Tonight, I would surely have found myself in the Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast’s most famous pub. But sadly, in these days of virtual travel, I must visit the bar only in my mind, rather than after hours with friends at the cancelled Explore GB conference that I would otherwise have been attending in Northern Ireland’s capital this week.
One of the great things about the annual VisitBritain conference is the ability to discover varied cities throughout the U.K. – and naturally, once there, to check out the best pubs. And in the case of Belfast, to many, both in the city and around the world, that is the Crown.
Dating to 1826, the venue’s history – it was a famous Gin Palace during the drink’s heyday and later regularly damaged from IRA bombs during The Troubles – is as colourful as the pub itself, which catches the eye before even entering with its elaborate exterior covered in polychromatic tiles.
Now a Grade A listed building owned by the National Trust, The Crown also retains many of its original features inside, such as gaslighting, unique gunmetal match striking plates, and bells for summoning serving staff.
Refurbished throughout the years (most recently in 2007) the ornate interior is a riot of colour and character – from the burnished primrose yellow, red and gold ceiling to the mosaic tile floor, brocaded walls, intricate wood carvings throughout, and ornate mirrors and painted and etched glass – not to mention a long granite-topped altar bar and huge beer casks with polished brass taps.
There are also 10 elaborately carved wood “snugs” for privacy.
“Gorgeous” is the word generally used to describe it all, helping make the pub one of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Meanwhile, food offerings are extensive, from pub staples like burgers and pies, to an elaborate fish menu, and desserts, while the bar is known for its wide range of cask ales, in addition to requisite Guinness, plus whiskeys and gins.
The Crown Liquor Saloon is located at 46 Great Victoria St. in the city centre close to Great Victoria Station and near many of Belfast’s historic attractions. It is open Mon-Sat 11:30-12 a.m. and Sunday 12:30-11 p.m.
“Pub Crawl” is an ongoing series in which we reveal some of our favourite public houses, both at home and abroad – and, in the spirit of the establishment, invite you to share with us yours. Send suggestions to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com.