The Old Firehouse , Exeter – 53 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Old Firehouse -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking

Based on 53 user ratings

50 New N Rd, Exeter EX4 4EP

💬 What Students Say

The Old Firehouse, located at 50 New N Rd, Exeter, is a beloved pub that stands out for its unique charm and lively atmosphere. Set in a former fire station, this venue combines historical significance with a modern student-friendly vibe, making it a popular choice among students from the nearby University of Exeter. The interior, adorned with firehouse memorabilia, features rustic architecture that creates a warm and inviting ambiance, ideal for both casual meet-ups and lively nights out. The pub is particularly known for its extensive selection of cask ales and craft beers, catering to beer enthusiasts and those looking to try something new. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, readily offering recommendations from the diverse drink menu. Beyond drinks, The Old Firehouse is famous for its pizza offerings, which are not only delicious but also reasonably priced, especially with the popular student discount on large pizzas ranging from £10-£15. This makes it a great spot for students looking to grab a bite before heading out for the night.

The atmosphere at The Old Firehouse is one of its strongest features. Students frequently mention the relaxed vibe, where everyone seems to be enjoying themselves without any stress. The crowd is described as chill, making it easy for newcomers to fit in and enjoy their time. Many students appreciate the electric energy that fills the pub, especially during peak hours when the music is pumping and the laughter is flowing. The venue strikes a balance between being lively and not overwhelming, making it suitable for a variety of moods, whether you want to unwind during the day or party at night. The music is another highlight, with many patrons noting that it keeps the energy high and makes it hard to stay still. The selection is generally well-received, contributing to the overall enjoyable experience that The Old Firehouse offers.

When it comes to drinks, students have a lot to say about the offerings at The Old Firehouse. While the prices are not the lowest in town, many feel that the atmosphere and quality of the drinks make it worth it. The pub provides a good mix of beverages, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The queue experience is also noteworthy, with reviews indicating that it moves quickly, allowing for a smooth entry into the venue. This is a significant plus for students who want to get in and enjoy their night without long waits. The cleanliness of the establishment is generally rated positively, adding to the comfort of the experience.

However, like any venue, The Old Firehouse has its caveats. While many students love the vibrant atmosphere, some do note that it can get crowded, especially during peak nights. This might be a downside for those who prefer a quieter environment or a more intimate setting. Additionally, while the drink prices are deemed reasonable, they are not necessarily the cheapest available, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious students. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overwhelming sentiment is that The Old Firehouse is a solid choice for a night out, with many students expressing their intention to return.

The Old Firehouse is particularly well-suited for students looking for a social and lively environment. It’s a place where you can meet new people, enjoy good music, and have a fun night without the pressure of a more intense club scene. Many students have fond memories of their nights spent here, often citing it as a top choice for socials and gatherings with friends. The venue caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making it a versatile option for various groups.

For those planning to visit The Old Firehouse, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. The dress code is typically casual, making it easy for students to come as they are after a long day of classes. If you’re heading there on a busy night, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you’re part of a larger group. The music style is generally upbeat and varied, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into chart-toppers or indie hits. Lastly, don’t forget to take advantage of the student pizza discount; it’s a great way to fuel up before diving into the night’s festivities.

In summary, The Old Firehouse is a vibrant and welcoming venue that captures the essence of a student night out. With its unique setting, friendly atmosphere, and solid drink and food offerings, it's no wonder that it has become a go-to spot for many students at the University of Exeter. Whether you’re looking to chill with friends or dance the night away, The Old Firehouse has something to offer everyone.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Unique setting in a former fire station with charming decor.
  • Relaxed and friendly atmosphere that’s easy to fit into.
  • Good music that keeps the energy high and encourages dancing.
  • Quick-moving queues for easy entry, enhancing the overall experience.
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff who are happy to help.
  • Diverse drink selection, especially for craft beer lovers.
  • Popular student discount on large pizzas, making food affordable.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded during peak hours, which may not suit everyone.
  • Drink prices are reasonable but not the lowest in town.
  • Some students prefer a quieter environment than what The Old Firehouse offers.
  • Occasional noise levels may be high, especially on busy nights.
  • Limited options for non-pizza food lovers.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, social atmosphere with good music and a relaxed vibe.

