SWAN, London – 73 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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SWAN -
SWAN -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 73 user ratings
21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London
💬 What Students Say
Located along the scenic Bankside in London, Swan is a unique venue that stands out as a go-to spot for students from King’s College London. It’s not just a bar; it’s a lively gathering place that offers a perfect blend of affordability and atmosphere. Many students appreciate the venue for its modern British restaurant vibe, which serves up classic dishes alongside a wide selection of delicious cocktails and traditional drinks. The venue is well-rated for its cleanliness, with many reviews highlighting the tidy facilities, including the often-overlooked restrooms, which can be a rarity in the bustling London nightlife scene. This cleanliness, paired with a welcoming ambiance, makes Swan a place where students can feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying their night out.
The atmosphere at Swan is often described as vibrant and inclusive, making it an ideal location for students looking to unwind after a long week of classes. The energy here is infectious, with many reviews noting how easy it is to lose track of time once you step inside. The crowd is typically a diverse mix of students and locals, all there to enjoy themselves without the pretentiousness that can sometimes accompany nightlife in the city. This laid-back vibe is complemented by a stellar music selection, with many students praising the DJ's ability to keep the dance floor lively with a mix of popular tracks. Whether you’re in the mood for a chill evening or a night of dancing, the music at Swan is often a highlight, with many students mentioning that the playlists feature 'proper student bangers' that keep the energy high.
When it comes to drinks, students frequently mention that Swan offers reasonably priced options, making it a great choice for those on a budget. The venue is highly rated for value, with many students appreciating that they can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the overall positive atmosphere, makes Swan a popular choice for students looking to have a good time with friends. However, some reviews do indicate that the quality of the experience can vary depending on the night, suggesting that while most evenings are enjoyable, there are occasional nights that may not live up to expectations.
Entry and queuing at Swan seem relatively straightforward, with many students reporting that while the venue can get busy, the queue experience is generally manageable. The venue is appreciated for its ability to maintain a lively yet not overcrowded environment, allowing for a comfortable night out. Students often feel safe and at ease here, which is crucial when choosing a nightlife spot. The inclusive nature of the venue, where everyone feels welcome to be themselves, adds to the overall positive experience that many students report.
In terms of who this venue suits best, Swan is ideal for students who enjoy a casual night out with friends, where the focus is on good music, affordable drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where you can let loose and enjoy yourself without the pressure of pretentiousness or exclusivity. Many students have expressed that they appreciate the charm of Swan, noting that it feels more like a local hangout than a typical chain bar. This unique character, combined with the regular events and lively crowd, makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable night out in London.
However, it’s worth mentioning that, like any venue, Swan has its strengths and weaknesses. While the atmosphere and music are consistently praised, some students have pointed out that the experience can be hit or miss depending on the night. This variability is something to keep in mind if you’re planning your visit. Additionally, while the venue is generally clean, there may be nights when it feels a bit busier, which could impact the overall cleanliness and service experience. Nonetheless, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making Swan a top choice for students looking for a good time.
In summary, Swan offers a fantastic blend of affordability, atmosphere, and great music, making it a standout option for students at King’s College London. With its welcoming vibe and a diverse crowd, it’s a place where you can easily connect with others and enjoy a night out that you won’t forget anytime soon. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning to dance the night away, Swan is definitely worth checking out.
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The atmosphere at Swan is often described as vibrant and inclusive, making it an ideal location for students looking to unwind after a long week of classes. The energy here is infectious, with many reviews noting how easy it is to lose track of time once you step inside. The crowd is typically a diverse mix of students and locals, all there to enjoy themselves without the pretentiousness that can sometimes accompany nightlife in the city. This laid-back vibe is complemented by a stellar music selection, with many students praising the DJ's ability to keep the dance floor lively with a mix of popular tracks. Whether you’re in the mood for a chill evening or a night of dancing, the music at Swan is often a highlight, with many students mentioning that the playlists feature 'proper student bangers' that keep the energy high.
When it comes to drinks, students frequently mention that Swan offers reasonably priced options, making it a great choice for those on a budget. The venue is highly rated for value, with many students appreciating that they can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the overall positive atmosphere, makes Swan a popular choice for students looking to have a good time with friends. However, some reviews do indicate that the quality of the experience can vary depending on the night, suggesting that while most evenings are enjoyable, there are occasional nights that may not live up to expectations.
