The Old Horse, Leicester – 60 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Old Horse -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 60 user ratings

198 London Rd, Leicester LE2 1NE, United Kingdom

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Old Horse is a traditional-style pub located on London Road, making it a go-to spot for students from the University of Leicester. With its welcoming atmosphere, hearty food options, and a range of entertainment, it's no surprise that this venue has become a staple in the student nightlife scene. Known for its spacious beer garden, pool tables, darts, and live sports screenings, The Old Horse offers a blend of relaxation and lively energy that caters perfectly to the student crowd. With a solid rating for overall experience, cleanliness, music, and value, it's clear that this venue has struck a chord with its patrons.

When you step into The Old Horse, you’ll notice the laid-back vibe that many students appreciate. The atmosphere starts off relaxed, making it an ideal spot for pre-drinks or casual hangouts with friends. As the night progresses, the energy tends to ramp up, transforming into a more vibrant party scene. Reviewers often mention how the venue strikes a balance between a chill environment and a lively nightlife experience, allowing for both relaxed conversations and energetic dancing. This versatility makes it a popular choice among students looking for a comfortable place to unwind or celebrate.

The music selection at The Old Horse also receives positive feedback. Students frequently mention that the tunes are well-curated, keeping the dancefloor lively without overwhelming the conversation. The sound system is noted for its quality, enhancing the overall experience and making it a great venue for those who enjoy a good mix of music. Whether you're there to dance or just enjoy the ambiance, the musical atmosphere adds to the enjoyable experience.

Drinks are another highlight at The Old Horse. Many students appreciate the affordability of the drinks, particularly the two-for-one cocktails that have been a hit among patrons. The pricing is considered reasonable, allowing students to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. Reviewers often comment on the solid drink options available, which contribute to the venue's reputation as a budget-friendly choice for students. The quick and friendly service also adds to the overall positive experience, with many noting that the staff contribute to the welcoming environment.

When it comes to entry and queue experience, The Old Horse seems to have it sorted. Students report that the queue is manageable, with most not having to wait long to get in. This efficiency is a significant plus for those looking to enjoy a seamless night out. The venue's layout, which includes ample space for dancing and socializing, means that even on busier nights, patrons can find a comfortable spot to enjoy themselves.

Reviewers consistently emphasize the friendly and inclusive crowd at The Old Horse. Many students feel at ease in this environment, with a good mix of people creating an inviting atmosphere. This sense of community is often highlighted as one of the main reasons students return to this venue. The positive energy and camaraderie among patrons contribute to an enjoyable night out, making it a place where students can forge memories with friends.

However, while The Old Horse has many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students have mentioned that while the venue is enjoyable, it may not be the most exciting option available. For those seeking a more high-energy or upscale nightlife experience, The Old Horse may feel a bit too laid-back at times. Additionally, while the cleanliness is generally praised, there are occasional mentions of the need for upkeep in certain areas. Despite these minor concerns, the overall experience remains positive.

In summary, The Old Horse is a beloved spot among University of Leicester students, offering a blend of chill vibes, affordability, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to unwind after a long week or celebrate a special occasion with friends. The combination of good music, reasonable drink prices, and a friendly crowd makes it a reliable choice for a night out. Whether you're there for a casual drink or a lively evening with friends, The Old Horse provides a comfortable space to enjoy student life in Leicester.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Welcoming atmosphere that feels friendly and local.
  • Affordable drink options, especially two-for-one cocktails.
  • Good mix of music that keeps the vibe lively.
  • Quick and friendly service enhances the overall experience.
  • Spacious beer garden and ample space for dancing.
  • Clean and well-maintained venue, even during busy nights.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • May not be the most exciting nightlife option for those seeking high energy.
  • Occasional need for upkeep in certain areas.
  • Can feel too laid-back for those looking for a more intense party scene.
  • Not the fanciest venue, which might not appeal to everyone.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill, affordable night out with friends.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, making it easy for students to drop in after classes.
  • Queue is generally manageable, especially on weekdays.
  • Look out for drink deals, particularly on cocktails.
  • Music varies but generally caters to a student-friendly crowd.
  • The beer garden is a great spot for summer evenings.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Old Horse like?

