The Victoria Inn, Exeter – 59 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Victoria Inn -

Cleanliness
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Price
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Smoking

Based on 59 user ratings

36 Victoria St, Exeter EX4 6JQ

💬 What Students Say

The Victoria Inn, located at 36 Victoria St, Exeter, is a popular student-friendly pub that offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere for those looking to enjoy a night out. With its focus on live sports, affordable drinks, and a welcoming crowd, it's no wonder that students from the nearby University of Exeter frequently choose this venue for their social gatherings. The pub is renowned for its ability to create an energetic vibe that keeps patrons engaged throughout the night. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long week or kick off the weekend with friends, The Victoria Inn provides the perfect backdrop.

Students often rave about the atmosphere at The Victoria Inn, describing it as lively and inclusive. The energy in the pub is palpable, with many reviewers noting how everyone seems to be in high spirits and enjoying themselves. This sense of camaraderie is a significant draw for students, as it creates an environment where making new friends and connecting with others comes naturally. The crowd is typically a mix of students and locals, which adds to the overall entertainment value, ensuring that no two nights are ever the same. Many patrons appreciate that the venue feels busy without being overcrowded, allowing for a comfortable experience while still maintaining a buzzing atmosphere.

Music is a crucial component of the experience at The Victoria Inn, and students frequently mention how the selection is always on point. The pub tends to play a mix of popular tracks that resonate with the crowd, making it easy to enjoy the night. The sound level is just right, allowing for lively conversations while still encouraging people to dance and enjoy the music. This balance is essential for students looking to socialize without feeling overwhelmed by the noise. The overall vibe is one of fun and relaxation, making it an ideal spot to unwind with friends after a long week of classes.

When it comes to drinks, The Victoria Inn is highly rated for its value. Students appreciate the affordability of the drinks, with many mentioning that the prices don’t break the bank. The pub offers a range of shots and bottles, making it easy to enjoy a few drinks without worrying about costs. This aspect is particularly appealing to students who are often on a budget but still want to have a good time. The combination of great music and reasonably priced drinks creates a perfect formula for a successful night out.

Entry to The Victoria Inn is generally smooth, with many reviews highlighting the manageable queues. Students often mention that they can expect a straightforward entry experience, which is a significant plus for those who want to dive right into the fun without lengthy waits. The efficient service contributes to the overall positive experience, allowing patrons to spend more time enjoying their night rather than standing in line. This seamless entry process is especially appreciated during peak nights when other venues might struggle with crowd control.

While The Victoria Inn has many strengths, it’s essential to consider a few caveats. Some students note that it’s not the most glamorous spot, and while this might deter some, many appreciate its authenticity and laid-back vibe. The focus here is on good times rather than fancy decor, which aligns perfectly with the student lifestyle. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally lively, it can sometimes get a bit loud, which might not suit everyone’s preference for a night out. However, this is often seen as part of the charm of the venue.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Victoria Inn is ideal for students looking for a relaxed yet energetic night out. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with friends, enjoy good music, and make memories without the pressure of a high-end bar experience. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to feel included, making it a great spot for both regulars and first-time visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to kick off the weekend or just want a chill place to hang out, The Victoria Inn has something to offer.

In conclusion, The Victoria Inn stands out as a reliable choice for students at the University of Exeter. With its affordable drinks, lively atmosphere, and solid music selection, it provides a fantastic setting for a memorable night out. While it may not be the most upscale venue, its charm lies in its ability to create a fun and inviting environment where students can truly enjoy themselves. If you’re looking for a place that encapsulates the essence of student nightlife in Exeter, The Victoria Inn is definitely worth a visit.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and inclusive atmosphere that encourages socializing.
  • Affordable drink prices, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Great music selection that resonates with the crowd.
  • Manageable queues for entry, allowing for a smooth experience.
  • A mix of students and locals adds to the entertainment value.
  • Comfortable environment that isn’t overcrowded.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Not the most glamorous venue, which may deter some.
  • Can get loud, which might not suit everyone’s preference.
  • Limited fancy decor, focusing more on a laid-back vibe.
  • Occasional busy nights might lead to a packed atmosphere.
  • Some may prefer a more upscale experience.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed yet energetic night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, perfect for a laid-back night.
  • Arrive early to avoid any potential queues on busy nights.
  • Expect a mix of music styles, primarily popular tracks.
  • Great place to start the weekend or unwind after a long week.
  • Check for special drink offers to make the most of your budget.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Victoria Inn like?

