The Bootlegger, Durham – 7 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 7 user ratings

The Bootlegger Leeds, 18 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JA

💬 What Students Say

The Bootlegger is a vibrant bar located at 18 Park Row in Leeds, catering primarily to students from the University of Durham. This venue stands out with its unique ambiance that blends vintage charm with modern flair, reminiscent of the speakeasy era. As you walk in, the eclectic decor creates a cozy yet energetic vibe that’s perfect for socializing with friends or meeting new people. The Bootlegger is designed to be both a bar and a lively spot for those looking to unwind after a long week of classes, making it a popular choice among students.

The atmosphere at The Bootlegger is frequently described as vibrant and welcoming, with students often praising the friendly staff who contribute to a positive experience. This bar tends to attract a diverse crowd, making it an excellent place to mingle with fellow students from various courses and backgrounds. Whether you’re sitting at the bar enjoying a drink or dancing with friends, the energy in the air is contagious, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your night out.

In terms of music, The Bootlegger typically features a mix of popular tracks that cater to a wide audience. Students appreciate the upbeat selections that keep the mood lively, and the venue has been known to host themed nights and events that add an extra layer of excitement to the experience. While specific genres may vary from night to night, the music is consistently on point, contributing to the bar's reputation for good vibes. It’s advisable to keep an eye on their social media for updates on upcoming events, as these can be a great way to enhance your night out.

When it comes to drinks, The Bootlegger offers a range of options that are generally well-received by students. While exact pricing details are not available, the venue is known for providing good value, especially during happy hour. Many reviews highlight the reasonable drink prices, making it an attractive option for students looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The drink deals and happy hour specials are often mentioned as a key reason why students choose to visit The Bootlegger.

The student crowd at The Bootlegger tends to be lively, and the venue gets particularly busy during the evenings, especially on weekends. Students frequently mention that arriving early can help avoid long queues, which is a common downside highlighted in reviews. Despite the occasional wait, many agree that the atmosphere and overall experience make it worth it. The bar's ability to strike a balance between lively and laid-back makes it a regular stop for many students, whether they’re looking to kick off their night out or just enjoy a casual evening with friends.

One of the standout features of The Bootlegger is its ability to create a space that feels both energetic and relaxed. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of nights out, whether you’re in the mood for a more chill gathering or a lively party atmosphere. The mix of students from different backgrounds and courses adds to the appeal, as it encourages socializing and making new connections. Many reviews reflect on the positive experiences of meeting new people and enjoying the vibrant community that The Bootlegger fosters.

However, like any venue, The Bootlegger does have its downsides. The queues can be a bit long, particularly on busy nights, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly. Some students have mentioned that the chaotic atmosphere can occasionally detract from the experience, especially during peak hours. Additionally, while the staff are often praised for their friendliness, a few reviews suggest that service can be slower during particularly busy times.

In summary, The Bootlegger is a lively bar that offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern energy, making it a popular choice for students at the University of Durham. With its eclectic decor, upbeat music, and good drink value, it’s a great place to unwind after a long week or to kick off a night out. Whether you’re looking to socialize with friends or meet new people, The Bootlegger provides an inviting atmosphere that keeps students coming back for more. Just remember to arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the lively ambiance this bar has to offer.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Unique vintage speakeasy vibe that creates a cozy yet energetic atmosphere.
  • Friendly and efficient staff enhance the overall experience.
  • Good value for drinks, especially during happy hour.
  • Diverse crowd makes it easy to meet new people.
  • Upbeat music that keeps the mood lively and enjoyable.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively bar atmosphere with good drinks and music to unwind after classes.

💡 Things to Know

  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • Keep an eye on social media for updates on themed nights and events.
  • Expect a diverse crowd, making it a great place to meet fellow students.
  • Happy hour specials can provide excellent value on drinks.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger is a vibrant bar with a vintage speakeasy vibe, perfect for socializing and enjoying good music.

Is it good value?

Yes, students generally find the drink prices reasonable, particularly during happy hour.

When do students go to The Bootlegger?

Students tend to visit in the evenings, especially on weekends when it gets busier.

What kind of music is played at The Bootlegger?

The venue features a mix of popular tracks that cater to a wide audience, keeping the vibe lively.

Can I expect to meet new people there?

Absolutely! The diverse crowd makes it a great place to mingle and meet fellow students.

Reviews
1 of 7
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Greeted by a friendly crowd and an unexpectedly chill atmosphere, i was instantly surprised at just how welcoming the place felt. even with all the vintage touches, it wasn’t just the decor that made it feel special but also how easy it was to strike up a conversation with complete strangers.
By user744649 on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the bootlegger, you're greeted by a nostalgic atmosphere that sets it apart from other student bars. its blend of old-school vibes and a lively crowd makes the night feel genuinely special, not just another stop on the usual bar crawl.
By user404217 on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Getting in can be a hassle with the queues stretching forever, which is a real pain on a cold night. once inside, though, the atmosphere tends to pick up with lively music that keeps everyone entertained despite the wait.
By user899323 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music fills the room and it's hard not to get swept up in the energy here. the crowd comes alive as the night progresses, making it one of those places where you feel like you're part of something buzzing.
By user190194 on Apr 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Worth braving the queue for the music vibe and affordable drinks.
By user456798 on Apr 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always up for another visit because the vintage flair vibe matches perfectly with the lively crowd and solid playlists they spin.
By user918734 on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back because the mix of vintage charm and modern vibe feels just right.
By user674375 on Mar 30th 2026