Subway Cowgate, Edinburgh β 35 Verified Student Reviews π»
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Subway Cowgate -
Subway Cowgate -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 35 user ratings
69 Cowgate Old Town Edinburgh EH1 1JW
π¬ What Students Say
Subway Cowgate, located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, is a popular nightlife destination for students at the University of Edinburgh. This venue has become a staple for those looking to unwind after a long day of classes or to kick off a fun night out with friends. With its full-service bar, cocktail specials, and a lively atmosphere, Subway Cowgate has something for everyone. The venue is adorned with graffiti murals inspired by the iconic NYC subways, adding a unique touch to the overall vibe. The ambiance is described as cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot to hang out and enjoy a night out with friends.
The atmosphere at Subway Cowgate is frequently praised by students, who often mention the chill vibe and friendly crowd. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to meet people and enjoy a relaxed evening. The venue tends to attract a mix of students and locals, which adds to the fun and lively ambiance. It's not uncommon for patrons to bump into familiar faces, enhancing the sense of community that makes Subway Cowgate a go-to spot for many. The crowd is described as laid-back, with no drama, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves without any pressure. This welcoming environment makes it an appealing choice for those looking to socialize and have a good time.
Music is a major draw at Subway Cowgate, with students frequently mentioning the quality and energy of the tunes played throughout the night. The venue is known for hosting DJs that keep the dance floor lively, ensuring that everyone has a great time. With high ratings for music, it's clear that the soundtracks here contribute significantly to the overall night out experience. Whether you're in the mood to dance or simply enjoy the beats with friends, Subway Cowgate delivers on musical entertainment.
When it comes to drinks, Subway Cowgate offers a full-service bar with various options, including cocktail specials that are popular among the student crowd. While some reviews mention that it may not be the cheapest option in town, many agree that the overall experience makes it worth the price. Students appreciate the decent drink deals available, which help to keep the night affordable while still enjoying a fun atmosphere. The pricing level is generally considered reasonable for the experience provided, although it may vary depending on the specific night and drink choices.
The queue and entry experience at Subway Cowgate also receive positive feedback. Many reviews indicate that the queues are usually manageable, allowing students to get in without excessive waiting. The venue has a reputation for being a reliable choice for a night out, with students often commenting on how they never feel rushed or pressured while waiting to enter. This contributes to the overall enjoyable experience, as patrons can focus on having fun rather than dealing with long lines.
Students have shared numerous positive anecdotes about their nights at Subway Cowgate. Many have noted that itβs a great place to relax and catch up with friends, while others have highlighted the fun and energetic atmosphere. The venue seems to cater well to those looking for a casual yet lively night out, where laughter and good times are the norm. The combination of good music, a friendly crowd, and a comfortable setting makes Subway Cowgate a favorite among students.
However, itβs important to consider some of the potential drawbacks. While the atmosphere is generally well-received, some reviews mention that the venue can get quite packed, which may lead to a bit of jostling. If you prefer a quieter environment, this might not be the best choice on busier nights. Additionally, while the drink prices are seen as fair by many, some students feel that they could be lower, especially for a student budget. Finally, while the crowd is mostly friendly, as with any popular venue, there might be the occasional rowdy group that could disrupt the otherwise chill vibe.
In conclusion, Subway Cowgate stands out as a vibrant and lively night out venue for students at the University of Edinburgh. With its welcoming atmosphere, great music, and decent drink deals, it's no wonder that this spot has become a favorite among the student community. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy some good company, Subway Cowgate offers a reliable and enjoyable experience thatβs perfect for a night out in Edinburgh.
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The atmosphere at Subway Cowgate is frequently praised by students, who often mention the chill vibe and friendly crowd. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to meet people and enjoy a relaxed evening. The venue tends to attract a mix of students and locals, which adds to the fun and lively ambiance. It's not uncommon for patrons to bump into familiar faces, enhancing the sense of community that makes Subway Cowgate a go-to spot for many. The crowd is described as laid-back, with no drama, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves without any pressure. This welcoming environment makes it an appealing choice for those looking to socialize and have a good time.
Music is a major draw at Subway Cowgate, with students frequently mentioning the quality and energy of the tunes played throughout the night. The venue is known for hosting DJs that keep the dance floor lively, ensuring that everyone has a great time. With high ratings for music, it's clear that the soundtracks here contribute significantly to the overall night out experience. Whether you're in the mood to dance or simply enjoy the beats with friends, Subway Cowgate delivers on musical entertainment.
When it comes to drinks, Subway Cowgate offers a full-service bar with various options, including cocktail specials that are popular among the student crowd. While some reviews mention that it may not be the cheapest option in town, many agree that the overall experience makes it worth the price. Students appreciate the decent drink deals available, which help to keep the night affordable while still enjoying a fun atmosphere. The pricing level is generally considered reasonable for the experience provided, although it may vary depending on the specific night and drink choices.
