Cathedral Quarter one of ‘coolest neighbourhoods’ in the UK

One of Belfast’s most popular hospitality spots has been named top 15 ‘coolest neighbourhoods’ in the UK.

The city’s thriving Cathedral Quarter has ranked 5th on The Telegraph’s Travel Experts list and has been praised for its variety of nightlife venues and friendly atmosphere.

Ranked with big names such as Walthamstow in London and Ancoats in Manchester, many popular Cathedral Quarter spots such as the Duke of York and Muddlers club have been pinpointed as top attractions.

The Telegraph said of the area: “Cobbled and winding Hill Street in the Cathedral Quarter is the buzzing heart of the city’s nightlife, with eight lively bars and restaurants ranging from pub grub to Michelin stars.

“If you want to pick just one pub, the Duke of York is a warren of cosy snugs with a great combination of atmosphere, live music and friendly staff.

“And my favourite restaurant for meeting up with pals is the inexpensive Yardbird, above the Dirty Onion pub, with the house specials of lip-smacking ribs and spit-roasted chicken.

“For upmarket pub grub, it’s The Cloth Ear, for pizza, try Orto, for Indian, Mumbai 27 and for pan-Asian, The Dumpling Library”.

Other recommendations on where to eat and drink included the “cosy” Muddlers Club and The Dark Horse.

The Telegraph also recommend The Friend at Hand for a spot of shopping.

“Ranging from miniatures at £5 to £11,000 for one of only 112 bottles of Midleton Pearl in existence. Just don’t do what one customer did: buy a £4,000 bottle and hand it to his friend – who promptly dropped it,” they added.