The Loaded Dog, Leicester – 63 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Loaded Dog — student bar photo

The Loaded Dog -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 63 user ratings

144 London Rd, Leicester LE2 1ED, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Located on London Road, The Loaded Dog is a popular student pub that has earned a reputation for being a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a fun night out without breaking the bank. With a lively atmosphere and an energetic crowd, it’s no wonder that students from the University of Leicester flock to this venue. The pub is spacious and features multiple screens, making it a prime location for catching live football matches. The vibe here is consistently buzzing, especially on themed student nights, which adds an extra layer of excitement to any visit. Whether you're gearing up for a big night out or just looking to unwind with friends, The Loaded Dog offers a welcoming environment that feels like a home away from home.

The atmosphere at The Loaded Dog is often described as young and vibrant, with many students praising the friendly crowd and engaging vibe. The music selection is solid, contributing to the overall enjoyable experience. It’s a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the company of others, whether during the day or late into the night. Many reviews highlight the energy of the venue, noting that it is never a boring place to be. This lively environment makes it an ideal spot for students looking to socialize and meet new people. The mix of patrons keeps things interesting, offering a varied crowd that adds to the dynamic atmosphere.

When it comes to events, The Loaded Dog hosts a range of themed nights that cater to students. The consistent programming means there’s usually something happening, which is a big draw for many. Students frequently mention that there’s always a good atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for a night out. The venue is particularly well-regarded for its pre-drinks scene, with many students choosing to start their nights here before heading to the city’s clubs. The combination of a lively crowd, good music, and themed events ensures that there’s rarely a dull moment at The Loaded Dog.

Drinks at The Loaded Dog are often highlighted as a major plus point. Students appreciate the reasonably priced drinks, which allow them to enjoy a night out without feeling the pinch in their wallets. The affordability of the drinks is a recurring theme in reviews, making it a great option for students who want to have a good time without overspending. The pub is known for offering a variety of drinks, and the friendly staff are praised for their service, which adds to the overall positive experience. Although some students note that it may not be the absolute cheapest spot in town, the balance of quality and price makes it a solid choice for a fun night out.

The queue and entry experience at The Loaded Dog also receive positive remarks. Students frequently mention that the queue moves quickly, which is a relief for anyone eager to get inside and start enjoying their night. The efficient service at the bar means that you won’t be waiting too long for drinks, allowing you to maximize your time socializing with friends. The overall entry experience contributes to the venue's appeal, making it easy to get in and enjoy what the night has to offer. This aspect is particularly appreciated during busier nights, where long waits can be a common frustration at other venues.

While The Loaded Dog has many strengths, it’s important to consider a few caveats. Some students feel that the venue could benefit from more space for dancing, which can be a slight drawback if you're looking to hit the dance floor. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally lively, the mix of people can sometimes be overwhelming depending on the night. Some reviews suggest that it might not be the most glamorous spot, but it does have a character that many find appealing. It’s a place that feels more like a local hangout rather than a chain bar, which resonates well with the student crowd.

Overall, The Loaded Dog is a highly rated venue for students looking for a fun and affordable night out in Leicester. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a friendly crowd and a variety of events. Whether you’re there for a casual drink or a themed night, you can expect to have a good time. The combination of affordable drinks, a lively vibe, and engaging events makes it a reliable choice for students wanting to make memories with friends. The Loaded Dog consistently hits the mark, providing a space where students can connect, unwind, and enjoy a great night out together.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and energetic atmosphere perfect for students.
  • Affordable drinks that won't break the bank.
  • Friendly crowd that makes it easy to socialize.
  • Quick-moving queues for entry and drinks.
  • Varied crowd that keeps the experience interesting.
  • Consistent themed events and activities throughout the week.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Limited space for dancing, which may be a downside for some.
  • Not the most glamorous venue, but has its own character.
  • Crowd mix can be overwhelming on busy nights.
  • Some students feel it could be pricier than other options.
  • Can get crowded, especially on popular nights.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, affordable night out in a friendly and lively environment.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so you can come as you are.
  • Best to arrive early on themed nights to avoid long queues.
  • Check out the drink specials for the best value.
  • Music ranges from popular hits to themed playlists on special nights.
  • Great spot for pre-drinks before heading to clubs.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Loaded Dog like?

