Hop Garden, Birmingham – 45 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
arrow_back_ios Back
add_circle
Add your night out listing
Hop Garden -
Hop Garden -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 45 user ratings
19 Metchley Ln, Harborne, Birmingham B17 0HT, United Kingdom
💬 What Students Say
Hop Garden is an intimate pub located just a stone's throw from the University of Birmingham, making it a popular choice for students looking for a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after classes. This charming venue is dedicated to craft beer, offering a unique selection that includes five real ales from local breweries, three craft beers, and four traditional ciders. The decor is distinctive and varied, contributing to the pub's cozy vibe. With a capacity for 82 patrons, it features heated seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their drinks comfortably throughout the year.
Students frequently mention the friendly atmosphere at Hop Garden, which makes it a great spot to meet new people. The crowd is typically described as chill and welcoming, creating an environment where it's easy to strike up conversations with fellow patrons. This sense of community is a major draw for many students, who appreciate the opportunity to relax and enjoy a drink without the pressure of a more hectic nightlife scene.
When it comes to drinks, students often highlight the reasonable prices, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Many reviews note that the drinks are decent, and the pub's focus on craft beer means there’s always something interesting to try. The music is also a point of praise, with many patrons enjoying the good vibe it creates without being too loud. This allows for easy conversation, which is often a priority for students looking to socialize with friends.
Hop Garden tends to get busy on Friday and Saturday evenings, making it a lively spot for students looking to kick off their weekend. While it may not be the most thrilling nightlife option in Birmingham, it certainly provides a solid choice for a student night out. Many reviews suggest that the pub is a great place to hang out with friends, and the atmosphere is often described as perfect for winding down after a long week.
One standout feature of Hop Garden is its commitment to local breweries, which not only supports the community but also gives patrons a taste of the best craft beers the area has to offer. This dedication to quality drinks is appreciated by many students, who enjoy the opportunity to explore new flavors and support local businesses. Additionally, the pub's unique hop garden adds a distinctive touch, making it a memorable spot for visitors.
Despite its many positives, there are some downsides to consider. Some students have noted that the venue can get crowded, particularly on weekends, which may lead to longer wait times for drinks or seating. While the queue is generally manageable, it can still be a minor inconvenience during peak hours. Additionally, while the music is often praised, there are occasional comments about it being too loud, making conversation more challenging at times.
Overall, Hop Garden is best suited for students who appreciate a laid-back pub atmosphere where they can enjoy quality craft beers and socialize with friends. It’s a venue that encourages relaxation and connection, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind after a busy week of studies. Whether you're a first-year student or a seasoned local, Hop Garden offers a welcoming space to enjoy a casual night out in Birmingham.
In summary, Hop Garden is a cozy pub that stands out for its craft beer selection, friendly atmosphere, and unique decor. While it may not be the most exciting nightlife option, it provides a solid choice for students seeking a comfortable place to hang out with friends. With its focus on community and local brews, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the best of Birmingham’s pub culture.
▼ See more
Students frequently mention the friendly atmosphere at Hop Garden, which makes it a great spot to meet new people. The crowd is typically described as chill and welcoming, creating an environment where it's easy to strike up conversations with fellow patrons. This sense of community is a major draw for many students, who appreciate the opportunity to relax and enjoy a drink without the pressure of a more hectic nightlife scene.
When it comes to drinks, students often highlight the reasonable prices, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Many reviews note that the drinks are decent, and the pub's focus on craft beer means there’s always something interesting to try. The music is also a point of praise, with many patrons enjoying the good vibe it creates without being too loud. This allows for easy conversation, which is often a priority for students looking to socialize with friends.
Hop Garden tends to get busy on Friday and Saturday evenings, making it a lively spot for students looking to kick off their weekend. While it may not be the most thrilling nightlife option in Birmingham, it certainly provides a solid choice for a student night out. Many reviews suggest that the pub is a great place to hang out with friends, and the atmosphere is often described as perfect for winding down after a long week.
One standout feature of Hop Garden is its commitment to local breweries, which not only supports the community but also gives patrons a taste of the best craft beers the area has to offer. This dedication to quality drinks is appreciated by many students, who enjoy the opportunity to explore new flavors and support local businesses. Additionally, the pub's unique hop garden adds a distinctive touch, making it a memorable spot for visitors.
Despite its many positives, there are some downsides to consider. Some students have noted that the venue can get crowded, particularly on weekends, which may lead to longer wait times for drinks or seating. While the queue is generally manageable, it can still be a minor inconvenience during peak hours. Additionally, while the music is often praised, there are occasional comments about it being too loud, making conversation more challenging at times.
Overall, Hop Garden is best suited for students who appreciate a laid-back pub atmosphere where they can enjoy quality craft beers and socialize with friends. It’s a venue that encourages relaxation and connection, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind after a busy week of studies. Whether you're a first-year student or a seasoned local, Hop Garden offers a welcoming space to enjoy a casual night out in Birmingham.
In summary, Hop Garden is a cozy pub that stands out for its craft beer selection, friendly atmosphere, and unique decor. While it may not be the most exciting nightlife option, it provides a solid choice for students seeking a comfortable place to hang out with friends. With its focus on community and local brews, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the best of Birmingham’s pub culture.
