Hop Garden, Birmingham – 65 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Hop Garden — student bar photo

Hop Garden -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 65 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.

🎯 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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Crowd really appreciates the vibe, adds to the community feel.
By user705946 (Birmingham) on Aug 13th 2026
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Bit cramped sometimes, but lively atmosphere makes up for it.
By user248666 (Birmingham) on Aug 6th 2026
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The atmosphere here is just what students need to unwind. It's lively and always buzzing, making it an ideal hangout with mates.
By user541347 (Birmingham) on Jul 30th 2026
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Close to everything, great spot to hit after classes.
By user736116 (Birmingham) on Jul 25th 2026
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Lively but welcoming, great mix of people and vibes.
By user729594 (Birmingham) on Jul 20th 2026
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Mix of students and locals makes it lively. Perfect for unwinding.
By user245412 (Birmingham) on Jul 15th 2026
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Welcoming staff make you feel right at home, top vibes.
By user469697 (Birmingham) on Jul 10th 2026
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Reliably fun over the months, it features music that keeps everyone dancing.
By user965111 (Birmingham) on Jul 5th 2026
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Not a nightclub, but perfect for a chill pint.
By user382211 (Birmingham) on Jun 29th 2026
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Good vibe, but bit too crowded inside for me. Still fun though!
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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This place is perfect for students looking for a chill hangout. It's free from distractions and just the right spot to unwind. 🍻
By user255473 (Birmingham) on Jun 14th 2026
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Music's ace, even if you have to queue a bit. Great spot for craft beer.
By user241346 (Birmingham) on Jun 9th 2026
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Great value drinks for students. Perfect for a low-key night.
By user316188 (Birmingham) on Jun 4th 2026
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Not a nightclub, but a cozy pub with craft ales.
By user628815 (Birmingham) on May 28th 2026
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Fun energy every weekend, lively yet chill for chats.
By user292536 (Birmingham) on May 23rd 2026
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Great for craft beer, not really about dancing though.
By user252607 (Birmingham) on May 18th 2026
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Perfect spot to start a chill evening with its cozy atmosphere.
By user619515 (Birmingham) on May 11th 2026
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Maze-like when crowded, but the buzz makes it worth it. 🎶
By user110375 (Birmingham) on May 5th 2026
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Great spot for a cheap pint! 😊
By user533458 (Birmingham) on Apr 30th 2026
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Always meet interesting people here, never a dull moment.
By user744220 (Birmingham) on Apr 25th 2026
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Big friendly vibe, perfect for losing track of time with friends.
By user660953 (Birmingham) on Apr 19th 2026
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Love the laid-back energy here. Great for a study break with mates. 🍻
By user919668 (Birmingham) on Apr 13th 2026
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A cozy surprise near the uni, real ales and chilled vibes.
By user247673 (Birmingham) on Apr 9th 2026
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Staff seem to actually enjoy being there. Adds to the vibe.
By user459680 (Birmingham) on Apr 5th 2026
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Great spot for convo without shouting. Stayed longer than planned!
By user634196 (Birmingham) on Apr 3rd 2026
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Feels like chilling at a mate's. Decent prices, comfy vibe.
By user608466 (Birmingham) on Mar 31st 2026
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Friendly staff who know their stuff. Felt properly welcome.
By user350490 (Birmingham) on Mar 30th 2026
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A peaceful retreat with chill vibes and a great craft beer selection.
By user226208 (Birmingham) on Mar 27th 2026
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Pleasantly surprised by the craft beer lineup. Love this place!
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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Glad a mate recommended this! Perfect for unwinding post-lectures. 🍻
By user590698 (Birmingham) on Mar 17th 2026
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Laid-back vibe, great place to meet fellow students over a pint.
By user711410 (Birmingham) on Mar 13th 2026
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Regular post-rehearsal hangout. Handy location and good pints.
By user806703 (Birmingham) on Mar 10th 2026
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Like a warm hug after lectures. Easy-going and welcoming. 😊
By user364720 (Birmingham) on Feb 28th 2026
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Post-training pint spot. Wide beer range, some new faves found. 🍻
By user421209 (Birmingham) on Feb 10th 2026
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Feels like a cozy escape from uni chaos. Love the craft beer. 🍻
By user817920 (Birmingham) on Feb 3rd 2026
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Thought it'd be just another pub, but it's surprisingly welcoming.
By user833996 (Birmingham) on Jan 29th 2026
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Cozy nooks make it easy for a proper chat without shouting.
By user497593 (Birmingham) on Jan 24th 2026
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Staff are sound, always keen to help you find a cracking drink.
By user687765 (Birmingham) on Jan 20th 2026
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Plenty of students chatting over pints, nice and laid-back vibe.
By user579610 (Birmingham) on Jan 15th 2026
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Loads of students, casual vibe. Perfect for a chill catch-up.
By user623532 (Birmingham) on Jan 12th 2026
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Thursday nights here are mint! Class craft beer selection.
By user569016 (Birmingham) on Jan 9th 2026
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I was expecting a bustling pub, but Hop Garden turned out to be a surprisingly quiet haven. 😊
By user307017 (Birmingham) on Jan 5th 2026
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Friendly mix of students and locals, easy to chat with anyone.
By user722014 (Birmingham) on Jan 1st 2026
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Short walk from campus, ideal for chilling with mates post-lectures.
By user430333 (Birmingham) on Dec 27th 2025
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Could use more seating space. It gets crowded quickly.
By user634347 (Birmingham) on Dec 23rd 2025
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Laughter from the staff makes every afternoon drink feel lively.
By user606518 (Birmingham) on Dec 19th 2025
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Surprisingly relaxed midweek, good chats with new people.
By user374843 (Birmingham) on Dec 14th 2025
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Feels like a relaxed haven, perfect for unwinding.
By user793140 (Birmingham) on Dec 10th 2025
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Staff are sound, always up for recommending a new beer. 😅
By user274392 (Birmingham) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Expected pretentious, found chill and genuine instead.
By user210263 (Birmingham) on Nov 30th 2025
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Super relaxing vibe here. Effortless unwinding, no drama.
By user250164 (Birmingham) on Nov 25th 2025
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Good lighting and music set a laid-back, chatty vibe.
By user892780 (Birmingham) on Nov 20th 2025
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Feels like chilling in a mate's living room. Bartenders love a chat.
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 and locals mix well, never feels too packed.
By user332033 (Birmingham) on Oct 31st 2025
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Almost didn't notice Hop Garden, but it's a really friendly spot.
By user869065 (Birmingham) on Oct 26th 2025
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Weekends can get a bit packed here, but the lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for hanging out. The craft beers are definitely worth checking out! 🍻
By user317446 (Birmingham) on Oct 23rd 2025
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Dropped by for a quick pint, stayed much longer. Loved the beer!
By user324492 (Birmingham) on Oct 19th 2025
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Hop Garden is great if you want to unwind with a pint. Perfect spot to relax. 🍻
By user853735 (Birmingham) on Oct 16th 2025
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Getting a pint here after lectures is a class idea! 🍻
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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Easy to unwind here with a craft ale after class.
By user136233 (Birmingham) on Oct 3rd 2025
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Impressive craft beer selection brings together students and locals.
By user594279 (Birmingham) on Sep 28th 2025
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Chilled evenings and a fab craft beer selection, near Birmingham Uni.
By user442042 (Birmingham) on Sep 24th 2025