The Loaded Dog is a lively student pub with a friendly crowd, affordable drinks, and a buzzing atmosphere.

How long is the queue?

The queue tends to move quickly, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, drinks are reasonably priced, making it a good value for a night out.

What music does The Loaded Dog play?

The music ranges from popular hits to themed playlists on special nights.

The Loaded Dog — student bar photo
Reviews
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Years have passed since my first visit here, yet it still delivers that same laid-back charm I enjoyed back then. Prices remain reasonable, making it a go-to when funds are tight, and the music always seems to hit the right note. Staff have stayed consistent too, creating a welcoming environment that keeps the atmosphere lively without feeling overwhelming.
By user358246 (Leicester) on Aug 4th 2026
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Value for money here is solid, with drink prices that don’t leave your wallet empty, and the atmosphere keeps you in the mood to stay longer.
By user419860 (Leicester) on Jul 28th 2026
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At The Loaded Dog, the energy is infectious, driven by fresh tunes that keep everyone on their feet. Without good music, spots like this can fall flat, but here, it's enough to bring you back repeatedly.
By user526575 (Leicester) on Jul 23rd 2026
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The Loaded Dog impressed me with how welcoming it felt, avoiding the typical rowdy bar scene. The atmosphere was more relaxed, and the crowd seemed genuinely interested in the music instead of just making noise. It also exceeded my expectations for cleanliness; it lacked the sticky residue you sometimes find after a busy night.
By user157154 (Leicester) on Jul 18th 2026
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At The Loaded Dog, the drink prices are on the higher side, which can be tough on a student budget. However, the lively energy and skilled DJs make it a worthwhile experience after a long week 📚.
By user869134 (Leicester) on Jul 14th 2026
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Crowd dynamics here can feel a bit laid back, but it's the reliable atmosphere that keeps the evenings rolling smoothly. Nothing overly flashy, yet it manages to create a comfortable space to unwind with friends.
By user985210 (Leicester) on Jul 8th 2026
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If you're looking for a spot that won't break the bank, The Loaded Dog is a fantastic choice. It's a budget-friendly bar where students can enjoy themselves without the financial stress. The atmosphere is buzzing, and it's perfect for those who want to hang out and not worry about sky-high prices for drinks. Whether you're there to relax or meet new people, it delivers a fun experience every night.
By user538370 (Leicester) on Jul 3rd 2026
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The mix of students and locals creates such an interesting vibe here, and I’m all about that dynamic! The friendly atmosphere truly makes it feel like a community hangout rather than just another bar. Every time I come, there's a new opportunity to meet someone or have an unexpected conversation, which definitely makes for an exciting night! 😊
By user566360 (Leicester) on Jun 28th 2026
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Staff here add a unique charm to the experience. They were welcoming and attentive, creating an inviting environment that felt quite different from what I’m used to back home. This personal touch really made a difference, making me want to return again and again.
By user772548 (Leicester) on Jun 23rd 2026
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Felt a bit more laid-back than I imagined, which was a pleasant surprise for a night out.
By user641707 (Leicester) on Jun 18th 2026
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The energy here is infectious. On a typical night, the sounds of laughter and conversation create a buzz that's hard to resist. It's the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger, soaking in the sounds and the crowd's vibe.
By user614086 (Leicester) on Jun 13th 2026
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Wednesday nights here have a special vibe, with laughter in the air and the faint scent of spilled drinks adding to the charm. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves, sharing stories over affordable pints, while the music sets the perfect energetic backdrop without overwhelming conversations. It's definitely a place where you can unwind and enjoy good company, making it an ideal spot for a midweek break.
By user343547 (Leicester) on Jun 8th 2026
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The staff here made a real impression with their genuine warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Their attentiveness during busier nights was notable, ensuring every guest felt noticed and valued, which is refreshing in such an energetic setting. 😊
