The Stoke Arms, Exeter – 51 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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The Stoke Arms -
infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps
The Stoke Arms -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 51 user ratings
Prince Charles Road, Exeter, EX4 7BZ
💬 What Students Say
The Stoke Arms, located on Prince Charles Road near the University of Exeter, is a traditional pub that has become a beloved spot for students looking to unwind and enjoy a vibrant night out. With a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community, it’s a place where students frequently gather to relax after a long day of classes or to kick off their weekend festivities. The Stoke Arms is known for its good vibes and lively crowd, making it an ideal venue for those wanting to socialize and have fun with friends.
The atmosphere at The Stoke Arms is often described as friendly and inviting. Many students mention that from the moment they walk in, they feel a sense of camaraderie among fellow patrons. The venue is often bustling with laughter and conversation, creating a warm environment that encourages mingling. Reviewers have noted that the crowd is generally chill, which contributes to a laid-back vibe where everyone seems to be there to enjoy themselves. This sense of community is particularly appealing to new students or those looking to meet others, as many have described it as feeling like a big student family.
When it comes to music, The Stoke Arms delivers a solid experience that keeps the energy up throughout the night. The playlist often features a mix of popular tracks that get people moving and singing along. Students have commented positively on the music selection, although some have mentioned that it can get a bit loud at times. Despite this minor quibble, the overall consensus is that the music enhances the atmosphere and keeps the crowd engaged. Whether you’re there to dance or just to enjoy the tunes with friends, the sound is a key part of what makes a night out here enjoyable.
Drinks at The Stoke Arms are frequently highlighted as a strong point. Reviewers appreciate the fair pricing and the variety of options available, which cater to different tastes and budgets. Many students have remarked that the deals make it easier to enjoy a few drinks without worrying about breaking the bank. While some have noted that it may not be the absolute cheapest spot in Exeter, the quality of the drinks and the overall experience make it worth the price. The bar staff are also praised for being friendly and efficient, ensuring that service is smooth and enjoyable.
In terms of queue and entry experience, The Stoke Arms generally receives positive feedback. Students have noted that the queue is manageable, which is a significant plus when you’re excited to start your night. With a queue rating that reflects a good experience, patrons can expect to get inside without too much of a wait, allowing for a more seamless start to their evening. This is particularly important for students who may be heading out after classes or looking to make the most of their night.
Despite its many strengths, The Stoke Arms does have a few caveats to consider. While the atmosphere is mostly positive, some students have mentioned that it can feel hit or miss depending on the night and the crowd. Certain evenings may be more lively than others, which can affect the overall experience. Additionally, while the music is generally well-received, the occasional loudness can detract from conversations, especially in a busy pub setting. Some patrons have also expressed that while the drinks are reasonably priced, they may not be the absolute lowest in the area, meaning budget-conscious students should keep this in mind.
Overall, The Stoke Arms is a highly rated venue for students at the University of Exeter, offering a friendly environment, good music, and a solid selection of drinks. It’s a place where students can gather to unwind, celebrate, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking to chill after class or kick off a night out with friends, The Stoke Arms has something to offer everyone. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, where the focus is on enjoying good company and having a great time.
In summary, The Stoke Arms stands out as a go-to pub for students seeking a fun night out in Exeter. With its welcoming vibe, decent drink prices, and strong sense of community, it’s a venue that many students find themselves returning to time and again. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned Exeter student, a night at The Stoke Arms is sure to be a memorable experience.
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The atmosphere at The Stoke Arms is often described as friendly and inviting. Many students mention that from the moment they walk in, they feel a sense of camaraderie among fellow patrons. The venue is often bustling with laughter and conversation, creating a warm environment that encourages mingling. Reviewers have noted that the crowd is generally chill, which contributes to a laid-back vibe where everyone seems to be there to enjoy themselves. This sense of community is particularly appealing to new students or those looking to meet others, as many have described it as feeling like a big student family.
When it comes to music, The Stoke Arms delivers a solid experience that keeps the energy up throughout the night. The playlist often features a mix of popular tracks that get people moving and singing along. Students have commented positively on the music selection, although some have mentioned that it can get a bit loud at times. Despite this minor quibble, the overall consensus is that the music enhances the atmosphere and keeps the crowd engaged. Whether you’re there to dance or just to enjoy the tunes with friends, the sound is a key part of what makes a night out here enjoyable.
