The Anglesea Arms, London – 61 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing
The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo
The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo
The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo

The Anglesea Arms -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 61 user ratings

London SW7 3QG

💬 What Students Say

Located in the heart of South Kensington, The Anglesea Arms is a charming traditional pub that has become a popular spot for students from Imperial College London and beyond. Known for its historical significance as the former residence of Charles Dickens, this venue combines a rich history with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a unique choice for a night out. With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5, it’s clear that students appreciate the welcoming environment and engaging social scene that The Anglesea Arms provides. The pub boasts a clean and well-maintained space, with a cleanliness rating of 4.6, which students frequently highlight in their reviews. The toilets, in particular, have received positive mentions, indicating that this venue takes hygiene seriously, an important factor for many when choosing a place to unwind after lectures. The Anglesea Arms is often described as having a relaxed vibe, where students can kick back and enjoy themselves without the pressure of a packed club atmosphere. Reviewers note that the crowd is friendly and engaging, which contributes to an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. This makes it an excellent spot for mingling and meeting new people, as many students have shared experiences of forging connections during their nights out here. The music at The Anglesea Arms is another highlight, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5. Students rave about the DJ and the solid tracks that keep the dance floor lively throughout the night. The atmosphere is often described as buzzing, filled with energy that encourages everyone to let loose and enjoy the moment. Whether you’re looking to dance or just hang out with friends, the music and overall vibe create a fun backdrop for a memorable evening. When it comes to drinks, The Anglesea Arms is considered reasonably priced, although some students mention that it may not be the cheapest option available. Nonetheless, many feel that the atmosphere and quality make it worth the expense. With a price level of ££, it strikes a balance between affordability and a more upscale pub experience. Reviewers appreciate the drink deals that allow them to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank, making it a viable option for students on a budget. The queue and entry experience at The Anglesea Arms is also commendable, with a rating of 4.4. Students frequently mention the lack of long waits, which allows them to focus on enjoying their night rather than standing in line. This is particularly appealing for those looking to maximize their social time after a long week of classes. While the venue has many strengths, it’s worth noting a few weaknesses as well. Some students have pointed out that the pub can start off a bit quiet, but it often picks up as the night progresses. This means that if you arrive early, you might find a more subdued atmosphere initially. Additionally, while many appreciate the friendly vibe, some might find that the crowd can vary, with occasional nights feeling less energetic than others. However, these are minor caveats in what is generally regarded as a solid choice for a night out. Overall, The Anglesea Arms is best suited for students who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere where they can unwind with friends after a busy week. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to dance, meet new people, and enjoy a good drink in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun night out, this pub has something to offer everyone. In conclusion, The Anglesea Arms stands out as a top choice for students seeking a blend of history, good music, and a friendly crowd. With its clean facilities, engaging atmosphere, and reasonable drink prices, it’s no wonder that this venue has garnered such positive reviews from the student community. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth checking out for an enjoyable night out.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Highly rated for cleanliness, particularly the toilets.
  • Lively atmosphere with a friendly and engaging crowd.
  • Great music that keeps the energy up throughout the night.
  • Reasonably priced drinks with good deals available.
  • No long queues, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
  • Historical significance adds to the charm of the venue.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can start off quiet before picking up later in the night.
  • Not the cheapest option available for drinks.
  • Crowd energy can vary from night to night.
  • Dog policy may be a downside for pet owners.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, social night out with good music and a friendly atmosphere.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Arriving early might mean a quieter atmosphere initially.
  • Look out for drink deals to save money on your night out.
  • The music is diverse and caters to a lively crowd.
  • Dogs are welcome in the pub area, but not in the restaurant.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Anglesea Arms like?

It's a lively pub with a friendly atmosphere, great music, and a clean environment, perfect for students.

How long is the queue?

Reviews indicate that queues are generally short, allowing for a quick entry.

Is it good value?

While not the cheapest, many students find the atmosphere and drink deals make it worth the price.

What music does The Anglesea Arms play?

The music is lively and varies, with students enjoying the DJ's solid track selection.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is casual, so students can come in comfortable attire.

