Belfast Linen Quarter transformation complete

The final phase of a major redevelopment in the heart of Belfast’s Linen Quarter will see the opening of ‘The Perch’, Belfast’s newest and highest ever rooftop bar as well as the completion of ‘The Sweet Afton’, a unique and exciting new craft beer focused venue supported by Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol.

Both bars are located within an historic Victorian building situated across Brunswick Street, Franklin Street and James Street South and they will complement the projects’ other successful entertainment venues Rita’s and Chinawhite. 

According to project director Paul Langsford the £700k investment within the final phase has created the need for a further 50 new hospitality jobs, completing an employment total of 110 for the whole project.   He also states that ‘The Perch’ which will open its doors for the first time this Friday and ‘The Sweet Afton’ which is expected to open in August, will complete an unprecedented and exciting new entertainment offering with a diverse range of bars located in Belfast’s regenerated Linen Quarter for the very first time.

Commenting on the completion of the final phase, Paul Langsford, said “Through the success of our existing venues within the Linen Quarter to date, we have seen the significant potential of this area of Belfast to develop and grow the hospitality sector and we are extremely excited by the opportunities that the Perch and the Sweet Afton present, which perfectly complement our existing entertainment offering.

“Award winning O’Donnell O’Neill Design Associates are the creative talent that have been responsible for the development of all four venues, ensuring they work perfectly together but are also totally unique across design, quality materials used and layout.

“The Sweet Afton which is being developed on the space previously occupied by Shiro will be an inviting, comfortable bar with an established lived in look and feel.  It will have a very strong craft beer offering from Diageo’s outstanding market leading products and provides an exciting new contrast for customers. 

“Every ten or fifteen years a stunning space becomes available, unlike any others whereby the boundaries of the design can be broken to create a truly unique bar experience, the Perch is one such space.  Located high above Rita’s and Chinawhite it is an architectural gem with a trussed roof, brick clad walls and an island bar centrally located to serve both the interior covered area and outdoor al fresco terrace.  It will be a landmark Belfast venue for years to come.”

Jorge Lopes, Country Director, Diageo Northern Ireland added, “This is a really exciting time for the hospitality sector in Belfast and across Northern Ireland and the Sweet Afton and the Perch are great examples of the investment that is supporting the re-emergence and growth within the industry.  In Diageo we continue to innovate across our portfolio, with new brands such as Hop House 13, Smithwicks Blonde and Dublin Porter, and we are looking forward to showcasing them at the Sweet Afton, the newest addition to Belfast’s night time economy.”

ENDS