💡 Things to Know

  • Casual dress code makes it easy to drop by after classes.
  • Arriving early is recommended on busy nights to secure a good spot.
  • The music is upbeat and varied, appealing to a wide range of tastes.
  • Take advantage of the student pizza discount for an affordable meal.
  • Expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends, which adds to the fun.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Old Firehouse like?

It's a vibrant pub with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for socializing and enjoying good music.

How long is the queue?

The queue typically moves quickly, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

While prices are reasonable, they are not the lowest; however, the atmosphere and experience make it worth it.

What music does The Old Firehouse play?

The music is upbeat and varied, keeping the energy high and encouraging dancing.

What food options are available?

The Old Firehouse offers a variety of pizzas, including a popular student discount on large pizzas.

Reviews
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Catching up with friends over pints and the late-night chatter felt oddly comforting, like a warm blanket of familiarity wrapping around us.
By user243369 on Apr 28th 2026
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Sometimes it's way too crowded, especially on weekends. finding a seat can be a struggle, and the noise can make chatting a bit of a challenge. worth going during off-peak times if you actually want to chill and catch up.
By user788771 on Apr 20th 2026
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Remembering the old firehouse, the chatter and laughs bouncing off the brick walls were the first things that come to mind. my friends and I squeezed around the table and it felt like that night in the bustling pub was ours alone to enjoy.
By user573885 on Apr 14th 2026
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Tucked into a former fire station, this pub has a character all its own, distinct from the usual student hangouts. the mix of historic vibes and relaxed energy makes it feel like you're in on Exeter's best kept secret.
By user974015 on Apr 11th 2026
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Lounging by the unlit fireplace, i noticed how the exposed brick walls hold their stories well.
By user188195 on Apr 10th 2026
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Staff is genuinely laid back and always up for a chat, which makes the whole place feel welcoming. sometimes it's tough finding a spot in busy places but here there's usually someone to help out. it's refreshing to find a pub where you aren't just another customer.
By user452679 on Apr 4th 2026
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Found myself chatting with a bunch of friendly faces over a pint, which was quite nice. the old firehouse's lively crowd definitely makes it easier to meet people and settle into uni life 😅
By user844769 on Mar 31st 2026
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Waiting in the queue was a bit of a pain as it moved pretty slowly.
By user866863 on Mar 28th 2026
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Properly snug with a quirky charm, the old firehouse is where i spent many evenings enjoying the upbeat ambiance. might not be everyone's first pick, but the mix of history and a student-centric vibe makes it an easy yes for a revisit.
By user562958 on Mar 25th 2026
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Been here more times than I can count, usually as an end-of-week tradition with housemates. fits perfectly into our routine , a laid-back spot to unwind with a pint after navigating endless readings and papers. plenty of familiar faces, which makes it feel like an extension of campus life, just with better lighting and drinks.
By user588981 on Mar 20th 2026
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Always a fun night, but pricier than what i usually go for. still, the mix of old-school ambiance and friendly crowd keeps drawing me back in.
By user220008 on Mar 17th 2026
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What really sticks with me is the old-timey feel of the place mixed with student energy. it's like being part of history, sipping a pint while chatting with friends and feeling the warmth of the crowd buzzing around you.
By user382682 on Mar 12th 2026
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Everyone says you need to try the massive pizzas late at night.
By user270280 on Mar 9th 2026
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Always loved chilling on the rooftop terrace here, it's got a sort of charm that's hard to find elsewhere. definitely had some fun nights with friends, and the atmosphere just feels right, even for someone like me who isn't the most outgoing.
By user866823 on Mar 8th 2026
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Old firehouse has this warm, welcoming buzz to it that's hard to forget. sitting in a former fire station adds such a cool twist, and the student crowd there makes it feel lively and familiar 😅
By user947189 on Mar 6th 2026
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Loved the buzz at midnight when everyone's in that perfect mix of merry and mellow. historical charm really sets the scene just right
By user498377 on Mar 5th 2026
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Felt instantly at ease walking in, like this wasn't my first visit. the vibe was relaxed with a mix of students around just having a laugh, definitely a good spot to unwind.
By user275693 on Mar 4th 2026
