The Cumberland Bar, Edinburgh – 54 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Cumberland Bar — student bar photo

The Cumberland Bar -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 54 user ratings

1-3 Cumberland St, Edinburgh EH3 6RT, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Nestled in the charming Georgian New Town of Edinburgh, The Cumberland Bar stands out as a welcoming retreat for students seeking a relaxed night out. This venue is known for its inviting wood-paneled surroundings and a vibe that strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid-back. With a solid reputation among students, it offers a mix of real ales, wines, spirits, and delicious food, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day of lectures. The atmosphere is often described as chill and friendly, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the company of friends or meet new people. Students frequently mention that the energy here is just right – not too intense, yet vibrant enough to keep the night flowing smoothly.

The music at The Cumberland Bar plays a significant role in creating its lively atmosphere. Many students have praised the selection, noting that it features popular anthems and bangers that get everyone moving. The sound system is surprisingly good, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the night. Whether you're there for a casual catch-up with mates or to dance the night away, the music adds an extra layer of fun to the experience. The venue is not just about the drinks; it’s about the whole atmosphere, which students say is consistently enjoyable.

When it comes to drinks and pricing, The Cumberland Bar receives high marks for value. Students appreciate the reasonable prices, which allow them to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar serves a variety of drinks, from real ales to spirits, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Many patrons have noted that the affordability of drinks, combined with the overall experience, makes it a go-to spot for students looking for a good time without the hefty price tag. This focus on value is reflected in the venue's ratings, with students frequently mentioning that they get what they pay for here.

As for the queue and entry experience, students have reported a generally positive experience. The Cumberland Bar is known for its smooth entry process, with many stating that they rarely face issues getting in. The venue seems to have a good flow, allowing patrons to enjoy their time without unnecessary stress. The crowd is often described as cool and laid-back, which adds to the overall vibe of the place. This welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for students who want to enjoy a night out without the pressure of a more intense club scene.

One of the standout features of The Cumberland Bar is its ability to create memorable nights. Many students have shared stories about losing track of time while enjoying the atmosphere, the music, and the company of friends. The venue has a knack for fostering a sense of community, where everyone is simply there to have a good time. This makes it an ideal spot for students who appreciate a relaxed yet lively environment. Students often leave with smiles on their faces, recounting nights filled with laughter and fun.

However, it’s important to note that The Cumberland Bar is not without its quirks. While many students enjoy the slightly chaotic atmosphere, some have mentioned that it can get a bit busy, especially on popular nights. This could be a downside for those who prefer a quieter setting for their evenings. Additionally, while the venue is generally clean and well-maintained, it may not be the fanciest place in town. Some students appreciate its unpretentious nature, while others might be looking for a more upscale experience.

In summary, The Cumberland Bar is a beloved venue among students at the University of Edinburgh. It offers a perfect blend of good music, affordable drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy a night out. Whether you're looking to dance, chat with friends, or simply enjoy a drink, this bar has something for everyone. Its high ratings for value and atmosphere reflect its popularity among students, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to make the most of their nights out in Edinburgh. The Cumberland Bar is best suited for students who appreciate a chill vibe and want to enjoy a fun, easygoing night out with friends.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Chill and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for students.
  • Highly rated for value, with reasonably priced drinks.
  • Good music selection, featuring popular anthems that keep the energy up.
  • Smooth entry process, with minimal queue times.
  • Friendly staff and a welcoming vibe that enhances the experience.
  • Consistent positive experiences reported by students, making it a reliable choice.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get busy and chaotic on popular nights.
  • Not the fanciest venue, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
  • Some students may prefer a quieter setting for their nights out.
  • Occasional issues with crowd size, leading to a more bustling atmosphere.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, relaxed night out without the pressure of a club atmosphere.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Try to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Expect a mix of music, primarily popular student anthems.
  • The bar is known for its affordable drinks, making it a budget-friendly choice.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Cumberland Bar like?

The Cumberland Bar is a chill venue with a relaxed vibe, known for its friendly atmosphere and good music.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally smooth and quick, with minimal wait times reported by students.

Is it good value?

Yes, it is highly rated for value, with reasonably priced drinks and a great overall experience.

What music does The Cumberland Bar play?

The music features popular student anthems and bangers that keep the energy lively.

What are the opening hours?

The Cumberland Bar is open Monday to Thursday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.