By user645240 (Leicester) on Jun 3rd 2026
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Met some really cool people at the Loaded Dog, and the crowd varied from laid-back students to more lively groups. It feels like everyone's just there to enjoy themselves and have a good time without any pretentiousness.
By user599522 (Leicester) on May 26th 2026
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Despite the busy atmosphere, it seems ideal for those who enjoy a lively night out away from studies. It attracts a crowd that values good music and socializing, perfect for students looking to unwind. If you're someone who thrives in energetic environments, this place is definitely worth checking out.
By user766341 (Leicester) on May 21st 2026
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I was really impressed by The Loaded Dog! The atmosphere has a lively and fun vibe without being too much, which makes it perfect for kicking back and enjoying the night. 🎉
By user305623 (Leicester) on May 16th 2026
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Enjoying a casual drink with friends at The Loaded Dog, I remember how the laughter filled the air, making it feel like a home away from home. Surrounded by a mix of upbeat music and familiar faces, it was one of those moments that made late nights worth it.
By user244313 (Leicester) on May 11th 2026
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A lively atmosphere here seems to attract students who want a break from studying and enjoy good music. it strikes a balance between being affordable and a place where you can unwind with friends without worrying about the crowd or cleanliness, making it a reliable choice when you need to recharge.
By user233256 (Leicester) on May 5th 2026
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I really enjoyed the chill atmosphere at The Loaded Dog. I expected it to be more of a wild party spot, but instead, the crowd was just relaxing and having great conversations. It’s such a nice place to unwind after long shifts and those early mornings. 😊
By user228189 (Leicester) on Apr 28th 2026
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The Loaded Dog draws in a diverse crowd of students, making it a great spot for people watching. While it can be noisy and chatting with friends is tough, the lively atmosphere is both chaotic and comforting.
By user906814 (Leicester) on Apr 20th 2026
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The staff at The Loaded Dog truly put in the effort to ensure everyone has a blast. They're always around, adding to the lively vibe, and they really know how to keep the energy up even when it's packed with students. 🕺
By user364318 (Leicester) on Apr 13th 2026
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Great drink specials make this place popular on weekends. It's a lively spot to enjoy a night out.
By user816336 (Leicester) on Apr 11th 2026
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Found myself warming up to it after a few visits. the crowd's energy can fluctuate, but lately, i've noticed it gets more lively on wednesdays, which surprised me a bit.
By user454519 (Leicester) on Apr 10th 2026
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Visiting the Loaded Dog during the week with friends is almost a ritual now. The atmosphere is lively, and it doesn't break the bank.
By user208117 (Leicester) on Apr 4th 2026
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I expected a typical student pub, yet it turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise.
By user921712 (Leicester) on Mar 31st 2026
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The Loaded Dog stands out for its reasonable prices, making it a great option for students who are watching their budgets. While the music is decent and does its job of keeping the night lively, it's really the affordability that makes this place appealing. The crowd tends to be more upbeat compared to what you'd find in most London pubs, which adds to the overall experience without breaking the bank.
By user734802 (Leicester) on Mar 30th 2026
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Even though we heard it might get crowded, we hardly had to wait for drinks, which was a pleasant surprise. The music wasn't amazing, but it did the job of keeping the energy up. This place is perfect if you're looking to hang out with loads of students without breaking the bank.
By user740795 (Leicester) on Mar 28th 2026
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The Loaded Dog is a solid choice for winding down with friends, especially if you're looking to take a break from assignments. The loud music adds to the charm, making it a lively spot to relax.
By user477814 (Leicester) on Mar 25th 2026
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The atmosphere here is fantastic 🙌. Even though it's busy, you can still have a chill conversation. Plus, the prices won't hurt your wallet, which is great when you're on a student budget. I'm definitely coming back!