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Staff there are always so laid-back and helpful, which is perfect when you're juggling a pint and mates in a busy spot. it feels like they genuinely want you to enjoy your night, making it inviting after a day of economic theory overload.
By user240478 on Feb 26th 2026
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Wandered into the old firehouse on a whim during my first week and it quickly became my spot. sat there with a pint, surrounded by a mix of locals and students, and just soaked in the history that the place wears so well. there’s something about the buzzing energy and the chatter that makes you feel immediately at home.
By user679690 on Feb 11th 2026
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Staff here really know how to keep things ticking over. always helpful and up for a chat, they add to the charm and make every visit feel comfortable and fun.
By user911280 on Feb 4th 2026
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Having cycled past countless times, the high ceilings and old fire station vibe were irresistible.
By user427249 on Jan 29th 2026
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Could do without the long wait for a table at times. it’s popular, so it’s understandable, but still a bit annoying.
By user833639 on Jan 25th 2026
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Loved the vibe at the Old Firehouse, mate. someone told me their pizza is top-notch, but that crowd on a Friday is just worth it on its own. we should definitely hit it up next time we're around Exeter.
By user506942 on Jan 20th 2026
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Heard it's where local students like to hang out, so i popped in and found myself chatting with some really interesting folks over a pint.
By user111822 on Jan 16th 2026
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Could definitely do with a bit more seating, as it gets super crowded, which makes it hard to relax 😅
By user356714 on Jan 13th 2026
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Upstairs at the old firehouse is a bit of a hidden spot for people watching, surprisingly calming amidst the lively atmosphere downstairs. sometimes you just need to take a breather with your pint, and it's perfect for that.
By user683670 on Jan 10th 2026
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Pretty much a weekly ritual now to hit up the old firehouse after lectures. its chill yet buzzing energy makes it the best place to unwind with friends without feeling pressured to overdo it.
By user865094 on Jan 5th 2026
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Rivaling even a cozy house party, the firehouse is where everyone seems to be buzzing with energy. definitely the place for a weekend unwind with mates , lively conversations and laughter never stopped 🎉
By user347538 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Heard so much about its pizzas, so was surprised they lived up to the hype. the vibe's exactly how the older students described it.
By user911562 on Dec 28th 2025
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Finally got used to the quirky layout of the old firehouse, but i like how it feels like a bit of an adventure every time. at first, i was overwhelmed by the crowd, but now it’s kind of nice to see familiar faces popping up. definitely a place that’s grown on me as i adjust to uni life in exeter.
By user789838 on Dec 24th 2025
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Weekends here can get pretty packed, which you'd think is a good sign, but sometimes it's just overwhelmingly crowded. finding a seat with friends is like an olympic sport and waiting in line for a drink feels endless. i get it's popular, but maybe some crowd management wouldn't hurt.
By user715790 on Dec 19th 2025
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Gets way too crowded on weekend nights, which means you might spend forever waiting to get a drink at the bar. while the buzzing energy is fun, it can be a bit overwhelming if you're just looking to chill. if you want more space and a quieter atmosphere, it's best to visit on a weekday.
By user515713 on Dec 15th 2025
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Wish the seating was a bit comfier because after a morning workout, those benches aren't the best. still, the atmosphere makes up for it, and everyone's usually in such good spirits that you might not notice after a while.
By user632399 on Dec 11th 2025
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Service can be hit or miss; sometimes it's quick and friendly, other times you end up waiting ages even if the place isn't that busy. maybe they just need more staff when it gets packed with students.
By user178259 on Dec 4th 2025
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Staff move like clockwork under pressure, which is impressive when it gets packed 😮. watched them manage orders and keep the energy humming without breaking a sweat. definitely adds to the magic of the place when you know you're in good hands.
By user747956 on Nov 30th 2025
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Heard from a mate that the Old Firehouse is where history meets a proper laugh, so we checked it out. the lively crowd and chilled start made it pretty epic by the time we left, definitely a must for any weekend plans.
By user490184 on Nov 26th 2025
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Worth visiting again for the live music alone. weekends at the Old Firehouse bring in great bands and an energetic crowd that keeps you coming back. love how it never feels too cramped, even when it's busy.
