Belfast Sinks: The 2026 Buyer’s Guide to Sizes, Styles & Everyday Practicality

Belfast sinks remain one of the most requested kitchen features for 2026. Loved for their generous depth, classic style and practical everyday usability, they suit both modern and traditional kitchens. But with several sizes, styles and installation details to consider, choosing the right Belfast sink can feel more complicated than expected.

This guide breaks down the key choices — including dimensions, compatible base units, tap placement and real-life practicality — so you can confidently choose the right Belfast sink for your new kitchen.

What Exactly Is a Belfast Sink?

A Belfast sink is a deep, ceramic, apron-front sink known for its exposed face and generous bowl size. Its depth makes it ideal for washing pots, trays and family-sized cookware. Because it sits on a purpose-built cabinet rather than being mounted in a worktop cutout, it requires accurate planning and the correct base unit.

If you’re designing a handcrafted kitchen, our Kitchen Design & Planning page explains how we help integrate sink and base units seamlessly into your layout.

Choosing the Right Base Cabinet

Belfast sinks cannot be installed in standard cabinetry — you need a correctly sized base with structural support. We manufacture several dedicated options:

• 600mm Belfast Sink Base — ideal for compact spaces or smaller kitchens
• 800mm Belfast Sink Base — the most popular size for family kitchens
• Double Belfast Sink Base (1080mm) — perfect for larger, premium layouts

You can explore all options in the Belfast Sink Bases collection.

Single vs Double Belfast Sinks

Most homeowners choose between a single or double bowl, depending on their cooking habits and available space.

Single Bowl: Best for Everyday Practicality

• Deeper bowl for large pots
• Great for compact or medium kitchens
• Easier to clean and maintain

Double Bowl: Best for Larger Kitchens

• Allows washing and rinsing separately
• Ideal for homes that cook frequently
• Looks impressive as a focal feature

If you're upgrading appliances around your sink, our Belfast Worktop Drainer is a clever add-on that keeps surfaces tidy.

Tap Placement: Behind or Beside?

Belfast sinks usually require the tap to be mounted into the worktop rather than the sink body. For smaller or shallower worktops, ensure there’s enough space between the sink edge and the wall for tap installation.

Many homeowners pair their Belfast sink with a boiling-water tap. If that's something you're considering, explore our Quooker Taps to see compatible models.

What Worktops Pair Best With Belfast Sinks?

The most popular choices for 2026 include:

• Quartz — durable, stain-resistant, perfect for a clean apron-front look
• Granite — natural variation, excellent heat tolerance
• Solid timber — adds warmth but requires regular care

Our guide on Quartz vs Granite Worktops explains pros, cons and real-world maintenance.

How to Keep a Belfast Sink Looking Its Best

Modern ceramic sinks are tougher than ever, but a little routine upkeep keeps them pristine:

• Wipe down daily with warm soapy water
• Avoid leaving metal pans sitting in the bowl
• Use a soft scrub for stubborn marks
• Dry the surface to avoid mineral spots

If you’re refreshing other painted surfaces at the same time, our article on cleaning painted cabinets pairs well with this guide.

See Belfast Sinks in Real Homes

Viewing real installations can help you understand how a Belfast sink sits within cabinetry, colours and lighting. Browse:

• White Kitchen
• Off-White & Grey Kitchen
• Character Kitchen

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