Hop Garden, Birmingham – 61 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Hop Garden — student bar photo

Hop Garden -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking

Based on 61 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.
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✅ 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.

Hop Garden — student bar photo
Reviews
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For someone who loves a lively atmosphere, this place hits the mark. it attracts a mix of party-goers and casual visitors which makes for a fun vibe, and the dance floor is always packed with people enjoying themselves. students looking for a relaxed night out while still feeling the energy of a bigger crowd will feel right at home here.
By user729594 (Birmingham) on Jul 20th 2026
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Finding a spot where you can kick back after a long week is key, and this place does that for me. The atmosphere is always lively, with a mix of students and locals that makes it feel vibrant. It’s become my go-to for unwinding and catching up with friends while still being a spot that feels like a proper night out.
By user245412 (Birmingham) on Jul 15th 2026
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Staff here really know how to create a welcoming atmosphere and make you feel at home, enhancing the whole experience.
By user469697 (Birmingham) on Jul 10th 2026
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This place has stayed reliably fun over the months, with music that keeps everyone dancing.
By user965111 (Birmingham) on Jul 5th 2026
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Having a night out at this place is a blast, thanks to its lively nightclub vibe. Drinks are sensibly priced, which is perfect for uni students watching their budgets. It's refreshing to have such a fun time without the worry of a hefty bill.
By user382211 (Birmingham) on Jun 29th 2026
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There was a nice vibe at hop garden, but the smoke from outside was a bit too noticeable indoors for my taste. It didn't completely overshadow the lively atmosphere, but a fresher breeze would have been nice. Despite that, the music and crowd kept things fun, and I'd probably go back for another night. 🎶
By user861154 (Birmingham) on Jun 24th 2026
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Sipping on a drink here while a group of friends starts an impromptu singalong was great.
By user406535 (Birmingham) on Jun 19th 2026
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Finding a place like this that offers decent craft beer without all the flashy distractions is a relief amid student life. It's a chill spot to unwind after lectures with mates or just grab a quiet drink to recharge before the next day. Plus, the staff seem to get what students need, keeping it relaxed while still being attentive enough to make the experience enjoyable.
By user255473 (Birmingham) on Jun 14th 2026
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The music at Hop Garden exceeded my expectations, making for a lively night out with friends. Though the queue was longer than I'd hoped when things got busy, the vibrant atmosphere made up for it. 🎶
By user241346 (Birmingham) on Jun 9th 2026
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Value for money really shines here; drinks don’t leave your wallet gasping for air. On top of that, the music keeps everyone moving without feeling like you're in a money pit. It’s a solid place to let loose without feeling like you’ve compromised your budget.
By user316188 (Birmingham) on Jun 4th 2026
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The pulsing music at this place hits as soon as you're inside, instantly creating a lively mood. With friends gathered near the bar, we spent hours laughing and dancing, totally immersed in the crowd's energy. 🎶
By user628815 (Birmingham) on May 28th 2026
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Crowd here brings a fun energy every time, especially on weekends. it's lively but not overwhelming, making it a nice place to unwind or chat with friends without shouting.
By user292536 (Birmingham) on May 23rd 2026
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This place has a way of keeping the dance floor alive with its music. I wouldn't mind dropping by again.
By user252607 (Birmingham) on May 18th 2026
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This place buzzes with energy, making it an ideal spot for gearing up for a night on the town. Surrounded by other vibrant locations, it sets a lively tone before hitting the dance floor and soaking in the atmosphere.
By user619515 (Birmingham) on May 11th 2026
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The atmosphere here was lively and fun, even when it got super crowded later on. Navigating through felt like a bit of a maze just to reach the bar for a drink. Even so, the energy was great, and the music made it all worthwhile. 🎶
By user110375 (Birmingham) on May 5th 2026
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Hop Garden is a great spot to grab a drink without breaking the bank! 😊 The drink prices are decent, and it's a place I'd definitely visit again.
By user533458 (Birmingham) on Apr 30th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Apr 25th 2026
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This place is like a big, friendly hangout, with a chill vibe that's perfect for relaxing with friends. The craft beer buzz makes it easy to forget the outside world and just enjoy the moment here.
By user660953 (Birmingham) on Apr 19th 2026
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Every time I'm here, I appreciate the relaxed vibe more and more. It has just the right energy for when you need a break from studying and want to connect with other students over a couple of pints. Something about this place just clicks for those moments. 🍻
By user919668 (Birmingham) on Apr 13th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Apr 9th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Apr 5th 2026
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Hop Garden stands out among uni pubs for its comfortable atmosphere. It's rare to find a spot where you can actually hold a conversation without needing to raise your voice. I ended up spending more time there than planned, simply because it didn’t feel rushed, even at peak times.
By user634196 (Birmingham) on Apr 3rd 2026
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This place has the vibe of a friend's living room, though you're surrounded by a bunch of strangers. You can get a decent drink without going broke, but the noise level can catch you off guard. It's familiar enough for a laid-back evening.
By user608466 (Birmingham) on Mar 31st 2026