By user918034 on Nov 21st 2025
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Caught up with some course mates here last weekend, and the mix of music and chatter really kept the energy going 🎶. between the buzzing conversations and cozy corners, it feels like a second uni common room 😅.
By user472380 on Nov 15th 2025
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Never quite encountered a place like the old firehouse. the historic feel mixed with the student buzz is what sets it apart from most pubs i’ve visited. late evenings here always seem a little more fun than elsewhere, probably because everyone feels right at home.
By user647253 on Nov 9th 2025
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Stepping into The Old Firehouse on a busy night feels like being part of one big, happy family. the place is buzzing with laughter and chatter, and you just can't help but be swept up in it all. perfect spot to unwind after a day of lectures, it's like the walls soak up and spread all that student energy 😅
By user312577 on Nov 1st 2025
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Stumbled into the old firehouse with some uni mates and ended up spending the whole night there completely by accident. couldn’t quite tell if it was the history or the steady flow of affordable pints, but everything just sort of clicked, and we left with plans to make it our weekly haunt.
By user830072 on Oct 27th 2025
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Lines can get a bit ridiculous, especially on weekends. sometimes it's hard to tell if you're queuing for the bathroom or the bar, which is a bit annoying when time's limited before early morning training sessions.
By user131649 on Oct 24th 2025
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As the night gets going, the old firehouse buzzes with life in every corner. there's this electric energy when the crowd starts singing along to whatever band's playing. something about the old firehouse makes everyone feel like long-time mates, even if it's your first time there.
By user644023 on Oct 20th 2025
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Heard it's the place where everyone's been heading for a good laugh. matt swears the crowd there is unbeatable and you can't beat the atmosphere when things get going. pretty sure it's becoming my go-to for a night out.
By user372325 on Oct 16th 2025
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Staff here have a knack for not being overly pushy, which is pretty refreshing. it's easy to relax when they're just doing their job and not hovering. feels like they know when to chat and when to leave you be, which makes being there a pleasant experience.
By user863746 on Oct 13th 2025
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Wandering into the old firehouse, i was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming it felt. the friendly mix of students and locals made it feel instantly familiar, even on my first visit. it's got that comforting buzz, like everyone knows it’s the place to be on a casual night out.
By user831002 on Oct 9th 2025
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Caught a live music night here once and the band's energy really added to the whole place. ended up singing along with some strangers at a shared table. great way to feel part of the uni crowd.
By user598338 on Oct 3rd 2025
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Love how you can see the old firehouse's history even while you’re laughing over drinks with mates. it feels like a place that has stories to tell, which makes it all the more fun to hang out there
By user916283 on Sep 29th 2025
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Walked in expecting just another pub, but the old firehouse completely surprised me with its cozy, vibrant buzz and cool history. it was more fun and welcoming than i'd imagined. definitely planning to return soon.
By user392647 on Sep 24th 2025
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Saturday nights at The Old Firehouse are something else, with music echoing through the old brick walls and a buzz of laughter filling the air. Even in a packed room, it feels welcoming and there's this shared energy that makes you forget about your coursework for a bit.
By user368773 on Sep 15th 2025
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Winding up on one of those cozy sofas with a beer in hand, and a mate on each side, always felt like a Friday night hug. the live music, especially on weekends, added a brilliant buzz to the old firehouse. it's that kind of familiar, comforting chaos that makes you feel like you've known everyone forever.
By user900816 on Feb 18th 2025
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Always buzzing with students, the old firehouse nailed that lively atmosphere you'd hope for on a night out. caught a gig by a student band while sipping on a pint, and it felt like everyone who was anyone from uni was there. snagging a table was a bit of a mission, but worth it for the blend of good vibes and familiar faces all night.
By user910745 on Nov 13th 2023
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Getting used to the Old Firehouse was like finding a second home. each visit felt like coming back to a familiar atmosphere, surrounded by other students who also seemed to unwind there. there's something comforting about knowing you've got a spot where you can chill and chat without feeling out of place 😌📚
By user279265 on Oct 6th 2023
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By user589346 on Oct 6th 2023