The Victoria Inn is a lively pub with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind and have fun.

How long is the queue?

Queues are generally manageable, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, The Victoria Inn is highly rated for its affordable drink prices, making it budget-friendly for students.

What music does The Victoria Inn play?

The pub features a mix of popular tracks that resonate with the crowd, creating an enjoyable atmosphere.

What type of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a mix of students and locals, contributing to a lively and entertaining environment.

Reviews
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Sipping a pint while surrounded by quiet chatter felt like a slice of calm amid all the chaos of uni life; that moment was a much-needed escape.
By user253057 on Apr 28th 2026
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Wandered in just as some big game was about to start, and honestly, I'm not even into sports but the energy kinda sucked me in. everyone was super into it, chatting and cheering, even made a few new mates over a pint 😅
By user793100 on Apr 20th 2026
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Ended up watching a big match here with some uni mates, and the place was buzzing with energy. couldn't resist joining the cheers when our team scored, made the whole experience feel like being at the stadium 😅 made the night unforgettable!
By user205417 on Apr 14th 2026
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Seemed like half of my uni was at Victoria Inn, chatting and laughing over a game on the big screen. everyone just seemed to click, like you could easily run into classmates and end up having a laugh together 🍕
By user415107 on Apr 11th 2026
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Expected a typical pub vibe, but this place was buzzing with energy and felt more like a party 🎉
By user242433 on Apr 10th 2026
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Sports on the big screens kept everyone buzzing and the chatter never stopped, which made the whole night feel alive. Add to that, the bartenders were quick and down-to-earth, so you never waited around awkwardly.
By user183964 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Noticed a corner by the darts board where conversations flowed more freely, like you could hear everyone's stories without the usual pub hum. definitely added a warmer touch to the night.
By user127683 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Had a random conversation with this guy about his wild weekend in Ibiza while waiting forever in line for another round. honestly, the people you meet while sipping budget-friendly pints make the long wait a bit more bearable and kind of fun.
By user762824 on Apr 1st 2026
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Would definitely go back to the victoria inn. even after early morning training sessions, popping in for a quick drink is easy enough since it’s close by and always lively. plus, the live sports make it a fun place to unwind with other students.
By user689296 on Mar 28th 2026
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Initially, i just went for the live sports, but over time the crowd grew on me. people are warm and easy to chat with, making it feel like a second living room. it's become my go-to spot to unwind mid-week.
By user672035 on Mar 25th 2026
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Never expected to feel so welcome on my first visit. the place was buzzing with a friendly crowd, and it seemed like everyone was a regular. i even got into a chat with some local students while watching the game, which was easy because of the relaxed vibe.
By user917591 on Mar 19th 2026
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Staff here seem genuinely happy to be working and it makes a difference. they chat with you like you're a regular even if it's your first visit, and you can tell they know what students want in a night out. there's something nice about being somewhere where people like what they do.
By user173349 on Mar 14th 2026
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Noticed it's always a bit of a wait at the bar when it's busy, which can be a pain. once you grab your drink though, it's easy to get swept up in the lively atmosphere.
By user678752 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Stumbling upon the victoria inn, i was amazed at how genuinely interested they seemed in getting to know every student 🍕.
By user738763 on Feb 25th 2026
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Took a few visits to feel truly at home, but now it feels like part of my weekly routine. you get the sense it’s a place where everyone's settling in for a good time 😅
By user861418 on Feb 24th 2026
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Staff here are pretty chill and easy to chat with, which definitely enhances the vibe. you always feel welcome, and it's fun to see them joining in when everyone's watching a game.
By user107918 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Regularly pop into the victoria inn after my thursday seminars for a brisk pint with mates before cycling back home.
By user826175 on Feb 20th 2026
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Usually pop into The Victoria Inn midweek when I need a breather from all the textbooks. it's got this really chill but lively feel that eases the study stress away. mates from uni and I have made it our go-to place when we just need to catch up and have a laugh.
By user947179 on Feb 19th 2026
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Whoever's working always seems up for a laugh and makes everyone feel right at home. even when it's packed, they're still quick with a pint and know how to keep things ticking over. you get the feeling they genuinely enjoy the place as much as we do, which is pretty refreshing.
