1. Ulster Hall
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 7FF
Street Address: 34 Bedford St
Country: UK
2. Dalys Bar – Live Music Venue
City/Town: Dungannon
Postal Code: BT70 1DQ
Street Address: 65 Irish St
Country: UK
3. Union Street Bar
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2JF
Street Address: 8-14 Union St
Country: UK
4. The Jamaica Inn
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 5HA
Street Address: 188 Seacliff Rd
Country: UK
5. Sakana
City/Town: Carrickfergus
Postal Code: BT38 8BE
Street Address: 5 Rodgers Quay
Country: UK
6. The Stables Ltd
City/Town: Antrim
Postal Code: BT41 4JE
Street Address: 10 Castle St
Country: UK
7. Portadown Town Hall
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT62 3LX
Street Address: 15 Edward St
Country: UK
8. Bellini’s Newry
City/Town: Newry
Postal Code: BT35 6AH
Street Address: 25 Merchants Quay
Country: UK
9. The Cardan Bar & Grill – Distil Bar-Club
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 1XP
Street Address: 41 Railway St
Country: UK
10. Cottonmount Arms
City/Town: Newtownabbey
Postal Code: BT36 4QN
Street Address: 130 Mallusk Road
Country: UK
11. Belfast Waterfront
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 3WH
Street Address: 2 Lanyon Place
Country: UK
12. Kremlin
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2GW
Street Address: 96 Donegall Street
Country: UK
13. Gourleys Bar and Venue
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 6HA
Street Address: 4 The Square
Country: UK
14. Mclaughlins Corner
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT44 8TE
Street Address: 60 Bann Rd
Country: UK
15. Quinn’s Corner
City/Town: Dungannon
Postal Code: BT70 1RX
Street Address: 175 Ballygawley Rd
Country: UK
16. Wild Duck Inn
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT44 8HR
Street Address: 93 Main St
Country: UK
17. The Stables Restaurant
City/Town: Antrim
Postal Code: BT41 4JE
Street Address: 10-16 Castle St
Country: UK
18. Fluid
City/Town: Newtownabbey
Postal Code: BT36 5EQ
Street Address: 350 Antrim Rd
Country: UK
19. Grace Neils
City/Town: Donaghadee
Postal Code: BT21 0AH
Street Address: 33 High St
Country: UK
20. O’hares Lounge Bars
City/Town: Newcastle
Postal Code: BT33 0EU
Street Address: 121 Central Promenade
Country: UK
21. The Empire Music Hall
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT7 1JJ
Street Address: 17 Botanic Avenue
Country: UK
22. The Limelight
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 8HD
Street Address: 17 Ormeau Avenue
Country: UK
23. The Pavilion
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 5ED
Street Address: The Promenade
Country: UK
24. The Black Box
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2LA
Street Address: 18-22 Hill Street
Country: UK
25. The Sunflower Bar
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2JD
Street Address: 65 Union Street
Country: UK
26. The Half Moon
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2AA
Street Address: 1-3 High Street
Country: UK
27. The Duke of York
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2NB
Street Address: 7-11 Commercial Court
Country: UK
28. The Grand Opera House
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 7HR
Street Address: Great Victoria Street
Country: UK
29. The Cathedral Quarter
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2LA
Street Address: 48 Hill Street
Country: UK
30. The Ramada
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2JW
Street Address: 15-25 Talbot Street
Country: UK
31. The Waterfront Café
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 3WH
Street Address: 2 Lanyon Place
Country: UK
32. The Black Horse
City/Town: Carrickfergus
Postal Code: BT38 7AH
Street Address: 2A North Road
Country: UK
33. The King’s Head
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2AA
Street Address: 1 High Street
Country: UK
34. The Concert Hall
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 4QG
Street Address: Victoria Square
Country: UK
35. The Bohemian
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 4GJ
Street Address: 54 Upper Arthur Street
Country: UK
36. The Bridgehouse
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 1LT
Street Address: 6-8 Bridge Street
Country: UK
37. The Pavilion Bar
City/Town: Ballygally
Postal Code: BT40 2QJ
Street Address: The Promenade
Country: UK
38. The Academy
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 7AF
Street Address: 68-72 Great Victoria Street
Country: UK
39. The Merchant Hotel
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2DZ
Street Address: 16 Skipper Street
Country: UK
40. The Waterfront Bistro
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 3WH
Street Address: 2 Lanyon Place
Country: UK
41. The Market Bar
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 1LU
Street Address: 10 Market Street
Country: UK
42. The Crown Liquor Saloon
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 7BA
Street Address: 46 Great Victoria Street
Country: UK
43. The Grand Central Hotel
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT2 7GH
Street Address: 9-15 Bedford Street
Country: UK
44. The Harp Bar
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 2LA
Street Address: 15-19 Hill Street
Country: UK
45. The Arena
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 3LP
Street Address: 10 Lanyon Place
Country: UK
46. The O2 Academy
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT7 1JJ
Street Address: 42-44 Botanic Avenue
Country: UK
47. The Voodoo Lounge
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 1JN
Street Address: 29-31 Gresham Street
Country: UK
48. The Waterfront Hall
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 3WH
Street Address: 2 Lanyon Place
Country: UK
49. The Red Room
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT7 1SH
Street Address: 19-21 Ormeau Road
Country: UK
50. The Crescent Arts Centre
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT7 1NH
Street Address: 2-4 University Road
Country: UK
Northern Ireland boasts a vibrant music scene, offering a diverse range of venues that cater to all genres, from traditional Irish folk to contemporary rock, pop, and electronic music. Whether you’re seeking a lively pub gig, an intimate acoustic set, or a stadium concert, Northern Ireland has something for every music lover. Here’s an exploration of some of the best music venues across the region, highlighting their unique appeal, notable events, and contributions to the local music culture.
