One of Belfast’s most warmly-loved and artist-friendly bars, The John Hewitt first opened its doors in December 1999 and has become a Belfast institution in the years since.

The origin of this bar is a story in its own right and one worth telling. Named after John Hewitt, the late poet, socialist and Freeman of Belfast, the hostelry was established by the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre in tribute to his memory. Hewitt’s ideals of equality, opportunity and justice for all are honoured there, with the bar operating as a social enterprise, directing the profit from every pour into various worthy causes.

For many years the bar’s snug, traditional interior has been one of the best spots in Belfast to catch live folk and Trad sessions. In recent years, it has become established as a venue for all kinds of quality live music, and the ‘Full House’ sign is seen regularly for gigs as diverse as jazz, Ulster Scots folk or Cajun music.

‘The Hewitt’, as the locals calls it, is a committed supporter of the local arts scene, in addition to lending its stage to no less than seven bands per week, it hosts eleven commission-free art exhibitions per year, and strives to be a part of as many local festivals as possible.

We’re indebted to BURC and to Hewitt manager David Moore for hosting us for the morning, an uplifting and sunny session with emerging pop/folk talent Sasha Samara. Her warm and engaging songs and delivery seemed perfect, for a building with such an open heart.

Find out more about The John Hewitt at: www.thejohnhewitt.com