The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo
The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo
The Anglesea Arms — student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 63
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking in, the vibe was way more laid back than expected, with everyone just hanging out. it was surprising how quickly it felt comfortable and easy to settle in, especially with the wifi working well even during busy nights.
By user244685 (Imperial) on Jul 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Crowd at the anglesea arms brings a lively energy that feels welcoming and relaxed.
By user555065 (Imperial) on Jul 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Really liked how laid-back the atmosphere was here. it felt like a good mix of people without the usual loud chaos, which was nice after a long week of classes.
By user924652 (Imperial) on Jul 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always enjoyed how the staff here engage with everyone, making it feel like more than just another night out. their attention to the crowd really sets this place apart, and it makes such a difference in how the night unfolds.
By user576093 (Imperial) on Jun 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Surprisingly, the music selection here exceeded my expectations, blending classic tracks and fresh beats that kept the energy up all night. On the flip side, the bar staff could be a bit slow during peak hours, which can be frustrating when you're eager for another drink. Overall, it hits the right notes for a fun night out, with some room for improvement.
By user415441 (Imperial) on Jun 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking in, the vibe was way more upscale than I expected for a nightlife place here.
By user991241 (Imperial) on Jun 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff at the Anglesea Arms genuinely enhance the experience, being laid-back and engaging while keeping the place impeccably clean throughout the night.
By user938919 (Imperial) on Jun 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Met some really interesting people here who all seemed to enjoy chatting over drinks. The atmosphere felt relaxed, and it was nice that everyone was open to mingling, which doesn't always happen in other places. Plus, the variety of crowds made it easy to find someone with a story to share.
By user615913 (Imperial) on Jun 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sometimes it can feel a bit crowded, but when the music hits right at the anglesea arms, it's just the place to unwind with friends and enjoy a drink. if you like a lively atmosphere, you might find it worth your time
By user219680 (Imperial) on Jun 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
When you're on a budget, this place stands out for its prices. drinks are affordable compared to others around, making it a decent choice for a fun night without stressing your wallet.
By user277779 (Imperial) on May 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into this place, I expected a typical nightlife scene, but it felt more laid-back and welcoming than I thought. the crowd was diverse and chill, which made it easier to unwind, far from the stuffy vibe I'd anticipated.
By user235059 (Imperial) on May 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Whenever I've been to the anglesea arms, the staff have been on point, always making sure your glass is full and your experience is smooth. it’s a lively scene, perfect for unwinding after lectures, but sometimes it can feel a bit crowded, especially on a Wednesday night.
By user147142 (Imperial) on May 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found the angelsea arms consistently delivers a fun night with a lively crowd and an atmosphere that keeps me coming back .
By user796467 (Imperial) on May 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music here is way better than you'd expect for a place like this, with tunes that actually get you in the mood to dance. on the flip side, the prices for drinks were higher than I thought they'd be, which made it tricky to keep the night going without breaking the bank. overall, it’s a fun time if you’re ready to splurge a bit .
By user134620 (Imperial) on May 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the Anglesea Arms feels different from other bars; there's a warmth that pulls you in. Staff seem to remember regulars and chat with newcomers, which makes it feel like a community rather than just another pub. You can really tell that people care about the atmosphere, and that makes it a welcoming spot to hang out.
By user629394 (Imperial) on Apr 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed the dog-friendly vibe as soon as i walked in, with a bowl of water in the corner. it was a nice reminder that lots of locals visit often, giving it a real community feel despite being a student haunt. sometimes it's these tiny details that make a place stick in your mind.
By user904348 (Imperial) on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking in, there's this immediate rush of warmth and chatter that hits you, like being enveloped in a cozy, lively hug. it's slightly overwhelming at first, but then it feels like a place where conversations and stories just naturally flow, despite the bustle.
By user834151 (Imperial) on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the staff have that sixth sense for when you're about to finish your pint.
By user577832 (Imperial) on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Would definitely go back because the blend of good tunes without overpowering the chat is perfect. it’s got that historical vibe too, giving it character beyond the usual pub scene.
By user877750 (Imperial) on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Prices were decent, which is rare these days, and the atmosphere had this really nice blend of lively but not overwhelming. a mate told me it's the kind of spot where you can chat without yelling, which i totally appreciated.
