The Indie Lounge, Birmingham โ€“ 47 Verified Student Reviews ๐Ÿป

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

The Indie Lounge -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 47 user ratings

634 Bristol Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6BQ, United Kingdom

๐Ÿ’ฌ What Students Say

The Indie Lounge, located on Bristol Road in Selly Oak, is an independent bar that has quickly become a go-to spot for students from the nearby University of Birmingham. As the first of its kind in the area, it offers a unique and lively atmosphere that sets it apart from other venues. This bar is particularly popular among students who appreciate a place that combines affordable drinks with a vibrant social scene. The Indie Lounge features live DJs and acts that span various genres, contributing to an energetic vibe that students enjoy. While it can occasionally be quieter, many reviews highlight that when the bar is busy, the atmosphere is electric, making it a great location for a night out with friends.

One of the standout features of The Indie Lounge is its commitment to providing affordable pricing for students. Many patrons note that the drink prices are reasonable, which is a significant draw for university students often on a budget. The bar aims to create an inclusive environment where students can gather, unwind, and enjoy good music without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes it a popular choice for those looking to have a good time without spending too much.

The atmosphere at The Indie Lounge is often described as friendly and welcoming. Students appreciate the relaxed vibe, which makes it an ideal place to hang out after a long week of studies. The crowd is typically a mix of friendly faces, contributing to an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Many reviews indicate that the energy can vary, with some nights being more vibrant than others. However, when the bar is busy, it tends to create a fun and engaging environment where everyone is there to have a good time.

In terms of when to visit, The Indie Lounge is open 24 hours on Mondays, making it a convenient option for those looking to start their week with a laid-back night out. On other weekdays, it opens in the evening, which is when students typically head out. Reviews suggest that students often arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on busier nights. While the queue can sometimes be an issue, many agree that the experience is worth it, especially when the atmosphere is lively and the music is on point.

The Indie Lounge stands out not just for its music and drinks but also for its commitment to hosting a variety of live acts and events. Collaborating with local promoters and the university, the bar brings in diverse musical acts that cater to different tastes, ensuring that thereโ€™s always something new and exciting happening. This variety adds to the overall appeal of the venue, making it a place where students can experience different genres and enjoy a dynamic night out.

However, itโ€™s important to note that The Indie Lounge is not without its downsides. Some students mention that the vibe can be hit or miss, with quieter nights sometimes lacking the energy that makes for a memorable experience. Additionally, while drink prices are generally considered reasonable, a few reviews indicate that it may not be the cheapest option available in the area. This can be a consideration for students who are particularly budget-conscious. Furthermore, the bar's popularity can lead to longer queues during peak times, which might be a drawback for those who prefer a more relaxed entry.

Overall, The Indie Lounge is a vibrant independent bar that caters well to the student crowd. It offers a lively atmosphere, affordable drink options, and a diverse range of music, making it an excellent choice for students looking to enjoy a night out. Whether you're looking to unwind with friends or dance the night away, this bar has something to offer.

In summary, The Indie Lounge is best suited for students who enjoy a lively, music-filled atmosphere and are looking for a place where they can socialize without spending too much. Itโ€™s a great spot for those who appreciate live music and a friendly crowd, making it a must-visit for students at the University of Birmingham and beyond.
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โœ… What Students Love

  • Affordable drink prices, appealing to budget-conscious students.
  • Lively atmosphere with live DJs and diverse music genres.
  • Friendly and welcoming crowd, creating a fun social environment.
  • Convenient opening hours, especially on Mondays.
  • Regular events and collaborations with local promoters and the university.

โš ๏ธ Things to Note

  • Can be quiet on certain nights, leading to a hit-or-miss vibe.
  • Queues can be long during peak times, which may deter some students.
  • Not the cheapest spot in the area, potentially limiting for some budgets.
  • Occasional inconsistency in the energy level of the crowd.

๐ŸŽฏ Best For

Students looking for an affordable and lively night out with friends.

