Small Bar, Bristol – 53 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Small Bar — student bar photo

Small Bar -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 53 user ratings

31 King St, Bristol BS1 4DZ, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Small Bar, located at 31 King St, Bristol, is a popular choice among students at the University of Bristol for a laid-back night out. This venue has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on a welcoming atmosphere and a solid selection of drinks, particularly local beers from the South West. With a total of 30 reviews, Small Bar has garnered a strong reputation, particularly for its music and cleanliness, both rated highly by patrons. The overall vibe is described as friendly and chill, making it easy for students to unwind and connect with others. Whether you're looking to kick back with friends or meet new people, Small Bar offers a space that feels both intimate and lively at the same time.

The atmosphere at Small Bar is often highlighted as one of its strongest features. Many students appreciate the friendly crowd, which contributes to the inviting vibe of the venue. Reviewers frequently mention that it’s a great place to meet interesting people, with many noting that the energy in the room is uplifting. The venue may not be the largest, but it feels alive with a mini-event vibe every night. This sense of community is reinforced by the consistent praise for the staff, who are described as chill and efficient, ensuring that the experience is smooth from entry to exit.

Music is another significant draw for Small Bar, with students often remarking on the quality of the playlists. The selection leans towards popular student anthems, creating an environment where guests can dance and enjoy themselves without the risk of unexpected genre shifts. The music is consistently described as decent, helping to maintain a lively atmosphere throughout the night. This focus on good tunes ensures that patrons can enjoy a night of dancing and socializing, making it a go-to spot for those looking to let loose after a long week of studies.

When it comes to drinks, Small Bar features an impressive selection of 31 taps, showcasing some of the finest beers from local and global breweries. While the prices are noted as being on the higher side for a student venue, many agree that the quality justifies the cost. Reviewers appreciate that the drinks are fairly priced relative to the experience, making it a worthwhile outing even if it’s not the cheapest option available. The venue strikes a balance between affordability and quality, appealing to students who are willing to spend a little more for a memorable night out.

The queue and entry experience at Small Bar also receive positive feedback. Many students mention that the queue moves quickly, which is a significant advantage for those eager to get inside and start their night. The efficient entry process contributes to the overall enjoyment of the venue, allowing guests to avoid long waits that can often dampen the excitement of a night out. This efficiency, combined with the friendly atmosphere, sets the tone for a fun evening right from the start.

Students often share their memorable experiences at Small Bar, with many recounting nights filled with laughter and fun. The venue is described as a place where stories are made, and many leave with fond memories. The combination of good music, friendly faces, and a relaxed vibe creates an environment where students can truly enjoy their time. Whether it’s a chill night with friends or a more lively outing, Small Bar seems to cater well to various moods and preferences.

However, it’s essential to consider some of the potential drawbacks. While many enjoy the atmosphere, some reviews indicate that Small Bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. This might not be ideal for those who prefer a quieter setting. Additionally, while the cleanliness rating is high, the venue is not the fanciest, which may deter some students looking for a more upscale experience. The pricing, while justified by many, could be a concern for budget-conscious students. Lastly, the vibe may vary depending on the crowd each night, meaning that experiences can differ based on who is there.

In conclusion, Small Bar is a solid choice for students at the University of Bristol looking for a night out filled with good music, friendly faces, and quality drinks. Its inviting atmosphere and efficient service make it a popular pick for those wanting to unwind after a busy week. While it may not be the cheapest option, many agree that the experience is worth the price, making it a venue to consider for your next night out in Bristol.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Friendly and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for meeting new people.
  • High-quality music playlists, featuring popular student anthems.
  • Quick-moving queues for efficient entry.
  • Diverse selection of local and global beers on tap.
  • Consistent positive experiences shared by students, with many leaving with great memories.
  • Chill vibe that allows for both relaxing and dancing.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded, especially on weekends, which may not suit everyone.
  • Not the fanciest venue, which might be a turn-off for some.
  • Pricing is on the higher side for a student venue.
  • Atmosphere can vary depending on the crowd each night.
  • Not the largest space, which may feel cramped when busy.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill night out with good music and a friendly crowd.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • Prices are reasonable for quality drinks, but budget accordingly.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere with a mix of chill and energetic vibes.
  • The music style primarily features student-friendly anthems.

