Cabaret Voltaire, Edinburgh – 44 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

Cabaret Voltaire -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 44 user ratings

36 Blair Street Edinburgh EH1 1QR

💬 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.
▼ See more

✅ 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.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Atmosphere can vary from night to night.
  • Some nights may feel too laid-back for certain preferences.
  • Higher admission charges on weekends may deter budget-conscious students.
  • Inconsistent energy levels depending on the crowd and night.

🎯 Best For

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

💡 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.

Reviews
1 of 45
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Was surprised when i first arrived to see how the venue blends its historic charm with a buzzing nightlife. the underground setting adds an unexpected twist, making the dancefloors feel almost like a hidden world.
By user121460 on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Draws in a lively crowd and beats most clubs for variety. though it's a bit tucked away under old town, you quickly forget the trek once the music kicks in.
By user106656 on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Absolutely worth visiting if you're about the music scene , they've got killer sound quality there. decent prices on drinks too, better than some clubs I've been to around here.
By user682316 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect the sound quality to be this top-notch compared to other venues around 🎶. even if the queue was a bit long at times, it was worth it for the fantastic music and lively energy inside.
By user233605 on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed that the staff seem to genuinely enjoy being there, which adds a nice energy to the place. there's something about their vibe that makes the whole experience feel more authentic. can't say enough about how attentive they are, even on a busy night.
By user741265 on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music's ace here, totally worth it for the sound quality alone. atmosphere keeps you moving, and not too harsh on the wallet.
By user542288 on Apr 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wander into cabaret voltaire and get ready for an unforgettable night with mega dancefloors and a playlist that keeps you going till dawn. tucked away under the old town, it's got that raw, underground vibe that's perfect for dancing your worries away.
By user145092 on Mar 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Being underground gives cab vol a different feel than your typical night out spot. the music seems to pulse through the walls, making it feel truly immersive. drinks are decent, but it’s the vibrant atmosphere and mix of people that set this place apart.
By user445042 on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard the sound system's insane at Cabaret Voltaire, mate said they felt like they were inside a music video. you should definitely check it out if you're looking for somewhere with proper energy and a lively crowd
By user972838 on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sounds a bit cliche, but cabaret voltaire genuinely stands out with its dual dancefloors and lively music selection. never encountered another place like it, and it absolutely beats the usual night out options 😅
By user663383 on Mar 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always worth a return visit to cabaret voltaire for the fantastic music and lively crowd that keeps the night exciting.
By user869887 on Mar 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Friday nights wouldn't be complete without a trip to cab vol.
By user539025 on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are genuinely welcoming and really get into the music, which adds a personal touch to the place. chatting with the bartenders while they expertly mix drinks is always a highlight. feels like they enjoy the night as much as the guests do, making the energy on the dancefloors even better.
By user327985 on Feb 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Cab vol's sound systems really stand out, making the place pulse with awesome tunes all night long. plus, they manage to keep drinks affordable even with everything else on point, which is perfect for a low-budget student wanting a good night out.
By user434466 on Feb 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back, the music's spot on and keeps everyone on their feet. great place if you want an energetic crowd without any of the pretentious vibes you get at some other spots.
By user732538 on Feb 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Usually prefer places that don't overload the senses, but cabaret voltaire's setup manages to keep things balanced. compared to other venues, the sound here isn't overwhelming and you can still have a chat without shouting all the time. definitely a relief to find a space that doesn't leave you with ringing ears the next day.
By user688457 on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music is killer but wish they sorted the ventilation out because it gets too stuffy.
By user919612 on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found myself really enjoying the music after just a few visits.
By user701817 on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepping into cab vol feels like entering an underground world, the pulsing beats and lively chatter just hit you. i always get this buzz of excitement, like anything could happen, especially with a good crowd.
By user926690 on Jan 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music at Cab Vol is way better than most places in town. you feel it in your bones and it somehow amps up the crowd's vibe to just the right level of chaos
By user411191 on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding space on the dancefloor can be tricky, but when you do, the energy just pulls you in and it's totally worth it. the music's loud enough to lose yourself and forget about coursework for a bit, which is refreshing.