Drinks at The Stoke Arms are frequently highlighted as a strong point. Reviewers appreciate the fair pricing and the variety of options available, which cater to different tastes and budgets. Many students have remarked that the deals make it easier to enjoy a few drinks without worrying about breaking the bank. While some have noted that it may not be the absolute cheapest spot in Exeter, the quality of the drinks and the overall experience make it worth the price. The bar staff are also praised for being friendly and efficient, ensuring that service is smooth and enjoyable.
In terms of queue and entry experience, The Stoke Arms generally receives positive feedback. Students have noted that the queue is manageable, which is a significant plus when you’re excited to start your night. With a queue rating that reflects a good experience, patrons can expect to get inside without too much of a wait, allowing for a more seamless start to their evening. This is particularly important for students who may be heading out after classes or looking to make the most of their night.
Despite its many strengths, The Stoke Arms does have a few caveats to consider. While the atmosphere is mostly positive, some students have mentioned that it can feel hit or miss depending on the night and the crowd. Certain evenings may be more lively than others, which can affect the overall experience. Additionally, while the music is generally well-received, the occasional loudness can detract from conversations, especially in a busy pub setting. Some patrons have also expressed that while the drinks are reasonably priced, they may not be the absolute lowest in the area, meaning budget-conscious students should keep this in mind.
Overall, The Stoke Arms is a highly rated venue for students at the University of Exeter, offering a friendly environment, good music, and a solid selection of drinks. It’s a place where students can gather to unwind, celebrate, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking to chill after class or kick off a night out with friends, The Stoke Arms has something to offer everyone. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, where the focus is on enjoying good company and having a great time.
In summary, The Stoke Arms stands out as a go-to pub for students seeking a fun night out in Exeter. With its welcoming vibe, decent drink prices, and strong sense of community, it’s a venue that many students find themselves returning to time and again. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned Exeter student, a night at The Stoke Arms is sure to be a memorable experience.
✅ What Students Love
- Friendly and inviting atmosphere that fosters a sense of community.
- Good music selection that keeps the energy up throughout the night.
- Decent drink prices with a variety of options available.
- Manageable queue experience, allowing for quick entry.
- Lively crowd that enhances the overall vibe of the pub.
- Staff are friendly and efficient, contributing to a positive experience.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Atmosphere can vary from night to night, sometimes feeling hit or miss.
- Music can be a bit loud, making conversation difficult at times.
- Not the absolute cheapest drinks in the area.
- Can get crowded, which may impact the overall experience.
- Some students may prefer a more upscale venue.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a friendly and lively pub atmosphere to enjoy a night out with friends.
💡 Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so come as you are.
- Try to arrive early to avoid long queues during peak times.
- Keep an eye out for drink deals to make the most of your budget.
- Expect a mix of popular music that gets the crowd moving.
- The venue can get busy on weekends, so plan accordingly.
❓ Common Questions
What is The Stoke Arms like?
It's a friendly and inviting pub with a lively atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind and socialize.
How long is the queue?
The queue is generally manageable, allowing for quick entry into the venue.
Is it good value?
While not the cheapest, the drink prices are decent and the overall experience is worth it.
What music does The Stoke Arms play?
The music features a mix of popular tracks that keep the energy up and the crowd engaged.
What crowd can I expect?
You can expect a lively crowd of students, creating a friendly and welcoming environment.
infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps
Reviews
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Walking in, the music hit just right and took me back to nights spent dancing without a care. That moment of losing myself in the crowd felt refreshing, reminding me how much I missed places like this during my years away from university life.
By user406805 on Apr 25th 2026
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Staff can sometimes be a bit slow at busy times which can be frustrating if you're in a hurry, but it does give you a chance to chat with friends while waiting.
By user651844 on Apr 19th 2026
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Staff at the stoke arms are genuinely warm and made me feel like a regular after just a few visits. you'll often notice a mix of locals and students, which creates an inviting buzz that beats any fresher's event. makes for a nice escape when campus life gets a bit too intense.
By user234244 on Apr 13th 2026
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Initially visited just to check it out, but over time the Stoke Arms has become my go-to spot. the relaxed vibe and familiar faces make it feel like a second home.
By user871571 on Apr 10th 2026
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Worth popping into stoke arms again, for sure. the crowd was lively and i enjoyed the friendly chatter with other students. drinks didn't hurt the wallet much and it felt like a spot you could just relax in after cycling around all day.