✅ What Students Love
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing.
- Great selection of craft beers and local ales.
- Reasonably priced drinks, ideal for students on a budget.
- Cozy seating with heated options for comfort.
- Good music vibe that allows for conversation.
- Unique decor and a hop garden that adds character.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Can get crowded on weekends, leading to longer wait times.
- Occasional comments about music being too loud for chatting.
- Not the most thrilling nightlife option for those seeking high-energy venues.
- Limited opening hours may restrict visits for late-night outings.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a relaxed and friendly pub atmosphere to enjoy craft beers with friends.
💡 Things to Know
- Hop Garden is closed on Mondays and Sundays, so plan your visits accordingly.
- Consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Check their official website for any special events or promotions.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure seating, especially if you're in a larger group.
- The pub's unique hop garden is worth a visit, especially during warmer months.
❓ Common Questions
What is Hop Garden like?
Hop Garden is a cozy pub known for its craft beer selection and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed night out.
Is it good value?
Yes, students often mention that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.
When do students go to Hop Garden?
Students typically visit on Friday and Saturday evenings, but it can also be quieter on weekdays.
What types of drinks are available?
The pub offers a variety of craft beers, local ales, and traditional ciders, catering to diverse tastes.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, Hop Garden features a unique hop garden that provides a pleasant outdoor seating area.
Reviews
1 of 46
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Met some interesting people here who sparked engaging conversations; it’s refreshing to be surrounded by diverse backgrounds and perspectives, making every visit feel like a new experience waiting to unfold.
By user744220 on Apr 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into hop garden feels like joining a big, friendly hangout. the craft beer buzz adds to the chill vibe, and it's so easy to forget the world outside and just kick back with mates here.
By user660953 on Apr 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found myself appreciating hop garden more each visit, with its laid back atmosphere and just the right buzz for when you're easing into the local scene. something about it just works for taking a breather from textbooks and getting to know fellow students over a pint or two.
By user919668 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbling into Hop Garden for the first time, I was surprised by just how cozy it felt despite being so close to the uni. thought it would be packed, but the lack of a massive crowd meant I could actually hear the music. honestly, didn't expect to find a place where real ales are the norm and the atmosphere is laid-back yet social.
By user247673 on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are less rushed than in most places, which makes for a much better experience. it feels like they actually enjoy being there rather than just clocking in.
By user459680 on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always preferred places that strike a balance between lively and laid back, and hop garden nails it. compared to some other uni pubs, the noise levels here allow for actual conversation without shouting. found myself staying longer than intended because it didn’t feel rushed or overcrowded, even during busy times.
By user634196 on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepping inside hop garden feels a bit like your mate's living room, but with more strangers milling about. it's a place where you'll get a decent drink without feeling skint, though the noise might sneak up on you. there's a sense of familiarity that makes it comfortable enough for a casual evening.
By user608466 on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff at hop garden were super friendly and knew their craft beer well. it felt like they remembered what I ordered before, which made me feel a bit more at home. it's definitely comforting when you're far away from home and people are this welcoming.
By user350490 on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled into hop garden expecting the usual pub scene, but found a surprisingly peaceful spot with a nice selection of craft beers. it's not just the drinks that impressed me , the chill playlist felt like a tailored break and everyone there was simply enjoying the moment without any rush.
By user226208 on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hoped for just another ordinary pub, but Hop Garden surprised me with its welcoming vibe and craft beer lineup 😊. turns out it's one of those places where you're greeted with a smile and leave with a lighter heart and the promise of another visit.
By user636544 on Mar 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Service here is quicker than most places around campus, which is nice.
By user713562 on Mar 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard great things about hop garden from a mate, and they were right. such a chill place to hang out, especially when you're done with lectures. nothing fancy but you feel properly at ease with a pint in hand.
By user590698 on Mar 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Could definitely see myself coming back for another visit. the vibe is laid-back and the craft beer selection is pretty solid. met some other students there and had some great conversations over a couple of pints.
By user711410 on Mar 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wander into Hop Garden nearly every week when i need a breather from rehearsing scenes and stressing about assignments. it's just across from uni, so it's an easy escape to hang with friends or sit quietly in the corner with a good pint. it's become a bit of a ritual for our drama crew, never fails to chill us out.
By user806703 on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into hop garden feels a bit like a warm hug, right from the get-go. the vibe is easy and chilled out, perfect for just being yourself after a day of politics lectures. it’s the kind of place where you can't help but relax and could easily strike up a convo with someone over a pint. 😊
By user364720 on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected the usual pub vibe but Hop Garden was genuinely a pleasant surprise. the craft beer selection is a real standout, with some options I'd never have thought to try but ended up loving. it’s now on my list of places to stop by after a morning training session when I need a change of scenery.
By user421209 on Feb 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into Hop Garden felt like stepping into a cozy little haven away from the hustle of uni life. the ambient hum of conversation mixed with the scent of craft beer set a perfect laid-back tone. it was easy to feel right at home here, which is rare in a student-heavy spot.