A traditional pub with a chill vibe, perfect for casual hangouts or lively nights out.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, especially during weekdays.

Is it good value?

Yes, drinks are affordable, and there are often great deals available.

What music does The Old Horse play?

The music is a mix that keeps the vibe lively, catering well to students.

What kind of crowd can I expect?

A friendly and inclusive mix of students enjoying their night out together.

Reviews
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Told my mate that it felt refreshing to see how tidy the place was compared to other pubs around. empty glasses never piled up on tables and the staff really seemed on it.
By user459480 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Check out the old horse if you're around. it's got a warm, inviting feel, and the lively crowd really makes a night there something to remember. great spot to unwind responsibly with mates.
By user793470 on Apr 18th 2026
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Sitting outside with friends on a sunny afternoon, we watched people rush by on London Road while sipping on our drinks. felt like one of those chilled days where time slows down and you can just unwind 🌟. not every pub lets you do that without feeling cramped or rushed , it kind of became our go-to spot for those casual catch-ups.
By user984009 on Apr 13th 2026
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Spent an evening here with a few mates where we ended up chatting with some local regulars at the bar. it was easy to see why this place is so popular as everyone was laid back and the staff had a laugh with us. you're guaranteed a decent night without breaking your budget.
By user278627 on Apr 9th 2026
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Spotted a vintage jukebox tucked in the corner that kept surprising us with classic tunes.
By user896837 on Apr 6th 2026
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Come here every friday for a break from the books, affordable drinks and friendly people make it a must in my week.
By user819959 on Apr 1st 2026
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Noticed they have this little corner with some board games thrown on a table, which is pretty cool when you don't want to dance. a nice change of pace if you're into that sorta thing. it's a spot where you can chat without having to shout over the music.
By user527455 on Mar 31st 2026
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Coming from london, i expected to miss out on nightlife, but the old horse surprised me. it might not have the flashiness of big city spots, but it's got a super relaxed atmosphere you don't always find back home. plus, drinks are more affordable here, which is perfect for a student budget.
By user675008 on Mar 30th 2026
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Staff there always have a friendly smile and make you feel at ease, like they're genuinely happy to help. whether you're ordering drinks or just asking for recommendations, they add to the welcoming vibe.
By user614821 on Mar 26th 2026
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Walking into the Old Horse, i didn’t expect the mix of chill vibes and buzzing energy, like a perfect blend of pub and hangout πŸ“š. the entertaining nights and hearty meals became pretty essential for weekends.
By user999322 on Mar 23rd 2026
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Catch it on a weekend night when the place is buzzing, and you really get why it's a favourite. everyone's just there to unwind, and it's easy to feel like you're part of something, even if you came alone.
By user221642 on Mar 18th 2026
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Stumbled upon a lively quiz night that made the Old Horse feel surprisingly vibrant and fun.
By user559503 on Mar 13th 2026
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Walking into the old horse the first time, it seemed like just another pub, but now it's like my go-to for an easy night out. the mix of student banter and laid-back chats with the staff makes it feel like a part of my uni life I didn’t realise I needed.
By user961368 on Mar 9th 2026
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Caught up with mates at the old horse over some pints and the lively chatter really set the mood for a relaxed night. it felt like a proper break from uni stress with everyone sharing laughs and stories.
By user169247 on Mar 8th 2026
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Hung out in the beer garden with classmates for hours just chatting.
By user820875 on Mar 7th 2026
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Love a midweek visit to The Old Horse when you just fancy somewhere you know you'll bump into familiar faces. their hearty meals are perfect before heading out, plus you can catch some decent entertainment. it becomes part of your week without even trying, especially when you want a break from the usual city centre buzz.
By user980908 on Mar 6th 2026
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Saw a mix of students and locals hanging out, which made it feel quite friendly and lively. everyone seemed relaxed, chatting away over drinks and enjoying the laid-back vibe.
By user402100 on Mar 5th 2026
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Warming up with mates by the fireplace on a chilly autumn evening here is honestly one of my favorite memories. the cozy vibe makes it perfect for winding down after rehearsals. plus, the staff are usually up for a bit of banter, making it feel just a tad more like home.
By user126303 on Mar 4th 2026
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Once walked in on a Tuesday and caught a random quiz night just getting started. didn't plan on sticking around, but everyone was so into it I felt like I had to stay and join the fun.
