The Dark Horse, Bath – 39 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.co.uk%2FAttraction_Review-g186370-d9729551-Reviews-The_Dark_Horse-Bath_Somerset_England.html&psig=AOvVaw3U5E18p8ypwvQj_zvTIUEB&ust=1713869684236000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqFwoTCOib-6LU1YUDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

The Dark Horse -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 39 user ratings

7A Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Sunday: 5:00 – 11:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

The Dark Horse, located in the heart of Bath, is a charming cellar cocktail bar that’s quickly become a favorite among students at the University of Bath. With a unique focus on mixology, the bar offers a seasonal cocktail menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, making it a delightful spot for those who appreciate quality drinks. The venue is designed to provide a snug and comforting atmosphere, featuring a variety of small rooms and nooks that create an intimate setting beneath Kingsmead Square. This layout not only enhances the bar’s appeal but also encourages social interaction, making it an ideal place for students to unwind and connect with friends.

When it comes to the atmosphere, The Dark Horse is highly regarded for its vibrant yet relaxed vibe. Students frequently mention the lively crowd, with many noting that the energy in the bar makes it easy to enjoy a night out. Reviewers appreciate that while the music is upbeat and gets everyone dancing, the overall ambiance allows for conversation without feeling too loud or overwhelming. This balance makes it a great choice for those looking to catch up with friends while still enjoying a fun night out. The venue has been described as having a student buzz, which adds to its charm and makes it a go-to spot for many.

The music at The Dark Horse plays a significant role in its overall appeal. Students often rave about the tunes, noting that the selection really gets everyone moving and creates a party atmosphere. Many patrons return specifically for the music, which enhances the experience and keeps the energy levels high throughout the night. The bar is known for hosting a mix of genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, and making it a place where nights feel like a little celebration.

In terms of drinks, The Dark Horse is praised for its reasonably priced cocktails, which are often seen as a great value compared to other venues in the area. Students appreciate that they can enjoy quality drinks without breaking the bank, which is a significant factor for many. The focus on mixology means that patrons can expect a well-crafted drink, and the seasonal menu keeps things fresh and exciting. While it may not be the cheapest option in town, many students feel that the atmosphere and quality justify the prices.

The queue and entry experience at The Dark Horse is another highlight, with students reporting that the wait is generally manageable. The venue has a high queue rating, indicating that patrons often find the entry process smooth and efficient. This aspect is particularly important for students who want to maximize their time enjoying the night rather than waiting in line. The friendly staff also contribute to a welcoming entry experience, which sets a positive tone for the evening ahead.

Feedback from students consistently highlights the friendly and welcoming crowd at The Dark Horse. Many reviews note that everyone is there to have a good time, which fosters a relaxed and enjoyable environment. This sense of community is a significant draw for students, who often mention that they feel comfortable and at ease while socializing. Whether it’s making new friends or enjoying a laugh with familiar faces, the atmosphere encourages a fun and carefree night out.

However, like any venue, The Dark Horse does have some caveats. While many students enjoy the lively atmosphere, others have noted that it can get quite busy, especially during peak times. This can make it a bit crowded, which might not be ideal for those looking for a quieter night. Additionally, while the drinks are reasonably priced, some students feel that it can still be on the pricier side compared to other local spots. It’s worth keeping in mind that while the experience is generally positive, it might not be the best fit for those on a very tight budget.

Overall, The Dark Horse is a fantastic choice for students looking for a vibrant nightlife experience in Bath. Its mix of great music, a welcoming atmosphere, and quality drinks make it a standout venue. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or simply relax with friends, The Dark Horse has something to offer. It’s particularly well-suited for students who enjoy a lively crowd and a fun, social environment. So if you’re in Bath and looking for a place to enjoy a night out, The Dark Horse is definitely worth checking out.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and meeting new people.
  • Great music that keeps everyone dancing and adds to the fun.
  • Reasonably priced cocktails that offer good value for students.
  • Friendly crowd that fosters a welcoming environment.
  • Charming interior with cozy nooks for a relaxed experience.
  • Efficient queue and entry process, minimizing wait times.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded during peak times, which may not suit everyone.
  • Some students feel drinks can still be on the pricier side.
  • Not the quietest venue, which might be a downside for those seeking a low-key night.
  • Occasional inconsistency in service during busy periods.

🎯 Best For

Students who enjoy a lively nightlife atmosphere with good music and a social vibe.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is generally casual, but smart-casual attire is recommended.
  • It’s best to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Keep an eye on seasonal cocktail specials for unique drink options.
  • The music varies, so check the schedule for any themed nights or events.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Dark Horse like?

