The Hanover Tap, Edinburgh – 46 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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The Hanover Tap -
The Hanover Tap -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 46 user ratings
112 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1DR, United Kingdom
💬 What Students Say
The Hanover Tap is one of Edinburgh's newest pubs, strategically located just off George Street in the vibrant city centre. It has quickly become a popular choice among students, offering a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for both pre-drinks and full nights out. With a strong focus on craft beers and cocktails, this venue provides a diverse selection of drinks alongside classic pub fare like burgers and pizzas. The wood and stone accents create a cozy yet energetic vibe, making it an inviting spot for students to unwind and socialize.
Students frequently highlight the lively atmosphere at The Hanover Tap, where the energy remains high throughout the night. The venue is known for its friendly crowd, where everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. This inclusive vibe makes it easy for newcomers to connect with others, fostering a sense of community that many students cherish. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply catch up with friends over drinks, the venue caters to both moods, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Music is another strong point at The Hanover Tap, with many reviews praising the DJ for keeping the vibe alive. The selection of tracks ensures that the dance floor is always buzzing, and students appreciate the lack of awkward lulls or moments of boredom. This consistent energy is a significant draw for those looking to have a good time, and it’s not uncommon for students to lose track of time while enjoying the music and atmosphere. The venue stays open late, allowing the party to continue well into the early hours, which is a huge plus for night owls.
When it comes to drinks, The Hanover Tap is highly rated for its affordability, which is a major consideration for students on a budget. Many patrons mention that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it easier to kick off the night without breaking the bank. This aspect, combined with the lively atmosphere, creates the perfect recipe for a memorable night out. While some reviews indicate that it might not be the absolute cheapest option in town, the overall experience makes it worth the visit.
The queue and entry experience at The Hanover Tap also receive positive remarks. Although students note that the queue can get long, it typically moves quickly, allowing patrons to get inside and start enjoying their night without a lengthy wait. This efficiency is appreciated, especially on busy nights when everyone is eager to get the party started. The friendly staff further enhance the entry experience, with many reviews highlighting their quick service and welcoming demeanor.
However, while The Hanover Tap has much to offer, it's important to consider a few caveats. Some students mention that the venue can get quite loud, which might not be ideal for those looking for a more laid-back environment to chat. The lively atmosphere, while enjoyable for many, can sometimes become overwhelming, especially during peak hours. Additionally, while the drinks are affordable, a few patrons note that it may not be the cheapest option available, so it’s wise to keep an eye on your spending throughout the night.
In terms of who this venue suits best, it’s clear that The Hanover Tap is ideal for students seeking a fun, energetic night out. Whether you’re looking to dance, socialize, or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, this pub has something to offer. The combination of a friendly crowd, good music, and affordable drinks makes it a go-to spot for many students at the University of Edinburgh. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and good vibes, you’ll likely find yourself returning to The Hanover Tap time and again.
In summary, The Hanover Tap stands out as a fantastic option for students in Edinburgh. Its welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and great music create an enjoyable environment that keeps patrons coming back. While it may not be the quietest spot for a conversation, the energy and fun make it a memorable place to spend an evening with friends. If you're looking for a night out that guarantees a good time, The Hanover Tap should be on your list of places to visit in the city. With its strategic location and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this pub has quickly become a favorite among students.
Overall, The Hanover Tap combines all the elements of a successful night out: lively music, a friendly crowd, and an inviting environment that encourages students to relax and have fun. So gather your friends, head over to The Hanover Tap, and make some unforgettable memories in the heart of Edinburgh.
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Students frequently highlight the lively atmosphere at The Hanover Tap, where the energy remains high throughout the night. The venue is known for its friendly crowd, where everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. This inclusive vibe makes it easy for newcomers to connect with others, fostering a sense of community that many students cherish. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply catch up with friends over drinks, the venue caters to both moods, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Music is another strong point at The Hanover Tap, with many reviews praising the DJ for keeping the vibe alive. The selection of tracks ensures that the dance floor is always buzzing, and students appreciate the lack of awkward lulls or moments of boredom. This consistent energy is a significant draw for those looking to have a good time, and it’s not uncommon for students to lose track of time while enjoying the music and atmosphere. The venue stays open late, allowing the party to continue well into the early hours, which is a huge plus for night owls.