❓ Common Questions

What is Small Bar like?

Small Bar is a chill venue known for its friendly atmosphere, quality music, and a solid selection of drinks.

How long is the queue?

The queue generally moves quickly, allowing for an efficient entry experience.

Is it good value?

While prices are on the higher side, many students feel the experience justifies the cost.

What music does Small Bar play?

The music features popular student anthems, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

Can I meet new people there?

Yes, many students report that the friendly vibe makes it easy to connect with others.

Small Bar — student bar photo
Reviews
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Keeping everything tidy and organized is a real strength here, with tables cleared regularly and no mess to worry about. It makes for a more enjoyable night out when you don’t have to think about cleanliness. 🍻
By user702414 (Bristol) on Jul 22nd 2026
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Small bar holds up well with its laid-back vibe even after multiple visits; the staff always seem to remember my order and the music keeps the atmosphere lively without being overpowering.
By user690034 (Bristol) on Jul 15th 2026
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Finding a spot like Small Bar is a relief when you just want to grab a drink and unwind after lectures. the atmosphere is chill, making it perfect for catching up with mates without feeling pressured to hurry up and leave.
By user918931 (Bristol) on Jul 8th 2026
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Small Bar offers a unique blend of local drinks that totally hits the spot! It's so nice to enjoy a conversation without the usual struggle of shouting over blaring music.
By user789250 (Bristol) on Jun 30th 2026
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Nice sweet spot been here a couple times
By user378142 (Bristol) on Jun 25th 2026
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I was pleasantly surprised by how chill the vibe is at this place. The staff were super accommodating and really set a relaxed tone for the night. It's so refreshing to find somewhere enjoyable that isn't pretentious or overly loud.
By user509033 (Bristol) on Jun 24th 2026
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This place has such a laid-back atmosphere! It feels welcoming instead of overwhelming, making it super easy to settle in and enjoy the night.
By user243253 (Bristol) on Jun 17th 2026
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Good energy fills the air on weekends, with a crowd that’s a mix of locals and students, making it feel lively yet relaxed, perfect for unwinding.
By user302735 (Bristol) on Jun 11th 2026
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The music here always hits just right, creating a fun vibe that keeps me coming back with friends all the time.
By user295350 (Bristol) on Jun 4th 2026
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Hanging out at small bar is chill, perfect for a relaxed night with mates.
By user677309 (Bristol) on May 24th 2026
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I've visited this place several times and it's consistently impressive. The solid atmosphere and attentive staff make it a dependable choice for a night out.
By user269088 (Bristol) on May 19th 2026
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Small Bar delivered a delightful surprise with its vibrant music selection that uplifts the energy without being overbearing. 😊 Though the space can get a bit snug when crowded, it's still a solid spot to grab a drink and soak in the lively atmosphere. Just be prepared to navigate through a bustling crowd.
By user598562 (Bristol) on May 12th 2026
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The warm welcome from the staff at The Green Room was a pleasant start to the evening, creating a friendly atmosphere right away.
By user940032 (Bristol) on May 5th 2026
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Often felt like a conversation hub more than a typical bar, where you'd randomly chat with strangers who turned into friends by the end of the night. really appreciated the thoughtful mix of people and easygoing energy that makes you forget the time entirely.
By user661902 (Bristol) on Apr 23rd 2026
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The local beers here are definitely worth checking out, and they're affordably priced, which is a bonus. Even when it gets crowded, the vibe stays chill, and I love that I can just be myself without any pressure. 🍺
By user476468 (Bristol) on Apr 18th 2026
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Heard from a mate that small bar is where you go if you're over long waits and picky crowds. no one hassles you, just good chats and local beers.
By user164026 (Bristol) on Apr 5th 2026
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The relaxed vibe at Small Bar makes it a great spot for a hassle-free night out. Despite the busy crowd, the staff managed to remember my order, adding a personal touch to the experience.
By user603406 (Bristol) on Apr 3rd 2026
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Grabbing a drink here is a breeze, even during the busy hours. The staff are not only quick but also super friendly, making the place feel welcoming and homey. Whether you're stopping by for one drink or an evening out, you're sure to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