By user126984 (Leicester) on Mar 20th 2026
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Watched a football match in the pub and everyone came together like old friends.
By user968270 (Leicester) on Mar 13th 2026
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Usually end up at the loaded dog on a thursday night with mates for a bit of a laugh 😅 it's an ideal mid-week break, trust me.
By user748318 (Leicester) on Mar 9th 2026
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Prices at The Loaded Dog were surprisingly reasonable, which made it a regular haunt for me and my mates. even when the place got packed, the staff managed to keep a friendly vibe going. it's always buzzing with students, so you're bound to bump into someone you know 😅
By user801490 (Leicester) on Feb 27th 2026
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Staff really know how to keep things moving even when it's packed, which is often. they're surprisingly chill and you never feel like you're waiting ages for a drink. prices are pretty reasonable too, so it's no wonder this place is almost always buzzing.
By user242501 (Leicester) on Feb 10th 2026
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Walking into The Loaded Dog, you can immediately feel the vibrant atmosphere 🎉. The staff are genuinely laid-back, and the reasonably priced drinks are definitely a highlight. The energy picks up fast, and soon enough, it feels like everyone is laughing and mingling like they've been friends forever.
By user122201 (Leicester) on Feb 3rd 2026
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Bumping into mates unexpectedly is the highlight at The Loaded Dog 😅 especially when the place is buzzing with lively chatter and shared laughs. you can just feel the energy picking up as the night unfolds.
By user996745 (Leicester) on Jan 28th 2026
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Thursday nights often find me at this place, the perfect retreat after a busy week. It's got that ideal mix of energy and relaxation, so you can comfortably kick back and catch up with friends.
By user663488 (Leicester) on Jan 24th 2026
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The energy in this place is contagious! Everyone's up for a laugh, and the chatter bouncing off the walls makes it feel like a proper student haven. 😄
By user332151 (Leicester) on Jan 20th 2026
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The atmosphere here is always lively and full of energy. It's a great spot to catch up with friends, although the music can be a bit much at times. Still, there's something about this place that keeps you wanting to come back.
By user827347 (Leicester) on Jan 15th 2026
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Hanging out here with uni mates unexpectedly turned into a fun jam session, surrounded by a bunch of empty pint glasses. The music was perfect—not too loud to drown out chatter but enough to keep the vibe lively. Left with a smile and already thinking about the next meet-up. 🎶
By user478494 (Leicester) on Jan 12th 2026
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Always something going on, and the energy is just infectious. I took a couple of mates, and it turned into one of those impromptu nights you don't forget.
By user905429 (Leicester) on Jan 9th 2026
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Catch this place when it's packed, and you're in for some serious fun. the people make the pub feel alive, like everyone's an old mate. moments here turn into stories you'll laugh about for ages.
By user595556 (Leicester) on Jan 4th 2026
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Weeknight at the loaded dog turned into an unexpected karaoke session with everyone joining in. the staff were great, even helping us pick out some tunes to get the crowd going.
By user978853 (Leicester) on Jan 1st 2026
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Stumbled in expecting just another pub, but found a place buzzing with laughter and friendly banter.
By user617012 (Leicester) on Dec 27th 2025
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Employees here are always so approachable and ready for a chat, which makes the entire place feel welcoming 😅.
By user735742 (Leicester) on Dec 23rd 2025
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You’ll find a genuine student vibe here, with plenty of friendly people and a good atmosphere for having fun. It’s definitely a spot where you won’t feel uncomfortable 😅
By user313225 (Leicester) on Dec 19th 2025
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Noticed how the bartenders always remember regulars' names and orders, adding a personal touch to nights out.
By user188413 (Leicester) on Dec 14th 2025
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Getting used to the buzz at The Loaded Dog was a game changer for me. can't imagine finding a pub with more fun energy and laid back vibes anywhere else nearby.
