Cabaret Voltaire, Edinburgh – 64 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Cabaret Voltaire β€” student bar photo

Cabaret Voltaire -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 64 user ratings

36 Blair Street Edinburgh EH1 1QR

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

Cabaret Voltaire, located in the heart of Edinburgh beneath the historic Old Town, is a must-visit venue for students looking to enjoy a night out filled with great music and an energetic atmosphere. This unique venue features two dancefloors and top-notch sound systems, making it a hotspot for house, techno, and bass music lovers. Students frequently rave about the venue's buzzing vibe, which is enhanced by a diverse crowd and a well-curated lineup of DJs that keeps the dancefloor packed until the early hours. The venue's commitment to providing an innovative mix of music is evident in its regular rotation of weekly and monthly residencies, ensuring that there's always something fresh to experience. Early-week nights often feature resident DJs, allowing students to enjoy lower or even no entry fees, while the weekends ramp up with higher admission charges for special events. This setup creates a perfect balance for students looking to enjoy a lively night out without breaking the bank.

The atmosphere at Cabaret Voltaire is consistently described as positive and welcoming. Many students appreciate the local feel of the venue, which contributes to a sense of community among patrons. Reviewers often mention how the crowd is friendly and in good spirits, making it a comfortable place to let loose and enjoy a night out. The mix of people adds to the venue's charm, as it attracts a variety of individuals who come together to enjoy the music and the vibrant environment. This is particularly appealing for students who want to experience a night out that feels both exciting and inclusive. The energy in the venue is palpable, with students noting that they leave feeling uplifted and happy after their visit.

When it comes to drinks, Cabaret Voltaire has garnered praise for its affordable prices and solid selection. Many students highlight the drink deals available, which make it a budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy a night out without overspending. Reviewers frequently mention that the drinks hit the spot and are well-priced, making it easy to keep the fun going throughout the night. This affordability is a significant draw for students, as it allows them to enjoy a night of dancing and socializing without the worry of high costs. The overall value of the venue is highly regarded, with many students feeling that they get a great experience for the price they pay.

The queue and entry experience at Cabaret Voltaire also receive positive feedback. Many students appreciate that the venue has a relatively smooth entry process, with manageable waiting times. The queue rating is notably high, indicating that students generally find the experience to be hassle-free. This is especially important for those eager to get inside and start enjoying the night. The combination of a lively atmosphere and an efficient entry process contributes to an overall enjoyable experience for those attending.

However, while Cabaret Voltaire has many strengths, it is not without its caveats. Some students have noted that the atmosphere can vary from night to night, with certain evenings feeling more vibrant than others. This inconsistency can be a drawback for those seeking a guaranteed high-energy experience every time they visit. Additionally, while many appreciate the laid-back vibe, some students feel that it can be a bit too relaxed at times, which may not suit everyone's taste. It's important for prospective visitors to keep this in mind when planning their night out.

Overall, Cabaret Voltaire is a venue that caters well to students looking for a fun and affordable night out in Edinburgh. The combination of great music, a friendly atmosphere, and budget-friendly drinks makes it a go-to spot for many. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, this venue has something to offer for everyone. It's particularly well-suited for students who appreciate a local feel and a vibrant atmosphere, as it consistently delivers an enjoyable experience that keeps them coming back for more.

In summary, Cabaret Voltaire stands out as a top choice for students in Edinburgh seeking a lively nightlife experience. Its unique location, engaging music lineup, and affordable pricing make it a venue worth checking out. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’re likely to find something special about this hidden gem beneath the city’s historic streets.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Vibrant atmosphere that keeps students coming back.
  • Affordable drinks that are well-priced for students.
  • Excellent music selection with a focus on house, techno, and bass.
  • Friendly crowd that creates an inclusive environment.
  • Smooth entry process with manageable queues.
  • Regularly refreshed DJ lineup keeps the experience fresh.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively and affordable night out with great music.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Dress code is generally casual, but smart-casual is recommended.
  • Early-week nights often have lower or no entry fees.
  • Expect a mix of calm and energetic vibes depending on the night.
  • Check the event schedule for special DJ nights to maximize your experience.

❓ Common Questions

What is Cabaret Voltaire like?

It's a vibrant venue known for its positive atmosphere, great music, and friendly crowd.

How long is the queue?

Queues are generally manageable, with a high rating for entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention affordable drinks and good overall value.

What music does Cabaret Voltaire play?

The venue features house, techno, and bass music, with a rotating DJ lineup.

