The Vaults, Exeter – 36 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Vaults -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 36 user ratings

8 Gandy St, Exeter EX4 3LS, United Kingdom

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Vaults is a contemporary and welcoming LGBT venue located in the heart of Exeter, making it a popular choice for students looking for a fun night out. Open seven nights a week, this vibrant bar and nightclub is known for its neon-lit ambiance and a friendly atmosphere that invites everyone to let loose and enjoy themselves. With a solid reputation, The Vaults has received high ratings for its music, cleanliness, and especially its value for money, making it a top pick among students at the University of Exeter.

The atmosphere at The Vaults is one of its standout features. Students frequently mention the lively energy that fills the room, creating a sense of community and camaraderie. The venue is known for its upbeat crowd, where everyone seems to be in a good mood, dancing and enjoying the night together. Many reviews highlight how the friendly staff contribute to this positive vibe, ensuring that service is quick and efficient, allowing patrons to focus on having fun without unnecessary delays.

Music is a key element of the experience at The Vaults. The venue hosts a variety of events, including club nights and karaoke, which students rave about. The DJ is often praised for their ability to keep the energy high with a fantastic mix of tunes that get everyone on the dance floor. This attention to music quality contributes to a memorable night out, where students can lose track of time while dancing the night away. The reviews suggest that the music selection is well-tailored to the crowd, making it a place where students can truly enjoy themselves.

When it comes to drinks, The Vaults is known for offering good value. Many students appreciate the reasonably priced cocktails and drinks, which means you can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. While some reviews note that it may not be the cheapest option in town, the overall experience and atmosphere make it worth the cost. The affordability of drinks is a significant plus for students, allowing them to enjoy a fun night without worrying too much about their budget.

Entry to The Vaults is generally a smooth process, with many students reporting minimal wait times. This is a significant advantage, especially on busy nights when other venues might have long lines. The reviews suggest that getting in is hassle-free, which is an essential factor for students who want to maximize their time enjoying the nightlife. Tickets can be purchased through a Fever Rep or via the FIXR ticket app, making it easy to secure entry ahead of time.

Students have shared their experiences at The Vaults, often highlighting the sense of safety and inclusivity that the venue provides. Many feel comfortable and secure while enjoying their night out, which is particularly important for those wanting to have fun without any worries. The positive crowd atmosphere, combined with the lively music and affordable drinks, creates an environment where students can relax and have a great time with friends.

However, it’s worth noting that while The Vaults has many strengths, there are a few caveats. Some students mention that the venue can get quite busy, especially on weekends, which might make it feel a bit crowded at times. Additionally, while the drinks are generally well-priced, some patrons feel that it may not be the cheapest option available. This could be a consideration for students who are particularly budget-conscious. Furthermore, as with any nightlife venue, the experience can vary from night to night, with some students noting that certain evenings are more enjoyable than others, depending on the crowd and events happening.

In summary, The Vaults is best suited for students looking for a lively and inclusive environment where they can dance, socialize, and enjoy good music. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate a vibrant nightlife scene and want to connect with both friends and new faces. The combination of a friendly atmosphere, great music, and reasonably priced drinks makes it a go-to destination for many.

For those planning a visit, it’s helpful to know that The Vaults has specific opening hours throughout the week. The venue is closed on Mondays and Sundays, but it opens late on weekdays and weekends, typically from 10 PM to 4:30 AM. This makes it a perfect spot for late-night outings, especially after a long day of classes.

Overall, The Vaults is a highly-rated venue that promises a fun and energetic night out. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy some karaoke, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, this Exeter hotspot is worth checking out.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Lively atmosphere with a friendly crowd.
  • Great music selection that keeps everyone dancing.
  • Affordable drinks that cater to student budgets.
  • Quick and efficient service from friendly staff.
  • Minimal wait times for entry, making it easy to get in.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded on busy nights.
  • Not the cheapest option available for drinks.
  • Some nights may be better than others in terms of atmosphere.
  • Limited opening hours on certain days.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a vibrant and inclusive nightlife experience.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual; come as you are.
  • Best to arrive early to avoid long queues on busier nights.
  • Check out the FIXR ticket app for entry options.
  • Expect a mix of club tunes and karaoke events throughout the week.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Vaults like?

