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.6 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
The Back Of Boots
0.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen's Square
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
Custom House Square
0.1 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.1 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
The Big Fish
0.1 km
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
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.
Donegall Quay
0.2 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.2 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
The Cloth Ear
0.2 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.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.2 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
High St
0.2 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
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.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.3 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Harp Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Essential places to dine
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Taylor & Clay
0.2 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.
Bootleggers
0.2 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
OX Belfast
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
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.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.3 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Northern Whig
0.3 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Mumbai 27
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
0.4 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
0.4 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Novelli at City Quays
0.4 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
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.
Roam
0.4 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.2 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.2 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.3 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
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.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
0.3 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
New Look
0.4 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
AllSaints
0.4 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The Tipsy Bird
0.1 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.2 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 National
0.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Spaniard
0.2 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
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 Black Box
0.3 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Jailhouse
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Dark Horse
0.3 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
Monico Bars
0.4 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.4 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
0.4 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Margot
0.6 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
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
0.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Kremlin
0.6 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
0.6 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
0.6 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
0.6 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Alibi
1.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.8 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
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
