The Plough Harborne, Birmingham – 47 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

The Plough Harborne -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 47 user ratings

Sign in to leave a review

21 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NT, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 8:15 AM – 11:00 PM, Tuesday: 8:15 AM – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 8:15 AM – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 8:15 AM – 11:00 PM, Friday: 8:15 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

The Plough Harborne is a charming pub located in the heart of Harborne, just a stone's throw from the University of Birmingham. This venue offers a unique blend of a cozy, retro ambiance with a commitment to serving excellent coffee and a variety of traditional, home-cooked pub dishes that come with a creative twist. For students looking for a vibrant night out, The Plough is highly rated for its lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long week of lectures. With a strong focus on creating a welcoming environment, it attracts a diverse crowd, ensuring that there's always someone new to meet and connect with.

The atmosphere at The Plough is frequently described as lively and friendly, with students often mentioning how the energy in the room adds to the overall experience. Whether it's a Friday night or a quieter weekday, the vibe remains engaging, making it a go-to spot for both casual hangouts and celebratory nights out. The music played here is another highlight, with DJs spinning a mix of the latest hits that keep the dance floor alive without overwhelming conversations. Students appreciate the balance between enjoying the music and having the space to chat with friends, which contributes to the pub's positive reputation.

In terms of drinks and pricing, The Plough is noted for its student-friendly prices. Reviewers frequently comment on the wide selection of beverages available, from craft beers to creative cocktails, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. While it may not be the absolute cheapest option in town, many students feel that the quality of the drinks and the overall experience justify the cost. The friendly staff also receive praise for their service, adding to the welcoming atmosphere that makes patrons feel at home.

One aspect that students particularly appreciate is the quick queue experience. Many reviews highlight how the entry process is efficient, with lines moving quickly, allowing guests to get inside and enjoy their night without unnecessary delays. This efficiency contributes to a stress-free entry experience, which is a significant plus for students eager to start their evenings. Additionally, the cleanliness of the venue, including the restrooms, is often mentioned positively, which is a refreshing change compared to some other nightlife spots.

While The Plough Harborne has many strengths, it’s also important to consider some of the caveats mentioned by students. Some reviews indicate that the atmosphere can vary from night to night, with certain evenings feeling more vibrant than others. This inconsistency might be a downside for those looking for a guaranteed party vibe every time they visit. Additionally, while the venue is generally safe and comfortable, it can get quite packed, especially on weekends, which may not be ideal for everyone. Some students have noted that the crowd can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly during peak hours.

Despite these minor drawbacks, The Plough remains a popular choice among students, with many returning time and again for its inviting atmosphere and friendly crowd. It's a place where students can relax, meet new people, and enjoy a night out without the pressure of a high-energy club scene. The venue suits those who appreciate a laid-back yet lively environment, making it ideal for both casual meet-ups and more festive occasions.

In summary, The Plough Harborne stands out as a highly rated venue for students looking for a great night out. With its cozy atmosphere, diverse drink options, and lively music, it offers a well-rounded experience that caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you're winding down after a week of classes or celebrating a special occasion, The Plough provides a welcoming space where memorable nights can unfold. It’s definitely worth a visit for any student at the University of Birmingham looking to explore the local nightlife scene.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere, perfect for socializing.
  • Wide selection of drinks at student-friendly prices.
  • Quick entry process with minimal queue times.
  • Clean facilities, including restrooms.
  • Engaging music that suits a variety of tastes.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Atmosphere can vary; some nights are quieter than others.
  • Can get crowded, especially on weekends.
  • Not the cheapest option, though many feel it's worth it.
  • Some may find the energy overwhelming during peak hours.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed yet vibrant pub atmosphere to enjoy a night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Arriving early can help avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • Check the music schedule for themed nights or special events.
  • Be prepared for a lively crowd, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Plough Harborne like?

It's a cozy pub with a lively atmosphere, perfect for socializing and enjoying good music.

How long is the queue?

The queue typically moves quickly, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

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

What music does The Plough play?

The music ranges from the latest hits to various genres, keeping the vibe lively.

What is the crowd like?

The crowd is diverse and friendly, making it easy to connect with new people.