By user802751 on Apr 6th 2026
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Didn't expect it to be so spacious when I first walked in. the large seating areas make it a comfortable spot, even when it's packed with students. bartenders are approachable, which made settling in more enjoyable than anticipated.
By user371121 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Walking into The Stoke Arms, we instantly felt the buzz as familiar faces from my course greeted us. music played just loud enough to set the mood without drowning our banter over decently priced pints.
By user847413 on Mar 31st 2026
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Loved how the staff at the stoke arms seemed to genuinely enjoy chatting with everyone. makes the place feel more like a hangout spot than just another pub. plus, it's super easy to bump into someone from lectures and end up having these long, unexpected conversations that make the night fly by.
By user539657 on Mar 27th 2026
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Didn’t expect how chill and friendly everyone would be. thought i'd feel like an outsider at first, but it only took a few visits before i was greeted like a regular. keeps the prices pretty student-friendly too.
By user622028 on Mar 24th 2026
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Remember sitting in the garden with friends, with the sun setting and everyone just chilling. it felt like the perfect end to a day of classes, and we all agreed we should come back more often.
By user497744 on Mar 19th 2026
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Stumbled into the stoke arms one evening expecting just a typical pub, but was pleasantly surprised by how much it felt like a second home. such an inviting crowd and genuinely friendly conversations 📚. it turned into an unexpected hangout spot where you can wind down and share stories with fellow students.
By user469229 on Mar 16th 2026
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Wandering in on a rainy evening, i found myself chatting with new friends over pints, laughter echoing around us 😊.
By user107014 on Mar 11th 2026
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Didn’t click with the stoke arms at first, but it's grown on me. now it feels like a homey escape every weekend, with familiar faces and laid-back vibes.
By user475520 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Staff here always greet you with a smile and seem genuinely happy to chat, which makes popping in feel personal and inviting. makes the whole experience feel like you're visiting friends rather than just grabbing a drink.
By user908740 on Feb 11th 2026
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Noticed a quirky collection of board games in the corner, which is a rare find in pubs these days 🌟. it’s such a fun way to spark random conversations with people you just met. low-key one of those hidden gems of the pub that adds a bit of personality to the evenings.
By user397932 on Feb 4th 2026
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Went in thinking it would be a typical pub, but it's actually got a great buzz that keeps you there longer than planned. plenty of spaces to sit and chat without shouting over music. definitely a spot that lives up to its reputation among students.
By user985569 on Jan 29th 2026
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Weekends at stoke arms have a special buzz to them. always feels like everyone's in on a shared secret, chatting and laughing as the evening rolls on. you can't help but get pulled into the warm vibe.
By user574687 on Jan 24th 2026
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It was one of those evenings where everything just clicked , friends all laughing, people chatting like we'd known each other forever. the warmth in the air mixed with a sort of buzzing energy that made every pint just a little bit better. can still picture the light from the bar reflecting off our glasses, like it was asking us to stay a bit longer.
By user462072 on Jan 20th 2026
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Felt like a proper local pub where people actually strike up conversation without it feeling forced. nice to have a place where everyone chills but doesn't get too rowdy.
By user865018 on Jan 16th 2026
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Took a few visits before i got used to the busyness, but now i find the chaos kind of comforting. staff seem to know their regulars well, and it feels like a second home.
By user660354 on Jan 13th 2026
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Noticed this pub has a genuine local vibe compared to other places around town. it's not just another uni hangout; you see a mix of students and actual locals which makes for an interesting dynamic and some great conversations over a pint 😊
By user898498 on Jan 9th 2026
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Usually swing by for a pint after studio sessions. it's sort of become a ritual with mates when we need a break from drafting.
By user741106 on Jan 5th 2026
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Wish there were more seats during busy nights at the Stoke Arms. it can get a bit cramped and hard to find a spot sometimes, especially when everyone's out relaxing.
By user537443 on Jan 1st 2026
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Seats could be comfier for long chats with mates, but the vibes make you forget about it as soon as you're settled in.
By user567175 on Dec 28th 2025
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Swinging by the Stoke Arms on the weekend has become a comforting part of my routine.
By user651787 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Noticed a bunch of uni mates laughing and having a good time 😊.
