CELLAR DOOR , London – 44 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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CELLAR DOOR -
CELLAR DOOR -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 44 user ratings
Zero Aldwych London WC2E 7DN United Kingdom
💬 What Students Say
Cellar Door is an intimate cocktail bar located beneath the Aldwych in London, offering a unique blend of vibrant energy and laid-back atmosphere. This venue is particularly popular among students from King's College London, making it a hotspot for those looking to unwind after a long week of studies. With live acts taking the stage most nights from 9 PM, Cellar Door transforms into a lively space where you can enjoy mouth-watering cocktails and a great selection of drinks. The venue is open until 1 AM every day, making it a convenient option for late-night outings.
The atmosphere at Cellar Door is frequently described as unreal, with students mentioning how the energy in the room creates a fantastic vibe for a night out. Many reviews highlight that the crowd is friendly and chill, contributing to a relaxed yet exciting environment. This is a place where you can easily connect with others, enjoy a good laugh, and make lasting memories with friends. The venue's intimate size ensures that it never feels too overwhelming, while still maintaining a lively scene that keeps the night flowing perfectly.
Music plays a significant role in the overall experience at Cellar Door. Students rave about the quality of the music, with many noting that the DJ knows how to keep the energy high and the dance floor busy. The music selection is often described as on point, making it easy to enjoy the night without the need to shout over the tunes. Whether you're there for a casual drink or a full-on night of dancing, the soundscape adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue.
When it comes to drinks, Cellar Door offers a range of options, including cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, and soft drinks. While some students have commented that the prices aren't the cheapest, many agree that the quality of the drinks and the atmosphere make it worth the cost. There are also good drink deals available if you keep an eye out, which can enhance the value of your night out. The bar's pricing might not be the most budget-friendly, but the experience you gain here is often viewed as priceless.
Students have noted that the queue at Cellar Door is generally manageable, with many expressing satisfaction with how quickly they can get inside. The queue rating is high, indicating that while it can get busy, it rarely leads to long waits that can dampen the excitement of a night out. This efficiency in entry helps maintain the upbeat vibe that Cellar Door is known for, ensuring that you can spend more time enjoying yourself rather than standing in line.
Review patterns indicate that Cellar Door suits a variety of students, particularly those looking for a relaxed yet fun night out. The venue is ideal for groups of friends wanting to hang out without the pressure of a more upscale club scene. It's also a great spot for those who appreciate live music and a vibrant atmosphere where they can meet new people. Many students mention that the mix of patrons adds to the fun, making it a welcoming place for everyone.
In terms of strengths, Cellar Door shines with its exceptional atmosphere, friendly crowd, and great music. Students frequently mention the laid-back vibe, which allows for easy conversations and connections. The venue is well-maintained, and the staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. The mix of people, from students to locals, contributes to an exciting night out that feels fresh and engaging every time.
However, there are a few caveats to consider. While the atmosphere is lively, it can also get quite packed, especially on weekends. This might make finding a comfortable spot to sit a bit challenging. Additionally, while the drink quality is praised, some students feel that the prices could be more competitive, particularly for those on a student budget. Lastly, while the venue is great for socializing, some might find it lacks the more extravagant elements of larger clubs, which may not suit everyone’s tastes.
Overall, Cellar Door is a fantastic choice for students looking for a fun, relaxed night out in London. With its great atmosphere, friendly crowd, and excellent music, it’s no wonder that this venue is highly rated among students. Whether you're looking to grab a drink after class, enjoy some live music, or dance the night away, Cellar Door delivers a memorable experience that keeps students coming back for more.
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The atmosphere at Cellar Door is frequently described as unreal, with students mentioning how the energy in the room creates a fantastic vibe for a night out. Many reviews highlight that the crowd is friendly and chill, contributing to a relaxed yet exciting environment. This is a place where you can easily connect with others, enjoy a good laugh, and make lasting memories with friends. The venue's intimate size ensures that it never feels too overwhelming, while still maintaining a lively scene that keeps the night flowing perfectly.
Music plays a significant role in the overall experience at Cellar Door. Students rave about the quality of the music, with many noting that the DJ knows how to keep the energy high and the dance floor busy. The music selection is often described as on point, making it easy to enjoy the night without the need to shout over the tunes. Whether you're there for a casual drink or a full-on night of dancing, the soundscape adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue.
