Kelly's Cellars Belfast
Belfast's oldest pub (1720) offering historic charm, lively trad music, and a genuine local atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & live music
Kelly's Cellars Belfast
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Belfast's oldest pub (1720) offering historic charm, lively trad music, and a genuine local atmosphere.
"A MUST VISIT! This place has been here since 1720. That is a lot of stories being told and memories being shared."
🎯 Catch a Trad Session
Kelly's often hosts traditional music sessions. Ask staff or locals for the best nights to experience authentic Irish trad music.
🍻 Try the Guinness
Enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, a classic choice for many visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Pub Atmosphere
Step back in time in this 1720s pub, filled with stories and memories. A true Belfast institution.
Live Traditional Music
Experience the soul of Ireland with lively trad sessions that fill the pub with authentic music.
Vibrant Patio Scene
Enjoy a pint and soak up the atmosphere on the bustling patio, even in the afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience Authentic Belfast Pub Culture
Timing is Key for Trad Music
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Trad sessions
🎯 Catch a Trad Session
Kelly's often hosts traditional music sessions. Ask staff or locals for the best nights to experience authentic Irish trad music.
🍻 Try the Guinness
Enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, a classic choice for many visitors.
I will be in Belfast for two nights on a solo trip. Is there a pub known for being welcoming to solo visitors or for people who enjoy conversing with others?
📸 Wall Art & Murals
Admire the interesting photos and murals adorning the walls, adding to the pub's unique character.
🍽️ Upstairs Dining
The upstairs restaurant offers a quieter dining experience with traditional music playing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch a Trad Session
Kelly's often hosts traditional music sessions. Ask staff or locals for the best nights to experience authentic Irish trad music.
🍻 Try the Guinness
Enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, a classic choice for many visitors.
📸 Wall Art & Murals
Admire the interesting photos and murals adorning the walls, adding to the pub's unique character.
🍽️ Upstairs Dining
The upstairs restaurant offers a quieter dining experience with traditional music playing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kelly's Cellars is celebrated for its historic charm, lively atmosphere, and authentic traditional music sessions. Visitors praise the perfect Guinness and the vibrant patio scene. However, some dining experiences have been mixed, with inconsistent food quality and service noted by a few patrons.
"Food was great! Fairly quiet as we were upstairs. Lots of interesting photos and murals on the walls. I had Cajun chicken Burger. Was very nice though felt flavour could have been a bit stronger so asked for some pepper corn gravy. Yum"
Andrefan Gregg
"Lovely little upstairs restaurant to the main pub down below. It was quiet and had traditiinal music on while we ate. Fish and chips were nice and crunchy with thin batter and tender fish, and the pour of Guinness was excellent"
Devin Gourley
"Omg. This was such a lovely place to visit. Wish I could have stayed longer. The place has been here since 1720. That is a lot of stores being told and memories being shared between people. Friendly attentive service that made sure everyone was hydrated throughout the evening.
Also live music that was really good. What a Great pub. If in Belfast - this is a MUST VISIT!"
Peter R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kelly's Cellars is centrally located in Belfast, making it easily accessible. Many visitors find it a convenient walk from other city center attractions. Public transport options are plentiful in the area, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. Taxis are also readily available.
On-street parking can be limited in the city center. It's often best to use nearby public car parks. Check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kelly's Cellars is a public house and does not typically require tickets for entry. You can walk in and enjoy the atmosphere or a drink. Live music events may occasionally have cover charges, so it's worth checking their schedule.
Opening hours can vary, but Kelly's Cellars generally opens in the afternoon and stays open late into the evening. It's advisable to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on public holidays.
Kelly's Cellars maintains a relaxed, traditional pub atmosphere. There is no strict dress code, so casual attire is perfectly acceptable. Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan on standing or enjoying the music.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a warm, friendly, and traditional pub atmosphere. It's known for its historic charm, lively crowds, and often features live traditional Irish music, creating a vibrant and authentic experience.
Yes, Kelly's Cellars is renowned for its live traditional Irish music sessions. These sessions are a major draw for locals and tourists alike, offering a genuine taste of Irish culture.
Absolutely! Kelly's Cellars boasts a popular patio area that is often packed, especially in the afternoons. It's a great spot to enjoy a pint and the lively atmosphere.
Take your time to observe the decor, including the numerous photos and murals on the walls, which tell stories of the pub's long history since 1720. The intimate setting itself is a testament to its heritage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kelly's Cellars offers a food menu, with some reviewers highlighting dishes like Cajun chicken burgers and fish and chips. The upstairs restaurant provides a more formal dining setting.
Reviews for the Irish stew have been mixed. While some expect a traditional hearty dish, one reviewer found it to be primarily potato mash and lacking flavor, differing from advertised expectations.
Kelly's Cellars serves a range of beers, spirits, and wines. Their Guinness is particularly praised by visitors for its quality.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic interior with its numerous photos and murals. The lively patio scene and the perfectly poured pints of Guinness also make for great shots.
Generally, taking photos inside pubs is acceptable, especially to capture the atmosphere and decor. However, be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography, particularly during live music performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Kelly's Cellars
This deep historical connection is palpable when you're inside. The intimate setting, with its small tables and stools, encourages conversation and a sense of community, much as it would have done hundreds of years ago. The friendly and attentive service mentioned by patrons further enhances this feeling of being welcomed into a long-standing tradition. It's this authentic atmosphere that draws people in, seeking a genuine Belfast pub experience rather than a modern, commercialized venue.
Experiencing Traditional Music Sessions
To make the most of the music, it's advisable to inquire about the schedule upon arrival or check their social media. While some nights are more dedicated to trad music than others, the spontaneous nature of these sessions is part of their charm. Arriving early can secure a good spot, allowing you to fully soak in the melodies and the convivial atmosphere that accompanies them. The energy generated by live trad music is infectious, making it a highlight for many who visit Kelly's Cellars.
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