The Swan & Three Cygnets, Durham – 43 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Swan & Three Cygnets -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 43 user ratings

Elvet Bridge, Durham, DH1 3AF

🕐 Opening Hours

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

💬 What Students Say

The Swan & Three Cygnets is a historic pub located in the heart of Durham, making it a popular spot among students from the University of Durham. Known for its charming ambiance and rich heritage, this venue is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a vibrant hub where students gather to unwind and enjoy a night out. With an impressive overall rating, this pub is a go-to choice for those looking to experience a lively atmosphere, good music, and reasonably priced drinks. The establishment is a Samuel Smith Pub, which means you can expect a selection of competitively priced lagers, ales, and other beverages that won't break the bank. This aspect is frequently highlighted in student reviews, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious night owls.

The atmosphere at The Swan & Three Cygnets is often described as buzzing and energetic, especially as the night progresses. Many students note that the vibe is lively, with a good mix of people enjoying themselves and dancing. The crowd is generally friendly, and it's common for patrons to strike up conversations with others, adding to the overall sense of community. Reviewers frequently mention that the energy in the room feels electric, making it an ideal setting for those looking to socialize and have fun. Students appreciate that the atmosphere is not overly pretentious; it’s a place where everyone can let loose and enjoy a carefree night out.

When it comes to music, The Swan & Three Cygnets does not disappoint. The venue hosts a DJ who spins tunes that keep the dance floor packed and the energy high. Many students have commented on how the music is at a nice level, allowing for both dancing and conversation without feeling overwhelmed. This balance contributes to an enjoyable experience where guests can feel comfortable engaging with one another while still enjoying the lively beats. The music selection tends to cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

In terms of drinks and pricing, this pub is highly regarded for its affordability. Students often mention that the drink prices are reasonable, allowing them to enjoy a few rounds without worrying about their budgets. The selection includes a variety of lagers and ales, all served in a welcoming environment. While it may not be the cheapest venue in town, many feel it offers a good balance of value for the experience provided. The combination of affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere makes it an attractive option for students looking to enjoy a night out with friends.

One of the standout features of The Swan & Three Cygnets is its efficient queue and entry experience. Reviewers have noted that the queue moves quickly, and the staff are generally chill and accommodating. This smooth entry process enhances the overall experience, allowing students to get inside and start enjoying their night without unnecessary delays. The positive feedback regarding the queue suggests that the venue manages its crowd well, which is a significant plus for anyone eager to get to the fun part of the night without hassle.

Students who frequent The Swan & Three Cygnets often describe their nights there as memorable, with many noting that each visit feels like its own little party. The friendly crowd and the lively atmosphere create an environment where students can relax and enjoy themselves. However, it is worth mentioning that the vibe can vary depending on the crowd present on any given night. While many experiences are positive, some students have noted that it can be hit or miss depending on who is around. This variability is something to keep in mind, as it may affect the overall experience.

As for who this venue suits best, The Swan & Three Cygnets seems to be a perfect fit for students looking for a casual and lively night out. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a good mix of socializing, dancing, and affordable drinks. The pub has a warm and inviting atmosphere that appeals to students looking for a place to unwind after a long week of classes. Whether you’re coming with a group of friends or just looking to meet new people, this venue provides a comfortable setting to enjoy your night.

In terms of strengths, The Swan & Three Cygnets boasts a vibrant atmosphere, friendly crowd, affordable drinks, and efficient entry. These factors contribute to its reputation as a reliable spot for a night out. However, it’s important to consider some potential weaknesses as well. While the pub is generally clean and well-maintained, some students have noted that it may not be the most glamorous venue. Additionally, the crowd can be unpredictable, which might affect the overall vibe on certain nights.

In summary, The Swan & Three Cygnets stands out as a popular choice for students at the University of Durham. With its lively atmosphere, good music, and affordable drinks, it provides an enjoyable setting for a night out. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or simply relax with friends, this historic pub has something to offer everyone. Just remember to check the crowd and plan accordingly, as the experience can vary from night to night.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and energetic atmosphere perfect for socializing.
  • Affordable drinks that suit a student budget.
  • Efficient queue management for quick entry.
  • Friendly crowd that encourages mingling and conversation.
  • Good mix of music that keeps the dance floor lively.
  • Consistently positive experiences reported by students.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can be hit or miss depending on the crowd present.
  • Not the most glamorous venue, which may deter some.
  • Music volume can be overwhelming for some patrons.
  • The vibe may vary on quieter nights.
  • Can get busy as the night progresses, leading to a crowded atmosphere.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a casual and lively night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual; come as you are.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere, especially later in the evening.
  • Drinks are competitively priced, making it budget-friendly.
  • The venue can get busy, so arrive early to avoid long waits.
  • Music is varied, catering to different tastes throughout the night.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Swan & Three Cygnets like?

The Swan & Three Cygnets is a lively pub known for its buzzing atmosphere, affordable drinks, and friendly crowd, making it a favorite among students.

How long is the queue?

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

Is it good value?

Yes, students have noted that the drink prices are reasonable, offering good value for a night out.

What music does The Swan & Three Cygnets play?

The venue features a DJ who plays a mix of tunes that keep the dance floor lively and cater to various tastes.

What is the crowd like?