By user700542 on Feb 18th 2026
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Watching a match at the victoria inn with mates feels like being in a massive living room with a load of other students who just get it. the crowd is always buzzing, and the energy is contagious. drinks won't break the budget either, which is a nice bonus 😅
By user274514 on Feb 17th 2026
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Someone said the crowd really makes it worth going. can't stop feeling upbeat with the sports and the mix of people, plus the drinks don’t squeeze your wallet much
By user475471 on Feb 16th 2026
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Walking into the victoria inn felt like entering a friend’s living room. the atmosphere was lively but comfortable enough that even the loudest football match seemed friendly. i relaxed immediately and knew it was a place i'd be happy to return to.
By user302814 on Feb 15th 2026
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Catching a football match here with other uni students really amps up the energy and makes it feel like everyone's rooting for the same team.
By user257622 on Feb 14th 2026
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Walk into the victoria inn and you'll feel like you belong, even if it's your first time. it's a student-friendly spot with affordable drinks, and there's usually a match on that gets everyone cheering and chatting. definitely a place where you'll end up making new friends before you know it.
By user603614 on Feb 13th 2026
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Midway through the varsity game, everyone suddenly erupted into cheers and the whole pub felt like one big community. the crowd's energy is like nothing else and it's impossible not to get caught up in it all.
By user526094 on Feb 9th 2026
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George said last time there that he met some cool people and loved the energy.
By user147600 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Moving to Exeter, I found myself at The Victoria Inn more often than expected. This place has a knack for turning strangers into friends after just a couple of visits. At first I went for the cheap drinks, but I stayed for the lively crowd and constant game chatter.
By user871206 on Jan 27th 2026
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Walking into the victoria inn always feels like entering a lively gathering instead of just a pub. the space hums with energy as everyone seems eager to unwind, and it’s hard not to absorb that buzz. i felt welcomed right away, like it was a place where a good night is practically guaranteed.
By user162912 on Jan 22nd 2026
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Definitely would go back to the victoria inn. it's got that mix of affordable drinks and a lively crowd that you want as a student. not the fanciest place ever, but it does the trick for a chill evening with mates.
By user809851 on Jan 18th 2026
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Met the kindest group of people during a quiz night who turned into lifelong mates, like fate had a hand in it.
By user892016 on Jan 15th 2026
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Staff at victoria inn are sound, like genuinely. they feel like mates who want you to have a good time, which makes the whole experience even better. easy to chat with and always up for a laugh, you feel welcomed from the moment you step in.
By user365632 on Jan 11th 2026
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Got to say, having a bunch of other students around really made the night at the victoria inn fun and easygoing. you kinda just end up chatting to people you bump into, and with the vibe there, it's pretty easy to feel right at home. having affordable drinks doesn’t hurt either when you're on a student budget 😊
By user808463 on Jan 7th 2026
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Never thought i'd be cheering for a team i didn’t even know existed 🎉 but the atmosphere during the match was electric. everyone seemed to forget their worries for a bit while diving into the excitement together.
By user536695 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Saturday night game days are something else there. the place absolutely buzzes with energy as everyone crowds around to watch, and you can feel the excitement build with each play. i ended up chatting with a bunch of people, which honestly made the experience even better.
By user317720 on Dec 30th 2025
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Asked a mate about it and they said it's got a chill vibe and everyone's super easy to chat with. apparently, the drinks don't cost a ton either, which is a win.
By user318119 on Dec 26th 2025
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Surprised to find a massive outdoor screen showing live sports in the garden.
By user475733 on Dec 21st 2025
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Sports on the big screens make it a lively spot, and folks are really into it which makes watching games fun even if you're not a huge fan yourself. there's a nice mix of people and you can just relax without any hassle.
By user527112 on Dec 17th 2025
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Found the victoria inn much livelier compared to other spots around exeter. most bars try too hard and end up feeling forced, but this place was just effortlessly fun. cheap drinks and a crowd that doesn't take themselves too seriously , it's been a refreshing change.
By user221111 on Dec 13th 2025