๐Ÿ’ก Things to Know

  • Arrive early on busy nights to avoid long queues.
  • Check the official website for information on upcoming live acts and events.
  • The bar is open 24 hours on Mondays, making it a great start to the week.
  • Expect a mix of friendly students from various backgrounds, enhancing social interactions.

โ“ Common Questions

What is The Indie Lounge like?

The Indie Lounge is an independent bar known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and diverse live music.

Is it good value?

The Indie Lounge offers reasonably priced drinks, making it a good value for students, though it's not the cheapest option.

When do students go to The Indie Lounge?

Students typically visit in the evenings on weekdays, especially on Mondays and Tuesdays.

What type of music is played?

The Indie Lounge features a variety of live music acts and DJs, covering multiple genres to suit different tastes.

Is there a queue on busy nights?

Yes, the queue can get long during peak times, so it's advisable to arrive early.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
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Staff here really know how to keep the energy flowing while making sure everyone feels at home.
By user571826 on Apr 25th 2026
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Finding a spot at the indie lounge feels like bumping into an old mate unexpectedly , always a good catch-up happening. the music sets a solid background without overpowering conversations
By user139784 on Apr 19th 2026
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Music selection was on point, no random shifts, just solid beats throughout ๐ŸŽต. bartenders kept things moving and i didnโ€™t feel like i was missing out waiting for a drink.
By user555011 on Apr 13th 2026
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Quite a few nights it felt like they could use more staff behind the bar. waiting ages for a drink kind of kills the vibe when you're trying to have a night out with mates. drinks are good once you get them, but a bit more speed would be nice.
By user392636 on Apr 11th 2026
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People watching here is kind of fascinating; you've got everyone from laid-back students just chilling ๐Ÿ• to people ready to hit the dance floor. there's this unspoken understanding that no one's taking themselves too seriously, which makes for a pretty relaxed vibe.
By user452959 on Apr 10th 2026
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Walking into the indie lounge feels like entering a burst of energy. the welcoming atmosphere and good mix of people make it easy to just relax and be part of everything happening around you.
By user816549 on Apr 5th 2026
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Never seen a friendlier staff, honestly. they've got this welcoming vibe that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit. always buzzing around and keeping things lively, which totally adds to the overall experience.
By user151712 on Apr 4th 2026
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Dance floor gets pretty packed, and one time some bloke accidentally knocked my drink over. he bought me another one with a sheepish grin and things just carried on with the music ๐ŸŽถ. you know, not every nightโ€™s perfect, but itโ€™s the unpredictability that makes it fun.
By user672146 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Noticed the lighting's lower in the back and it makes for a nice little escape when you need a breather from all the dancing upfront. feels calmer back there somehow
By user299277 on Mar 31st 2026
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Might pop back to the indie lounge when i'm in the mood for something different, as the place has its charm when everything clicks. the music's usually a decent mix which can really pump some energy into the night, but you've got to strategise your timing to avoid feeling like you're queuing for a theme park ride
By user131616 on Mar 27th 2026
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Definitely planning on heading back to the indie lounge. its chilled vibe and great tunes made it one of those places you just lose track of time in. it's the kind of spot where you leave feeling lighter and a bit more energized for uni the next day.
By user967048 on Mar 24th 2026
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Stumbled into The Indie Lounge one evening and didn't expect it to be such a refreshing change from the usual bars around. the lively atmosphere had everyone up and dancing, which was a fantastic surprise for a mid-week night. itโ€™s quickly become my preferred spot for when I need a break from the usual routine.
By user978156 on Mar 19th 2026
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Music was banging and the crowd was just right, felt like everyone was there to let loose. after chatting with a bunch of students from uni, it definitely raised the energy of the night, making it one to remember.
By user709568 on Mar 16th 2026
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Always buzzing with a good mix of students and locals at the Indie Lounge. what really sticks with me is the eclectic music selection, which never seems to repeat and keeps you on your toes ๐Ÿ˜…. bartenders somehow remember faces even on the busiest nights which is a nice touch amidst the usual chaos of student bars.