The Vaults is a vibrant LGBT venue known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and friendly crowd.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally minimal, making it easy to get in quickly.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drinks reasonably priced, offering good value for a night out.

What music does The Vaults play?

The Vaults features a mix of club tunes and hosts karaoke nights, keeping the energy high.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.

Reviews
1 of 36
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Showing up at The Vaults expecting a lively mix of people, I felt a bit disappointed with the crowd being quite sparse that evening. maybe it was just an unlucky night, but it definitely didn't match up to its usual bustling reputation.
By user179141 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Would definitely go back to The Vaults because even on a busy night, it never felt overwhelming. loved that you could enjoy the vibe but still have a proper chat without straining your voice.
By user401880 on Apr 18th 2026
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Noticed there's this little spot near the back where you can actually have a chat without shouting your lungs out. it's a bit tucked away, but when you want a breather from dancing, it's a lifesaver.
By user986540 on Apr 13th 2026
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Staff here are genuinely welcoming and make every visit feel personal, which is brilliant when you're popping in regularly. shifts tend to overlap with classes, but hanging out with mates afterwards is always a laugh
By user548999 on Apr 5th 2026
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Remember sitting on the plush seats watching the crowd move with the neon lights. drinks were affordable, not the best, but the atmosphere was so relaxed that it didn't really matter.
By user106252 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Music was just the right volume to chat without shouting, which was a relief. staff were chilled out and didn't crowd us, making it feel easy to relax and enjoy the evening.
By user858558 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Crowd was packed into a small space, making it hard to move without bumping into people. took a bit away from enjoying the music
By user409121 on Mar 26th 2026
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Open every night, it's ace for students who want to chill any day of the week. unlike some places that are closed midweek, the lively vibe here keeps the place buzzing round the clock.
By user660459 on Mar 23rd 2026
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Always find myself going back to The Vaults when I want a night out that’s guaranteed fun. the atmosphere is lively, and everyone's genuinely welcoming, which is honestly pretty rare. definitely a place I recommend to anyone looking for a carefree evening in Exeter.
By user748200 on Mar 18th 2026
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People here are just so open and accepting, which is honestly refreshing πŸ˜…. you find yourself chatting with strangers like they're old friends, especially on the dance floor. everyone's got this carefree energy that just lifts the whole place up, no matter what's going on outside.
By user925542 on Mar 16th 2026
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Approaching the entrance, you immediately sense how inclusive and open-minded it feels compared to other nightlife spots around exeter. there's a genuine acceptance here that you don't always find elsewhere, which is probably why it's buzzing most nights. having a mix of both chilled and lively vibes is rare but somehow they manage it effortlessly.
By user955851 on Mar 11th 2026
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Friendly place that feels alive every night of the week. the neon lights and energy make it impossible not to dance πŸ˜…. if you're up for a night that promises great vibes without any weirdly mixed music sets, this is the spot.
By user335610 on Mar 10th 2026
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Noticed how diverse the crowd was, with people from different backgrounds just relaxing and having a good time together. it's got a way of making you feel like you belong, like everyone's there to just enjoy the moment
By user479627 on Feb 28th 2026
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Staff here are genuinely welcoming and seem to really prioritise making everyone feel included. it was refreshing to see an atmosphere where just being yourself is encouraged, especially after a hectic week of classes. one of those places that just gets it right without trying too hard.
By user427665 on Feb 9th 2026
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Neon lights really make it stand out and the welcoming crowd is just what you want when you’re looking to unwind πŸ˜…
By user622269 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Music really takes over and you can't help but join in the energy, with people just having a laugh and not a care in the world.
By user881283 on Jan 28th 2026
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Crowd came alive when the DJ spun a killer remix, and lights flashed in sync with everyone moving as one. felt like being part of something electric, barely noticed how late it got until leaving.
