When it comes to nightclubs Belfast doesn’t have a whole lot to choose from.
However, there are a handful of popular spots if you’re looking for something livelier than the trad pubs in Belfast.
Below, you’ll find a mix of big and small night clubs in Belfast City Centre that cater to the night owls!
The best nightclubs in Belfast City Centre
Aside from the top-spot, this Belfast nightclubs guide is in no particular order.
Below, you’ll find everywhere from Filthy McNastys and Kremlin to Limelight and more.
1. Filthy McNastys
Filthy McNastys on the Dublin Rd (just off Great Victoria St.) is arguably the most popular of the Belfast nightclubs.
With a state-of-the-art surround sound system and strobe lighting, it offers an immersive experience.
Open four nights a week, the club features resident DJs, live music, and special student night drink offers. Filthy McNasty’s front bar, part of the venue, boasts 30 draught taps and seasonal cocktails.
Additionally, Filthy’s Garden offers a lively beer garden with colourful decor and a fresh summer cocktail menu.
2. Limelight Belfast
Limelight on Ormeau Avenue is the oldest of the nightclubs in Belfast, having first opened its doors in 1984!
There’s a jam-packed schedule on play here:
- Wednesdays: A student rave night with House, Techno, Disco, and occasional international DJs
- Thursdays: Cheesy pop hits from the last four decades
- Fridays: Chart, hip-hop, disco, and rock
- Saturdays: Three rooms of music, two beer gardens, and top-class production
3. Thompsons Garage
Thompsons on Pattersons Place is spread over 2 floors and it has been a staple in Belfast’s nightclub scene for over 28 years.
Open 7 nights a week, it features top DJs and musicians from around the world.
The club boasts a Function One sound system, state-of-the-art lighting, a 2-tiered dance-floor, reserved tables, VIP packages, and upstairs and downstairs bars.
Past events have included Electric Playground, Funkarama, Switch, MiSFIT, Stereo Sessions, and Sunday Social.
4. Ollie’s
Located in one of the best hotels in Belfast, The Merchant, Ollie’s is the most exclusive of the Belfast clubs.
It’s hidden away in the basement of the Merchant, where it occupies the old bank vaults (keep an eye out for the distinctive brick-vaulted ceilings and granite walls).
The club features private booths, a VIP section, a state-of-the-art DJ booth, and premium cocktails.
Enjoy Mumbo Jumbo Fridays with disco, house, and hip hop, or Nite Tales Saturdays, offering RnB, hip hop, and house music for a memorable night out.
Related read: Fancy some trad tunes? See my guide to the best live Irish music in Belfast
5. Alibi
You’ll find Alibi on Bradbury Place in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, where it’s renowned for its creative cocktails, gin, and craft beers.
Featuring local talent and guest DJs, Alibi hosts vibrant Hip-Hop, House, and R&B nights every weekend.
Enjoy live performances from DJ Tex and the Fire Angels every Friday and Saturday for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Related read: Check out our guide to the best cocktail bars in Belfast (from 5 star locations to rooftop bars)
6. Kremlin
The Kremlin Nightclub was established in 1999 on Upper Donegall Street and it’s Ireland’s largest LGBT venue.
Known for its guest appearances and homegrown drag acts, the club offers Belfast’s most vibrant night out.
With a lively atmosphere and a commitment to inclusivity, Kremlin is a popular hotspot in the LGBT community, providing unforgettable nights filled with fun and celebration.
Here’s a sample of what to expect during the week:
- Monday: KREEM Mondays
- Tuesday: KLUB 280
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: XO
- Friday: Karnival
- Saturday: Revolution
- Sunday: Industry
Have any questions about the best nightclubs in Belfast? Ask away below!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.