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Felt like everyone had just rolled out of lecture halls straight into the pub, with a kind of easy connection in the air. maybe it's the way the place draws you in, but there's something special about how it brings students together over a shared game or a casual chat.
By user889275 on Dec 6th 2025
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Can't forget how lively it felt with everyone cheering for the game 😊. made the awkwardness of meeting new people vanish pretty quickly.
By user755751 on Dec 2nd 2025
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Felt right at home the moment i stepped in. the friendly buzz and laughter from fellow students set a welcoming scene that's hard to resist after an early gym session.
By user223699 on Nov 28th 2025
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Everyone at the victoria inn seemed to be in good spirits, from the students catching up over a pint to the sports fans cheering at the big screens. you can tell it's a spot where people come to unwind and enjoy themselves. it felt like a place where conversations flowed naturally and laughter was part of the soundtrack.
By user264800 on Nov 24th 2025
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Everyone seems to know each other at The Victoria Inn, which makes it stand out from other spots around Exeter. it’s got this unpretentious feel, and the locals mix so well with students. you'll walk in just for the cheap drinks, but the atmosphere is what keeps you hanging around way longer than planned.
By user693319 on Nov 18th 2025
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Expected it to be too rowdy for my taste, but it turned out to be pretty chill. chatting with the regulars made evenings more enjoyable than I thought they would be.
By user365955 on Nov 11th 2025
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Saw loads of friendly faces and a mix of students and locals chatting over pints. definitely not the sort of place where you feel out of place as everyone just seemed relaxed and in good spirits.
By user765195 on Nov 4th 2025
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Stumbled into the victoria inn after a long rehearsal and it hit the spot perfectly, both as a place to unwind and to catch a bit of the game. ended up chatting with some folks from my course, which made the night unexpectedly brilliant. walked home feeling like i’d just had a big hug, already planning my next visit.
By user688751 on Oct 29th 2025
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By user566530 on Dec 11th 2023
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Really expected a lively atmosphere, but it was pretty underwhelming. seemed like it's missing something since I last visited. also, if you're a smoker, finding a spot is a bit of a hassle.
By user229076 on Nov 16th 2023
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Adjusting to the victoria inn was a bit of a shock at first because of the prices, but meeting people who come for the sports made it worth it. it's just a pity there's no spot outside for a smoke.
By user851246 on Nov 15th 2023
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By user301356 on Nov 15th 2023
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Loads of students hanging out here give it a lively and fun atmosphere, but snagging a table early is a good move.
By user147323 on Nov 13th 2023
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This is my first time in the vic. It seems lovely. If you are fresh meat you should come along. It’s epic. I love it. The cider is kinda cheap. #cider
Student review photo for The Victoria Inn
By user364504 on Nov 12th 2023
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This is my first time in the vic. It seems lovely. If you are fresh meat you should come along. It’s epic. I love it. The cider is kinda cheap. #cider
Student review photo for The Victoria Inn
By user517758 on Nov 12th 2023
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By angusmcleoduk on Nov 7th 2023
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Tried a few pubs since moving here, but Victoria Inn definitely sticks out. it's lively yet chill, which is a balance some places just can't manage. plus, the prices don't make me regret going out, which is more than i can say for other spots nearby.
By user113762 on Nov 1st 2023
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Victoria inn's prices are way more student-friendly compared to other pubs around. sure, the seating can get a bit cramped, especially if there's a big game on, but it's part of the charm. you get a more genuine atmosphere here than in the trendier spots.
By user604304 on Oct 26th 2023
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Walking into The Victoria Inn feels a bit like entering a buzzing social hub with everyone ready to have a chill time. 😊 the mix of chatter and clinking glasses is oddly comforting and you instantly feel part of the crowd. it's not all polished but that just adds to the down-to-earth vibe that makes you want to stay.
By user809102 on Sep 18th 2023
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Caught a rugby match here once and the energy was electric, everyone was so into it that even I couldn't help but cheer along 📚. plus, the drinks don't burn a hole in the wallet, which is a lifesaver for keeping nights affordable.
By user210453 on Sep 18th 2023
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Unlike other pubs where you might feel cramped, victoria inn manages to keep it spacious and lively without being overwhelming. you can actually enjoy a chat without shouting over a crowd, and that makes meeting new people way more relaxed 😅
By user297961 on Sep 17th 2023