When it comes to drinks, Cellar Door offers a range of options, including cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, and soft drinks. While some students have commented that the prices aren't the cheapest, many agree that the quality of the drinks and the atmosphere make it worth the cost. There are also good drink deals available if you keep an eye out, which can enhance the value of your night out. The bar's pricing might not be the most budget-friendly, but the experience you gain here is often viewed as priceless.
Students have noted that the queue at Cellar Door is generally manageable, with many expressing satisfaction with how quickly they can get inside. The queue rating is high, indicating that while it can get busy, it rarely leads to long waits that can dampen the excitement of a night out. This efficiency in entry helps maintain the upbeat vibe that Cellar Door is known for, ensuring that you can spend more time enjoying yourself rather than standing in line.
Review patterns indicate that Cellar Door suits a variety of students, particularly those looking for a relaxed yet fun night out. The venue is ideal for groups of friends wanting to hang out without the pressure of a more upscale club scene. It's also a great spot for those who appreciate live music and a vibrant atmosphere where they can meet new people. Many students mention that the mix of patrons adds to the fun, making it a welcoming place for everyone.
In terms of strengths, Cellar Door shines with its exceptional atmosphere, friendly crowd, and great music. Students frequently mention the laid-back vibe, which allows for easy conversations and connections. The venue is well-maintained, and the staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. The mix of people, from students to locals, contributes to an exciting night out that feels fresh and engaging every time.
However, there are a few caveats to consider. While the atmosphere is lively, it can also get quite packed, especially on weekends. This might make finding a comfortable spot to sit a bit challenging. Additionally, while the drink quality is praised, some students feel that the prices could be more competitive, particularly for those on a student budget. Lastly, while the venue is great for socializing, some might find it lacks the more extravagant elements of larger clubs, which may not suit everyone’s tastes.
Overall, Cellar Door is a fantastic choice for students looking for a fun, relaxed night out in London. With its great atmosphere, friendly crowd, and excellent music, it’s no wonder that this venue is highly rated among students. Whether you're looking to grab a drink after class, enjoy some live music, or dance the night away, Cellar Door delivers a memorable experience that keeps students coming back for more.
✅ What Students Love
- Lively atmosphere that students love.
- Good music selection with talented DJs.
- Friendly and chill crowd, ideal for socializing.
- Quick queue experience for entry.
- Variety of drink options available.
- Comfortable seating that allows for relaxation.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Can get quite packed, making it hard to find seating.
- Prices are not the cheapest, which might be tough for budget-conscious students.
- Lacks some of the extravagant features of larger clubs.
- Not the most exciting venue for those seeking a high-energy club experience.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a fun and relaxed night out with friends.
💡 Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
- Best to arrive early to avoid long queues on busy nights.
- Keep an eye out for drink deals to save some money.
- The music is a mix of genres, perfect for dancing and socializing.
- The venue is suitable for both day and night activities.
❓ Common Questions
What is Cellar Door like?
Cellar Door is an intimate cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind and socialize.
How long is the queue?
The queue is generally quick to get through, making entry hassle-free.
Is it good value?
While not the cheapest, the quality of drinks and atmosphere make it worth the price.
What music does Cellar Door play?
The music varies, but students rave about the DJ's ability to keep the energy high.
Is there seating available?
Yes, there are comfortable seating options, though it can get packed.
Are there any drink deals?
Yes, keep an eye out for good drink deals to enhance your night.
Reviews
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When it gets busy, it can feel a bit cramped, but that adds to the energy. just don’t expect to have loads of personal space; it’s about the vibe and the crowd coming together.
By user326552 on Apr 20th 2026
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Didn't expect such a friendly atmosphere in a city bar, but the people at cellar door really make you feel welcome. it's a great place to relax without feeling out of place.
By user102289 on Apr 14th 2026
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Staff here are fab. they’re quick with the cocktails and always up for a chat, which adds to the laid-back feel of the place. you never feel rushed, just relaxed and ready to enjoy your night.
By user288909 on Apr 9th 2026
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Music fills the room with a nice pace, drawing everyone to the dancefloor without feeling like you're crammed in. drinks won't blow your budget but they hit the right spot, leaving you with plenty to enjoy the night. overall, it's just the kind of relief you need when you're ready to step away from the textbooks.
By user946484 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Offers a unique underground charm that's hard to find elsewhere, though drinks are just okay but not overpriced.