By user726122 on Mar 11th 2026
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Live music and laid-back vibes make it a brilliant place to hang out. everyone seems genuinely happy to be there and it feels like a student community hub. you'd want to bring mates who appreciate a good atmosphere
By user710487 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Walking into The Indie Lounge felt like stepping into a familiar gathering of strangers. the place buzzed with an electric, laid-back energy that put me instantly at ease, and I couldn't help but feel like I belonged. itโ€™s the kind of spot where you seem to slip right into the flow of things and forget the pressures from uni for a bit.
By user611725 on Feb 12th 2026
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Sat there with my friends, and we realized weโ€™d been chatting for hours without even noticing. something about the dim lighting and relaxed vibe just draws you in and makes you forget about everything else.
By user724969 on Feb 9th 2026
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Inside can feel quite packed, but that's what makes it interesting, honestly. it's like everyone wants to chat and just have fun, so you're never really standing awkwardly. ended up making new friends as the night went on, which was a nice surprise.
By user312627 on Feb 1st 2026
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Music's just loud enough to feel but not drown out conversation, and the kind of mix that everyone seems to know. it's like a mini festival inside, with people genuinely enjoying themselves and staff that seem to be having as much fun as the crowd. nothing pretentious, just a really good vibe that pulls you in and keeps you there.
By user617299 on Jan 26th 2026
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Lighting sets the mood perfectly without being overbearing, and you can actually talk to your mates without yelling. itโ€™s like they've found the right balance between lively and relaxed. honestly, it's refreshing compared to other places where you either can't see or can't hear.
By user182735 on Jan 21st 2026
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Expected something pretty standard but was pleasantly surprised by the Indie Lounge. itโ€™s got this energetic buzz that makes you wanna stay longer than you planned. definitely stands out from the usual chain places around the area.
By user136279 on Jan 18th 2026
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Didn't expect much from the indie lounge, but it turned into our regular spot. told my mate itโ€™s where everyone ends up after whatever else, probably because it's got a laid-back vibe thatโ€™s hard to find elsewhere in selly oak. funny how a place like this can quickly feel like the centre of student life.
By user242302 on Jan 14th 2026
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Gets a bit too cramped when it's busy, especially around the bar area, but i guess that's part of the charm and everyone seems to manage fine.
By user690891 on Jan 10th 2026
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Notice how the staff effortlessly remember your name by the second visit.
By user355912 on Jan 7th 2026
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Settling into the indie lounge felt like finding a home base. initially, the noise seemed overwhelming, but after a few visits, it became a familiar soundtrack to nights out. each time i went, it felt like i was just diving deeper into the quirky regulars and laid-back atmosphere that makes it feel special.
By user825256 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Walked into indie lounge last night and couldn't believe how packed it was. everyone seemed in such high spirits, like a friend said, it really is the place to be if you're around selly oak. it's just one of those spots where the energy is contagious.
By user840653 on Dec 30th 2025
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Felt instantly at ease when i walked into the indie lounge , the vibe was like a warm hug after a day of chaos. tunes were spot-on. ๐Ÿ˜Œ
By user331937 on Dec 24th 2025
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Walking into Indie Lounge is like being swept into a whirlwind of music and laughter. it's packed with people, but you can tell everyoneโ€™s just there for a good time. pretty easy on the wallet too, so you don't have to think twice about coming back next weekend.
By user704076 on Dec 20th 2025
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Kind of noisy and lighting's too dim, making it hard to chat without shouting. wouldn't mind if they turned it down a notch so everyone could actually hear each other.
By user197196 on Dec 16th 2025
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Walking in, you can't help but feel the buzz in the air and that instant energy lift. it's the sort of spot where you immediately reckon itโ€™ll be an epic night out.
By user410410 on Dec 11th 2025
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Met a bunch of people from my course here and it was mad chill without being overwhelming. music wasn't too loud either, so you could actually have a proper chat while sipping on drinks. easy to see why it's become the student hangout in this area.
By user796969 on Dec 4th 2025
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Heard some mixed things but ended up having a really fun night there with a good crowd.
