After a night at Belfast’s best live music spots, we’re not sure if our voices or feet hurt more!
The first time I stepped into one of the city’s iconic venues, I had no idea I’d be leaving hours later with ringing ears, a sore throat from singing along, and an urgent need to Google every local band I’d just discovered.
Whether it’s a cozy pub with acoustic sets or a sprawling venue packed with dancing crowds, Belfast’s music scene knows how to keep you hooked.
Curious where to find the best beats, pints, and vibes in the city? Keep reading—we’ve got your ultimate guide to Belfast’s top live music venues right here!
1. Join in on the Fun at Oh Yeah Music Centre
– Media credit: ohyeahcentre
Address: 15-21 Gordon Street
Contact details: +44 28 9031 0845
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm
- Saturday: 11am to 6pm
This venue packs a punch with its rich music history and friendly vibes. The café seating is a nice touch, letting you soak in the atmosphere without shouting over the music.
Meanwhile, the sound stage hits the sweet spot—perfectly loud for gig enthusiasts, yet considerate enough for café chatters.
There’s also a compact but fascinating museum showcasing music memorabilia, a bar, and a record shop to explore. The Belfast music exhibits lining the walls are a treat (the SLF and Defects pieces are real standouts).
Once the DJ starts spinning, you’ll instantly get why this spot is the ultimate choice for live music lovers. This spot is a gem for local bands and music enthusiasts alike, even hosting music markets for the community. Conveniently nestled in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, it’s surrounded by fantastic bars, cafes, and restaurants—perfect for making a day (or night) of it.
| Pro tip: There is convenient parking nearby alongside the MAC. |
2. Drop by the Empire Music Hall
– Media credit: belfastempire
Address: 42 Botanic Avenue
Contact details: +44 28 9024 9276
Operating hours:
- Monday: 12pm 11pm
- Tuesday: 12pm to 1am
- Wednesday: 12pm to 12am
- Thursday to Saturday: 12pm to 1am
- Sunday: 1pm to 12am
The Empire Music Hall strikes the perfect balance—spacious yet intimate, with no bad seat in the house. While waiting for the band, you’re treated to nostalgic 90s tunes (think Britney, NSYNC, and blink-182), setting the mood just right.
This Belfast favorite is a go-to for live music, comedy, and more. Spread across two floors with a balcony, it offers bars on every level and even outdoor seating. While the beer prices might not be budget-friendly, the top-notch entertainment makes it all worthwhile.
The food? Classic pub grub done right—delicious, quick, and served with a smile. Whether you’re grabbing a bite, catching a gig, or enjoying a pint solo or with friends, this place guarantees a fantastic night of craic!
| Pro tip: They have been given a very strict rule book to follow. You can’t stand and put your drink here. |
3. Head to the Limelight
– Media credit: limelight.belfast
Address: 17 Ormeau Avenue
Contact details: +44 28 9032 7007
Operating hours:
- Monday: 10pm to 2am
- Wednesday and Thursday: 12pm to 2am
- Friday and Saturday: 5pm to 2am
This fantastic venue is a dream for smaller bands and cover acts, offering an intimate experience where you can connect with the music without needing to choose between the artist or a screen.
The layout is a win, with multiple bars spread across the property and different vibes in each room. Even the outdoor/smoking area has its own bar—bonus points for convenience! The staff are on the ball, handling any spills or issues in no time.
It’s a brilliantly managed space—safe, clean, and welcoming—with friendly, professional staff that make every visit an absolute pleasure. A top-notch spot for music lovers!
| Pro tip: It can get pretty loud up front, so if you want to enjoy the music without feeling like you’re in the speaker, the middle of the room is the perfect spot to soak it all in! |
4. Get Movin at Ulster Hall
– Media credit: waterfront_ulster_hall
Address: 34 Bedford Street
Contact details: +44 28 9033 4455
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 12pm to 6pm
Ulster Hall in Belfast is a stunning, historic gem that effortlessly blends Victorian charm with fantastic acoustics, making it a favorite for live music, classical performances, and comedy events.
This beautiful venue is just as impressive inside, where the craftsmanship and acoustics create a perfect atmosphere for any show. Having attended multiple concerts here, it’s undoubtedly one of Belfast’s top spots for music.
The interior is gorgeous, and the staff are incredibly helpful, but the beer selection is a bit limited—just two lagers in 330ml cans. Still, if you’re lucky enough to catch a band here, you’re in for a treat. You won’t be disappointed!
| Pro tip: The front row seats on the balcony are great for the view but a bit of a squeeze—once you’re in the middle, there’s no easy way to move past others. Choose your spot wisely! |
5. Get Movin at the Black Box
– Media credit: theblackboxbelfast
Address: 18-22 Hill Street
Contact details: +44 28 9024 4400
The Black Box is the perfect spot for intimate music events, where you can really immerse yourself in the sound. With cozy seating and a bar off to the side, it’s easy to get served without the hassle, and the prices are friendly.