The Cumberland Bar — student bar photo
Reviews
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Crowd noise can be a bit much at times, especially when trying to catch up with friends after a long day. It feels chaotic, but in a way that makes the energy lively, keeping your spirits up despite the chatter.
By user894247 (Edinburgh) on Aug 4th 2026
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The staff at The Cumberland Bar are incredibly friendly and made me feel right at home immediately. It's not often you come across such genuine warmth in a bar, and it truly enhanced the overall enjoyable atmosphere.
By user369592 (Edinburgh) on Jul 28th 2026
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If you're looking for a space that feels fresh and tidy, this place does a better job than many student hangouts. it’s nice to unwind here without worrying about the usual mess, making it a good spot to catch up with mates after lectures.
By user360294 (Edinburgh) on Jul 23rd 2026
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Noise levels here can be overwhelming at times, which really shapes the experience. Trying to have a conversation while the bass thumps through your chest feels like an uphill battle. Still, if you’re looking to lose yourself in the music and the crowd, it offers an energy that can be quite addictive.
By user209545 (Edinburgh) on Jul 18th 2026
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The Cumberland Bar feels like a cozy hug after a long day.
By user976120 (Edinburgh) on Jul 13th 2026
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Finding a spot like Cumberland Bar is key for unwinding after a long week. It fits right into student life, balancing a lively atmosphere with affordable drinks, making it a regular hangout for catching up with mates without worrying about spending too much.
By user311441 (Edinburgh) on Jul 6th 2026
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The staff here made a great impression with their warm friendliness. I quickly found myself mingling and making new friends. The drinks and music are perfect for socializing, with the volume balanced so you can chat without yelling.
By user508869 (Edinburgh) on Jul 1st 2026
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Cumberland Bar stands out for its lively atmosphere. I've been there several times, and each visit was unique with different crowds every night. This variety keeps things fresh and interesting, making it a consistently good spot for a night out. As a mature student, I value places that offer a fun experience without becoming monotonous.
By user205773 (Edinburgh) on Jun 26th 2026
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The music here really sets the stage, with its pulsing beats syncing perfectly with the crowd's energy. The lively buzz of conversation, mixed with bursts of laughter, creates such a warm atmosphere. Finding a spot to hang out is a breeze, and the staff are absolute pros at keeping everything running smoothly.
By user327841 (Edinburgh) on Jun 21st 2026
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The ambiance here is perfect for unwinding and enjoying a casual hangout. It feels like everyone is just genuinely having a good time, which makes it easy to relax and soak up the welcoming vibes. Such a fun spot to catch up with friends.
By user733352 (Edinburgh) on Jun 16th 2026
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Drinks were reasonably priced for a night out, and given the atmosphere and location, it felt like a solid way to unwind without worrying about my budget too much. would visit again.
By user243865 (Edinburgh) on Jun 10th 2026
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The warmth of the staff here really stands out, creating a welcoming atmosphere. It's evident they genuinely care about each person, rather than just going through the motions. This kind of personal touch is a rare and refreshing find in a student bar, enhancing the experience significantly.
By user653012 (Edinburgh) on Jun 5th 2026
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I was really impressed by the welcoming vibe at The Cumberland Bar, especially given all the buzz about Edinburgh's bars. I thought it would be super crowded, but I found a great blend of lively chatter and space to unwind, which is such a treasure in this city. The laid-back staff were attentive too, making it an unexpectedly awesome spot to chill with friends or have some meaningful conversations. 😊
By user266791 (Edinburgh) on May 29th 2026
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The atmosphere at The Cumberland Bar is perfect for a laid-back evening with friends. It's a welcoming spot that makes it easy to relax and enjoy good company. Compared to places back home, it feels genuinely inviting, which made the night enjoyable.
By user413127 (Edinburgh) on May 24th 2026
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Staff here keep everything impeccably clean, which really sets it apart from other bars. it’s refreshing to enjoy a night out without feeling grossed out by sticky floors or dirty surfaces.
By user392947 (Edinburgh) on May 19th 2026
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Catching up with friends here turned out to be a fantastic choice. The music was on point and really added to our experience. Everyone around seemed genuinely friendly, which made for a great atmosphere. We're definitely planning to return for more good times and the perfect spot to just hang out and be ourselves.
By user888358 (Edinburgh) on May 12th 2026
