Whites Tavern

Belfast's oldest tavern?

Whites traces its story back to 1630, when the building on this spot is said to have been given the town's first tavern licence. Winecellar Entry itself is one of the old Belfast entries, the cramped lanes that once linked the main streets with warehouses and yards, and finding it is part of the fun. Step off the busy shopping street and the noise drops away almost at once.

Several bars in one

The original Tavern is the heart of the place, with an open fire and local bands or traditional Irish music. Next door, the Beer Hall has another fire, sports screens, live music and Sunday roasts. White's Store is a Guinness-only bar, and The Garden, reached from High Street, is an open-air space with a retractable roof. Upstairs can be hired for parties.

When to go

Monday evenings are the time for a trad session, which starts at 7pm in the Tavern. Food is served, including Irish dishes, so it works for an evening meal as well as a pint. On busier weekend nights it fills up quickly, so arrive early if you want a seat by the fire. Combine it with a wander around the other entries and the Cathedral Quarter, both within a few minutes' walk.

Highlights

• Claims to be Belfast's oldest tavern, with a licence dating to 1630
• Trad music session every Monday at 7pm
• Open fires in the Tavern and Beer Hall
• Guinness-only bar in White's Store
• Garden with a retractable roof

Good to know

• The Garden entrance is on High Street; the Tavern is down Winecellar Entry.
• Upstairs is available for private hire and large parties.
• Sunday roasts are served in the Beer Hall.

Frequently asked questions