By user848847 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Might swing by again since the atmosphere felt welcoming and chill, which is pretty rare to find. especially appreciated how you’re not just squeezed into a cramped space, letting everyone actually enjoy their night out. nice to have a place like this that embraces everyone without any pretentious nonsense.
By user789740 on Jan 20th 2026
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When the DJ gets the whole crowd moving, it's like being in the best kind of chaos , you forget everything else and just go with it. seeing all these people just letting loose in a neon-lit bubble feels like freedom bottled up in a room.
By user719497 on Jan 15th 2026
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Adjusting to the nightlife in exeter, the vaults quickly became a go-to when i needed a break from politics readings. it felt like each visit made the conversation easier and the music more familiar. even when i came alone, there was always someone up for a chat.
By user443674 on Jan 12th 2026
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Easing into the scene at the vaults was like slipping into a comfortable pair of trainers. everyone's energy is infectious and the welcoming vibe makes even the most awkward of nights feel like old times with friends.
By user169079 on Jan 8th 2026
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Told my friend about this place and how it just feels like everyone knows everyone by the end of the night. good vibes and the atmosphere is just the right mix of welcoming and lively.
By user406350 on Jan 4th 2026
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Wasn't expecting the entrance to be so inconspicuous for a place that's so lively inside. once you walk in, the neon lights hit you, and it's like being transported to a different world. people from all around, dancing and chatting, make it feel both welcoming and energetic which was a nice surprise for an introvert like me.
By user206642 on Dec 31st 2025
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Music's a bit too loud for talking, but if you're there to dance, you won't mind as much.
By user477404 on Dec 27th 2025
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Expect a vibrant and lively night out at the vaults, where the mix of neon lights and good music creates a welcoming vibe for all. it's perfect if you're looking to let loose with new mates, plus you'll probably leave with a new story to tell πŸ˜…
By user780798 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Absolutely loved how welcoming everyone was the moment I stepped in.
By user522767 on Dec 18th 2025
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Staff here are genuinely welcoming. they've got a way of remembering regulars even though the place is always busy. having bartenders who smile and chat makes the night feel more personal. much better than those places where you feel ignored.
By user355093 on Dec 14th 2025
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Stumbled over my own feet trying to keep up with mates on the dancefloor, and the neon lights were just the right level to hide my terrible moves πŸ˜…. the dj spun tunes like he knew our playlists by heart.
By user331349 on Dec 9th 2025
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Being at the vaults is like finding a place where you don’t have to pretend. felt the energy from the moment i walked in, just this electric acceptance all around. knowing there's a space that embraces everyone made the night even more epic.
By user917038 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Finding a spot that truly feels inclusive can be rare, but the Vaults nails it. its neon vibe welcomes everyone with open arms, and even on a packed night, you never feel out of place πŸ˜…
By user656414 on Nov 29th 2025
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Neon lights and inclusive vibes at the Vaults create a buzzing atmosphere that stands apart from other spots in town. 🌟
By user473327 on Nov 25th 2025
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Definitely heading back to The Vaults. the lively energy and inclusive vibe are like a breath of fresh air, and where else would I find such diverse music that makes me actually want to dance? 🎡
By user318130 on Nov 19th 2025
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Found myself settling into the groove at The Vaults quickly, kind of like slipping into a comfy pair of jeans. there's something reassuring about how the music flows naturally, keeping the energy seamless all night. never felt that awkward lull where the vibe shifts and you’re left wondering what happened.
By user367883 on Nov 13th 2025
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Lots of different people mixing together, everyone was up for a laugh and chatting with anyone nearby. an easy place to feel relaxed.
By user417652 on Nov 7th 2025
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A lively mix of people filled the dancefloor, with everyone having a blast. saw groups celebrating birthdays and others just embracing the neon-lit vibe. great way to meet new folks and share a fun night , definitely felt right at home πŸ˜…
By user765795 on Oct 30th 2025
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Noticed immediately how welcoming everyone was, which was a nice surprise. expected a bit of chaos but the staff were genuinely attentive and friendly.
By user920336 on May 15th 2025