By user203209 (Bristol) on Mar 30th 2026
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Small Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere that defies initial expectations of it being stuffy. The experience was elevated by the selection of local beers, making for an enjoyable night.
By user153243 (Bristol) on Mar 24th 2026
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Wasn't expecting to find such a chill vibe when i first walked in, mostly because of how busy King St usually is. the place felt warm and inviting despite the crowd, which was a nice surprise.
By user897739 (Bristol) on Mar 19th 2026
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Overheard some cracking conversations at the bar, and it added just the right buzz to the room. plus, there’s something awesome about connecting over local brews; it’s like a little snippet of Bristol in a glass 🎵
By user270446 (Bristol) on Mar 14th 2026
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Music kicks up a notch and everyone's just vibing, like you can feel the energy shift. it's the best when the bar's at that sweet spot, filled but not packed. you end up chatting with people you didn't know half an hour ago.
By user381937 (Bristol) on Mar 9th 2026
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At Small Bar, the staff's friendliness makes you feel instantly comfortable. A night out here feels like you're revisiting a familiar place, thanks to the easygoing chats and relaxed atmosphere. It's a spot where everything just feels right.
By user607834 (Bristol) on Mar 8th 2026
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This place is perfect for a chill evening with friends. Located right on King Street, getting there is a breeze, especially if you bike. The atmosphere is so relaxed that you'll want to hang out and chat all night. Plus, the local beers are a surprising delight, making it all the more enjoyable.
By user842457 (Bristol) on Mar 6th 2026
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Small Bar is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in exploring Bristol's vibrant local beer scene. I love how the staff are always ready with recommendations, making every visit an opportunity to try something new and exciting. The atmosphere is welcoming and you genuinely feel like you're becoming part of a special community.
By user602932 (Bristol) on Mar 5th 2026
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This place feels like hanging out with friends, not just visiting any old bar. It's a nice change from the sometimes impersonal vibe you get in Bristol.
By user911053 (Bristol) on Mar 4th 2026
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Got a seat right at the bar and didn't have to shout to order, which was nice in a busy place. probably the friendliest crowd around, with people chatting about everything and anything over local pints.
By user435193 (Bristol) on Feb 6th 2026
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Stopping by small bar has become a friday ritual for me and my flatmates. it's perfect for unwinding after a hectic week of lectures and labs without needing to plan anything complicated.
By user693091 (Bristol) on Jan 30th 2026
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This place is an excellent choice for when you're in the mood to unwind and have a good time. It's lively, especially after university hours, so if you're looking to let loose, you'll fit right in. While it might not be the ideal spot for deep conversations, the vibrant atmosphere makes up for it. Perfect if you're up for a fun night rather than a chatty one!
By user647901 (Bristol) on Jan 24th 2026
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This place is great for those times you want something laid-back and authentic. It serves up some excellent regional beers without any of the fuss. Ideal if you're looking to escape the usual busy spots.
By user833863 (Bristol) on Jan 19th 2026
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Felt like everyone at small bar was already a friend, which was pretty unexpected but nice.
By user488874 (Bristol) on Jan 13th 2026
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Heard a lot about their local beers, so i expected solid choices but was pleasantly surprised by how chilled out the atmosphere was. didn't feel like your typical hectic student bar.
By user553610 (Bristol) on Jan 9th 2026
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Staff here genuinely cares and remembers regular faces. it's a buzz chatting with friends over a local pint, and before you know it, you've spent the night laughing more than you planned.
By user858977 (Bristol) on Jan 3rd 2026
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Love stopping by on a wednesday after early training sessions. it's like the chill midweek hangout spot where I can catch up with mates without feeling like I should be somewhere else 🌙
By user219197 (Bristol) on Dec 30th 2025
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Never felt more relaxed than when I first walked through the door.
By user152998 (Bristol) on Dec 24th 2025
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Small Bar has such a welcoming atmosphere! I love how easy it is to strike up a conversation without any loud distractions. It's the kind of place where you can truly relax, and the local beer selection just enhances the laid-back vibe. 🍺
