Clandeblog 10 local drinks to try when visiting Northern Ireland

From local Northern Irish whiskies to refreshing beers and unique cocktails, there's a drink for everyone to enjoy on their visit to Northern Ireland!

1. Guinness

Local Guinness drink in Northern Ireland — Pint of Guinness

No visit to Northern Ireland is complete without a pint of Guinness! This world-famous Irish stout has a dark, velvety texture and creamy head, and is enjoyed all over the world. If you’re looking for the best pint of Guinness in Belfast, look no further than the bustling bars and cosy pubs of Cathedral Quarter.

2. Jawbox gin with yellowman

Are you a gin lover? Then you simply can't miss out on the locally produced Jawbox gin with ginger ale and a chunk of traditional yellowman (honeycomb). This unique Northern Irish gin and tonic combination is a must-try! You can taste a Jawbox gin with yellowman at the Coq & Bull brasserie.

3. Bushmills whiskey

Local Bushmills whiskey drink in Northern Ireland — Bushmills whiskey tasting experience, Tourism Northern Ireland

Located in the north coast of Northern Ireland, Bushmills is the oldest licensed distillery in the world and has been producing Irish whiskey for over 400 years. Their signature whiskey is triple distilled and aged to perfection in oak casks, resulting in a distinctive flavour and unparalleled smoothness. A must-try for any whiskey connoisseur visiting Northern Ireland!

4. Harp lager

Harp lager, a beloved favourite of both locals and visitors, is a popular Irish beer that can be found in pubs and bars across Northern Ireland. This refreshing and crisp beer, although not widely accessible in the Republic of Ireland, is readily available to be enjoyed across Northern Ireland.

5. Copeland gin & tonic

Gin and tonic local drink in Northern Ireland — Gin and tonic served at the Coq & Bull brasserie

Copeland gin is a small-batch, traditional Northern Irish gin produced just a stone’s throw from the historic harbour in Donaghadee, County Down. This gin is a true reflection of the coastal surroundings that inspired it with 12 meticulously selected organic botanicals. If you’re staying at Clandeboye Lodge, why not enjoy a tour of The Copeland Distillery, just a 20 minute drive away

6. Jameson sour

A Jameson sour (Irish Sour) is a refreshing cocktail made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and egg white. It's the perfect blend of sweet and sour flavours. You can taste a delicious Jameson sour cocktail at the Coq & Bull brasserie.

7. Irish coffee

Traditional Irish Coffee local drink in Northern Ireland — Couple enjoying an Irish coffee at Clandeboye Lodge

A hot drink you must have when visiting Northern Ireland is an Irish coffee. This warming drink is made with freshly brewed coffee, Irish whiskey, and a dollop of whipped cream. It's the perfect pick-me-up on a chilly Northern Irish day!

8. Ginger ale

Did you know that ginger ale originates from Belfast, Northern Ireland? The first carbonated ginger ale was produced by Dr Thomas Cantrell, a chemist from Belfast. Today, ginger ale remains a popular drink in the region and is enjoyed both on its own and as a key ingredient in cocktails such as a ‘dark and stormy’, made with ginger ale and rum.

9. Armagh apple cider

Local apple cider drink in Northern Ireland — Long Meadow Orchard cider tasting experience

Did you know that County Armagh is known as the Orchard of Ireland? Long Meadow Orchard Cider is a local producer of artisanal cider and apple juice in Northern Ireland. They take great pride in using the finest apples from their own orchard in County Armagh. Consider the Long Meadow Orchard cider tasting experience to experience their award-winning ciders and apple juice for yourself!

10. The Blackwood cocktail

Preparing a local cocktail drink in Northern Ireland — Cocktail making at the Coq & Bull brasserie

Crafted by the skilled bartenders at the Coq & Bull brasserie, The Blackwood cocktail is made with Hennessey Brandy, Baileys, Tia Maria, chocolate syrup and crushed shortbread. The name of this cocktail is associated with the rich history of Clandeboye Estate which was once inhabited by the Blackwood family, who were well known for their prominence and influence in the local community.

Discover traditional foods you must try in Northern Ireland, or if you're looking for more ideas for your next Northern Ireland getaway, sign up to the Clandeboye Lodge newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest news, events, and special offers!