Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast

I arrived at this place at around 20:00 on a Thursday evening to find it packed. Why does a busy pub like this have stools at the bar? It's hard work getting served with these things in the way even if they are not occupied. It certainly is a time warp of a pub with no resemblance whatsoever to any more modern pub. I managed to find myself a place at the bar behind a frustrated looking punter waving a note who had presumably been there for some time. After a long wait he got served and then after an even longer wait I managed to get a short pint of Peerless Icebreaker which cost an outrageous £4.45. In my opinion this was too warm, definitely above cellar temperature. There are six hand pumps here but the only other two I could identify were Hilden Gold and the Nicholson's house beer. I thought this place was hopeless. With only three behind the bar the service was abysmal, there were uncleared glasses everywhere and it was a rip off. It might be unique but that's the only factor that saves it from the Score Of Shame, It's best left for people who prefer to just gawp at pubs rather than drink in them. I wouldn't return and was relieved to get back to the comfort of the Bridge House. It's GBG 2018 listed.

Beautiful pub - unfortunately covered in scaffolding outside, which stopped any photo opportunities. Inside is just as lovely. A series of vanity alcoves, the likes of which I have not seen in a pub before. Had a Belfast Ale in here - out of the all the pubs I visited, this was the only draught real ale found. Definitely worth a visit.

As the other reviews suggest, this must be the most ornate pub I've ever seen anywhere in the world (and this is a substantial claim). It's a tourist attraction in its own right, as witnessed by the fact that several people were coming in just to take photographs. As if that wasn't enough, it sells real ale too, which is something of a rarity in Belfast. Unsurprisingly, it gets extremely busy at times, but it's not to be missed by anyone who appreciates good pubs (or even devout teetotallers for that matter).

Absolutely stunning pub, operated by the National Trust in conjunction with Nicholson's. Small private snugs down the right hand side which are all reserved for food during food service times but are available on a first come first served basis at nights. I wouldn't bother waiting for one as we got one on one evening and the seats were uncomfortable and designed for midgets (Victorians). Every two minutes someone either knocked on the door or opened it to see if it was full, it was a real pain. The rest of the bar is very ornate as well with gas lighting highlighting an impressive ceiling and bar back. The stained glass windows are also impressive. They've made really good use of mirrors which makes it look bigger than it is, which fooled a lot of people who tried to walk though into "the other room" which of course didn't exist. 3 handpumps on the bar serving beer from Whitewater brewery. Belfast Ale, Copperhead Ale & Crown Glory on each of our visits. It's a must visit place, but it is very touristy during the day. If you want to visit I would suggest you try about 7:30 p.m. as all the day trippers have gone by then and those staying over are having their evening meal at their hotels.

As other reviewers have said this is a "must visit" pub if you are in Belfast. Called in on St. Patrick's Day (2011.) Had a few beautiful pints. Staff excellent. Then headed upstairs where a Jazz Group were playing. Great music and great drink! What more could you want!