Literary Pubs Tour

This intimate tour explores pubs where Belfast writers including C.S. Lewis, Seamus Heaney, and Paul Muldoon drank and worked. You'll hear poems read aloud, see original manuscripts in some venues, and learn how these writers shaped modern Irish literature. Small groups (max 10) allow detailed discussion. Best for literature lovers and cultural travellers. This is a easy activity lasting 2 hours. Group size: 2-10. You meet at The Crown Liquor Saloon, Great Victoria Street. Key highlights: Crown Liquor Saloon - Victorian bar visited by C.S. Lewis and modern writers, Live poetry readings at two venues during the tour, Small groups (max 10) allow one-on-one conversation with the guide.

Price: £22

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-10

Minimum age: 18+

Best for: literature lovers and cultural travellers

Best time: Afternoon tours (3pm-5pm) are quieter, allowing better focus on readings. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) have fewer pub crowds. Avoid match days when sports fans fill venues.

Meeting point: The Crown Liquor Saloon, Great Victoria Street

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

3:00pm Meet at Crown Liquor Saloon and introduction - Guide introduces Belfast's literary heritage and the pubs featured. First drink ordered.

3:20pm Crown Liquor Saloon history and C.S. Lewis connection - Guide shares Lewis's university years in Belfast and his tavern visits. Tour the ornate bar interior.

3:50pm Walk to second venue - 5-minute walk to a pub favored by contemporary Belfast poets.

4:05pm Second venue: readings and poetry discussion - Guide reads excerpts from Seamus Heaney or Paul Muldoon. Second drink ordered here.

4:40pm Walk to final literary pub - Another 5-minute walk; this venue has hosted spoken-word nights and poetry readings.

4:55pm Final venue and discussion - Group discusses writers and their connections to Belfast. Third included drink optional.

The whole experience takes 2 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at The Crown Liquor Saloon, Great Victoria Street.

• Crown Liquor Saloon - Victorian bar visited by C.S. Lewis and modern writers
• Live poetry readings at two venues during the tour
• Small groups (max 10) allow one-on-one conversation with the guide
• Connections to Seamus Heaney, Paul Muldoon, and other contemporary Irish poets
• Two to three included drinks; venue serves food if you want snacks
• Accessibility: Crown Liquor Saloon has street-level access. Second and third venues may have stairs; confirm with guide. Moderate fitness for walking. Uneven floors in some pubs.

What is included: Two to three drinks (pint or cider), Guided readings from poets and writers, Discussion of literary Belfast and writers' connections to the city, Walking tour between three literary pubs.

Not included: Food (though venues serve snacks and meals), Copies of poems or manuscripts to take home, Transport to/from meeting point. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Notepad or smartphone to record poems or quotes, Comfortable shoes for 10-15 minutes of walking, Open mind - some literary references are academic. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Afternoon tours (3pm-5pm) are quieter, allowing better focus on readings. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) have fewer pub crowds. Avoid match days when sports fans fill venues..

Tip: Includes readings and poetry

Tip: Small groups allow discussion

Accessibility: Crown Liquor Saloon has street-level access. Second and third venues may have stairs; confirm with guide. Moderate fitness for walking. Uneven floors in some pubs..

Operator: Writers and Drinkers Tours

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Crown Liquor Saloon (0 min walk)
• Linen Hall Library (10 min walk)
• St. Anne's Cathedral (12 min walk)

This activity is run by Writers and Drinkers Tours.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before; non-refundable within 48 hours.

Accessibility: Crown Liquor Saloon has street-level access. Second and third venues may have stairs; confirm with guide. Moderate fitness for walking. Uneven floors in some pubs..

Best time to go: Afternoon tours (3pm-5pm) are quieter, allowing better focus on readings. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) have fewer pub crowds. Avoid match days when sports fans fill venues..

Will the guide read full poems or just excerpts?

Typically short excerpts (2-3 minutes) from each poet to set context for the pub. The guide may read a longer poem (5-8 minutes) at the final venue if the group is engaged. Full poetry collections are not part of the tour - it's focused on connection, not lengthy recitation.

Do I need to know about the writers before booking?

Not required, but helpful. The guide assumes basic familiarity with Seamus Heaney and C.S. Lewis. If you don't know their work, mention it when booking - the guide will provide context. Small group size allows personalized explanation.

Are drinks alcoholic or can I request soft drinks?

Included drinks are pints of Guinness, Smithwicks, or cider. Soft drinks (tea, coffee, juice) available at same price point. Request non-alcoholic when booking. Venues serve both equally well; no judgment either way.