By user734405 (Imperial) on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff can be a bit unpredictable , sometimes they're really attentive, other times they're rushed off their feet. it’s a mixed bag, but at least they keep things moving.
By user661047 (Imperial) on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
On visits to the anglesea arms, what sticks with me is the laid-back atmosphere that makes it nice for catching up with uni mates. drinks are decent and the history adds a cool twist.
By user320878 (Imperial) on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Imagine a warm evening filled with laughter and clinking glasses as the low murmur of conversation mixes with gentle music. students, locals, and the odd tourist gather around wooden tables under the soft glow of hanging lights, creating an inviting and inclusive atmosphere. it's one of those places where time slips away and everything just feels right, a perfect blend of history and lively energy.
By user480171 (Imperial) on Mar 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Anglesea arms is pretty good if you want a relaxing evening. you know how some pubs feel like they're trying too hard? well, here it's just chill and authentic, plus it's got that cool backstory with dickens, which makes it a bit different from the usual spots.
By user608980 (Imperial) on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Kinda wish the pub had more seating options since it gets quite busy sometimes.
By user859243 (Imperial) on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found the mix of locals and students made for easy conversations without any pressure. it felt like everyone was there to have a good time, which instantly set a welcoming tone.
By user847905 (Imperial) on Mar 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Conversation flows so naturally at the anglesea arms, way more than other pubs i've been to. the mix of students and locals means you always find someone interesting to chat with. it never feels too pretentious or stiff, just laid back vibes that make it easy to relax and meet new folks.
By user346500 (Imperial) on Mar 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Honestly didn't expect much, but the place turned out to be a brilliant mix of lively yet laid-back. kind of one of those spots where you just end up having a laugh without even trying.
By user543545 (Imperial) on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Figuring out my favourite spot to sit at anglesea arms has been a fun little journey 😅
By user172909 (Imperial) on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Spent an afternoon at the anglesea arms and it was unexpectedly lively, especially for a historical spot. people seemed to drift into conversations like currents, effortlessly mingling in the cozy corners. there's a comfortable, slightly worn-in feel that makes you just want to stay and chat longer.
By user248952 (Imperial) on Feb 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Might pop back to the anglesea arms when i need a chill spot to destress from uni assignments. its historical vibe mixed with the lively student crowd makes it pretty memorable 👍
By user175820 (Imperial) on Feb 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Often find myself at The Anglesea Arms on a Friday night, kicking back with mates. it's a chilled vibe to start, but it definitely picks up as the night goes on.
By user480951 (Imperial) on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the wooden floors creak a bit, and it's oddly comforting. gives the place a lived-in feel, like you're hanging out in someone's very popular living room rather than a pub.
By user365993 (Imperial) on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the anglesea arms felt like stepping back in time, with its warm lighting and wooden interiors. it just put me at ease immediately, making it a perfect escape from the stress of studies.
By user505466 (Imperial) on Jan 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are always up for a quick chat and know when to give you space. they’re attentive without hovering, which makes for a relaxed atmosphere.
By user947365 (Imperial) on Jan 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back since the laid-back vibe and historical charm make it a perfect getaway from studying. it's one of those places where you can just lose track of time with friends.
By user852112 (Imperial) on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Might swing by the anglesea arms again because it just feels like one of those spots where you can zone out and feel at ease. the history of the place gives it some character, but what genuinely brings me back is the student crowd , everyone just seems relaxed and up for a chat. it's one of the few places where i can just chill without feeling out of place.
By user541474 (Imperial) on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Can't say no to returning here , it mixes history and warmth in such a relaxed way. it's where you can have a decent chat without shouting over music, making it a perfect spot to unwind. knowing Charles Dickens once walked these floors adds a tiny thrill to every visit.
By user822317 (Imperial) on Jan 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely a bit pricier compared to other places, but the nostalgic atmosphere makes it special.
By user278458 (Imperial) on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Love how it's just around the corner from all the museums so you can pop in after soaking up some culture.
By user702055 (Imperial) on Dec 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Might sound odd, but it was the old wooden bar stools that caught my eye. there's something about how they've definitely seen many years of chatter and pints that adds character. made me feel like i was stepping back in time for a bit, amidst all the student buzz.