By user296773 on Feb 26th 2026
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Better than other pubs I've been to with no need to shout over your own friends when having a chat. people actually listen when you order which sounds basic, but trust me, it's rare.
By user949020 on Feb 25th 2026
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Everyone there seemed to be having a great time, from the freshers figuring out life in leicester to the regulars like they'd been coming for years
By user109722 on Feb 24th 2026
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Staff here are ace, chatty and just make you feel welcome straight away. really cool having a laugh with them while they sort your drink or when they're checking up on you at the table.
By user404810 on Feb 22nd 2026
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You know those pubs where you feel like an outsider? well, the old horse isn't one of them. the staff were genuinely chatty, way more approachable than some other places I've been. I never felt rushed on a busy night, which made it a perfect spot to unwind with the uni crew.
By user587684 on Feb 20th 2026
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Catching up with mates here on a friday night is a blast with its lively chatter and relaxed vibes. there's just something about the atmosphere that makes everything feel effortlessly enjoyable.
By user650096 on Feb 19th 2026
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Shared a laugh with the bartender when they remembered my order from last week.
By user370202 on Feb 18th 2026
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Sat by the fireplace with a pint and the regulars made us feel welcome.
By user571342 on Feb 17th 2026
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Found myself at the old horse more often than i expected. at first, it was just another place to grab a pint, but after a while, i started appreciating the chill crowd and laid-back vibe. it's one of those places where the staff recognise you and greet you with a nod, makes it feel like a second home.
By user215257 on Feb 16th 2026
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Noticed that everyone seemed to be on first name terms with the staff, which felt like a proper community πŸŽ‰.
By user932777 on Feb 15th 2026
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Noticed that the staff always seem to remember regulars, which is quite nice. it makes the place feel a bit like home whenever i pop in. not what you'd expect from a busy student pub but definitely appreciated.
By user105352 on Feb 14th 2026
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Didn't expect much beyond the typical pub vibe, but the moment we walked in, the lively energy was unreal. loads of students were clearly having the time of their lives, laughing and chatting away. it felt like suddenly being part of a spontaneous party , proper good vibes all around.
By user990972 on Feb 13th 2026
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Found myself coming back often as it felt like a home away from home.
By user578660 on Feb 9th 2026
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Stumbled into a trivia night and ended up bonding with strangers over obscure movie quotes and inside jokes.
By user607100 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Staff consistently bring a friendly and welcoming energy that really sets the pub apart. it's clear they're used to managing the lively crowd, keeping everything flowing smoothly without a hitch.
By user957441 on Jan 27th 2026
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Expected just a regular pub, but The Old Horse has a proper homey feel to it. people were friendly without being too in your face, which was a nice surprise. it's more relaxed than other places, but there's still enough going on to keep you entertained.
By user989996 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Mate, at The Old Horse, you’ve got this warm vibe and good banter all around. popped in after lectures for a pint and didn't want to leave πŸ˜…
By user495866 on Jan 19th 2026
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Popping into The Old Horse midweek is like hitting a reset button in my week. there's just something about escaping the uni hustle for a bit, grabbing some food, and unwinding with mates that makes it a regular ritual
By user103630 on Jan 15th 2026
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First time walking in, was surprised at how busy the quiz nights get. definitely didn't expect so many people getting together with that bit of friendly competition and a few laughs, but it made the whole experience feel more communal and less like just another night at the pub.
By user241675 on Jan 11th 2026
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Noticed that the big backyard area is perfect for unexpected chats. you're bound to run into someone you know or meet someone new. it’s a tiny detail, but it makes evenings there feel more alive and less like just another night at a bar.
By user647687 on Jan 8th 2026
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Sat in the garden with my mates and it felt like a proper escape from the usual uni chaos. even midweek, you can relax and just chat without any hassle.
By user418195 on Jan 4th 2026
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Noticeably lively, with a mix of students and locals who seem to all get on well, sharing laughs and stories. it's one of those places where you actually feel like part of a community rather than just another customer.
By user101957 on Dec 31st 2025
