The Cumberland Bar, Edinburgh – 56 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Cumberland Bar β€” student bar photo

The Cumberland Bar -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 56 user ratings

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

πŸ’¬ 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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βœ… 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.

🎯 Best For

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

πŸ’‘ 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 β€” student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 56
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real ales were nicely done, lovely
By user276612 (Edinburgh) on Aug 17th 2026
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proper chilled beer garden experience
By user453881 (Edinburgh) on Aug 10th 2026
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Really loved the chilled Sunday atmosphere.
By user894247 (Edinburgh) on Aug 4th 2026
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beer garden with lots of space
By user369592 (Edinburgh) on Jul 28th 2026
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Perfect for an evening pint with friends.
By user360294 (Edinburgh) on Jul 23rd 2026
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one afternoon i just lounged all day chatting with mates trying all the real ales it was ace
By user209545 (Edinburgh) on Jul 18th 2026
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friendly bartenders and relaxed vibe
By user976120 (Edinburgh) on Jul 13th 2026
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british menu is excellent
By user311441 (Edinburgh) on Jul 6th 2026
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proper cosy pub vibes
By user508869 (Edinburgh) on Jul 1st 2026
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once sat on a sunny sunday and chilled with my freinds until closing felt like a mini vacation
By user205773 (Edinburgh) on Jun 26th 2026
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The roast dinner was a star.
By user327841 (Edinburgh) on Jun 21st 2026
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good for Sunday lunch
By user733352 (Edinburgh) on Jun 16th 2026
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their dinner hit the spot
By user243865 (Edinburgh) on Jun 10th 2026
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interiors match staff style
By user653012 (Edinburgh) on Jun 5th 2026
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proper lovely roast dinner
By user266791 (Edinburgh) on May 29th 2026
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gorgeous roast dinners! 🍻
By user413127 (Edinburgh) on May 24th 2026
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interior is stylish
By user392947 (Edinburgh) on May 19th 2026
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relaxed staff really sound
By user888358 (Edinburgh) on May 12th 2026
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Relaxing in the garden is always a pleasure.
By user165944 (Edinburgh) on May 6th 2026
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Great atmoshere and amazing menu options.
By user823510 (Edinburgh) on Apr 30th 2026
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great for drinks with mates
By user711718 (Edinburgh) on Apr 25th 2026
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old-school gastropub feel
By user860394 (Edinburgh) on Apr 19th 2026
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The garden on a lazy afternoon was perfect.
By user785388 (Edinburgh) on Apr 13th 2026
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order the roast, really good
By user720120 (Edinburgh) on Apr 11th 2026
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amazing afternoon there
By user303858 (Edinburgh) on Apr 10th 2026
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sound sunday atmosphere
By user157871 (Edinburgh) on Apr 3rd 2026
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sat in their beer garden, sun was out, really relaxed, we drank ale, chatted for ages
By user804969 (Edinburgh) on Apr 2nd 2026
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The real ales were genuinely good.
By user466119 (Edinburgh) on Apr 1st 2026
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You can find an old-school vibe here, very cosy.
By user683033 (Edinburgh) on Mar 27th 2026
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Loved the tastes of their British menu selections.
By user158637 (Edinburgh) on Mar 24th 2026
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loved sitting in the garden area 😍
By user517987 (Edinburgh) on Mar 19th 2026
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great place for ale
By user747102 (Edinburgh) on Mar 17th 2026
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enjoyable british menu
By user692038 (Edinburgh) on Mar 12th 2026
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large group accommodated quickly
By user554527 (Edinburgh) on Mar 2nd 2026
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The Cumberland serves some tasty gluten-free options.
By user334852 (Edinburgh) on Feb 9th 2026
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good relaxed atmosphere
By user670033 (Edinburgh) on Feb 3rd 2026
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really chilled out garden
By user336295 (Edinburgh) on Jan 28th 2026
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The garden is lovely, especially on sunny days.
By user333296 (Edinburgh) on Jan 23rd 2026
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check out the gluten-free options.
By user865216 (Edinburgh) on Jan 19th 2026
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absolutely loved the beer garden, so nice
By user990767 (Edinburgh) on Jan 15th 2026
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proper good spot to chill
By user134847 (Edinburgh) on Jan 12th 2026
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delicious British menu to choose from.
By user196422 (Edinburgh) on Jan 8th 2026
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get the gluten-free option, its delish
By user785259 (Edinburgh) on Jan 4th 2026
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They were very accommodating for our group.
By user865325 (Edinburgh) on Dec 31st 2025
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spent the afternoon in their lovely beer garden
By user105175 (Edinburgh) on Dec 27th 2025
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cosy gastropub vibes
By user290684 (Edinburgh) on Dec 22nd 2025
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chilled in the beer garden all afternoon
By user674071 (Edinburgh) on Dec 18th 2025
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They offer a wide variety of real ales for all tastes.
By user615987 (Edinburgh) on Dec 14th 2025
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perfect sunday afternoon 😍
By user889683 (Edinburgh) on Dec 9th 2025
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real ales on tap
By user517695 (Edinburgh) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Beer garden is great deffinately recomend it.
By user435908 (Edinburgh) on Nov 29th 2025
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It's a relaxed and cosy gem with great ales.
By user711162 (Edinburgh) on Nov 25th 2025
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cosy place and delicious food 😍
By user242975 (Edinburgh) on Nov 19th 2025
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Sitting in their garden was a highlight for me.
By user217874 (Edinburgh) on Nov 13th 2025
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grab a seat in the garden!
By user982637 (Edinburgh) on Nov 7th 2025
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love the real ales
By user181920 (Edinburgh) on Oct 30th 2025