By user702559 (Bristol) on Dec 19th 2025
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The Green Room often has a welcoming vibe, almost like entering a friend's living room when everyone's in high spirits. I ended up chatting with a couple who were fellow architecture students, which was a pleasant surprise. It seems like this place naturally brings people together for good conversation and chilled vibes. 😊
By user880107 (Bristol) on Dec 13th 2025
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Small Bar is one of my go-to spots because the atmosphere is always relaxed and welcoming. It's just a great place to hang out with friends. They often have new local beers, which adds a nice variety to each visit.
By user410311 (Bristol) on Dec 6th 2025
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Music's a bit too loud for my liking, which makes having a proper chat tricky. nothing else to complain about though, as they've got a great selection of local drinks and the crowd is always chill. just wish my ears weren’t ringing by the end of the night.
By user157280 (Bristol) on Dec 1st 2025
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Small Bar is a go-to spot for me whenever I want to wind down after a workout. Their drink selection is fantastic and the atmosphere is super inviting. It's definitely somewhere I'd want to hang out for a laid-back evening with friends.
By user987737 (Bristol) on Nov 25th 2025
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Would definitely head back to Small Bar for more nights with mates. the vibe is just so relaxed and unpretentious, plus their local beer selection is always on point. 🍻 love spots that don’t feel forced, you know?
By user554026 (Bristol) on Nov 18th 2025
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Didn't expect the place to be so packed early in the night. everyone seemed to be in a good mood, which made the atmosphere really lively and welcoming.
By user685054 (Bristol) on Nov 10th 2025
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This place has such a chill vibe. Everyone seems to be having a good time, and the staff are cool, letting you enjoy without feeling rushed. It's just what I needed after a hectic week.
By user436523 (Bristol) on Nov 2nd 2025
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Small Bar initially seems like just another place, but hang out for a while, and its charm becomes clear. Everyone settles into conversation so naturally, as if they've been friends forever. After sampling a couple of local brews, I felt like a regular and couldn't wait to come back for more. 🍻
By user911929 (Bristol) on Oct 27th 2025
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Didn't expect it to be so chill considering how packed it was. everyone was just there to enjoy themselves and that made it feel so relaxing. the staff were chatty in a way that made you feel part of some extended Bristol clan.
By user371505 (Bristol) on Oct 24th 2025
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Lighting could use some help, a bit too dim to fully appreciate who's around or even read the menu properly. feels like an attempt at moodiness but ends up making everything just a bit too secretive for a casual night out.
By user905677 (Bristol) on Oct 20th 2025
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If you're ready to groove the night away, Small Bar is the spot! The place has a laid-back vibe that's just perfect for chatting with friends, and when you're not on the dance floor, it’s great for long conversations. Try the local beers if that's your thing—they're pretty good! 🍻
By user582676 (Bristol) on Oct 17th 2025
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Energy inside lights up at peak hours, everyone just seems to be in their element. feels like everyone's on the same wavelength here.
By user488643 (Bristol) on Oct 13th 2025
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This place exudes a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for unwinding after a busy day at school. The local beers stand out, adding a special touch that sets it apart from other spots. I'll definitely be returning for the chill vibes and unique brews.
By user533182 (Bristol) on Oct 9th 2025
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At small bar, the mix of local beers and friendly chat with the bartenders makes the experience memorable. it’s just the right vibe for us students 🍻
By user276839 (Bristol) on Oct 5th 2025
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Always worth popping in when i need a change from the usual scene. they've got a solid selection of local brews that hit the spot without any fuss.
By user737944 (Bristol) on Sep 29th 2025
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Staff here actually seem to enjoy what they're doing, which really shows in how comfortable the place feels compared to other spots in bristol. getting a drink is hassle free and you never feel rushed, which makes a night out genuinely relaxing.
By user787487 (Bristol) on Sep 24th 2025
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Sat at the bar and the bartender recommended a local beer that tasted refreshing and unique.
By user131973 (Bristol) on Sep 16th 2025
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By user486910 (Bristol) on May 1st 2024