What kind of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a friendly mix of people, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Cabaret Voltaire β€” student bar photo
Reviews
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Had a really relaxing time at the upstairs cocktail bar.
By user298824 (Edinburgh) on Aug 13th 2026
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great night out with mates 🍻
By user553700 (Edinburgh) on Aug 6th 2026
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Nice chilled space upstairs, you can unwind easily.
By user877666 (Edinburgh) on Jul 30th 2026
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hit up the dance floor
By user802458 (Edinburgh) on Jul 25th 2026
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best atmosphere, great music
By user344765 (Edinburgh) on Jul 20th 2026
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Great basement club vibes πŸ™Œ
By user496774 (Edinburgh) on Jul 15th 2026
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good drinks and good times
By user279331 (Edinburgh) on Jul 10th 2026
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vibrant and happening place
By user649194 (Edinburgh) on Jul 5th 2026
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music was class
By user245427 (Edinburgh) on Jun 29th 2026
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proper sound venue mate
By user480856 (Edinburgh) on Jun 24th 2026
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vibe is unmatched
By user823687 (Edinburgh) on Jun 19th 2026
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definitely try the club
By user488267 (Edinburgh) on Jun 14th 2026
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there for hours, didnt wanna leave
By user720924 (Edinburgh) on Jun 9th 2026
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music was sweet, danced loads
By user538267 (Edinburgh) on Jun 4th 2026
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loved the night on Sunday, was class
By user902913 (Edinburgh) on May 28th 2026
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The music had everyone buzzing and dancing all night.
By user316108 (Edinburgh) on May 23rd 2026
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cheap drinks and cozy
By user943643 (Edinburgh) on May 18th 2026
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such fun little place
By user225160 (Edinburgh) on May 11th 2026
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intimate gigs in basement
By user610616 (Edinburgh) on May 5th 2026
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kicked back with a drink watching a band mix a killer set on stage
By user206325 (Edinburgh) on Apr 29th 2026
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chilled out in the cocktail bar with friends.
By user121460 (Edinburgh) on Apr 23rd 2026
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sound hangout with cheap beers
By user106656 (Edinburgh) on Apr 18th 2026
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absolutely buzzing atmosphere
By user682316 (Edinburgh) on Apr 13th 2026
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small area is proper chill
By user233605 (Edinburgh) on Apr 9th 2026
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chill spot with affordable drinks
By user741265 (Edinburgh) on Apr 2nd 2026
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it was such an awesome night chilling in the basement club with my mates and we jammed to live music all evening sipping cocktails
By user542288 (Edinburgh) on Apr 1st 2026
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just cool and intimate
By user145092 (Edinburgh) on Mar 26th 2026
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vibrant scene and great tunes
By user445042 (Edinburgh) on Mar 23rd 2026
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Decent night out
By user972838 (Edinburgh) on Mar 18th 2026
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great laughs with mates
By user663383 (Edinburgh) on Mar 17th 2026
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I really enjoyed the laid-back vibe and good music.
By user869887 (Edinburgh) on Mar 13th 2026
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proper buzzing venue
By user539025 (Edinburgh) on Mar 10th 2026
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killer cocktails upstairs rock 🀘
By user327985 (Edinburgh) on Feb 27th 2026
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nice cocktail menu
By user434466 (Edinburgh) on Feb 11th 2026
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comfy seating and great atmosphere
By user732538 (Edinburgh) on Feb 5th 2026
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laid-back and casual
By user688457 (Edinburgh) on Jan 30th 2026
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Good music, cozy atmosphere
By user919612 (Edinburgh) on Jan 25th 2026
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sing along to the music
By user701817 (Edinburgh) on Jan 20th 2026
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closest thing to birmingham vibes iv found
By user926690 (Edinburgh) on Jan 17th 2026
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The cocktails were pretty impressive and well-made.
By user411191 (Edinburgh) on Jan 13th 2026
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hit the basement early for house music.
By user557763 (Edinburgh) on Jan 10th 2026
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i remember dancing all night in the basement club the vibes were electric everyone was having an amazing time and i met such cool people there
By user952107 (Edinburgh) on Jan 6th 2026
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The music was juste awesome last Friday.
By user570381 (Edinburgh) on Jan 2nd 2026
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found cheap drinks here lol
By user171803 (Edinburgh) on Dec 28th 2025
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No better place for live music.
By user229881 (Edinburgh) on Dec 24th 2025
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awesome club music
By user837604 (Edinburgh) on Dec 19th 2025
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more than just the music, it's experiences
By user156656 (Edinburgh) on Dec 15th 2025
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Buzzin all night long
By user134574 (Edinburgh) on Dec 11th 2025
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dancing to indian songs was an absolute blast!
By user783740 (Edinburgh) on Dec 4th 2025
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Great, edgy atmosphere to enjoy a fun night.
By user551383 (Edinburgh) on Dec 1st 2025
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unique venue and awesome music
By user178165 (Edinburgh) on Nov 26th 2025
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deffo love the house beats here
By user919659 (Edinburgh) on Nov 22nd 2025
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the music is brilliant
By user511141 (Edinburgh) on Nov 16th 2025
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definately reccomend the friday nights
By user914748 (Edinburgh) on Nov 9th 2025
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music is loud and lights are mental
By user955633 (Edinburgh) on Nov 1st 2025
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the atmosphere was class
By user971685 (Edinburgh) on Oct 27th 2025
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we were messing about on the game tables, music going, felt proper old school
By user287880 (Edinburgh) on Oct 24th 2025
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Great for gigs in a unique spot.
By user301993 (Edinburgh) on Oct 20th 2025
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chilled atmosphere upstairs
By user307868 (Edinburgh) on Oct 17th 2025
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This club entertains diverse, fun crowds.
By user586238 (Edinburgh) on Oct 13th 2025
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sound place, top night out
By user154774 (Edinburgh) on Oct 10th 2025
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comfortable and cozy seating
By user537763 (Edinburgh) on Oct 5th 2025
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great party atmosphere
By user461125 (Edinburgh) on Sep 29th 2025
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Keep an eye on the DJ schedule.
By user908776 (Edinburgh) on Sep 24th 2025
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really energetic place
By user518733 (Edinburgh) on Sep 16th 2025