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It's such a welcoming atmosphere here, with staff who are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about their craft beer. They even seemed to remember my previous orders, which really made me feel at home. It's comforting to find such warmth when you're far from home.
By user350490 (Birmingham) on Mar 30th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Mar 27th 2026
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Visiting this place was a pleasant surprise with its solid craft beer lineup. It's where you're greeted with a smile, and it's easy to see why people keep coming back. I left feeling lighter and eager for another visit.
By user636544 (Birmingham) on Mar 24th 2026
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Service here is quicker than most places around campus, which is nice.
By user713562 (Birmingham) on Mar 19th 2026
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A mate recommended this place to me, and I'm so glad they did! It's the perfect spot to relax after a long day of lectures. While it's not fancy, there's something about having a pint here that makes you feel completely at ease. 🍻
By user590698 (Birmingham) on Mar 17th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Mar 13th 2026
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I head to this place almost every week when I need a break from drama rehearsals and assignment stress. It's conveniently right across from uni, making it easy to meet up with friends or relax alone with a good pint in the corner. It's become a regular hangout for our drama crew, always helps us unwind.
By user806703 (Birmingham) on Mar 10th 2026
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Hop Garden is like a warm hug after a long day of politics lectures. The easy-going, relaxed vibe makes it the perfect spot to unwind and just be yourself. It's a place where conversation flows effortlessly over a pint, and you can't help but feel at ease. 😊
By user364720 (Birmingham) on Feb 28th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Feb 10th 2026
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Hop Garden is a relaxed spot that feels like a little escape from the chaos of university life. With the ambient hum of conversations and the inviting aroma of craft beer, it’s easy to feel at home here—a rarity in most student-heavy venues. 🍻
By user817920 (Birmingham) on Feb 3rd 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 29th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 24th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 20th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 15th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 12th 2026
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Thursday nights at Hop Garden are the perfect break from studio stress! I always look forward to their impressive lineup of craft beers, which never disappoints, and hanging out with friends in such a welcoming atmosphere keeps me coming back before diving into more projects.
By user569016 (Birmingham) on Jan 9th 2026
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Braced myself for a crowded pub but found a peaceful retreat instead.
By user307017 (Birmingham) on Jan 5th 2026
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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 (Birmingham) on Jan 1st 2026
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This place is just a short walk from campus and offers a mix of friends and craft beer. The atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after lectures, and it's definitely somewhere I'll be returning to.
By user430333 (Birmingham) on Dec 27th 2025
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Hop Garden could really use some extra space. It's tough to find a spot sometimes, and waiting around isn't much fun. A bit of expansion would definitely help ease the chaos, particularly when there's a crowd.
By user634347 (Birmingham) on Dec 23rd 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Dec 19th 2025
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I thought it would be more lively, but this place was surprisingly relaxed for the middle of the week. Had some good conversations with new people, which was a nice surprise.
By user374843 (Birmingham) on Dec 14th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Dec 10th 2025
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Staff at hop garden are super chill and always ready to suggest a new beer to try 😅
By user274392 (Birmingham) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Expected it to be a bit pretentious but was pleasantly surprised by the chill vibe and genuine crowd.
By user210263 (Birmingham) on Nov 30th 2025
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Hop Garden offers an amazingly comforting vibe that feels like a warm embrace. It's like they're ready for you to kick back and unwind without a fuss.
By user250164 (Birmingham) on Nov 25th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Nov 20th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Nov 14th 2025
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Instead of just another typical pint, this place offers ales with unique stories and character.
By user556138 (Birmingham) on Nov 7th 2025
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Students mix effortlessly with locals, and the place never feels overcrowded even when it's busier than usual.
By user332033 (Birmingham) on Oct 31st 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Oct 26th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Oct 23rd 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Oct 19th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Oct 16th 2025
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This place is a solid choice for grabbing a pint after lectures. The bartenders are great at recommending ales, which is a nice touch. You might even end up hanging around longer than planned.
By user703129 (Birmingham) on Oct 12th 2025
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Never guessed i'd find a spot where everyone knows me by name so fast.
By user342279 (Birmingham) on Oct 8th 2025
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This place is ideal for unwinding with friends after classes. There's always a spot to relax and enjoy a craft ale while catching up or meeting new people.
By user136233 (Birmingham) on Oct 3rd 2025
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Finding such an impressive craft beer selection was a pleasant surprise. This place attracts a mix of students and locals, making it easy to strike up a conversation. It's not just the drinks that are appealing but the overall welcoming atmosphere here.
By user594279 (Birmingham) on Sep 28th 2025
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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 (Birmingham) on Sep 24th 2025