Madden’s Bar is a beloved Irish pub in the heart of Antrim, proudly family-owned and operated by the Maddens since the 1960s. With a reputation built on warm hospitality, a roaring open fire, and the comforting aroma of great beer, where locals and visitors alike keep coming back for the friendly banter and welcoming atmosphere.
The venue offers four distinct areas, each with its own character: The Front Bar, The Lounge Bar, The Upstairs Bar, and the Riverside Beer Garden. The Upstairs Bar includes a private function room, completely free to hire for parties or events of 20 people or more. This space connects to a relaxed pool room, open to the public when not booked for private use.
Nestled beside the river, our dog-friendly Riverside Beer Garden is a hidden oasis. With its own bar, cozy heaters, and comfortable seating, it’s a perfect all-year-round spot for relaxing with friends – both two-legged and four!
Music and entertainment are at the heart of Madden’s. We
showcase some of Northern Ireland’s best acoustic musicians every Friday and
Saturday night in the Front Bar, creating a lively, intimate vibe. From
floor-filling club nights in the Main and Upstairs Bars to laid-back evenings
by the fire, there’s always something happening.
We proudly serve freshly prepared lunch and dinner daily, using only locally sourced ingredients. All meals are cooked on-site by our talented in-house chef, and we cater for a range of dietary needs including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Whether you're in for a casual bite or a hearty meal, we’ve got something for everyone.
We’re more than a bar – we’re part of the community. Throughout the year, we host a variety of free special events that bring people together to relax and enjoy themselves. We also support local teams and individuals and regularly hold charity events to raise money for great causes close to home.
Over the years, Madden’s has even drawn a few well-known faces through its doors – with the likes of Van Morrison, Ian McElhinney, and Packy Lee among those spotted enjoying the warm welcome and great atmosphere we’re known for.
Conveniently located just 100 yards from the beautiful and
historic Antrim Castle Gardens (with the gated entry only a 1-minute walk from
the bar), Madden’s is also just a 2-minute walk from free car parking at the
Castle Mall. Whether you're dropping in for a pint, planning a celebration, or
just looking for good craic, Madden’s Bar is the place to be.