The crowd is generally friendly and laid-back, making it easy to socialize and enjoy the night.

infoImage credit: Alamy

Reviews
1 of 44
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The swan & three cygnets has a chill vibe and the music was pretty good. drinks were priced well, which is always a plus for a student night. didn’t have to wait long to get in, and the place felt clean throughout. would go back for sure.
By user422295 on Apr 4th 2026
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The swan & three cygnets had great drink deals and the music was on point. the vibe was chill and the toilets were surprisingly clean for a student night out.
By user335436 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Not the most lively place but it gets the job done. drink prices are decent and the music isn’t too bad. queues can be a bit long at times but once you're in, it’s alright for a night out.
By user695513 on Apr 1st 2026
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Good vibe and decent music, the drinks are reasonably priced too. not too long of a wait to get in which is nice. the place stays open late enough for a good time without stressing about getting home.
By user973193 on Mar 31st 2026
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Has a decent vibe for a night out. drinks are well-priced and the music keeps things lively. no major issues with queues or cleanliness, just a straightforward experience.
By user232622 on Mar 30th 2026
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The atmosphere here is always buzzing, with a killer DJ spinning tunes that keep the dance floor packed while the drink prices are so good you won't mind losing track of time.
By user942668 on Mar 26th 2026
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Not bad at all, people just enjoying themselves and dancing. feels like a good atmosphere.
By user920825 on Mar 23rd 2026
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Everything flows nicely and there's no weird interruptions. just a smooth experience all around
By user276109 on Mar 18th 2026
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Music was at a nice level and the atmosphere felt really chill. that's all you need for a good night out.
By user409050 on Mar 16th 2026
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Not the cheapest place but it's got a good balance of social and lively. wouldn't want it any other way, honestly.
By user966635 on Mar 11th 2026
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Started off pretty quiet but turned into a proper night out later on. guess it just gets busier as the night goes on
By user114486 on Mar 2nd 2026
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The place has a decent buzz and you usually run into some sound people but it can be a bit hit or miss depending on who’s around
By user877885 on Feb 12th 2026
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Music was decent and the crowd was chill. by the end of the night, it felt like a good hangout.
By user358751 on Feb 5th 2026
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Everyone's just enjoying themselves, it's a good atmosphere. not too crowded either which is nice.
By user984801 on Jan 30th 2026
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Place's got a good mix of people. every time I'm there, I end up chatting with someone new.
By user991841 on Jan 26th 2026
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Vibe was top tier — fun from start to finish.
By user134733 on Jan 21st 2026
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Vibe was top tier — fun from start to finish.
By user840298 on Jan 17th 2026
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Crowd's pretty lively and the atmosphere's nice, can't really ask for more in a night out
By user245834 on Jan 13th 2026
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The swan & three cygnets was key for making some wild memories with my mates. this place really brought us together.
By user658417 on Jan 10th 2026
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The atmosphere is really lively and you can just feel the energy all night, can’t wait to come back.
By user177707 on Jan 6th 2026
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Fun, affordable and safe, ideal for a student night out.
By user155102 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Place had a nice mix of friendly people. everyone was pretty relaxed and it felt warm, not awkward
By user574316 on Dec 29th 2025
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It's a reliable spot for a night out. you know you’ll have a good time every time you go.
By user764883 on Dec 24th 2025
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Stumbled in and everyone was just so friendly. would swing by again
By user145715 on Dec 20th 2025
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Met loads of friendly people who were all up for a good time, made it way easier to enjoy nights out.
By user664410 on Dec 16th 2025
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Each night at the swan & three cygnets feels like its own little party. that's what keeps me coming back.
By user389191 on Dec 11th 2025
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The energy in the room was unreal — loved it.
By user649350 on Dec 5th 2025
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Crowd was really positive. it made a big difference to the atmosphere.
By user544584 on Dec 1st 2025
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Just rolled in and had a good time without any stress. seemed like a chill night out.
By user823698 on Nov 27th 2025
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Crowd was really laid-back, everyone was just there to have a good time. no ego anywhere, which was refreshing.
By user751834 on Nov 22nd 2025
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Not the most glamorous spot but it gets people moving. good atmosphere and a lot of happy faces around
By user266044 on Nov 16th 2025
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Queue moves quick and the staff are chill. makes the whole entry thing way easier.
By user382549 on Nov 9th 2025
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One of the best places to go out with friends from uni.
By user266561 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Never fails to deliver – always such a good time.
By user893939 on Oct 28th 2025
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Music's the main draw here. can't help but dance the whole night.
By user531751 on Oct 24th 2025
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Been a few times and the crowd is always pretty varied. some nights it feels more friendly than others.
By user116005 on Oct 21st 2025
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Not the cheapest place but the crowd’s cool and drinks are alright. wouldn't want to go anywhere with more drama honestly
By user491295 on Oct 17th 2025
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One of the highlights of student life – great place to go.
By user713592 on Oct 14th 2025
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The location's always buzzing with people, makes it easy to meet new mates. sets the mood for a good night out.
By user554667 on Oct 10th 2025
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It's a solid spot for student nights but can get a bit crowded and noisy at times
By user648626 on Oct 6th 2025
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The whole night was smooth, no stress and lots of fun.
By user571220 on Sep 30th 2025
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Really enjoyed the night – will definitely be going back.
By user806366 on Sep 25th 2025
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The dj was way better than i thought it’d be, kept the energy up all night.
By user615076 on Sep 18th 2025
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We revisited the pub and had a great time. The staff was friendly and talkative. Although the pub showed some signs of age, it was still clean. The price of Taddy's beer had gone up to £3.40, but compared to other places in town, it was still reasonably priced. We'll definitely come back again.
By user236478 on Dec 28th 2023