Back to Blog
Alternative Alternative Rock Belfast Concert Guide

Swim School - Concert Review & Ticket Information

Reviews, FAQs & News

NeedATicket Team
Swim School

Photo via TicketmasterGet Tickets

🎫 Check Ticket Availability

View current availability and pricing from our trusted partners:

Get ready, Belfast! On 10th November 2025, the Ulster Sports Club is set to ignite with an electrifying performance from one of the UK’s most exciting alternative acts, Swim School. Hailing from Edinburgh, this quartet has been making significant waves in the indie and alternative rock scene with their potent blend of shoegaze influences, driving guitar riffs, and captivating vocals. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to experience a band on the cusp of greatness in one of Belfast’s most authentic venues. Prepare for an evening of raw energy, unforgettable melodies, and a truly immersive live music experience that will resonate long after the final chord fades. Mark your calendars and prepare to be swept away by Swim School’s undeniable talent.

About Swim School

Swim School has swiftly carved out a distinctive niche within the UK’s vibrant alternative music landscape since their formation. Comprising Alice Johnson (vocals, guitar), Lewis Bage (guitar), Matt Brennan (bass), and Nico Madigan (drums), the Edinburgh-based outfit delivers a sound that is both fiercely energetic and beautifully atmospheric. Their music masterfully blends the fuzz-laden textures of shoegaze with the propulsive rhythms and anthemic choruses of alternative rock, drawing comparisons to revered acts like Wolf Alice and The Big Moon, yet always retaining a unique voice.

Their discography, featuring EPs such as “Making Sense of It All” (2021) and the acclaimed “Duality” (2023), showcases a band unafraid to explore dynamic shifts, from introspective verses to explosive, cathartic climaxes. Tracks like “Velocity” and “Let Me Inside” have become fan favourites, celebrated for their intricate guitar work, thunderous rhythm section, and Alice Johnson’s commanding, emotionally resonant vocals. Swim School’s lyrical themes often delve into personal introspection, vulnerability, and the complexities of modern life, resonating deeply with their growing fanbase.

Live, Swim School are a force to be reckoned with. Their performances are renowned for their intense energy, tight musicianship, and a palpable connection with the audience. They’ve graced stages at major festivals and supported established acts, consistently earning praise for their captivating stage presence and the sheer power of their sound. This upcoming Belfast show offers a perfect chance to witness a band truly hitting their stride, delivering a masterclass in modern alternative rock.

Ulster Sports Club : The Perfect Setting

Nestled in the heart of Belfast city centre, the Ulster Sports Club at 96-98 Bridge Street (BT1 1LU) stands as a testament to the city’s rich community spirit and burgeoning live music scene. Established in 1902, this historic venue, while primarily known for its sporting heritage, has increasingly become a cherished spot for intimate and authentic music gigs. It offers a refreshing alternative to larger, more conventional venues, providing a unique atmosphere that fosters a genuine connection between artists and their audience.

The club’s main hall, often transformed for live music, boasts a capacity that allows for a truly up-close and personal experience, typically accommodating a few hundred standing patrons. This medium-sized setting means you’re never far from the action, allowing every riff and vocal nuance to be felt deeply. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, stripped back to focus purely on the music and the communal joy of a live performance. It’s the kind of venue where new memories are forged and legendary nights are made.

Its central location makes it highly accessible for both local and visiting fans. While the building itself carries a sense of history, efforts are made to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees. For specific accessibility requirements, it’s always advisable to contact the Ulster Sports Club directly prior to the event to ensure your needs can be fully accommodated. This blend of history, intimacy, and accessibility makes the Ulster Sports Club an ideal backdrop for Swim School’s powerful sound.

What to Expect at the Show

When Swim School takes to the stage at the Ulster Sports Club on 10th November 2025, expect an evening charged with dynamic energy and immersive soundscapes. Their setlist is likely to be a carefully curated journey through their most celebrated tracks, including fan favourites from their EPs like “Making Sense of It All” and “Duality.” Anticipate the driving force of “Velocity,” the melodic hooks of “Let Me Inside,” and the raw emotion of “Bored,” alongside newer material that showcases their evolving sound.

Swim School’s stage production is known for its effectiveness, often relying on evocative lighting to enhance the mood and intensity of their music rather than elaborate theatrics. This minimalist approach allows the band’s powerful musicianship and Alice Johnson’s compelling presence to take centre stage. The intimate nature of the Ulster Sports Club will amplify this, making every guitar riff feel immediate and every drum beat resonate through the room.

The atmosphere will undoubtedly be electric. Fans can expect to be swept up in a wave of shared enthusiasm, from head-nodding to full-on moshing, depending on the track. Swim School’s ability to switch between soaring, melodic passages and high-octane alternative rock ensures a constantly engaging experience. Prepare for an authentic, high-octane gig that perfectly encapsulates the raw power and emotional depth of one of the UK’s most promising bands.

Getting to Ulster Sports Club

The Ulster Sports Club is conveniently located in Belfast city centre at 96-98 Bridge Street, BT1 1LU, making it highly accessible via various transport options. If you’re travelling by public transport, numerous Translink bus routes serve the city centre, with stops just a short walk from Bridge Street. Major bus hubs like Europa Bus Centre and Laganside Bus Centre are both within a 10-15 minute stroll.

For those arriving by train, both Lanyon Place Station (formerly Central Station) and Great Victoria Street Station are easily reachable on foot or via a short bus ride. These stations connect Belfast with other parts of Northern Ireland and beyond. If you’re driving, there are several multi-storey car parks in the immediate vicinity, including those at Victoria Square and CastleCourt, though charges will apply. It’s always advisable to check parking availability and opening hours in advance.

Given its central location, walking or cycling to the venue is also a popular and environmentally friendly option for those staying nearby. Belfast is a very walkable city, and the club is easily found amidst the city’s historic streets. Plan your journey ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival for what promises to be an unforgettable night.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the event start?

Doors for Swim School at Ulster Sports Club on 10th November 2025 are typically expected to open around 7:00 PM, with the support act usually taking the stage shortly after, and Swim School likely performing from 9:00 PM. However, these times are subject to change, so please check your ticket or the venue’s official website/social media closer to the date for the most accurate schedule.

Is there an age restriction?

Most live music events at the Ulster Sports


🎫 Get Your Tickets

Don’t miss Swim School at Ulster Sports Club !

→ Buy Tickets on Ticketmaster


🏨 Need Accommodation?

Staying overnight for the concert? Find the best hotels in Belfast on NeedAHotel.net - compare prices from hundreds of booking sites and get the best deals near Ulster Sports Club .