This quirky post comes thanks to Jonny Blair, from Don’t Stop Living and also the Northern Irishman in Poland. Here, he has chosen his favourite 5 bars in Northern Ireland, his home country, which he loves to promote on his travels.
Well, of course, I really would have loved to have included “the wins”, which is “The Windsor Bars” in Bangor, Northern Ireland, on this list. But unfortunately, the bar shut its doors forever back in 2014. However, as a bonus, I was one of its last ever customers, and indeed I spent a night in the hotel upstairs just before it shut for good.
Nowadays, though, these are my favourite 5 bars in Northern Ireland. Of course, I could list over 50 as I love the bars back home, and I had to limit myself to just one in each of Belfast and Bangor. Get ready for decent pints and a bit of Northern Irish banter and craic! Keep er lit yousens!
1. The Esplanade Bar & Restaurant – Bangor
Located at 12 Ballyholme Esplanade, Bangor BT20 5LZ, The Esplanade offers stunning views across Ballyholme Bay. It’s no surprise it is one of my favourites as I used to work in the butchery counter just a 5 minute walk. I worked there from 2002 to 2004 and after work on Fridays or Saturdays, we’d head to the Esplanade.
This well-run establishment features a front bar, a cozy back bar, a sea terrace, and a restaurant serving quality food. It’s also dog-friendly and has an Off Sales section so you can get yer carryout.
For reservations or inquiries, call +44 28 9127 0954. Visit their official website at Esplanade Bar or their Facebook page.
2. The Dirty Duck Alehouse – Holywood
Situated at 2-4 Kinnegar Road, Holywood BT18 9JN, The Dirty Duck Alehouse is renowned for its panoramic views of Belfast Lough. This is an absolute gem in the Northern Irish bar circuit.
Offering a diverse menu served across its upstairs, downstairs, and outdoor areas, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, with celebrities even popping in.
The rubber ducks on the wall and in the bar give it an extra wee quirk.
To book a table, call +44 28 9059 6666. Explore their offerings at thedirtyduckalehouse.co.uk or follow them on Facebook.
Jonny with his dad and mate Rafal, knocking back pints at the Dirty Duck.
3. Grace Neill’s – Donaghadee
Established in 1611, Grace Neill’s at 33 High Street, Donaghadee BT21 0AH, claims to be The Oldest Pub in Ireland, though this claim is often disputed.
It boasts a rich history, a welcoming beer garden, and a menu featuring classic pub fare.
It is so old that you need to duck your head going into the front lounge.
For reservations or more information, call 028 9188 4595 or email info@graceneills.com. Discover more on their Facebook page.
Jonny with his dad at Grace Neill’s:
4. The Crown Liquor Saloon – Belfast
Okay let’s get it straight – this is probably the pick of the pubs in Northern Ireland, Ireland and the whole UK. The Crown is world famous.
Located at 46 Great Victoria Street, bang in the centre of Belfast, The Crown Liquor Saloon (official name) is a Victorian-era pub known for its ornate interiors, including stained glass, mosaic floors, and private snugs.
Managed by the National Trust, it offers a selection of real ales and classic pub food.
For more details, visit the Nicholsons Pubs Facebook page.
5. The Ponderosa – Glenshane Pass
Perched atop the Sperrin Mountains at 974 Glenshane Rd, Londonderry BT47 4SD, The Ponderosa at 946 ft above sea level is Northern Ireland’s highest pub!! That should be enough to tempt you in.
With a history dating back to the 1850s, it offers hearty meals, a cosy atmosphere, and breathtaking views. You’ll be necking the highest pint of Guinness in Northern Ireland!
For bookings or inquiries, call +44 28 7774 1987 or email bookings@theponderosabar.com. Check out their Facebook page.
Jonny with his mate Rafal at The Ponderosa:
Just as a note, three pubs are claiming to be Ireland’s Highest Pub:
- Top of Coom in County Kerry is 1047.5ft asl
- The Ponderosa in County Derry is 946 ft asl
- Johnnie Fox’s, just outside of Dublin, is 912.9 ft asl
The Top of Coom is the highest pub in Ireland, but it’s across the border in the Republic of Ireland.
The Ponderosa featured here comes in second, but claims the highest pub in Northern Ireland spot.
Each of these establishments provides a unique glimpse into Northern Ireland’s rich pub culture, offering everything from historic charm to decent banter to smooth Guinness to modern dining experiences.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these are my favourite 5 bars for you when you backpack my home country, wee Northern Ireland.