When it comes to drinks, The Hanover Tap is highly rated for its affordability, which is a major consideration for students on a budget. Many patrons mention that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it easier to kick off the night without breaking the bank. This aspect, combined with the lively atmosphere, creates the perfect recipe for a memorable night out. While some reviews indicate that it might not be the absolute cheapest option in town, the overall experience makes it worth the visit.
The queue and entry experience at The Hanover Tap also receive positive remarks. Although students note that the queue can get long, it typically moves quickly, allowing patrons to get inside and start enjoying their night without a lengthy wait. This efficiency is appreciated, especially on busy nights when everyone is eager to get the party started. The friendly staff further enhance the entry experience, with many reviews highlighting their quick service and welcoming demeanor.
However, while The Hanover Tap has much to offer, it's important to consider a few caveats. Some students mention that the venue can get quite loud, which might not be ideal for those looking for a more laid-back environment to chat. The lively atmosphere, while enjoyable for many, can sometimes become overwhelming, especially during peak hours. Additionally, while the drinks are affordable, a few patrons note that it may not be the cheapest option available, so it’s wise to keep an eye on your spending throughout the night.
In terms of who this venue suits best, it’s clear that The Hanover Tap is ideal for students seeking a fun, energetic night out. Whether you’re looking to dance, socialize, or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, this pub has something to offer. The combination of a friendly crowd, good music, and affordable drinks makes it a go-to spot for many students at the University of Edinburgh. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and good vibes, you’ll likely find yourself returning to The Hanover Tap time and again.
In summary, The Hanover Tap stands out as a fantastic option for students in Edinburgh. Its welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and great music create an enjoyable environment that keeps patrons coming back. While it may not be the quietest spot for a conversation, the energy and fun make it a memorable place to spend an evening with friends. If you're looking for a night out that guarantees a good time, The Hanover Tap should be on your list of places to visit in the city. With its strategic location and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this pub has quickly become a favorite among students.
Overall, The Hanover Tap combines all the elements of a successful night out: lively music, a friendly crowd, and an inviting environment that encourages students to relax and have fun. So gather your friends, head over to The Hanover Tap, and make some unforgettable memories in the heart of Edinburgh.
✅ What Students Love
- Lively atmosphere with a friendly crowd, perfect for socializing.
- Affordable drinks, making it a great choice for students on a budget.
- High-energy music that keeps the dance floor alive all night.
- Quick-moving queues, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
- Welcoming staff that provide quick and friendly service.
- Ideal for both pre-drinks and full nights out with friends.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Can get quite loud, which may not suit those looking for a quieter atmosphere.
- Some students feel it's not the absolute cheapest venue around.
- The energy might be overwhelming for those seeking a more laid-back experience.
- Occasional long queues during peak times, although they move quickly.
- Not the fanciest decor, which some may find off-putting.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a vibrant and energetic night out with affordable drinks and great music.
💡 Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to wear what makes you comfortable.
- Arrive early on weekends to avoid longer queues later in the night.
- Keep an eye on your spending, as drinks can add up despite being affordable.
- The music style is upbeat and dance-friendly, perfect for letting loose.
- Great for both starting your night or as a late-night venue.
❓ Common Questions
What is The Hanover Tap like?
It's a lively pub with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for students looking to socialize and enjoy good music.
How long is the queue?
Queues can get long but typically move quickly, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
Is it good value?
Yes, drinks are affordable, making it a popular choice among students.
What music does The Hanover Tap play?
The music is upbeat and dance-friendly, keeping the energy high throughout the night.
Is there a dress code?
The dress code is casual, so you can wear what makes you comfortable.
Reviews
1 of 46
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Walking in, you notice how tidy this place is, which really stood out to me compared to other venues. the music's on point without being too loud, so you can actually chat. drinks are reasonably priced, making it a solid option if you want a laid-back night without spending a fortune.
By user839099 on Apr 25th 2026
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Swinging by the Hanover Tap is now a regular part of my routine for unwinding after lectures. perfect spot for catching up with classmates and debating politics over a pint. the buzzing atmosphere makes it feel like home 🙌📚
By user387888 on Apr 19th 2026
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Absolutely loved the chill and welcoming vibe, perfect for catching up with uni mates.
By user145134 on Apr 13th 2026
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Might head back to the hanover tap sometime. loved how chill it was and the lack of a long queue made getting in easy. drinks didn’t drain my bank account, which is always a win for a student.