By user165589 (Leicester) on Dec 10th 2025
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I expected it to be just another typical pub, but it turned out to have its own unique charm and energy 😮
By user782380 (Leicester) on Dec 3rd 2025
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There's such a lively vibe here that makes for a hilarious night out, and I'll definitely be back. Plus, the prices are student-friendly, which fits perfectly with my tight budget.
By user870138 (Leicester) on Nov 29th 2025
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The Loaded Dog is a student favourite for good reason. Even if hanging back is more your style, you find yourself drawn into the lively crowd. It's those moments that make the place memorable for everyone.
By user684956 (Leicester) on Nov 25th 2025
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The Loaded Dog has an infectious energy that instantly draws you in. The lively crowd and upbeat chatter make it the perfect spot to unwind and feel like you belong.
By user125362 (Leicester) on Nov 20th 2025
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Found myself genuinely surprised by how massive the space is inside, you wouldn't guess from the outside. there's always some sort of cheerful chaos going on, and it seems like half the uni turns up at some point. you could spend ages just people-watching and not run out of things to see.
By user441536 (Leicester) on Nov 14th 2025
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Walking into the loaded dog, i immediately felt the buzz of excitement that makes it impossible not to join in. the energy from everyone having a laugh and the warmth of the staff made it welcoming right from the start.
By user558611 (Leicester) on Nov 7th 2025
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Unlike most chain pubs that can feel a bit soulless, the loaded dog actually has a proper student feel to it. it's lively and energetic, like a genuine hangout spot rather than just another pub trying to tick all the trendy boxes.
By user698810 (Leicester) on Oct 31st 2025
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Noticed how the jukebox selection always seems perfectly in sync with the mood of the room. watching everyone sway and sing along makes the whole place feel like one big living room, filled with mates just out for a laugh.
By user184064 (Leicester) on Oct 26th 2025
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Started with a buzzing crowd that made it feel like a proper night out. Managed to find a spot where we could actually chat without yelling, which is rare. Drinks were decent on the wallet, so you can enjoy a few rounds without stress.
By user123446 (Leicester) on Oct 23rd 2025
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Saturday night with uni mates turned into a blast here. We got caught up in a spontaneous dance-off against another group, and even though none of us were particularly skilled, it was all about having a laugh. Definitely a place I'll return to for more fun times.
By user642263 (Leicester) on Oct 19th 2025
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Music was pumping and everyone seemed on their feet, giving the place a proper buzzing feel 🎉. couldn't help but chat with a few strangers who felt like they'd been our mates for ages.
By user890066 (Leicester) on Oct 16th 2025
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Sat in the pub garden one evening, watching as a group of students made an impromptu dance floor out of the patio, was a highlight. staff were laid-back but on hand when needed, which kept things smooth.
By user418544 (Leicester) on Oct 12th 2025
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Met some proper legends here and the staff were chill which made the night class.
By user957873 (Leicester) on Oct 8th 2025
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Walked in and was immediately surprised by how spacious it felt despite the crowd, much bigger than it looks outside. thought it might be cramped or hard to find a spot to chat, but there was plenty of room to grab a pint and chill with mates.
By user903901 (Leicester) on Oct 2nd 2025
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Would definitely go back to the loaded dog. it's got such a great energy and everyone seems up for a laugh. love that it's easy on the wallet too, perfect for students like me.
By user585344 (Leicester) on Sep 28th 2025
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Grabbed a quick pint at the loaded dog after lectures last week and it's the perfect break from the books. love how you can just unwind and bump into familiar faces there, might become my regular spot.
By user661628 (Leicester) on Sep 23rd 2025
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Super crowded on weekends, to the point where it can be a struggle to find a place to sit. a bit of a buzzkill when you're hoping to relax a bit
By user561288 (Leicester) on Aug 28th 2025