By user557763 on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect the underground vibe to be so intense, with the music just taking over. really felt like i stumbled into a proper rave without even planning it
By user952107 on Jan 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Energetic place for dancing and meeting tons of new people, especially if you're up for a night of discovering new jams and making friends who love the same beats. even though you're surrounded by strangers, you never feel out of place.
By user570381 on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found the music way better than other places, but queues for drinks were unbearable at times.
By user171803 on Dec 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Adjusting to cab vol is easy because the music just pulls you in and keeps you there. spent the night dancing without even realizing hours had passed, and it felt like everyone around was doing the same.
By user229881 on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music at cab vol is on another level compared to other spots i've been to around edinburgh. staff had such a relaxed style, felt like they were just as into the music as everyone else.
By user837604 on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding a place where the music and the crowd vibe so well together is such a rare treat. cabaret voltaire just manages to blend good tunes and an upbeat crowd that keeps the night going perfectly. from the moment you step in, you feel like everyone's there just to have fun , it's effortless.
By user156656 on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Discovered a whole new side of myself on those dancefloors, and it's addictive
By user134574 on Dec 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Behind the bar, the staff always seem to be genuinely enjoying themselves, which lifts the whole mood and makes it feel more like a friend's party than a night out at a club
By user783740 on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Head over to cab vol for a solid night out if you're into house music. the place is buzzing with energy and the sound system isn't half bad , just be ready for it to get packed.
By user551383 on Dec 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music's always on point, but did you ever notice how the bartenders subtly match the beat while mixing drinks? 🎵 gives the whole place a rhythmic vibe that's hard to find elsewhere, and it makes you feel like part of the scene even when just grabbing a beer.
By user178165 on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled into cabaret voltaire during one of my random nights out and wow, the vibe is intense 😮. there are two dancefloors and both were buzzing the whole night with people living their best life to quality beats. definitely a spot that leaves you feeling alive and wanting more by the end of it.
By user919659 on Nov 22nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Everyone on the dancefloor having a blast actually got me out of my shell 😅; i thought i was the shyest person around!
By user511141 on Nov 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
At cab vol, the pulsating beats make it impossible to stand still. there's something electric about how every corner has its own vibrant scene, and you'll leave with lasting memories
By user914748 on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Told my friend cab vol is where edm dreams come true 🌟. you have to check out the dancefloors , unreal sound and such a buzzing crowd. felt like one of those nights that just keeps everyone moving till the wee hours 🎶✨.
By user955633 on Nov 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely coming back here for the underground vibe and awesome DJ sets. loved how the music just pulls everyone together and no one minds dancing like no one's watching 😅
By user971685 on Oct 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled in with a mate expecting just another random club. honestly, didn't expect the mind-blowing music and such a diverse crowd. can't deny it was worth queuing for and definitely will be back.
By user287880 on Oct 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People there are always up for a dance and seem genuinely happy to be out, which makes the whole place feel alive. it's the kind of spot where you end up chatting with strangers and feeling part of the crowd.
By user301993 on Oct 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wasn't expecting cabaret voltaire to be that huge underground, but it really upped the energy
By user307868 on Oct 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbling into cab vol was like discovering a hidden world of non-stop beats and unexpectedly familiar faces.
By user586238 on Oct 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Love hitting up Cab Vol on a Thursday night before the weekend chaos begins. it’s like a proper reset from the week , loads of uni mates are always there, plus the music keeps you on your feet just long enough to forget about assignments for a bit. ideal place to blow off steam where you don’t have to stress about what’s going on outside.
By user154774 on Oct 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Mate, you have to check out Cab Vol if you haven’t yet. went with some mates and the music was so good we just couldn't stop dancing all night.
By user537763 on Oct 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect cabaret voltaire to have such a lively vibe under the old town, but it definitely surprised me. the music is so well-curated that you can't help but get pulled into the mood of the place. felt like a real student haven, with everyone just enjoying the night and letting loose.
By user461125 on Sep 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bartenders keep things lively and the bouncers easily handle any issues with a smile.
By user908776 on Sep 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found myself at cab vol and kind of forgot about other bars. the whole underground vibe, with music you actually want to hear, sets it apart. such a cool space to let loose and dance like no one's watching 😅
By user518733 on Sep 16th 2025