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Always a mix of interesting people here; had some fun chats that made the night memorable.
By user165944 (Edinburgh) on May 6th 2026
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A decent spot to relax after classes, though it sometimes gets crowded. Friendly staff keep the vibe upbeat and it's a good place to catch up with friends over drinks.
By user823510 (Edinburgh) on Apr 30th 2026
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The staff's casual banter here really makes a difference, creating a vibe that's more like being at home than just a bar.
By user711718 (Edinburgh) on Apr 25th 2026
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If you're looking for a laid-back spot with inexpensive drinks, the Cumberland Bar is perfect. It's a great hangout to relax with classmates or get to know some locals. 🍻
By user860394 (Edinburgh) on Apr 19th 2026
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The Cumberland has a surprisingly large and inviting garden tucked behind the pub. Finding a comfortable spot with friends outside was ideal, and even on busy nights, it never felt overcrowded.
By user785388 (Edinburgh) on Apr 13th 2026
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Noticed how they arrange the seating so you can easily join in with other groups or have a bit of privacy if that's what you're after. it makes a difference when you're trying to relax
By user720120 (Edinburgh) on Apr 11th 2026
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There's something special about The Cumberland Bar when it comes to finding that ideal vibe for hanging out with friends. The staff truly shine in creating an atmosphere that's lively yet relaxing, turning weekends into a delightful break from the daily grind.
By user303858 (Edinburgh) on Apr 10th 2026
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The Cumberland Bar is my go-to after classes when I need a break from the day. It's the ideal spot to relax without feeling crowded, and the friendly vibe paired with reasonable prices makes it perfect for unwinding. I love catching up with friends here, chatting about anything and everything.
By user157871 (Edinburgh) on Apr 3rd 2026
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I've been here a few times now, and it's really grown on me. The staff become more welcoming with each visit, which is a nice touch. The crowd seems to have a great sense of when to keep things mellow and when to ramp up the energy.
By user804969 (Edinburgh) on Apr 2nd 2026
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Getting to The Cumberland Bar early turned out to be the best move. It gave us a comfortable spot to enjoy our drinks without the stress of a crowded room. We spent hours there, chatting and laughing with ease, never feeling squeezed in or hurried to leave. 🍻
By user466119 (Edinburgh) on Apr 1st 2026
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Love stopping by the cumberland bar after morning training because it's a chill place to relax and unwind.
By user683033 (Edinburgh) on Mar 27th 2026
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Having to wait for drinks can sometimes interrupt the otherwise chill vibe here. Service tends to slow down when it's crowded, which is a bit of a letdown during peak times.
By user158637 (Edinburgh) on Mar 24th 2026
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Spending time in the garden here with friends makes for an easygoing evening. The mix of people provides a lively vibe without ever getting out of hand. Heading out later is as relaxed as coming in, which isn't something you find at just any busy place.
By user517987 (Edinburgh) on Mar 19th 2026
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Initially, The Cumberland Bar seems a bit unfamiliar, but the mix of people soon turns it into a comfortable hangout.
By user747102 (Edinburgh) on Mar 17th 2026
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The Cumberland Bar is a cozy retreat from the busy city life, which really caught me off guard. The laughter echoing from every table is infectious, making it tough not to smile and enjoy the good vibes 😊.
By user692038 (Edinburgh) on Mar 12th 2026
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Absolutely would go back for the atmosphere alone, as it's always buzzing with stories and laughter 🌙
By user554527 (Edinburgh) on Mar 2nd 2026
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Spent some quality time with friends here, and it was just what we needed to unwind. The wood interiors create such a comforting setting, making it feel like an ideal hideaway from university stress.
By user334852 (Edinburgh) on Feb 9th 2026
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It's amazing how this place manages the perfect balance between calm and energetic. The mix between students and locals creates a friendly vibe, like everyone could be a potential friend. I really appreciated the laid-back atmosphere; it felt more relaxed than other spots in the area.
By user670033 (Edinburgh) on Feb 3rd 2026
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The Cumberland Bar is surprisingly cozy for a pub, much more than I expected. The warm wood-paneled walls and the gentle hum of conversation completely put me at ease. It's a welcoming place that I didn't anticipate finding, and I'll be heading back for sure.
By user336295 (Edinburgh) on Jan 28th 2026
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Didn't expect the garden area to be so spacious and nice. found it a great spot to relax when the weather cooperates. even though it's in the new town, somehow it feels a bit like you've escaped the hustle.
