Belfast city-centre venue closes for next phase

A prominent Belfast hospitality venue temporarily closed, as its operators prepare to transition the site into its next phase of operation.

Pug Uglys, located on Bedford Street, has been a fixture of the city’s licensed trade for more than seven years. The venue was formerly known as Morrison’s Bar before being repositioned in 2018 as a dog-friendly concept under the ownership of the Clover Group.

Since its relaunch, the bar has traded as part of the group’s wider portfolio of city-centre venues, contributing to Belfast’s late-night economy and developing a strong regular customer base.

In a statement shared via social media, the operators confirmed that the current iteration of the venue will close on Saturday 3 January 2026, describing the decision as a strategic moment of change rather than a permanent closure.

They said:

“Pugs has been our home, our heartbeat and our pride for a long time. What started back in 2018 became much more than we ever imagined — it became a place filled with stories, laughter, music, late nights and familiar faces that turned into friends.”

The statement also paid tribute to the role of staff and customers in the venue’s success over the years.

They added:

“Every single person who walked through these doors helped shape what Pugs became. The staff who gave it their all, the regulars who made it feel like home, and everyone who chose to spend their time with us throughout the years!”

While no further operational details have been disclosed at this stage, the owners indicated that the closure marks the conclusion of one trading chapter and the beginning of another for the site.

They concluded:

“However, it’s time for a change. We will be closing our doors on Saturday 3rd January 2026. This chapter may be coming to an end, one we’re incredibly proud of, however while it’s emotional, we are ready for a change! Same place. Same heart. A new chapter begins very soon.”

Further announcements regarding the future use or concept of the Bedford Street premises are expected in due course.