The venue has an indie vibe that’s hard to beat. The main hall hosts a diverse range of events, from poetry readings to heavy metal gigs. There’s also The Green, a smaller room with a bar and seating, ideal for intimate events or art exhibitions.
A true hub of Belfast’s contemporary culture, the Black Box is a must-visit. Keep an eye out for the many festivals they host.
| Pro tip: When the show wraps up, there are plenty of great bars nearby, and catching a taxi home is a breeze. |
6. Visit Mandela Hall
– Media credit: mandelahall
Address: 77 University Road
Mandela Hall is the perfect mix of big enough to host a lively crowd yet small enough to keep things intimate. With top-notch acoustics and a bar that won’t break the bank, it’s a standout for live music.
There’s plenty of space to dance, and the setup allows for a more personal connection with the band. The bar is in a separate room with seating and tables, and they accept both cash and card.
Conveniently, the toilets and lockers are tucked between the two rooms, and you’ll often find merchandise in the foyer. A fantastic venue all around!
| Pro tip: It can be hard to get a drink when it’s very busy so it’s a good idea to order multiple drinks at once to save time and avoid waiting in line again. |
7. Have Fun at The Sunflower Bar
– Media credit: sunflowerpub
Address: 65 Union Street
Contact details: +44 28 9023 2474
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 12pm to 12am
- Thursday to Saturday: 12pm to 1am
- Sunday: 1pm to 12am
Just a short stroll from the city center, this spot offers a unique experience with live music almost daily and delicious wood-fired pizza in the backyard. Plus, there’s a wide selection of beers to choose from—definitely worth a visit.
Steeped in history from the Troubles, the gated entrance still stands, but inside, you’ll find a buzzing bar with a fantastic atmosphere and artisan pizzas served in the lively outdoor area.
There are three areas to unwind: the downstairs bar, the beer garden, and the upstairs bar, which often doubles as a venue for live music with a raised stage.
You’ll find plenty of local talent and reasonably priced drinks. They even host great events like a comedy club that’s well worth checking out.
| Pro tip: You can pre-order your pizza to make sure you don’t miss out! |
8. Listen to Good Music at Dirty Onion
– Media credit: thedirtyonion
Address: 3 Hill Street
Contact details: +44 28 9024 3712
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 1am
Downstairs, you’ll find a lively pub with a fantastic atmosphere and great live music, while upstairs offers a cozy restaurant with a similar vibe and mouth-watering food.
If you’re after a pub in Belfast, this one checks all the boxes—live music, a great crowd, a lovely ambiance, and a prime city center location. The mix of old architecture and a welcoming fireplace adds to the charm.
This spot offers the perfect balance—an energetic pub downstairs and an amazing restaurant upstairs. It’s a must-visit for anyone in Belfast seeking great food and a vibrant atmosphere.
| Pro tip: Just a heads-up: it’s an outdoor venue, but there are heaters near some of the seats to keep you warm! |
9. Appreciate the Acoustics at Voodoo
– Media credit: voodoo_belfast
Address: 11A Fountain Street
Contact details: +44 28 9027 8290
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12pm to 1am
- Sunday: 12pm to 12am
This place is a rock lover’s paradise, with fantastic live shows and a great sound mix. Whether you’re into metal, punk, or rock ‘n roll, this bar has it all, plus a friendly atmosphere full of unique characters.
Downstairs, you’ll find a better selection of beers, but if you’re heading upstairs for a gig, the staff will happily transfer your drink into a plastic cup.
The upstairs gig space is a bit of an odd shape, but when it’s not too packed, it makes for an intimate setting with the band performing on a slightly raised platform, right in the midst of the crowd.
| Pro tip: It can get busy on weekends, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to snag a seat! |
10. Groove at the Scott’s Jazz Club
– Media credit: scotssjazzclub
Address: 1 Sandown Road
Operating hours: Friday: 8:30am to 11:30pm
Absolutely fantastic venue! If you’re a true jazz fan, this is the place to be in Belfast. It’s all about respecting the music, which is nothing short of incredible and authentic. This isn’t your average jazz venue, and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart.
These are serious virtuosos playing serious jazz! The venue offers top-notch musicianship and great value for money. Just to clarify—this isn’t a spot for overpriced cocktails and casual chatter. It’s where you sit back, sip a peated whisky, and truly listen.
With smooth lighting and a relaxed vibe, it’s a fun and memorable evening. Even if jazz isn’t your thing, it’s definitely worth checking out—you’ll end up enjoying it more than you expect.
| Pro tip: Performances change each week, and tickets usually need to be booked in advance. |