By user333296 (Edinburgh) on Jan 23rd 2026
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I'm definitely planning another visit to this place. The staff are genuinely friendly, and it's got the perfect vibe for chilling out after a long day of classes.
By user865216 (Edinburgh) on Jan 19th 2026
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After a crazy week of assignments, this place was the perfect spot to unwind. The easygoing atmosphere buzzes with just the right amount of energy, keeping things lively. Students and locals mingle effortlessly, making conversations genuinely fun and engaging.
By user990767 (Edinburgh) on Jan 15th 2026
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After a long study session, I decided to check out this place based on a friend's recommendation. It was a welcome retreat. The lively chatter around me was energizing, yet the overall vibe remained so laid-back. It truly felt like taking a proper break from the usual rush 😊.
By user134847 (Edinburgh) on Jan 12th 2026
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I found this place during fresher's week and it quickly felt like a second home. What I really appreciate is how it's always buzzing with energy, yet still manages to be a spot where you can chat comfortably.
By user196422 (Edinburgh) on Jan 8th 2026
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Evenings here strike the perfect chord with a mix of history and tunes that just works seamlessly. The low lights and friendly chatter add a warm buzz that makes everything feel effortlessly right.
By user785259 (Edinburgh) on Jan 4th 2026
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Tables are often sticky which is a bit annoying 😬 after setting down my papers.
By user865325 (Edinburgh) on Dec 31st 2025
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The garden here is the perfect spot for a pint and some good conversation with a friendly mix of locals and students. It's like being in a massive backyard right in the city. The atmosphere is laid-back, and even as the night goes on, it’s just hard to leave.
By user105175 (Edinburgh) on Dec 27th 2025
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Need a spot for a laid-back evening without emptying your wallet? This place has you covered. Its wood-paneled charm gives off that classic pub vibe minus any pretentiousness. Perfect for catching up and sharing laughs with friends, especially after a week packed with assignments. A great choice for unwinding and enjoying good company.
By user290684 (Edinburgh) on Dec 22nd 2025
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During busy times, this place somehow maintains a chill vibe. It's great when you just want to unwind without feeling overwhelmed.
By user674071 (Edinburgh) on Dec 18th 2025
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For anyone who loves a lively social scene, this place is a real find! The atmosphere strikes a fantastic balance between being laid-back and having just the right amount of energy to keep the conversations flowing. It's an awesome hangout for friends to enjoy each other's company and soak in the great vibe.
By user615987 (Edinburgh) on Dec 14th 2025
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Noticed a nice mix of locals and students all just vibing together without any pretentiousness.
By user889683 (Edinburgh) on Dec 9th 2025
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Chatting by the bar with a laid-back crowd made for a great escape from exams. plus, the atmosphere seemed to ease any stress, which was much needed.
By user517695 (Edinburgh) on Dec 3rd 2025
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There's a unique charm at The Cumberland Bar that feels like reconnecting with an old friend. The atmosphere really wraps around you, making it easy to settle in with your mates and enjoy the moment. 😊
By user435908 (Edinburgh) on Nov 29th 2025
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Visited The Cumberland Bar a few times, and each visit felt more welcoming than the last. It's the kind of place where you can truly unwind without any fuss, blending into the scene effortlessly.
By user711162 (Edinburgh) on Nov 25th 2025
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Popped into the cumberland bar after training, and it's got this really relaxed atmosphere. a mate mentioned how it's all polished wood inside, and it gives that proper classic pub feel. plus, you can just chat without shouting over loud music, which is a win in my books.
By user242975 (Edinburgh) on Nov 19th 2025
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At other pubs, you're lucky to find a seat, but here, there's always a cozy corner waiting. perfect for casual chats or impromptu dance-offs with mates after a few pints.
By user217874 (Edinburgh) on Nov 13th 2025
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Staff could be a bit quicker, to be honest. nothing worse than waiting ages for a pint when you just want to chill. it’s a bit annoying, but the overall atmosphere kinda makes up for it.
By user982637 (Edinburgh) on Nov 7th 2025
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Stumbled into the cumberland and was surprised by how cozy it felt despite its rather posh address in new town. wasn't awkward at all, just a touch rustic with wooden panels and warm lighting, which made it easier to just relax and laugh with friends 😊
By user181920 (Edinburgh) on Oct 30th 2025