By user329143 on Mar 31st 2026
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Music was a bit hit or miss, with some tracks not really matching the vibe. drinks are decent but the prices could be a tad more student-friendly considering it's a popular spot among us.
By user762752 on Mar 30th 2026
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Stepping into cellar door feels like entering a secret world beneath the city , the atmosphere during the evenings hits a sweet spot between buzzing and relaxed. you might bump into a few familiar faces from class, which somehow makes london feel smaller and more like home. while queues can test patience, the vibe inside usually makes the wait worth it 😅.
By user626257 on Mar 30th 2026
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Frequenting cellar door has become a bit of a ritual after labs on fridays. the mellow ambiance is just what i need to decompress and catch up with mates. it's nice having a place where the mix of lively and chilled feels just right.
By user868748 on Mar 25th 2026
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Music can be a bit too loud sometimes, which isn't the best when chatting.
By user687801 on Mar 20th 2026
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Walking down those steps into Cellar Door felt like discovering a secret hangout 🙌. there's an irresistible buzz in the air that mellows out into relaxed vibes as you settle in. definitely a place i'd revisit just for that initial thrill.
By user348562 on Mar 14th 2026
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Feels like a hidden world every time you go down there, but it’s not always as good as you’d hope. sometimes you're surrounded by people who are just there for the experience instead of enjoying themselves. had better nights elsewhere with a more genuine crowd but it's worth checking out for something a bit different.
By user169487 on Mar 9th 2026
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Expected it to be quite cramped, but it actually felt surprisingly spacious considering it's underground. met some fellow students and had a good laugh with the bartenders , they really add to the vibe here.
By user913762 on Feb 27th 2026
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Definitely going back to cellar door. love the mix of energy and chill ambiance, perfect for unwinding after studying without feeling too crowded or hectic
By user410260 on Feb 11th 2026
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Always feels like you've stumbled onto something special whenever you go down those steps. perfect spot for a chill evening, especially if you go midweek when it's not too packed and you can actually grab a seat.
By user450069 on Feb 4th 2026
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Found it unique because of the blend between the lively crowd and chill vibe. similar places can feel hectic but here it stays comfortably balanced.
By user897496 on Jan 29th 2026
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Sinking into the plush seats at cellar door with cocktail in hand feels like finding a secret hideaway. it's not too packed, which makes it perfect for chatty nights with friends from king's.
By user123763 on Jan 25th 2026
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Caught the live music on a friday night and it was just what i needed. the mix of tunes and friendly chatter made the atmosphere buzz in the best possible way. definitely felt like the perfect place to chill with some mates and soak it all in.
By user118151 on Jan 20th 2026
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Crowd's more chilled than most places around here, which is a relief if you're fed up with overly stuffy spots. felt like a proper break from the packed venues I usually hit up 😅
By user639829 on Jan 16th 2026
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Popping into cellar door each week has become a staple in my ever-busy life at uni. it’s the perfect way to hit pause, lose track of time, and chat with a few folks while sipping something nice before diving back into textbooks.
By user760392 on Jan 13th 2026
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Cellar door's charm is its tucked-away feel, making it feel like a secret club that everyone knows about. compared to other bars, the mix of chill vibes and lively energy really stands out, and it's a brilliant place to meet other King’s students.
By user279288 on Jan 10th 2026
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Sat among the eclectic crowd at cellar door, I found myself sinking into the rhythm of the night, laughter echoing around us. music played with that kind of intensity that makes it impossible to sit still. those spontaneous nights of dance and conversation felt like the heartbeat of our student lives.
By user985061 on Jan 5th 2026
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Stumbled upon an unexpected poetry reading that made the evening much more interesting than just the usual cocktail hour.
By user761315 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Wandered in expecting a typical cocktail bar experience but ended up staying way longer than planned. didn't expect live cabaret and spoken word performances on a random night out, which was a pleasant surprise 😮. the whole place felt like a secret underworld, buzzing with creativity and unexpected encounters.
By user741707 on Dec 28th 2025
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Love how you can just descend those stairs and suddenly you're in this cozy spot away from all the chaos 🍷. it's always bustling with students, but you still feel like you can relax and chat without shouting over loud music, which is a win for me. just the right mix of lively without being overwhelming , perfect for a chill weekend.
By user565817 on Dec 24th 2025
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Felt a bit overwhelmed at first, but cellardoor slowly grew on me. it’s where i started catching those low-key but lively vibes after classes at king's.
