Proving there is much more to the Irish pub than Guinness on tap and horseracing on TV, the Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast is a drinking house gem and probably the most famous bar in Ulster.

Owned by the National Trust, the historic building retains much of its original Victorian charm thanks mainly to the organisation's £400,000 restoration investment in 1981.

It dates back to 1826 when it was known as the Railway Tavern after the first train that ran from Belfast to Lisburn.

Period features include ten elaborately carved booths or snugs, containing gun metal plates for striking matches and an antique bell system to warn bar staff your pint is running low.

Swing doors and wooden floors add to the historic ambience, as do ancient ceiling gas lamps and Victorian etched-windows.

Those looking for a more contemporary bar experience in Belfast should head to the trendy Apartment.