Cathedral Quarter Pubs & History Walking Tour with Mark Doherty

When people think about what built Belfast they often rely heavily on Shipbuilding, Linen Production and Rope Making. Rarely do they mention Whiskey Distilling or indeed the incredible individuals who stood out from the crowd in order to put things right.

Belfast Whiskey Weekender provides an extraordinary tour of our beloved Cathedral Quarter; dropping by some familiar and new bars and pubs in the area to sample a Poitín, a Single Grain, a Single Malt and a Single Pot Still while learning about the Abolitionist Watchmakers of Belfast!

An unusual tour of the Cathedral Quarter; though compelling. Take this opportunity to really understand what Belfast did to prevent Slavery and to ensure the City and its people never had to apologise for this cruelty and depraving act of inhumanity.

You'll be guided by Mark Doherty, from the Criterion Bar, past Clifton House, then zigzag across the Cathedral Quarter exploring the steps and landmarks of the watchmakers and their achievements.

Your Guide

Mark is a Belfast-born Queen's graduate, Green Badge tour guide and local historian. He edits the magazine of the Belfast Titanic Society and gives talks and tours on the city's history and heritage. In July he led our Friar's Bush Graveyard Whiskey Tour, telling the stories of the distillers, brewers, publicans and innkeepers buried there.

The Details

• Saturday 21 November 2026, 12:00pm – 2:00pm
• Meeting point: Criterion Bar & Coffee House, 2–4 Antrim Road, Belfast
• Four drams along the way: a Poitín, a Single Grain, a Single Malt and a Single Pot Still
• £10 per person

Limited places.

Part of the Belfast Whiskey Week Whiskey WeekEnder, Fri 20 – Sun 22 November 2026 in and around the Cathedral Quarter. Strictly over 18s — ID may be required. Please drink responsibly.