The Dark Horse is a lively cocktail bar known for its great atmosphere, friendly crowd, and excellent music.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, with a high rating for entry efficiency.

Is it good value?

While not the cheapest, many students find the prices reasonable for the quality and atmosphere.

What music does The Dark Horse play?

The venue plays a mix of upbeat music that keeps everyone dancing.

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.co.uk%2FAttraction_Review-g186370-d9729551-Reviews-The_Dark_Horse-Bath_Somerset_England.html&psig=AOvVaw3U5E18p8ypwvQj_zvTIUEB&ust=1713869684236000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqFwoTCOib-6LU1YUDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Reviews
1 of 39
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Decent place for a night out with mates. drinks are reasonably priced and the music keeps the vibe going. not much to complain about, really.
By user698289 on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bit hit or miss but when it's good it's a proper good night. the music always brings a vibe and the drinks are reasonably priced. just gotta be ready for the occasional queue.
By user392706 on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music was great, crowd was lively. drinks were reasonably priced too .
By user504728 on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Been there loads and it's always been cool. just seems like a chill spot to hang out.
By user718510 on Mar 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The music at the dark horse really gets everyone dancing. that’s what keeps me coming back.
By user201370 on Mar 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not perfect but i'd go back. it’s got a nice atmosphere and is in a good spot.
By user236482 on Mar 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Everyone's just there to enjoy themselves, which is cool. that's what you want in a place like this.
By user715287 on Mar 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
There's loads of funny moments to be had here, just a bunch of people enjoying themselves without a care.
By user672786 on Mar 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Looking back, it was a solid experience. the place was lively, making it easy to meet people and have a good time.
By user115081 on Mar 8th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Place is good for hanging out with mates. not too loud so you can actually chat.
By user825354 on Mar 7th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The dark horse is decent for students. prices are way better than most other places around here.
By user447671 on Mar 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not perfect but i'd choose it again. always a good atmosphere when i'm here.
By user212746 on Mar 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music really gets everyone up and dancing, no one’s just standing around.
By user878103 on Mar 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The whole night was smooth, no stress and lots of fun.
By user796359 on Feb 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere was just right for a laid-back night. it felt easy to hang out and have a good time without any pressure.
By user697213 on Feb 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere is really what makes it. you just get that student experience that feels right.
By user708330 on Feb 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The place just has that student buzz about it. ⚡️
By user961641 on Jan 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The dark horse is always where the best nights happen. that's just how it goes.
By user467122 on Jan 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It's a chill spot to just relax and take a breather for a while.
By user642046 on Jan 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Place was chill for hanging out with friends. it had a relaxed feel without being too quiet.
By user554521 on Jan 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Each night feels like a little party. there's always something happening and the energy's just right.
By user826559 on Jan 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
One of those places where the night just flows perfectly.
By user633362 on Jan 8th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Went in and there was something going on, never a dull moment.
By user824655 on Jan 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People are really friendly and everyone’s down to have a laugh. little things that make a night out better.
By user280515 on Dec 31st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Everyone was just there to have a good time, really liked that. made it feel more relaxed.
By user414613 on Dec 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the cheapest place but it’s worth it for the atmosphere. wouldn’t want to go anywhere else honestly.
By user438006 on Dec 22nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The dark horse has a good energy. it's got a local feel that makes it more interesting than the usual chain spots.
By user110506 on Dec 18th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Was always lively which made it fun to be there. by the end, it felt like a second home.
By user324322 on Dec 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Vibe was top tier — fun from start to finish.
By user727773 on Dec 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Place has a good atmosphere for a laugh without feeling overcrowded. it's nice to enjoy the night without getting squished.
By user231899 on Dec 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People are really friendly and the atmosphere's just right, not too packed but lively enough. it's a nice mix.
By user770074 on Nov 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The crowd here is really friendly and it has a good energy. makes it easy to just hang out and enjoy the night.
By user310912 on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A chill way to wrap up the week with friends. always something going on and the atmosphere is pretty cool.
By user823609 on Nov 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the most extravagant spot but it works. good atmosphere, everything just clicks.
By user628224 on Nov 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Drinks are reasonably priced and the crowd is something else. you're getting way more than just basic drinks here.
By user561703 on Nov 7th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sound bar staff and good crowd make it a 10/10 night.
By user817205 on Oct 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
By user585617 on Aug 6th 2024
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Really nice place for a nice evening. Definitely bringing my friends next time I go!
By user254523 on Apr 22nd 2024
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Really nice place for a nice evening. Definitely bringing my friends next time I go!
By user325819 on Apr 22nd 2024