The queue and entry experience at Subway Cowgate also receive positive feedback. Many reviews indicate that the queues are usually manageable, allowing students to get in without excessive waiting. The venue has a reputation for being a reliable choice for a night out, with students often commenting on how they never feel rushed or pressured while waiting to enter. This contributes to the overall enjoyable experience, as patrons can focus on having fun rather than dealing with long lines.
Students have shared numerous positive anecdotes about their nights at Subway Cowgate. Many have noted that itβs a great place to relax and catch up with friends, while others have highlighted the fun and energetic atmosphere. The venue seems to cater well to those looking for a casual yet lively night out, where laughter and good times are the norm. The combination of good music, a friendly crowd, and a comfortable setting makes Subway Cowgate a favorite among students.
However, itβs important to consider some of the potential drawbacks. While the atmosphere is generally well-received, some reviews mention that the venue can get quite packed, which may lead to a bit of jostling. If you prefer a quieter environment, this might not be the best choice on busier nights. Additionally, while the drink prices are seen as fair by many, some students feel that they could be lower, especially for a student budget. Finally, while the crowd is mostly friendly, as with any popular venue, there might be the occasional rowdy group that could disrupt the otherwise chill vibe.
In conclusion, Subway Cowgate stands out as a vibrant and lively night out venue for students at the University of Edinburgh. With its welcoming atmosphere, great music, and decent drink deals, it's no wonder that this spot has become a favorite among the student community. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy some good company, Subway Cowgate offers a reliable and enjoyable experience thatβs perfect for a night out in Edinburgh.
β What Students Love
- Great atmosphere with a chill vibe and friendly crowd.
- High-quality music that keeps the energy up all night.
- Comfortable seating and inviting decor, perfect for hanging out.
- Manageable queues, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
- Decent drink deals and a full-service bar available.
- Mix of students and locals, creating a lively and diverse crowd.
β οΈ Things to Note
- The venue can get quite packed, leading to some jostling.
- Drink prices may not be the cheapest for all budgets.
- Occasional rowdy groups that could disrupt the vibe.
- Limited opening hours, not open during the day on Sundays.
π― Best For
Students looking for a lively and friendly atmosphere to enjoy a night out.
π‘ Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
- Arriving earlier in the night can help avoid long queues.
- Check for cocktail specials to make the most of your budget.
- The music style is varied, typically upbeat and dance-friendly.
- It's a popular spot, so expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends.
β Common Questions
What is Subway Cowgate like?
It's a vibrant venue with a chill atmosphere, great music, and a friendly crowd.
How long is the queue?
Queues are usually manageable, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
Is it good value?
While not the cheapest, drink deals and the overall experience offer good value.
What music does Subway Cowgate play?
The music is upbeat and dance-friendly, keeping the energy high all night.
Is it suitable for large groups?
Yes, it's a great place for groups to enjoy a night out together.
Reviews
1 of 35
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Late nights at this place are just what I need when I'm looking to unwind, so Iβd come back again.
By user768351 on Apr 28th 2026
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Took a few visits, but it started feeling like my second home π
. always someone you know or end up knowing. bar staff remember you too, which is ace. itβs like you gradually become part of the furniture, in the best way.
By user799387 on Apr 20th 2026
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Queues can get a bit annoying during peak times, especially when it's raining and you're stuck outside. once you're in, the atmosphere is nice and lively though, with music that usually delivers πΆ.
By user620534 on Apr 14th 2026
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Expected a run-of-the-mill student bar, but Subway Cowgate pleasantly surprised me with its authentic feel and chilled atmosphere. the place wasn't overly crowded, which was a relief as it let us actually have a fun chat without shouting π
. drink prices were decent too, so I didn't have to dip too deep into my student budget for the night.
By user273357 on Apr 9th 2026
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Queues at subway cowgate move quicker than most places in the area, which means less time waiting and more time enjoying affordable drinks. music is decent too.
By user145607 on Apr 5th 2026
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Working weekends, i found Subway Cowgate to be the perfect place to loosen up after shifts. it took a few visits to fully appreciate the laid-back crowd and upbeat tunes that made it ideal for unwinding.
By user196646 on Apr 4th 2026
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Staff at Subway Cowgate are genuinely nice and add to the laid-back vibe. they keep the atmosphere going without any pretentiousness , total legends. always up for a chat, they make the place feel welcoming even on those quieter nights.
By user908820 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Crowd is always lively and you're sure to run into familiar faces from uni. drinks won't empty your wallet, and there's usually no wait at the bar, making it a reliable meet-up spot.