By user653139 on Dec 19th 2025
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Dim lighting and plush seating make it feel like a secret hideout bringing a unique vibe to the otherwise bustling area. you get a mix of students and locals but everyone's just here to relax and sip some cocktails. honestly, never felt any tension despite the packed space, which is pretty rare for a night out in central london.
By user665693 on Dec 15th 2025
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Bumped into some classmates from a seminar i took last term, and it felt like a mini reunion as we sank into the plush seats with our drinks. we all ended up sharing stories and laughs late into the evening, making it a night to remember. can't quite pinpoint the charm, but something about the place just draws people together effortlessly.
By user222405 on Dec 11th 2025
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Usually pop in on friday nights with a couple mates to kick back and chill. cannot think of a better way to wrap up the week than a visit here.
By user428274 on Dec 4th 2025
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Noticed a mix of students and locals just enjoying themselves, everyone seemed relaxed and in good spirits. it felt welcoming and easy-going
By user596109 on Nov 30th 2025
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Stepping into cellar door felt like stumbling upon an unexpected secret. instantly charmed by the lively yet relaxed vibe, i knew it was going to be one of those nights you'd remember for just the sheer enjoyment and spontaneity of it all.
By user280269 on Nov 26th 2025
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Noticed the lived-in cushions that begged to be lounged on, like they had stories to tell. 😊
By user890158 on Nov 21st 2025
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Found the place pretty chill with its mix of lively and relaxed vibes. it's tucked away under the Aldwych, so you feel like you're stepping into a secret spot, which is quite cool. even though it's popular with students, it never feels overwhelmingly crowded , there's space to truly enjoy amidst all the chatter.
By user792391 on Nov 15th 2025
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Went with my mates expecting just to have a few drinks, but ended up staying for the live music. the atmosphere was relaxed yet lively and i was pleasantly surprised by how inviting the place felt despite its basement location.
By user432768 on Nov 9th 2025
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Staff are pretty chill and always seem up for a good chat with students.
By user781872 on Nov 1st 2025
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Stumbled in expecting just cocktails, but was surprised by a fantastic spoken word event. totally different energy than the usual bar scene, and somehow just what we needed to relax and take our minds off geography essays for a bit.
By user925537 on Oct 27th 2025
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Lines to get in weren't agonizing like other bars, which is a big plus. once inside, the atmosphere felt just right for a chill evening. service was solid and added to the relaxed vibe without any stress.
By user608034 on Oct 24th 2025
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Noticed lots of students from king's mingling and chatting which made it feel really lively and upbeat.
By user257556 on Oct 20th 2025
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Found myself becoming a regular here. its chill vibe and friendly crowd make it easy to just relax and settle into the night. being a bit tucked away, it's a spot where you can forget about deadlines for a while.
By user630303 on Oct 16th 2025
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Feels like a secret tucked away under the city where you're surrounded by fellow students who actually talk to you. loads of cocktail bars can be intimidating with too much energy, but here it's surprisingly chill and makes it more fun to mingle.
By user179527 on Oct 13th 2025
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Didn't expect a place this tiny to feel so lively, but it really buzzes with energy without feeling cramped. definitely coming back for more laid-back evenings that somehow end up being unexpectedly fun.
By user784514 on Oct 9th 2025
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Weeknights at the cellar door have a special charm, where the crowd's energy seems contagious and makes it all the more memorable. something about the dimly lit space and eclectic mix of students and locals creates a perfect backdrop for stories you'll look back on with a grin.
By user997063 on Oct 5th 2025
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Spent ages chatting with fellow students at cellar door, and the easygoing mood somehow made me feel right at home 🍕 it was just what i needed to feel settled in a new city
By user321758 on Sep 29th 2025
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Usually hit Cellar Door to kick off the weekend, and it somehow always manages to feel both buzzing and chill. it's become a weekly retreat from the uni grind where i can actually relax.
By user341919 on Sep 24th 2025
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Glad i discovered cellar door after settling into london life. at first, wondered if it was too lively for an introvert like me, but over time, it became a favourite escape when i needed a break from coursework.
By user374387 on Sep 14th 2025
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Remember squeezing onto a cozy corner booth with my mates, laughing way too loudly and not even bothering to check our phones. it felt like our own little world down there, just a bunch of King's students taking a breather from revision chaos.
By user985296 on Sep 12th 2025
Review published! ✓