Reviews
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Drinks were cheap and the music was decent enough. it stayed open late which was great for keeping the night going. the crowd was lively and the vibe on the dancefloor was good. toilets could use a bit more attention but overall it was a fun night out.
By user417608 on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere on the dancefloor can really lift the night, especially when the DJ is on point. drink prices are reasonable with good deals that help keep the night affordable. it stays open late enough to make the most out of a fun evening with friends.
By user865414 on Apr 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music was great and the crowd was lively. drinks were reasonably priced too . no long wait to get in, which is always a plus.
By user649969 on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Queue moved quickly and the drinks were fairly priced. the music was good with a nice vibe, enough to dance without being overpowering. the crowd felt friendly and the atmosphere was lively. toilets were clean which was a bonus for a night out.
By user985274 on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The vibe at The Plough is just right, especially when the DJ spins some of the latest bangers. Drinks prices are student-friendly, and I didn’t have to wait long to get through the door, which made the whole night more enjoyable.
By user122126 on Mar 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Got there and found loads of drink choices, plus the staff were really friendly. it's a nice change from some places that can feel a bit off.
By user824775 on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Been a few times and it’s a good spot to meet up with mates. the atmosphere varies a lot though, some nights hit different 😅
By user271572 on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Loads of drink choices and everyone was really friendly, made it easy to chat with new people.
By user583335 on Mar 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always a mix of people which makes it fun. never had a boring night there
By user481326 on Mar 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It's a local place with a chill atmosphere, nothing too fancy but it does the job
By user659945 on Mar 8th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
You can just relax and have fun, no stress at all.
By user175144 on Mar 7th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Queue wasn’t bad at all, totally worth it once inside.
By user277912 on Mar 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Ended the week on a high note. left feeling like it was money well spent.
By user783340 on Mar 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Looking back, the music was spot on and everyone was really into it. it made the nights way more enjoyable.
By user736179 on Mar 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Had my doubts at first, but it grew on me. by the end of the term, it felt like a must-visit spot.
By user458039 on Feb 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Went out and ended up having one of those nights that just sticks with you. not sure if it's the place or the people, but it hits different.
By user583738 on Feb 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere's lively. there's always a reason to get up and move or have a laugh with mates.
By user827900 on Feb 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Exactly what you want for a night out – fun, easy and affordable.
By user179273 on Jan 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Perfect spot for a friday night to just relax. no need to stress about anything while you're there
By user374129 on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The energy in the room was unreal — loved it.
By user108303 on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Energy's always high and it’s never empty. feels lively every time you go in.
By user341520 on Jan 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Safe and comfy even when it gets packed
By user674203 on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Each visit is always a bit of a standout. never felt let down by the atmosphere.
By user543480 on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere is something else. each night feels like an experience you won’t forget.
By user857275 on Jan 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Vibe was top tier — fun from start to finish.
By user544256 on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Place has a chill and friendly feel, you can just hang out without feeling overwhelmed. that mix is nice to see.
By user231611 on Dec 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It's all about the atmosphere. you can just enjoy yourself without any hassle.
By user665815 on Dec 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Been a few times and it feels lively most nights, really safe too 😌
By user120460 on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Met loads of cool people and the music was pretty sick. had a good time hanging out there.
By user688581 on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Everything just clicked, had a proper night.
By user508246 on Dec 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Had a chill atmosphere that was perfect for unwinding after lectures. by the end of the term, it felt like a second home.
By user114707 on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the cheapest place but the crowd's really friendly so it's worth it. wouldn't want to go anywhere else for a night out.
By user372105 on Nov 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always a good atmosphere at the plough harborne, makes nights out way more enjoyable. that's what keeps me coming back.
By user265082 on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The music was solid and the crowd was cool, can't ask for much else. it was a fun spot to hang out with mates.
By user771427 on Nov 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Ended up staying way longer than i thought i would
By user668991 on Nov 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
End up meeting new people every time i'm here, it's cool
By user461779 on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Good value drinks and a lively crowd, perfect for students.
By user950568 on Nov 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Perfect spot for pre’s that turn into an actual night out
By user391608 on Oct 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always a varied crowd which makes it different every time. never felt out of place there
By user245082 on Oct 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always end up having a great laugh here with friends.
By user371525 on Oct 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music was really good and the staff were pretty chill. felt like everyone was just enjoying themselves without any pressure.
By user823545 on Oct 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Fun, affordable and safe, ideal for a student night out.
By user778933 on Oct 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music's always pumping and the crowd's perfect for students, gets the night going.
By user628365 on Oct 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Awesome place to dance and hang with mates. ended up losing track of time 😄
By user241006 on Oct 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Right by campus and always packed with cool people. that's what keeps me coming back to The Plough Harborne.
By user661586 on Sep 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the cheapest student night but drinks are priced right for what you get. wouldn’t want to pay less for this experience.
By user277633 on Sep 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music, atmosphere and people all made it a brilliant night.
By user492169 on Sep 11th 2025