By user817920 on Feb 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled in expecting a typical student pub but honestly the craft beer selection was way beyond what i imagined. ended up chatting away to other students and feeling more at home than i expected
By user833996 on Jan 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed a subtle charm about the place that goes beyond the usual pub vibe. the little nooks and crannies create a cozy feel where you can have a proper chat without shouting. it's got this unpretentious atmosphere that makes unwinding way too easy.
By user497593 on Jan 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff are genuinely warm and keen to help you find a drink you’ll love, which is rare and refreshing. makes it feel like you're getting more than just a usual pint and a nod, without spending too much.
By user687765 on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed loads of fellow students ordering pints and chatting away at the tables, making it feel lively but still laid back enough to relax
By user579610 on Jan 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed loads of students hanging around chatting and laughing. feels more like a laid-back gathering spot than a typical pub, which made catching up really easy.
By user623532 on Jan 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Usually find myself at Hop Garden on a Thursday night, just to escape the studio pressures for a bit. the relaxed atmosphere and solid lineup of craft beers make it an ideal spot to unwind with a few friends before diving back into another project.
By user569016 on Jan 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Braced myself for a crowded pub but found a peaceful retreat instead.
By user307017 on Jan 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed a mix of students and locals who all seemed to be in high spirits and friendly with each other, which made chatting to new people a breeze. loved how laid-back everyone was, not the typical rowdy pub crowd you sometimes find near uni.
By user722014 on Jan 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back because it's got that laid-back vibe perfect for a post-lecture chill. it's where friends and craft beer meet, just a quick walk from campus.
By user430333 on Dec 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It's a bit cramped for my liking, especially when it's busy with students looking to unwind. you end up squeezed into tight spaces or waiting ages for a seat. a bit more room would make it feel less chaotic during peak times.
By user634347 on Dec 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here always seem to be having a laugh and it's catching. makes a chilled afternoon drink feel unexpectedly lively every time.
By user606518 on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected it to be a bit rowdier, but the chill vibes were spot on for the middle of the week. found myself actually chatting with a bunch of new people which was a pleasant surprise.
By user374843 on Dec 14th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into hop garden felt like escaping into a haven. the laid-back atmosphere instantly relaxed me, and the friendly chatter of fellow students made it feel welcoming, like finding a little piece of home.
By user793140 on Dec 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff at hop garden are super chill and always ready to suggest a new beer to try 😅
By user274392 on Dec 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected it to be a bit pretentious but was pleasantly surprised by the chill vibe and genuine crowd.
By user210263 on Nov 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Felt so inviting the moment you step in, like they're ready for you to relax straight away. it's like the walls just hug you, a proper comforting vibe without trying too hard.
By user250164 on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Shows how important good lighting and music are. both create this laid-back vibe where everyone seems open for a chat. didn't feel like a newcomer at all.
By user892780 on Nov 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sitting at hop garden with friends feels like being in someone's cozy living room, which matches the vibe of the place perfectly. the bartenders can chat about beer for hours and actually seem to enjoy it 😮 it's a nice change of pace from the usual student pubs.
By user329098 on Nov 14th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wandered in expecting your standard pint but found each ale had its own story and character.
By user556138 on Nov 7th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Students mix effortlessly with locals, and the place never feels overcrowded even when it's busier than usual.
By user332033 on Oct 31st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wasn't expecting the pub's front to be so understated, almost missed it initially. once inside though, it was all about the relaxed vibe and the crowd seemed genuinely chilled and friendly. despite its small size, the selection of craft beers was surprisingly diverse, definitely made it a memorable first visit.
By user869065 on Oct 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bit crowded, especially on weekends and finding a seat can be tricky. however, it's worth the squeeze if you're into craft beers and the buzzing student energy.
By user317446 on Oct 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Popped in here for a quick drink and ended up staying hours longer than planned. the craft beer selection was a fun surprise, with flavours i'd never tried before. love how you can start spontaneous conversations with strangers at any table.
By user324492 on Oct 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Felt right at home as soon as i walked in, with the friendly buzz of conversation and the warm glow from the low lights. perfect place to just kick back and lose track of time with a pint or two.
By user853735 on Oct 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Worth checking out if you fancy a chilled pint after lectures. mate mentioned how the bartenders recommend brilliant ales. you might find yourself staying longer than intended
By user703129 on Oct 12th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Never guessed i'd find a spot where everyone knows me by name so fast.
By user342279 on Oct 8th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hop garden's got that casual vibe that's perfect for winding down after a packed day of lectures. you can always find a quiet nook to chat with friends or meet someone new over a craft ale 😅.
By user136233 on Oct 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Never imagined finding such a killer selection of craft beer in birmingham, but hop garden surprised me. the place attracts a laid-back mix of students and locals so conversations just flow naturally. didn’t think it was possible but it’s a pub that actually feels welcoming, not just because of the drinks but the whole chill vibe.
By user594279 on Sep 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Get ready to enjoy some chilled evenings at hop garden , the craft beer selection is quite something here, with a nice range of real ales to explore. you'll appreciate the warm, welcoming vibe and it's conveniently close if you're at birmingham uni.
By user442042 on Sep 24th 2025
Review published! ✓