About This Pub
Ah, the Harp Bar – it's one of those places in Belfast that just grabs you from the moment you walk in, with its plush red velvet and antique touches that whisk you straight back to Victorian times. I love how they've kept that old-school charm alive, especially with the rare memorabilia from its days as a bonded warehouse for The Old Bushmills Distillery. The live music is brilliant too; it's got that authentic feel with home-grown talent that really gets the energy flowing, making it a top choice for a fun night out with mates or even a date. The drinks selection is spot on, offering everything from cracking independent beers to a wide array of whiskies, and the staff are generally lovely, dishing out that proper Belfast hospitality that makes you feel welcome. But, let's be honest, it does get mobbed on busy nights, so you might end up elbow-to-elbow trying to nab a seat, and the service isn't always flawless – sometimes it's speedy and cheerful, other times it's a bit wobbly with less experienced folks behind the bar. Still, with such a high rating and all that craic, it's well worth a visit if you're after a genuine pub experience in the city.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The atmosphere is absolutely charming, with that classic Victorian decor that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time – it's all plush red velvet and antique furnishings, perfect for a cosy night out.
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Live music is a real highlight; they've got talented local acts like Van Morrison vibes, creating a lively buzz that's hard to beat.
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The staff are incredibly welcoming and friendly, always ready with a smile and that genuine Belfast spirit that makes you feel right at home.
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They've got a fantastic selection of drinks, from independent draught beers and extensive whiskies to cocktails, plus simple snacks like crisps and dulse.
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It's spotlessly clean and well-maintained, which is a nice touch in a traditional pub setting.
Cons
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It can get absolutely packed, especially on weekends, so you might struggle to find a spot or enjoy a quiet chat.
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Service can be a bit hit and miss; some staff are spot on, but others seem a tad inexperienced, which might slow things down when you're eager for that next round.
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Certain parts, like the top bar, are only open on specific days, such as Saturdays, which means you might miss out if you're not planning ahead.
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Opening hours vary quite a bit, with Mondays closed and other days starting later, so it's not always ideal for a spontaneous visit.
Contact Information
35 Hill St, Belfast BT1 2NB
+442890329923
Pub
Closed
Opening Hours
Monday | 17:00 - 01:00 |
Tuesday | 17:00 - 01:00 |
Wednesday | 17:00 - 01:00 |
Thursday (Today) | 14:00 - 01:00 |
Friday | 11:30 - 01:00 |
Saturday | 11:30 - 01:00 |
Sunday | 16:00 - 00:00 |
Recent Reviews
Belly up at the bar and get your drink. Then enjoy the live music and friendly, clean atmosphere! This place is 5 star! So clean, polished and friendly! Too bad for us we found this on our last night Belfast! We would have been back every night!
The top bar at the Harp is a great place to have a date night, hang out with friends. It feels like you have been transported to a bar from the 80s. It's very posh and luxurious. The in this bar are refurbished from old ships made in Belfast. It's only open on Saturdays, which makes it special and really stands out. They also play live music. I think one must visit this place if you are in Belfast.
Got drawn in by the lovely decor which felt so original and transported us right back in time! Varied selection of beers and cocktails, and although it was absolutely packed on Saturday night, we were able to find a spot and enjoy our drinks for the evening!
Busy, popular bar with a nice, mixed clientele - young and old, glamorous and casual. All in all, very comfortable. The service was hit and miss. The person behind the bar was a inexperienced but the guys on the floor were very professional. Great for a night out in the city. Very enjoyable indeed.
A brief visit to this pub which we liked a lot. Lovely staff and enjoyed listening to the guitarist/singer. We visited 3 pubs in the Cathedral Quarter and they were all great. Looking forward to going back and spending more time there.
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