Entry and queuing at Swan seem relatively straightforward, with many students reporting that while the venue can get busy, the queue experience is generally manageable. The venue is appreciated for its ability to maintain a lively yet not overcrowded environment, allowing for a comfortable night out. Students often feel safe and at ease here, which is crucial when choosing a nightlife spot. The inclusive nature of the venue, where everyone feels welcome to be themselves, adds to the overall positive experience that many students report.
In terms of who this venue suits best, Swan is ideal for students who enjoy a casual night out with friends, where the focus is on good music, affordable drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where you can let loose and enjoy yourself without the pressure of pretentiousness or exclusivity. Many students have expressed that they appreciate the charm of Swan, noting that it feels more like a local hangout than a typical chain bar. This unique character, combined with the regular events and lively crowd, makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable night out in London.
However, it’s worth mentioning that, like any venue, Swan has its strengths and weaknesses. While the atmosphere and music are consistently praised, some students have pointed out that the experience can be hit or miss depending on the night. This variability is something to keep in mind if you’re planning your visit. Additionally, while the venue is generally clean, there may be nights when it feels a bit busier, which could impact the overall cleanliness and service experience. Nonetheless, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making Swan a top choice for students looking for a good time.
In summary, Swan offers a fantastic blend of affordability, atmosphere, and great music, making it a standout option for students at King’s College London. With its welcoming vibe and a diverse crowd, it’s a place where you can easily connect with others and enjoy a night out that you won’t forget anytime soon. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning to dance the night away, Swan is definitely worth checking out.
✅ What Students Love
- Highly rated for value, making it affordable for students.
- Lively and inclusive atmosphere that encourages socializing.
- Great music selection with popular tracks that keep the energy high.
- Clean facilities, including restrooms, which are often noted by students.
- A diverse crowd that creates a friendly and welcoming environment.
- Easy entry experience with manageable queues, even when busy.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a casual and fun night out with friends, where they can enjoy affordable drinks and great music.
💡 Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, making it easy to fit in.
- Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on student nights.
- Check the DJ schedule for nights with specific music genres.
- Arrive early to avoid long queues on busier nights.
- Drinks are reasonably priced, ideal for budget-conscious students.
❓ Common Questions
What is Swan like?
Swan is a lively riverside venue known for its affordable drinks, great music, and welcoming atmosphere.
How long is the queue?
The queue is generally manageable, although it can get busy during peak times.
Is it good value?
Yes, many students find it highly affordable, making it a popular choice.
What music does Swan play?
Swan features a mix of popular tracks, often referred to as 'student bangers'.
What is the crowd like?
The crowd is diverse and friendly, creating an inclusive atmosphere.
Reviews
1 of 73
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Smoking
Modern bar, great Thames views
By user191144 (KCL) on Aug 13th 2026
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Best place for afternoon tea. 😍
By user641775 (KCL) on Aug 6th 2026
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bring your camera for stunning photo ops
By user324911 (KCL) on Aug 6th 2026
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What's not to love here!
By user464593 (KCL) on Jul 30th 2026
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Chill place, lively atmosphere
By user641785 (KCL) on Jul 25th 2026
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beautiful river view
By user657399 (KCL) on Jul 20th 2026
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Friendly staff make the visit more enjoyable.
By user888837 (KCL) on Jul 15th 2026
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there's music by the river
By user933590 (KCL) on Jul 10th 2026
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Try to get tables near windows
By user528791 (KCL) on Jul 5th 2026
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sound vibe and food
By user436833 (KCL) on Jun 29th 2026
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the upstairs area is cool for chilling
By user299149 (KCL) on Jun 24th 2026
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Drinks with a view always a hit. 🍻
By user896612 (KCL) on Jun 19th 2026
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nice bar near the river
By user734074 (KCL) on Jun 14th 2026
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lovely views of the river
By user780667 (KCL) on Jun 9th 2026
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Riverside location is brilliant
By user361788 (KCL) on Jun 4th 2026
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Enjoyed sitting by the river with a drink.
By user337769 (KCL) on May 28th 2026
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amazing river views
By user585276 (KCL) on May 23rd 2026
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nice spot by the river
By user525424 (KCL) on May 18th 2026
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Proper good afternoon spot
By user291963 (KCL) on May 11th 2026
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Proper nice afternoon
By user898302 (KCL) on May 5th 2026
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Definately chilling vibes here
By user747813 (KCL) on Apr 29th 2026
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solid for brunch lovers
By user688556 (KCL) on Apr 23rd 2026
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Nice variety on cocktail menu 😍
By user206513 (KCL) on Apr 18th 2026
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upstairs for dinner and drinks
By user224983 (KCL) on Apr 13th 2026
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The brilliant selection of teas really stood out to me.