By user227357 (Imperial) on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Met up with some mates at the Anglesea Arms, and it was kind of like stepping back in time in the best possible way. someone mentioned its connection to Charles Dickens, which added this unexpected layer of charm to our hangout. good balance of lively energy and chill vibes, ideal for us students just looking to unwind a bit 🌟
By user737387 (Imperial) on Dec 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sitting in charles dickens' old haunt is a bit surreal 😮 but the friendly regulars make you feel like you're just another local without any of the tourist fuss
By user543393 (Imperial) on Dec 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard great things about the anglesea arms, and it didn't disappoint. thought it'd be quieter inside, given its history, but it's actually buzzing with conversation. left feeling pleasantly surprised and already planning my next visit.
By user735660 (Imperial) on Dec 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed loads of students having a relaxed time, especially since it's in prime imperial territory. felt like everyone was just unwinding and catching up after classes. it was contagious, ended up chatting with a few new faces.
By user786087 (Imperial) on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Saturday evenings at the anglesea arms are pure magic. when the crowd is just right and everyone's enjoying themselves, there's this electric vibe in the air. it's like everyone there at that moment is sharing something special.
By user214695 (Imperial) on Dec 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect much initially, but it turned out to be quite a gem with its laid-back vibe and friendly crowd. 💭
By user194388 (Imperial) on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back because the mix of history and lively atmosphere is just the right balance for a laid-back evening.
By user511462 (Imperial) on Nov 22nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People here seem to be in such good spirits, a mix of locals and students all just chatting and enjoying their pints. struck up a conversation with some students from imperial college and it flowed easily, like you were part of an old circle. it was refreshing how welcoming everyone was, makes a night feel lighter and goes by faster without trying.
By user819333 (Imperial) on Nov 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect the bartender to know so much about the local history. was a nice surprise, especially for a curious mind like mine.
By user543228 (Imperial) on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wish they'd update the seating because those old wooden chairs are not the best for long chats.
By user375863 (Imperial) on Nov 2nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepped in and felt instantly taken by the warm, lively atmosphere. it had that lived-in charm where you could happily settle in for hours.
By user705490 (Imperial) on Oct 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Got to love the historical touch at the anglesea arms, especially when you realize you're hanging out where dickens once did. took me a couple of visits to really appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, but it's definitely a spot i keep returning to now.
By user669099 (Imperial) on Oct 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Would definitely go back to the anglesea arms. it's got that mix of laid-back and lively that just clicks, especially after a day of lectures. plus, it's pretty cool being in a spot where dickens used to live.
By user738181 (Imperial) on Oct 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Got a bit loud with students and tourists chatting away, but you can't help having a good laugh here.
By user241512 (Imperial) on Oct 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Often end up chatting with some really interesting folks who seem to have stumbled in for the same relaxed vibe. perfect for a low-key evening.
By user282126 (Imperial) on Oct 14th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Usually love popping into the angelsea arms for a catch-up, but it can get a bit overcrowded on weekends. you hardly find a seat and end up standing around, which isn't ideal for a relaxed hangout. maybe a weekday visit would be more chill.
By user811791 (Imperial) on Oct 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bartenders here know how to keep things friendly and laid-back, making it easy for newcomers like me to feel at home. struck up a conversation with a fellow student thanks to their chill vibe.
By user101754 (Imperial) on Oct 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Settling into the Anglesea Arms felt like finding a cozy corner of history. it's got this relaxed vibe that kicks in after a few visits, making even the busiest days seem manageable. you start appreciating the laid-back atmosphere, fitting perfectly into student life.
By user975664 (Imperial) on Sep 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff remembered my name and drink order before i even had to ask which made me feel at home.
By user124270 (Imperial) on Sep 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely more character than your average chain pub, with its old-school charm and history. way more interesting than the usual generic places up in town. plus, it seems to really connect with the local student crowd.
By user344801 (Imperial) on Sep 18th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepping inside, there's this comforting buzz mixed with a sense of history that hits you right away. the friendly chatter and clinking of glasses made me immediately regret not coming here sooner. it felt like a proper escape from the chaos of uni life , instantly cosy yet lively.
By user312341 (Imperial) on Sep 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Getting a sense of history while sipping your pint at the anglesea arms is quite something. you can practically picture charles dickens pondering his next story there. with a mix of students and locals, it's got that warm, bustling feel that's perfect for unwinding after lectures.
By user371028 (Imperial) on Aug 11th 2024