Skipper Street, Belfast

In 1974 the Albert Inn stood at number 3, Skipper Street; then it changed its name to the Blackthorn Bar. The street was so called because skippers of sailing boats lodged here. This street is mentioned as far back as 1685; though it was badly affected during the 1941 blitz. I wonder if any readers could share some reminiscences of the Albert Inn with me?

Skipper Street is one of the oldest streets in Belfast though, sadly, the buildings are all relatively recent following the Blitz. The most notable premises nowadays are the Merchant Hotel - formerly the Ulster Bank head office - which now runs down one entire side of the street; the Spaniard Bar at Number Three; and Jackson Sports retailers at the corner of Skipper Street and High Street.