1. The SSE Arena Belfast
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: As Northern Ireland’s largest indoor arena, the SSE Arena is a hub for major concerts and events, attracting international superstars and large-scale productions.
- Capacity: 10,000+
- Notable Acts: Ed Sheeran, Metallica, and Beyoncé have graced its stage.
- Features: This state-of-the-art venue offers excellent acoustics, modern facilities, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for high-profile concerts and events.
2. Ulster Hall
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: Known as the “home of live music” in Belfast, Ulster Hall has been hosting events since 1859 and is steeped in musical history.
- Capacity: 1,000+
- Notable Acts: The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin (where “Stairway to Heaven” was first played live), and Snow Patrol.
- Features: This historic venue combines architectural beauty with a reputation for showcasing a mix of legendary artists and emerging talent.
3. The Limelight
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: A cornerstone of Belfast’s nightlife, The Limelight is a renowned live music venue that has been hosting iconic gigs since the 1980s.
- Capacity: Approximately 750
- Notable Acts: Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, and Two Door Cinema Club.
- Features: The Limelight offers an intimate setting, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of live music and club nights, appealing to a younger audience.
4. Oh Yeah Music Centre
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: A hub for Northern Ireland’s music industry, the Oh Yeah Music Centre is a venue, rehearsal space, and cultural hub dedicated to nurturing local talent.
- Capacity: Varies
- Notable Acts: Known for supporting emerging artists and hosting community events.
- Features: This venue focuses on fostering creativity and talent, offering workshops, exhibitions, and live performances.
5. Empire Music Hall
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: Housed in a stunning Victorian building, the Empire Music Hall offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for live performances.
- Capacity: Approximately 500
- Notable Acts: Known for hosting local and touring bands, as well as comedy nights.
- Features: With its unique décor and lively ambiance, it’s a favorite spot for fans of live music and comedy.
6. The Duncairn
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: A cultural and arts center that regularly hosts live music events with an emphasis on acoustic, folk, and world music.
- Capacity: Intimate setting, suitable for smaller audiences.
- Notable Acts: Prominent local folk artists and international acoustic performers.
- Features: The Duncairn is celebrated for its intimate performances and connection to the local arts scene.
7. Voodoo Belfast
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: A unique venue offering an eclectic mix of rock, metal, punk, and alternative music, alongside club nights and events.
- Capacity: Approximately 300
- Notable Acts: A hotspot for underground and alternative bands.
- Features: With its edgy vibe and passionate crowd, Voodoo is a favorite for fans of niche music genres.
8. The Black Box
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: Known for its versatility, The Black Box is a multi-purpose venue that hosts everything from live music to theater and comedy.
- Capacity: 250-300
- Notable Acts: A platform for experimental and innovative performances, including jazz and indie artists.
- Features: The venue’s intimate setting and diverse programming attract a creative and dynamic audience.
9. Waterfront Hall
- Location: Belfast
- Overview: A stunning concert hall and conference center located on the banks of the River Lagan.
- Capacity: 2,000+
- Notable Acts: Hosts a mix of classical performances, international acts, and local events.
- Features: Known for its exceptional acoustics and elegant architecture, it’s a venue suited for larger yet sophisticated gatherings.
10. The Nerve Centre
- Location: Derry~Londonderry
- Overview: A creative hub that combines live music, film screenings, and multimedia projects.
- Capacity: 250-300
- Notable Acts: Supports local talent while welcoming touring bands.
- Features: The Nerve Centre’s focus on innovation and youth engagement makes it a vital part of Derry’s cultural scene.
11. Sandinos
- Location: Derry~Londonderry
- Overview: A lively bar and music venue that has become a staple for the city’s music lovers.
- Capacity: 200+
- Notable Acts: Features a mix of local and touring bands, with a focus on folk, indie, and rock.
- Features: Sandinos is beloved for its cozy vibe and commitment to showcasing diverse music styles.
12. Dolan’s Inn
- Location: Enniskillen
- Overview: A smaller venue with a big reputation for live music, Dolan’s Inn offers a lively pub atmosphere.
- Capacity: Intimate setting.
- Notable Acts: Regular performances from folk and traditional Irish musicians.
- Features: A charming spot for those seeking authentic local music.
13. The Playhouse
- Location: Derry~Londonderry
- Overview: A creative arts center that hosts live music, theater, and community events.
- Capacity: Varies
- Notable Acts: Features a mix of classical, folk, and contemporary music.
- Features: The Playhouse is deeply rooted in the local arts community and provides a platform for collaboration and innovation.
Planning Your Music Experience in Northern Ireland
- Check Schedules: Many venues have a mix of regular gigs and one-off performances. Visit their websites or social media pages for up-to-date event schedules.
- Book Tickets Early: Popular events and intimate venues often sell out quickly.
- Explore Local Talent: Northern Ireland has a thriving local music scene, so make time to discover up-and-coming artists.
- Enjoy the Atmosphere: Many venues double as pubs or cafes, offering food, drinks, and a chance to mingle with fellow music lovers.
Conclusion
From grand arenas to intimate venues steeped in character, Northern Ireland’s music scene is as diverse as its landscape. Whether you’re catching a global superstar at the SSE Arena, enjoying an acoustic session at The Duncairn, or immersing yourself in the energy of The Limelight, the region offers unforgettable experiences for music enthusiasts. With a rich history, thriving local talent, and welcoming atmosphere, Northern Ireland continues to solidify its place as a must-visit destination for live music.