By user238283 on Dec 19th 2025
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Got the sense that some patrons seem to know the staff by name, which kind of adds a level of comfort and familiarity you wouldn't expect from a casual night out at a pub
By user719499 on Dec 15th 2025
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Popping into Stoke Arms after a marathon study session always feels like a breath of fresh air. there's something comforting about seeing familiar faces and sinking into that lively buzz , it almost makes you forget the looming deadlines for a while 😅
By user826298 on Dec 10th 2025
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Didn't expect the pool tables to be that popular, and it turned into a fun distraction.
By user858094 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Staff here always seem to be in a good mood, sometimes even joining the fun. really adds to the overall vibe 😅
By user539501 on Nov 30th 2025
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Stumbled in one weekday afternoon expecting it to be deserted but found a lively mix of students and locals. surprisingly warm crowd, ended up staying longer than planned.
By user476564 on Nov 26th 2025
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Swinging by the stoke arms has become a weekly ritual. it's like hitting pause amidst the chaos of med school, catching up with friends over some laid back pints. you always leave feeling like you got a proper break without overdoing it.
By user834618 on Nov 21st 2025
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Gets pretty crowded on weekends, making it hard to find a seat if you come late. would be great if they added more seating or had some kind of reservation system.
By user785005 on Nov 15th 2025
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Always such fun evenings at the stoke arms with my flatmates; wouldn't trade the lively chats and laughs for anything. definitely planning to come back because it's practically become our little tradition.
By user961140 on Nov 9th 2025
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Always ended up chatting with someone new every time I went, bit rare for me to feel that comfortable in a pub. it’s got a sort of natural ease about it that you don’t find everywhere, especially when you're just down the road from campus.
By user425053 on Nov 1st 2025
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Mate, the Stoke Arms is where it's at if you want a chill night without burning through your budget. feels like you're getting a good deal when you're sipping on those cheap pints, especially when the telly's showing a match. heard there are live bands occasionally too, which brings some extra fun to the place.
By user145671 on Feb 18th 2025
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Heard from my mate that this place has some of the most affordable pint prices around 😮. went down there last weekend, and he's right about the vibes too , the staff are truly chill and the atmosphere felt just like home. i can see why everyone's raving about it as a top spot for students to hang out.
By user175290 on Nov 16th 2023
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Swinging by The Stoke Arms has become kind of a midweek ritual for me. it’s just the place to breathe out a bit after all the readings and essays. nice to catch up with mates without the frantic energy of the bigger bars in town.
By user783696 on Nov 15th 2023
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Crowd here is mostly students chatting and laughing, making it feel lively and relaxed. always nice to bump into classmates and share a pint.
By user651444 on Nov 15th 2023
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By user611864 on Nov 15th 2023
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Definitely consider returning to the stoke arms for the laid-back student vibe and the genuinely warm atmosphere. it's got that local feel that makes you want to chat with the staff and fellow patrons 😅
By user182864 on Nov 15th 2023
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By user806610 on Nov 15th 2023
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By user156142 on Nov 15th 2023
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By user847612 on Nov 15th 2023
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Prices are low and the staff are really friendly, perfect for students looking to save some cash
By dagruss on Nov 15th 2023
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Sort of took a few visits for the place to grow on me, but now it's like my second living room. met some really good people and the staff make it worth coming back every time
By user622901 on Nov 15th 2023
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Watching everyone crowd around the pool table at the stoke arms was probably my favorite thing. it always felt like the epicenter of their friendly energy, especially with cheap pints in hand 🎉
By user492626 on Nov 13th 2023
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Felt like a proper break from all the studying. music was just loud enough to get into without having to yell over everyone, which is rare. even ended up chatting with some friendly locals at the next table.
By user570615 on Nov 13th 2023
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Sat with some friends at the back, we spent ages chatting while making the most of the drink specials. the crowd was mostly students, and it felt like a proper taste of uni life 😅
By user578316 on Nov 10th 2023
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Stoke arms quickly became our go-to as we got into the rhythm of uni life. it took just a couple of visits for the pub's cozy charm and the friendly staff to make us feel like regulars. now it’s the first place we think of when planning a catch-up with friends.
By user481095 on Oct 26th 2023
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Didn't expect it to be that welcoming considering it's a bit of a trek from campus, but once inside, the friendly vibe makes it worth the walk for a chill pint or two
By user625385 on Oct 26th 2023
Review published! ✓