The best breweries in Belfast

Owned and operated by the Ireland-wide Galway Bay Brewery, the Northern Lights pub and restaurant is a must-visit while in Belfast. Serving up a delicious selection of beers, wines, and spirits, and some mouthwatering dishes to suit all tastes, you can soak up the atmosphere of this fantastic spot. Known for its friendly staff, relaxed vibe, and amazing beer selection with rotational taps always offering something new and plenty of local and imported beers, you are guaranteed a good night here. From Nitro Stouts to Session IPAs, Pale Ales to Gluten Free Lagers, there’s something for every beer drinker to enjoy. When you get hungry, you can enjoy everything from mouth watering beef, chicken, and veggie burgers to comfort food favourites like mac and cheese and fish and chips.

A popular spot in the student area of the city, The Woodworkers is a trendy two-level taproom serving up a fantastic selection of brews with everything from hoppy IPAs to rich and velvety stouts. With something to suit all preferences, this is a great spot to hang out with friends and try a wide selection of beers that are both homebrewed and imported. Home to Belfast’s original rotating taproom, this spot is truly as unique and special as they come, making an afternoon or evening spent here one to remember. With several areas, including The Workshop, The Café Bar, The Kickback, and the beer gardens, you can easily find a spot that perfectly fits your needs, whether you’re looking to enjoy an intimate catch up with pals, are celebrating a special occasion, or want to organise a relaxed business brunch.

Another beloved spot in the city, The Errigle Inn is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy an epic selection of beers. Boasting an exquisite selection of locally crafted brews, including zesty IPAs and crisp lagers, there really is something for everyone to enjoy here. So, why not treat yourself and try a few of the beers on offer to find your favourite? Depending on the vibe you’re after, you can spend some time relaxing in their vibrant downstairs bar or chill out on their tranquil rooftop area, which is perfect for enjoying a sunny evening in the city. With five rooms, live sport showings, and frequent events, there’s always something happening here and when you get hungry, you can indulge in their fantastic selection of pub grub favourites available from their delightfully simple yet delicious menu. 

For some of the very best craft beer in Belfast, you simply cannot miss the incredible Boundary Brewery on the Newtownards Road. Trendy and industrial, this craft brewery is a co-operative run by its members, making it a truly local experience. With a wide selection of quality craft beers to suit all tastes, it should come as no surprise that this spot is so highly regarded among the city’s craft beer fans. The Taproom next door offers 20 taps and three huge fridges stocked full of Boundary cans where you can enjoy the vast array of IPAs, nitro stouts, and more. Guests can either take a can or two with them to enjoy at home or open a cold one on site and sip away with friends. 

A traditional 19th-century pub that is home to Bell’s Brewery, a fully functional onsite craft brewery, and frequent live entertainment, The Deer’s Head is a must-visit for great food and drinks and a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. With a friendly local atmosphere and historic feel, you can truly soak up the vibe of this historic Belfast brewpub. Founded all the way back in 1885 by wine and spirit merchant John Donnelly, The Deer’s Head offers a historic taste of the city’s past. Similarly, the historic Bell’s Brewery located inside dates back all the way to 1778 when founder John Bell set up one of the first ever commercial breweries in the city, thus kickstarting Belfast’s beer revolution. When it comes to the beer offerings, you’ll be spoilt for choice with a rotating selection of specials and a fantastic craft beer selection that includes beers named after historic Belfast pubs such as North Star Lager, Black Bull Stout, and Monkey Shaving the Goat IPA.