The Cumberland Bar, Edinburgh – 35 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Cumberland Bar -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 35 user ratings

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

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM, Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM, Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

💬 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.

Reviews
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Crowd here is a mix of laid-back locals and students, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere to enjoy.
By user860394 on Apr 19th 2026
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Never expected the garden space to be so massive and inviting, tucked away behind the pub. finding a cozy spot outside with friends was perfect, and it didn’t feel crowded even on busy nights.
By user785388 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 on Apr 11th 2026
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Cumberland bar's vibe is the perfect mix of lively and chilled, making it a great spot to unwind with mates. the staff have a knack for keeping the energy just right, which meant weekends felt like a proper escape from the weekday grind.
By user303858 on Apr 10th 2026
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Usually pop into the cumberland bar after classes when i need to decompress a bit. it fits perfectly into my routine as a place where i can relax without the pressure of crowds overwhelming me. the friendly atmosphere and decent prices make it easy to unwind and chat with friends about everything and nothing.
By user157871 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Went there a few times and started feeling comfortable with the place. staff get friendlier with each visit and the crowd really knows when to keep it chill and when to liven things up.
By user804969 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Grabbing a table at the cumberland bar early made all the difference, giving us just the spot we needed to chill as the place got busier. a few rounds later and we were still chatting and laughing comfortably without feeling cramped or rushed to leave.
By user466119 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 on Mar 27th 2026
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Service can be a bit slow sometimes, especially when it's busy 😬. it's a shame because it can take away from the overall relaxed experience when you're stuck waiting ages for a drink.
By user158637 on Mar 24th 2026
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Finding a spot in the garden and lounging with friends made the evening feel effortless and natural. the blend of people there added a lively energy without ever being chaotic, and leaving the bar was just as chill as arriving, which is a rare thing in a busy venue.
By user517987 on Mar 19th 2026
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Getting used to the Cumberland Bar was like slowly fitting into my favourite jumper. at first it felt a bit unfamiliar, but eventually the comfortable atmosphere and mix of people made it feel like my new regular spot.
By user747102 on Mar 17th 2026
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Stepping in felt like escaping into a cozy corner, kind of unexpected for a city known for its hustle. the laughter from each table felt contagious, making it hard not to smile and just join in the energy.
By user692038 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 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Caught up with some mates here and it felt like time just slipped by 😅. the cosy wood interiors made it feel like a perfect little escape from all the uni chaos.
By user334852 on Feb 9th 2026
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Walking into the cumberland bar, you notice how it’s always that perfect mix of calm and buzz. the crowd is full of students and locals alike, making it feel like everyone's just a friend you haven't met yet. definitely enjoyed the relaxed pace compared to other places nearby.
By user670033 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Walked in expecting the usual, but instead found a warm, almost cozy atmosphere. the wood-paneled walls and the gentle buzz of conversation really put me at ease, which was unexpected for a pub. it's more welcoming than i'd anticipated, making it a spot i'll definitely revisit.
By user336295 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 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Definitely heading back since the staff are genuine and the atmosphere's perfect for unwinding after classes.
By user865216 on Jan 19th 2026
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Found myself actually relaxing here after a hectic week of assignments. the atmosphere is easygoing but lively enough to keep things interesting. the students and locals mix together well, making conversations feel effortless and fun.
By user990767 on Jan 15th 2026
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Heard about cumberland bar from a friend who said it was perfect for some chill time. went there after a long study session and gotta say, it felt like a proper break. no rush at all and really liked the mix of lively chatter and laid-back vibe.
By user134847 on Jan 12th 2026
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Discovered it during fresher's week and it quickly became my second home. loved how it's always buzzing but still feels chilled enough to chat comfortably.
By user196422 on Jan 8th 2026
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Lights low, friends chatting, and a warm buzz in the air , evenings here feel effortlessly good. maybe it's the history in the walls or just the right mix of tunes 🎶, but it just clicks.
By user785259 on Jan 4th 2026
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Tables are often sticky which is a bit annoying 😬 after setting down my papers.
By user865325 on Dec 31st 2025
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Meeting people here is a breeze, coz the crowd's a friendly mix of locals and fellow students. chatting over a pint in the garden feels like hanging out in someone's massive backyard,a bit of a gem in the city. plus, their chill vibe just makes you want to stay, even when it starts getting late.
By user105175 on Dec 27th 2025
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Get yourself to the cumberland bar for a chilled night without spending too much. perfect for having a laugh with friends in the wood-paneled coziness, you'll feel like you're in a proper pub but without the stuffiness. overall, it's a solid place to unwind after juggling coursework all week.
By user290684 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Staff at the cumberland are genuinely attentive compared to other pubs in the area. even when it's busy, they've got a knack for making you feel like you're the only one at the bar, which can seriously change the whole night.
By user674071 on Dec 18th 2025
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Never been to the cumberland? you’re in for a treat. it’s this lovely corner spot where you can kick back with friends and the chatter flows as easily as the drinks. love that it's relaxed but still has a bit of buzz to keep things interesting.
By user615987 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 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 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Adjusting to the vibe of The Cumberland Bar felt oddly like meeting an old friend after a long hiatus. the relaxed atmosphere kind of wraps around you until you're comfortably right at home with your mates.
By user435908 on Nov 29th 2025
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Found myself warming up to the cozy vibe over a couple of visits. each time, it became easier to just relax and feel part of the scene without any hassle.
By user711162 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 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 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 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 on Oct 30th 2025