By user783369 on Apr 11th 2026
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Found the hanover tap more reliable than other spots around edinburgh for a laid-back night. the vibe is consistently chill, unlike some places where the atmosphere can be hit or miss, and the craft beer selection keeps me coming back.
By user961918 on Apr 6th 2026
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Managed to snag a comfy booth before the crowd trickled in, setting the tone for a laid-back night with mates.
By user994616 on Apr 5th 2026
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Found myself chatting with some random people at the bar here last friday night. really easygoing atmosphere made it effortless to just strike up a conversation, and the staff kept things running smoothly even when it got a bit crowded.
By user522946 on Apr 4th 2026
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Hard to beat the central location of the hanover tap for a night out. music was alright, nothing too loud which is always a plus when trying to chat with mates. prices are reasonable for the area, and the place didn’t look worn down, which is more than you can say for some city centre spots.
By user479394 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Busy nights are tricky here since the dancefloor can get a bit cramped. a few extra seats or a different layout might help, especially when you just want to chill with your mates and not constantly shuffle around. they might also consider mixing up the playlist more often, after a while it felt a tad repetitive.
By user309214 on Mar 28th 2026
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Usually pop by here once a week before heading over to another spot, but most of the time we just end up staying all night since it's got such a chill vibe and easygoing crowd
By user199887 on Mar 25th 2026
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Walked in when it was buzzing with folks laughing and chatting, and the energy was infectious. Felt like everyone was on the same upbeat wavelength, no pretentiousness, just pure fun.
By user944430 on Mar 19th 2026
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Made quite a few mates over craft beers here, it's where i got to know my classmates better during freshers' week 😅
By user615305 on Mar 14th 2026
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Finally landed a seat after wandering around, and it was the perfect spot to watch my mates get up to some ridiculous dance moves. music was just right, kept everyone buzzing. casual chats with them over a pint made the night feel effortless.
By user872198 on Feb 28th 2026
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Found myself at the hanover tap on a student night and it was buzzing 🌟. folks were chatting away like they'd all known each other for ages. i liked how the vibe was relaxed, but still lively enough to keep things interesting.
By user883256 on Feb 25th 2026
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Waiting ages for service at busy times gets pretty frustrating, especially when you're just trying to chill. maybe they could add more staff because the long waits for a pint kind of dampened the night a bit.
By user798737 on Feb 24th 2026
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Finally started feeling comfy at the hanover tap after a few visits. wasn't sure at first but quickly found it's easy to settle in with the laid-back crowd. even on busier nights, there's a chilled vibe that removes the stress after uni.
By user195935 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Music can be a bit loud if you’re trying to have a proper chat with friends, but i'd still pop in again for the beers. it's a decent spot to kick off a night out considering everything else about the place is spot on.
By user480660 on Feb 20th 2026
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Turns out, the place had way more room inside than i expected and it made finding a seat a total breeze.
By user747471 on Feb 19th 2026
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Wandered in expecting just a regular pub night, but was surprised by how diverse the craft beer selection was 😮 ideal spot for relaxing after lectures, with a pretty chill vibe overall.
By user603013 on Feb 18th 2026
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Heard from a mate that the place is absolutely banging for a chill night out. it’s one of those spots where you start with a pint and end up staying till they kick you out. perfect mix of laid-back vibes and buzzing student energy right off george street.
By user146834 on Feb 17th 2026
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Noticed the warm and lively buzz the moment i walked in, which was actually surprising for a pub that seems relatively new. half expected it to be empty but it felt as if everyone already knew it was the place to be for a chill night out.
By user843355 on Feb 16th 2026
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Heard a mate saying the beer selection was top-notch and I've got to agree. honestly, you can't beat the pub vibe here, makes uni stress just melt away for a while. staff are pretty chill too, which is always a win in my book.
By user274647 on Feb 15th 2026
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Noticed a mix of locals and students milling about, all enjoying the lively energy together.
By user421015 on Feb 14th 2026
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Vibe's relaxed enough that you might just find yourself staying longer than intended. atmosphere's easygoing, but it's the mix of students and locals that gives it a genuine feel. plus, the music's never too loud, so chatting's actually possible
By user390924 on Feb 13th 2026
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Noticed a mix of students spilling in from george street and locals who seemed to know their beer way too well. friendly chitchat floated around, and you could see people just enjoying themselves without a care in the world. it's like everyone’s part of the story by the end of the night 😅
By user846706 on Feb 9th 2026
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Expected a usual pub experience, but the Hanover Tap was surprisingly chill with a nice crowd. better than just good value , felt more like a spot where time flies without realising. definitely going back soon
By user604168 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Head here most weeks for a break from uni stress with mates, and it feels like a mini getaway all on its own. being right in the city centre means we can hit the shops or wander around after, making it more than just a pub visit. definitely one of those places where everyone's just chilling and enjoying themselves without a care.
