12 Pubs of Christmas: Belfast Edition
Have you ever tried the 12 pubs of Christmas? 🎄🍻
What better way to welcome in the festive season with your friends than with a trip around the city, celebrating the infamous 12 Pubs of Christmas.
It’s a simple endeavour – visit 12 different pubs or bars in one night – it certainly separates the weak from the strong.
The dress code is up to you, however at this time of year, we strongly advise you pull out the tackiest and cheapest Christmas jumper you can find.
Over the years, rules have been added and taken away from the traditional 12 pubs of Christmas game. But we thought we’d share some of our favourites – if you slip up or make a mistake, you’ve got to take a penalty drink.
Check it out 👇
Pub #1: No First Names
Only nicknames or surnames will do!
Pub #2: No Pointing
After a couple of drinks, gestures are hard to control, especially in a crowded pub and you're trying to get someone's attention
Pub #3: Wrong-handed Drink
If you're right-handed, drink with your left. If your left-handed, drink with your right
Pub #4: Shot Pub
You're there for one thing and one thing only…shots
Pub #5: No Swearing
Them's the rules!
Pub #6: Accent Challenge
This can be totally up to you, are you a Valley Girl or drunk Australian?
Pub #7: The Penguin
On your to the 7th pub you must waddle like a penguin, once there you can relax!
Pub #8: Cheers to that!
Anytime you go to drink, you must raise your glass in the air and cheers
Pub #9: Selfie with a Stranger
Socially distanced of course but try to find someone new and grab a quick snap
Pub #10: Never Have I Ever
You're almost complete, now it's time to dig deep and spill each other's secrets
Pub #11: Dance Floor
You've made it this far, it's time for a boogie!
Pub #12: Yeoooooo
As you walk through the doors of your last pub, an almighty Yeo completes the challenge, it's time to sit back and relax – you've earned it!
If you’re in need of inspo of where to visit on your 12 Pubs of Christmas route, we’ve got you covered!
Take a look through our list of the most festive Belfast spots 👇
The National
Cosy up with an artisan cocktail in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, The National has a cocktail bar, nightclub and roof terrace over three floors. The National offers a contemporary twist to the traditional pub.
Margot
Open seven days a week, tucked below street level, hidden from the bustle of Belfast's city centre is Margot. This stylish bar serves up delicious small plates and chic cocktails. If you visit this Christmas, try out the Ruby Slipper - Belsazar Rose, Glendalough Rose, Spiced Wine, Soda Water, Prosecco ✨
Babel
Recently voted one of the best rooftop spots in Europe, you should definitely add Babel to your Belfast bucket list. Located on the top floor of the Bullitt Hotel on Ann Street, you can take in views over the city and sip on some tasty drinks and nipples too.
The Jailhouse
For something that little bit glam for the 'gram, you need to visit The Jailhouse, nestled nicely beside the most festive alley in Belfast...Joy's Entry. How delicious does this mulled wine look under the twinkling lights and colourful baubles.
Whites Tavern
Whites Tavern dates the whole way back to 1630, so it's safe to say these guys know a thing or two about great craic in Belfast. Their drinks menu includes an array of retro classics, as well as some experimental creations. For the ultimate festive feels, the Rockin' Robin looks first class - Redbreast 12, Irish Mist, Demerara Sugar, Bitters & Orange Peel🍊
Love & Death
Known as one of the best spots in the city for a cocktail...or two, Love and Death have both incredible food and great music. You can even enjoy drinks on the go, with their extensive list of bottled cocktails, including both Pornstar and Espresso Martinis.
Town Square
Serving up everything from pub grub like burgers & nachos, to brunch & cocktails, Town Square is one of the coolest bars in the city. The handy location on Botanic Avenue, makes this a popular hangout spots for students in Belfast.
Santeria
How mouthwatering does this Hot Apple Voddy' from Santeria look! Absolute Citrus vodka, fresh lemon juice, vanilla syrup topped with hot apple juice and cinnamon - you don't have to ask us twice, go on then!
Haymarket
A new addition to Belfast's social scene is Haymarket, on Gresham Street in the Smithfield & Union Quarter. If you'd prefer a chilled atmosphere, this spacious outdoor courtyard is perfect for alfresco drinking and eating. Don't be worried about the weather, there's plenty of outdoor heating and indoor hangout spots.
Henrys
Tucked beside The Jailhouse and Joy's Entry, Henry's offers a fantastic range of traditional food, local drinks and entertainment. How good does this Schweppes Golden Spice look 🤩
The Northern Whig
Open seven days a week from brunch until evening, The Northern Whig is another popular bar in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter. They have an extensive list of tipples, locally sourced food and luxury décor - what more could you ask for?
Broken Shaker
The Broken Shaker's attention to detail is on another level! Everything from the golden décor to their contemporary cocktails is enticing. They've got it all, a collection of the finest classic sours, sweets, and textures, with speciality drinks for those more adventurous individuals.
Revolucion de Cuba
You can expect dazzling cocktails, dishes loaded with exotic flavour and party vibes at Revolution de Cuba. No matter the weather outside, as you walk through the front doors your transported to a tropical paradise, you'll never want to leave.
The Dirty Onion
The Dirty Onion is in fact Belfast's oldest building, and it's still just as busy today as it was back in 1780. It's a modern take on the traditional Irish pub, so prepare yourself for a mix of draught beers, whiskeys and gins on the menu.
The Bone Yard
For something that little bit different check out The Bone Yard. They've got an array of delicious hot drinks and festive pints available this Christmas. We recommend their Hot Buttered Hazelnut Whiskey - Jameson Caskmates Stout, Frangelico, Cinnamon, Demerara topped with Biscoff & rich Hazelnut & Vanilla Cream. WOW!
The Cloth Ear
If it's dinner and drinks you're after in the Cathedral Quarter, The Cloth Ear has carefully crafted an eclectic array of drinks to quench your thirst, tickle your tastebuds and get the conversation flowing. 'The Belfast Coffee' is the ultimate cross between an Irish Coffee and an Espresso Martini.
Horatio Todd's
Another foodie favourite is East Belfast's Horatio Todd's in Ballyhackamore! It's a charming local pub and restaurant that provides superb food, live entertainment and an excellent drinks menu, complete with yummy cocktail menu.
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