By user978898 (KCL) on Apr 10th 2026
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afternoon tea is fantastic
By user418629 (KCL) on Apr 5th 2026
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More than just a meal, a proper experience.
By user971237 (KCL) on Apr 3rd 2026
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downstairs breakfast too good
By user456546 (KCL) on Apr 1st 2026
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Really good vibes
By user623197 (KCL) on Mar 31st 2026
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Riverside venue, views of the Thames
By user472549 (KCL) on Mar 26th 2026
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Sound for chilling with mates
By user788754 (KCL) on Mar 23rd 2026
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river views and tasty food
By user259704 (KCL) on Mar 18th 2026
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Affordable afternoon snacks
By user846817 (KCL) on Mar 13th 2026
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afternoon tea was the real treat
By user510608 (KCL) on Mar 9th 2026
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head here for night views
By user908750 (KCL) on Mar 8th 2026
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proper class views here
By user828330 (KCL) on Mar 7th 2026
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food was proper lush
By user284254 (KCL) on Mar 6th 2026
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book a table for busy nights
By user508668 (KCL) on Mar 5th 2026
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thames views and tasty food
By user564059 (KCL) on Mar 4th 2026
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Ideal for afternoon tea lovers. 🍰
By user294503 (KCL) on Feb 26th 2026
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finger sandwiches and sweets
By user361128 (KCL) on Feb 25th 2026
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so many nice drinks 😍
By user138562 (KCL) on Feb 24th 2026
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Loved the amazing cocktails! 👌
By user691676 (KCL) on Feb 22nd 2026
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fantastic service everytime
By user668764 (KCL) on Feb 20th 2026
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best afternoon tea experience
By user432248 (KCL) on Feb 19th 2026
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Absolutely buzzing in here
By user668949 (KCL) on Feb 18th 2026
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location by the river, beautiful
By user443960 (KCL) on Feb 17th 2026
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A very relaxing atmosphere with delicious food.
By user650853 (KCL) on Feb 16th 2026
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A lovely atmosphere with great views over the Thames.
By user867809 (KCL) on Feb 15th 2026
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Remember to book in advance for weekend afternoons.
By user329498 (KCL) on Feb 14th 2026
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staff were super attentive
By user730819 (KCL) on Feb 13th 2026
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proper buzzing by thames
By user459564 (KCL) on Feb 9th 2026
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amazing drinks and food
By user436696 (KCL) on Feb 1st 2026
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views of the thames great
By user182714 (KCL) on Jan 26th 2026
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best drinks menu ive seen
By user469481 (KCL) on Jan 22nd 2026
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relaxed vibes great place to chill
By user217084 (KCL) on Jan 18th 2026
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The drinks were very creative and enjoyable.
By user986269 (KCL) on Jan 14th 2026
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proper spelling doesnt matter cause views are fantastic
By user360158 (KCL) on Jan 10th 2026
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great view and service
By user751788 (KCL) on Jan 7th 2026
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Very nice atmoshere and views are breathtaking
By user677877 (KCL) on Jan 2nd 2026
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upstairs is nice for chilling
By user174071 (KCL) on Dec 30th 2025
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Perfect place for an afternoon bite.
By user190180 (KCL) on Dec 25th 2025
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Lovely Thames views
By user114574 (KCL) on Dec 21st 2025
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Craft drinks amaze. 😍
By user257689 (KCL) on Dec 17th 2025
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I really enjoyed the drinks at the bar.
By user787235 (KCL) on Dec 12th 2025
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Loved sitting by the window and watching the Thames go by.
By user308430 (KCL) on Dec 6th 2025
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Stunning setting, impressive drinks
By user726342 (KCL) on Dec 2nd 2025
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kind staff even on busy days
By user767097 (KCL) on Nov 27th 2025
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nice little afternoon retreat
By user273927 (KCL) on Nov 23rd 2025
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Great view of Thames
By user667980 (KCL) on Nov 17th 2025
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really like the food options
By user285245 (KCL) on Nov 10th 2025
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worth it just for the views
By user571555 (KCL) on Nov 3rd 2025
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Having afternoon tea was a complete delight.
By user911402 (KCL) on Oct 29th 2025
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