By user170734 on Jan 27th 2026
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Walking in, you just feel an instant buzz in the air, super lively and inviting.
By user897993 on Jan 22nd 2026
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Offers a more chilled vibe compared to some of the more hectic bars nearby. it's easy to find a spot to chat without being shouted over, which is a bonus if you're not up for the usual chaos.
By user851579 on Jan 18th 2026
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Walked in expecting just another student pub, but was pleasantly surprised by the chill vibe here. the atmosphere feels relaxed, but still lively enough for a fun night with mates. didn't think i'd end up finding such a comfy spot to unwind between lectures down in the city centre.
By user352256 on Jan 15th 2026
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Swung by The Hanover Tap the other night and it's pretty chill 😅 , relaxed vibe with a decent crowd. friend said the staff were super nice, definitely adds to the place's charm when you're grabbing a drink.
By user256531 on Jan 11th 2026
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Sat by the window with a few mates watching people go by on george street, and it felt like the perfect spot to unwind. the staff seemed genuinely chill, not buzzing around too much but there when we needed them. loved the relaxed vibe, which is why i keep coming back.
By user616096 on Jan 7th 2026
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Stumbled into hanover tap expecting just another pub, but ended up staying for a while because the crowd really adds to the relaxed feel. wasn't crowded, which was a nice surprise for being in such a central spot.
By user217959 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Stepping in, there was an easy-going feel that just makes you relax instantly. it felt like one of those spots where you could easily lose track of time.
By user657090 on Dec 30th 2025
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Didn’t expect to find such a laid-back vibe in the city centre, but the Hanover Tap is just that 😅. perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploring.
By user238535 on Dec 26th 2025
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Never expected to find such a relaxed corner right in the buzz of edinburgh city centre. it's great for unwinding while still feeling part of the action 🌟
By user818054 on Dec 21st 2025
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Would definitely go back to the hanover tap. it's got just the right mix of chilled vibes and energy that makes for a great night out. plus, being in the middle of edinburgh is a win for spontaneous adventures.
By user335959 on Dec 17th 2025
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Really appreciated the laid-back vibe compared to other city centre spots where you almost feel rushed, plus the staff just let you enjoy your time without hovering 😅 also, the craft beer selection surprised me with how decent it was 📚
By user750065 on Dec 13th 2025
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Most pubs feel the same after a while, but the Hanover Tap stands out with its chill yet lively vibe that never feels forced. it attracts a diverse crowd that makes hanging out there genuinely interesting.
By user814718 on Dec 6th 2025
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Go-to place for catching up with friends over a pint. loved the laid-back vibe that never felt too chaotic, even on busy nights. would definitely go back for another chilled evening out.
By user839145 on Dec 2nd 2025
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Mate, you know how you sometimes just click with a spot? that's exactly how it felt there the other night and it made the whole experience much more fun than any of us expected.
By user466321 on Nov 28th 2025
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Chilled spot that draws a lively student crowd, making it perfect for a mix of casual chatting and a night out. kept seeing so many familiar faces from uni, it felt like a little community hangout right in the city centre.
By user692471 on Nov 24th 2025
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Mate, you’ve got to check out The Hanover Tap. went for a few chill pints and the atmosphere was spot on, perfect for a catch-up or people-watching. it's become our new go-to whenever we head into town.
By user769441 on Nov 18th 2025
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Staff are consistently friendly, even when it's packed, which makes a massive difference if you're a bit shy like me. it feels like you can always relax there
By user365863 on Nov 11th 2025
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Always feels buzzing with energy, especially on weekends. great spot to meet other students, and the staff are surprisingly relaxed with the chat despite the constant flow of people
By user228412 on Nov 4th 2025
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Music's on point and adds so much to the lively vibe at the Hanover Tap. couldn't help but feel a bit more relaxed and ready to chat with mates each time I visited.
By user446968 on Oct 29th 2025
Review published! ✓