By user280773 on Dec 1st 2025
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Midweek visits to the indie lounge are just the right kind of mid-training motivation.
By user784228 on Nov 26th 2025
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Wandered into the indie lounge not expecting much, but was surprised by how relaxed it felt midweek. i was thinking it'd be packed, but it was actually just the right amount of busy without feeling cramped. students seem to really gel here and it's easy to strike up a conversation ๐Ÿ˜Š
By user888123 on Nov 22nd 2025
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Steps from campus, the Indie Lounge has a vibe that makes you feel like you're right where you should be. it's buzzing with uni students and has that lively energy perfect for unwinding after lectures. honestly, it's a place you'd regret not checking out if you're around birmingham.
By user638530 on Nov 16th 2025
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Met some of the nicest bartenders around, who actually make you feel welcome instead of just serving drinks. they're pretty knowledgeable too, so if you're not sure what to order, just ask and they'll steer you right.
By user331427 on Nov 9th 2025
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Walking into the Indie Lounge, i was pretty surprised by how relaxed everyone seemed despite the lively beats ๐ŸŽถ. honestly thought itโ€™d be more intense, but nope , just lots of students enjoying their night and having a good laugh together.
By user462021 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Quickly grew on me as a regular hangout where everyone seems to be having a laugh and the staff remember your name.
By user747398 on Oct 27th 2025
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Didn't think much of it before going in, but indie lounge turned out to be quite a surprise ๐Ÿ˜ฎ. way more energetic than i imagined, with music that made you wanna move and a crowd full of uni folks. ambiance definitely exceeded what i had in mind ๐ŸŒŸ.
By user736911 on Oct 24th 2025
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Felt a bit overwhelmed in my first week in selly but this place helped me settle right in. its energy makes everyone feel welcome
By user451115 on Oct 21st 2025
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Noticed a peculiar sign above the bar about recycling, and it surprisingly made me feel a bit more at home.
By user612319 on Oct 17th 2025
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Found a proper crowd there on friday, and the energy in the place just clicked. bartenders kept things flowing smoothly, which really made the whole night work without any hassle.
By user806561 on Oct 14th 2025
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Never seen it empty, always buzzing with students enjoying themselves. staff are pretty chill but not overly in-your-face, which I like. always feels like a bit of an escape from the usual Selly Oak scene.
By user140921 on Oct 10th 2025
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At peak hours, the energy at indie lounge is unmatched. everyoneโ€™s just vibing, music pumping, and it feels like the whole room's singing along. even bumped into a couple of classmates, which was a nice surprise.
By user866179 on Oct 5th 2025
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Wandered into The Indie Lounge not expecting much, but was pleasantly surprised by how different it felt compared to other places in Selly Oak. ended up enjoying a proper mix of tunes that kept the energy up, and found myself staying way longer than planned. ๐Ÿ˜Š
By user195471 on Sep 30th 2025
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Always enjoy the atmosphere but it's often packed, which can make it a bit of a pain to find a spot to sit and chill with mates without squeezing through crowds.
By user309257 on Sep 25th 2025
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Music's more indie here compared to most selly pubs, and you can actually have conversations.
By user734924 on Sep 18th 2025
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Usually, bars around Selly Oak are pretty bland, but Indie Lounge actually has a decent vibe. the atmosphere is lively and the drinks are affordable enough that you don't have to stress too much about your budget. staff seemed to be more chilled out compared to other places where they rush you, so itโ€™s a lot more laid back here.
By user592656 on Sep 16th 2025
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Music was spot on for dancing and the crowd was full of energy. definitely a place that knows how to get everyone moving without feeling cramped or overwhelmed.
By user354362 on Sep 14th 2025
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Music here is loads better than most other places,proper mix of indie and alternative that you don't find just anywhere. found the drinks reasonably priced too, so no complaints there, definitely heading back soon.
By user370664 on Sep 12th 2025
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Expected just another generic student bar but the indie lounge really surprised me with its laid-back vibe and how effortlessly it creates a fun night. with a mix of locals and uni students, it feels like a homey place where everyone's just there to enjoy the evening.
By user576655 on May 8th 2024