Best Bars in Coleraine

Nestled along the River Bann where it meets the Causeway Coast, Coleraine punches well above its weight when it comes to its drinking scene. This university town has a character all its own – where students from Ulster University mingle with locals who've been propping up the same bars for decades, and where traditional Irish hospitality meets a surprisingly cosmopolitan edge. The town's proximity to both Belfast and the Giant's Causeway means you'll find everyone from international tourists to Belfast weekenders discovering what locals have always known: Coleraine's bars offer something genuinely special.

What sets Coleraine apart is its perfect balance of old and new. You can start your evening in a centuries-old pub where the Guinness is poured with reverence and the craic flows as freely as the pints, then wander down to one of the newer establishments serving craft cocktails that would impress any city dweller. The Diamond area forms the heart of the action, but venture beyond and you'll discover hidden gems tucked away in converted buildings and along the riverside. Many of these establishments are family-run affairs, where the owners know their regulars by name and newcomers are welcomed like old friends.

Whether you're after a quiet pint while watching the match, live traditional music sessions that stretch into the early hours, or a sophisticated cocktail before heading to dinner, Coleraine's bars deliver with genuine warmth. The local scene thrives on its authenticity – there's no pretension here, just good drinks, great atmosphere, and the kind of Irish hospitality that keeps visitors coming back long after their holiday ends.