[Stu]

I've had two weekend visits to Belfast during the past three years Conor. I'd like to kick you off with a word or two about,

The Crown
I understand that the old place might be something of a tourist trap but for me I really enjoyed my several visits to the place. I think it was pretty atmospheric and after starting off the night, coming over from the hotel nearby, we tended to head oursleves back over there for a couple more later during the evening. A BIG bonus was the pizza fellah around the corner who was rustling up some of the best pizza pie this side of Naples that I've tasted.

A few doors up from there was a pub with several different bars which I'm sure you will enlighten me as to the name of? Robinsons? We had a lively time in there, (there were three fights that particular Saturday night, the best being a superb 'cat fight' between two local 'ladies'!) Again, great atmosphere got talking to many locals too who were interested to hear our story.

The Hard Rock at The Odyssey
was taken in on one of my visits, (we were there for a hockey game at the centre. Before and after we sunk a few lagers in the bar there and found it most agreeable and full of good natured and talkative hockey folk.

A brilliant night was had at McHughs after the hockey on that occasion. Initially full of hockey types but later on a mixed crowd and a decent traditional band playing. We had a late Wednesday night out singing, dancing and drinking and I fell in nearly every doorway on my way back to the hostel! It was worth it though, one of the best nights out I've ever had, everything was just perfect for us visitors that night.

Northern Whig Had a shot at this one for a sly pint or two in the afternoon. Interesting building, an ex newspaper office? Bit trendy but okay for a couple.

Queen's Bar in the arcade as another I recall. again a bit trendy but not bad. Okay for a starter for the night maybe.

I encountered

The Fountain??? I think on Fountain Street. We were looking for a few of the older bars one night down the alleys for a bit of interest and began from here. Disappointing and empty, nothing happening on a Saturday night.

There were a couple of Belfast's very well known older pubs situated on alleys in kind of the north west of the city centre that I visited. Though they were very quiet for the Saturay night we were there, they were pretty impressive. Wish I could remember their names.

Finally, and more important than any of the bars we called by were the people of your fair town. I have been to many places but nowhere have I travelled in this world and found more friendly, kind and helpful people. This was not just my opinion but of every person present on my two trips. For that you should give yourselves a pat on the back. You can be very proud of your fellow Belfast folk as they are a credit to the city and the country.