European Political Science Society
The main conference hotel is the Hilton Belfast. Registered delegates and confirmed attendees will receive a dedicated booking link via email, providing access to discounted accommodation rates.
Additional accommodation options are available and can be booked through the EPSS hotel booking platform at the link below:
In addition to the academic programme, the EPSS Belfast conference offers a lively social events programme to allow conference participants to connect, explore the city, and enjoy Belfast’s culture and hospitality. From a reception in the historic Belfast City Hall and evening gatherings with fellow participants, to whiskey tastings, guided walking tours, and informal meet-ups, the programme provides a range of opportunities to network and socialise throughout the conference. Some events require advance booking, while others are open to all delegates. Details are listed below.
Wednesday 17 June or Saturday 20 June: Whiskey Tasting at The Friend at Hand
The Friend at Hand is a unique whiskey off-licence combined with a mini museum charting the whiskey distilling history of Belfast.
Ticket: £50 per person, including three whiskey tastings, a visit to the venue, and an introduction to Irish whiskeys.
Available time slots: Wednesday at 16:00 or 18:00; Saturday at 16:00.
Thursday 18 June – Saturday 20 June: Belfast Walking Tours
A private guided walking tour for conference delegates. The Best of Belfast Walking Tour will last approximate 60 minutes and start and finish at the ICC. This tour allows participants to explore the city centre and discover the stories and history behind Belfast’s people, culture, architecture and street art.
Ticket: £15 per person.
Various departure times from ICC Belfast will be available. Book ticket in advance and pick a departure time that fits your conference schedule.
Friday 19 June: After Party at Lavery’s from 20:00-late
Party time with exclusive access for EPSS delegates to the top floor of Lavery’s Belfast, with DJ, dance floor and access to two terraces.
Ticket: £21 (includes two drinks per person; no food).
Friday 19 June: Evening Reception at Belfast City Hall at 19:00-21:30
Evening reception in this elegant and historic setting in the heart of the city.
Ticket: £45 (includes food and drinks).
One ticket per member only.
Thursday 18 June, 08:00: Morning Run with Jamie
Meet at the main entrance to ICC Belfast for a 30-minute run, returning to the conference centre.
Thursday 18 June, 12:30: Diversity Panel and Lunch, ICC bar 2
The EPSS Diversity Committee has organised a panel, and a light lunch will be served
Open to all delegates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Thursday 18 June, following the Presidential Address: Presidential Reception at ICC Belfast
Open to all conference delegates. Drinks vouchers will be provided at registration.
Saturday 20 June, from 17:00: Post-conference “Mingle with Drinks in the Museum” at the Ulster Museum
After the end of the official conference programme, join fellow delegates for drinks, conversation, and the opportunity to explore parts of the museum galleries.
The European Political Science Society is a non-profit, member-run association of political scientists, formed in 2025 by the governing council of the European Political Science Association. Read more