By user147020 on Mar 30th 2026
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Expected it to be packed and hard to navigate but it wasn't bad at all. had just enough people to keep things lively without being overwhelming.
By user735902 on Mar 25th 2026
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Find your way down Cowgate and you'll hit Subway, a prime spot for the student nights out. plenty of energy and always a good mix of people, making it perfect for chilling or starting the evening right.
By user918743 on Mar 20th 2026
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Stumbled in thinking it'd be just another student haunt but the music's got a decent mix for a place like this. staff seem like they're actually enjoying themselves rather than just going through the motions.
By user720168 on Mar 14th 2026
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My friend mentioned it's a spot where everyone seems to end up at some point. it's comfy enough that you lose track of time there and end up staying longer than planned.
By user522512 on Mar 10th 2026
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Stands out with its basement vibe and lively student crowd, creating a uniquely vibrant spot unlike others nearby.
By user977134 on Feb 28th 2026
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Popping in for a drink at subway cowgate has become a mid-week tradition after library sessions. the familiar faces and buzzing energy make it feel like a second home, especially when you need to forget about looming deadlines for a bit.
By user353788 on Feb 9th 2026
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Ran into half the people from my course, so it kind of feels like a reunion every time we go.
By user100035 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Feels like a classic student dive with character and reliably decent tunes throughout.
By user792378 on Jan 28th 2026
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Found myself there one night after class, and it was packed. bumped into a mate from my old flat and ended up staying way longer than planned.
By user490931 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Swinging by Subway Cowgate is practically routine now, especially when thursday rolls around π
. i can always count on bumping into classmates and unwinding over a drink or two , it's just what you need midweek.
By user430256 on Jan 20th 2026
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Crowd is always lively here, unlike many places that seem to fizzle out early. drinks might not be anything extraordinary but the energy and ambiance more than make up for it.
By user162314 on Jan 15th 2026
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Noticed loads of university students inside just having a good time, which kind of makes sense given the location. it's got that energetic, buzzing crowd feel but everyone's pretty friendly and laid-back. definitely a lively spot if you're looking to mingle and meet other students from around edinburgh.
By user334635 on Jan 12th 2026
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Music's pumping here, which i didn't expect, and the crowd is surprisingly chill. thought it'd be more hectic being so central but it felt easygoing and laid-back.
By user216855 on Jan 8th 2026
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Staff's got that friendly vibe that instantly puts you at ease. always someone interesting to chat with there and you never feel out of place even if it's your first time.
By user868287 on Jan 4th 2026
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Stumbled upon an open mic night and it turned into something special. didn't expect to find raw talent here alongside my usual pint
By user860993 on Dec 31st 2025
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Once ended up there on a spontaneous night with some classmates, and the mix of blaring tunes and buzzing energy really hit the spot. perfect place to let off steam without feeling too out of my element.
By user309406 on Dec 27th 2025
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Always end up here every friday. it's like a release from week stress. never know who you'll bump into, but thatβs part of the fun.
By user793152 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Had a bit more character than some other spots I've tried, which was refreshing. music was spot on, just made for a lively time out. bartenders seemed to know what they were doing, which is more than I can say for a lot of other places around.
By user152764 on Dec 18th 2025
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Started coming more as i got settled in and found it consistently lively
By user508773 on Dec 14th 2025
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As soon as i walked in, i felt that friday night buzz wash over me. it's lively, and you can't help but feel like you're part of something larger, with people chatting and mingling everywhere. there's something easy-going about the whole place that makes you drop any stress at the door.
By user927678 on Dec 9th 2025
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Staff here are sound and keep the night flowing without any fuss. met a bunch of folks from my course whenever i popped in.
By user274408 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Absolutely would go back just for the crowd energy and tunes. it's got that infectious vibe that keeps pulling you in.
By user564613 on Nov 29th 2025
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Often get carried away with how lively it is, and suddenly realise it's way past when I said Iβd leave. always bump into someone from a lecture.
By user401840 on Nov 25th 2025
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Staff always seem up for a laugh which makes the place feel incredibly welcoming. really brings out the best moments when everyone's just there for a good time and not worried about anything else. can't help but leave feeling uplifted no matter how the day started.
By user492842 on Nov 19th 2025
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Takes a few visits to fully appreciate its quirky charm, but it's definitely a night out students love π
By user239113 on Nov 13th 2025
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Noticed how everyone seemed to know the words to every song there.
By user588833 on Nov 7th 2025
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Subway Cowgate felt a bit chaotic at first, but after a few visits it became the go-to spot for our group. Now I can't imagine starting a night anywhere else; it's just got a knack for getting everyone in the right mood.
By user289274 on Oct 30th 2025
Review published! β