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Something about walking into the Old Horse just feels like sinking into a favourite chair, familiar and comforting. after an evening there, you leave with stories to laugh about the next day, which is exactly what you need from a night out.
By user626244 on Dec 27th 2025
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Bartender had this laid-back vibe and knew exactly what students would like. felt comfortable just sitting and chatting.
By user576387 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Walked in expecting a typical pub, but the lively mix of music and chatter hooked me right away. it felt instantly comfortable, and within minutes we'd found our perfect spot near the back where conversations flowed as easily as the drinks.
By user221527 on Dec 18th 2025
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Expected a typical pub experience, but it felt a bit like home. there's a cozy vibe and everyone seems so relaxed, not like the busy places in the city centre. food's decent too, so it's been a go-to spot when i need a break from uni stress.
By user448868 on Dec 14th 2025
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Could definitely see myself popping back to the old horse for another round because they've nailed that homely vibe.
By user693255 on Dec 9th 2025
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Walking into the old horse feels a bit like entering a friendly living room where everyone’s just there to unwind. it's not trying to impress, which is part of the charm. makes you feel welcomed right away with that laid-back, no-pressure vibe.
By user758746 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Old horse stands out for its combination of a cosy atmosphere and exciting events. you can have a laid-back chat in one corner and then wander into live music in another, balancing sociability and chill in a way that most pubs don't manage.
By user899151 on Nov 29th 2025
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Walked in and instantly felt at home, like a warm hug after a chilly day. comfy chatter mixed with mellow tunes gave it such an inviting energy. from the get-go, it felt like a space where you could just be yourself and unwind.
By user102489 on Nov 25th 2025
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Friday nights here are something else with everyone relaxed after classes just ready to unwind. there's this perfect mix of chatter and laughter that makes the pub buzz in the best way possible.
By user458789 on Nov 20th 2025
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Over time, i've found it easy to get comfortable at The Old Horse, with each visit feeling a bit more familiar. always seem to plan for a quick stop but end up chatting as the hours just slip by.
By user920758 on Nov 13th 2025
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Remember sitting outside with my mates on a warm night, and we just lost track of time completely. felt like everyone was sharing stories, and you could always count on hearing someone laugh in the background.
By user114877 on Nov 7th 2025
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Chilled out with a few mates at the old horse and it turned into one of those epic nights without even meaning to. the crowd was just right, a good mix of students and locals, and the vibe was spot on. we ended up laughing and chatting with a bunch of people, definitely made it a night to remember.
By user283034 on Oct 31st 2025
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Grab a pint after lectures and you're in for a treat here. staff's super chill and the crowd’s always lively, so it's easy to feel right at home.
By user763252 on Oct 25th 2025
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Staff here are super laid-back, which makes it the perfect place to unwind after early morning training sessions.
By user689041 on Oct 22nd 2025
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Been to a few pubs around campus, and the old horse stands out for its buzzing atmosphere. compared to other spots, the drinks here don't hit the wallet too hard, which is a big win on a student budget. grab a drink, and you'll find yourself chatting with other students in no time.
By user207231 on Oct 19th 2025
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Fits right into my weekly routine, stopping by with friends and grabbing a drink after lectures which helps unwind πŸ˜…. friendly crowd makes it a reliable spot for some mid-week fun.
By user256418 on Oct 15th 2025
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Noticed how spacious the outdoor beer garden was and felt a bit like a retreat from all the city chaos. sat there with friends, it was pretty clear this was where people relaxed before diving into the chaos of student life πŸ˜….
By user827747 on Oct 12th 2025
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Heard from a mate that the Old Horse is spot on for a laid-back night. popped in last weekend and it's as welcoming as they said, with a decent crowd and good vibes. not pricey either, so it didn’t put a dent in the wallet.
By user661474 on Oct 8th 2025
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Stumbled into the quiz night and ended up having a blast. thought we wouldn't know enough, but turns out it was more about laughs than winning.
By user648305 on Oct 2nd 2025
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Staff really know how to keep things lively on a night out. a strong lineup of music and social activities made it an easy spot to relax and chat.
By user888107 on Sep 26th 2025
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Usually pop into The Old Horse after my Wednesday lectures for a bit of a pick-me-up πŸ˜…. nothing better than their relaxed vibe and seeing familiar faces before the weekend madness kicks in.
By user680555 on Sep 21st 2025