The Anglesea Arms, London – 46 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Anglesea Arms -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 46 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.
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✅ 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.

Reviews
1 of 48
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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 on Apr 23rd 2026
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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 on Apr 18th 2026
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Noticed how the staff have that sixth sense for when you're about to finish your pint.
By user577832 on Apr 13th 2026
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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 on Apr 9th 2026
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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 on Apr 5th 2026
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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 on Apr 3rd 2026
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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 on Mar 31st 2026
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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 on Mar 26th 2026
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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 on Mar 23rd 2026
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Kinda wish the pub had more seating options since it gets quite busy sometimes.
By user859243 on Mar 18th 2026
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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 on Mar 16th 2026
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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 on Mar 11th 2026
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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 on Mar 10th 2026
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Figuring out my favourite spot to sit at anglesea arms has been a fun little journey 😅
By user172909 on Feb 28th 2026
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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 on Feb 12th 2026
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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 on Feb 5th 2026
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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 on Jan 30th 2026
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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 on Jan 25th 2026
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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 on Jan 21st 2026
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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 on Jan 17th 2026
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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 on Jan 13th 2026
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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 on Jan 10th 2026
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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 on Jan 6th 2026
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Definitely a bit pricier compared to other places, but the nostalgic atmosphere makes it special.
By user278458 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Love how it's just around the corner from all the museums so you can pop in after soaking up some culture.
By user702055 on Dec 29th 2025
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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 on Dec 24th 2025
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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 on Dec 20th 2025
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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 on Dec 16th 2025
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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 on Dec 11th 2025
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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 on Dec 4th 2025
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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 on Dec 1st 2025
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Didn't expect much initially, but it turned out to be quite a gem with its laid-back vibe and friendly crowd. 💭
By user194388 on Nov 26th 2025
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Definitely going back because the mix of history and lively atmosphere is just the right balance for a laid-back evening.
By user511462 on Nov 22nd 2025
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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 on Nov 16th 2025
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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 on Nov 9th 2025
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Wish they'd update the seating because those old wooden chairs are not the best for long chats.
By user375863 on Nov 2nd 2025
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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 on Oct 27th 2025
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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 on Oct 24th 2025
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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 on Oct 21st 2025
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Got a bit loud with students and tourists chatting away, but you can't help having a good laugh here.
By user241512 on Oct 17th 2025
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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 on Oct 14th 2025
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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 on Oct 10th 2025
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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 on Oct 5th 2025
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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 on Sep 30th 2025
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Staff remembered my name and drink order before i even had to ask which made me feel at home.
By user124270 on Sep 25th 2025
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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 on Sep 18th 2025
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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 on Sep 13th 2025
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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 on Aug 11th 2024