Philharmonic , Liverpool – 28 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing
Philharmonic  — student bar photo

Philharmonic -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 28 user ratings

36 Hope Street, Liverpool L1 9BX, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Philharmonic, often lovingly referred to as 'The Phil,' is a must-visit venue for students in Liverpool. Located at 36 Hope Street, this iconic pub is celebrated not only for its stunning Victorian architecture but also for its rich musical heritage. With a history that has attracted renowned musicians, including the legendary Paul McCartney, The Phil offers an inviting atmosphere that blends a sense of history with a vibrant social scene. Whether you’re looking to wind down after a long week or kick off a fun night out, this venue has something for everyone.

As you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the lively vibe that characterizes The Philharmonic. Students frequently mention the great atmosphere, which feels both energetic and relaxed, making it an ideal spot to hang out with friends or even go on a casual date. The crowd here is described as chill, and many patrons appreciate that the venue doesn’t feel overwhelming. This balance is a significant draw for students who want to enjoy a night out without the stress of a packed dance floor.

The music at The Phil is another highlight that keeps students coming back. Reviewers consistently praise the selection of tunes, which often includes relatable student anthems that get everyone singing along. The venue is known for hosting a solid mix of music that caters to various tastes, ensuring that there’s always something enjoyable playing in the background. This aspect contributes to the overall enjoyable experience, making it a place where you can unwind and have a good time with friends.

When it comes to drinks, The Philharmonic is recognized for its affordability, which is a significant factor for many students. Patrons often mention that the drink prices are fair, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The selection includes a variety of real ales and classic British dishes, creating a well-rounded pub experience. The combination of good music and reasonably priced drinks makes The Phil an attractive option for students wanting to enjoy a night out without overspending.

However, like any venue, The Philharmonic does have its drawbacks. While the overall experience is highly rated, some students have noted that queues can be a bit of a hassle at times. Though the queue rating is decent, it’s still something to be aware of, especially during peak hours or when the venue is particularly busy. Additionally, while the toilets are generally clean, as highlighted by many reviews, it’s always good to manage expectations during busy nights when facilities might be stretched.

Students often express that The Phil is a reliable choice for a last-minute night out. The atmosphere is consistently lively, and there’s usually something happening, so boredom is rarely an issue. This makes it a great venue for students who might not have plans but want to enjoy a spontaneous night out with friends. The friendly service adds to the overall experience, with staff who are attentive without being intrusive, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Philharmonic is ideal for students looking for a laid-back yet fun night out. Whether you’re a first-year looking to meet new people or a seasoned student wanting a familiar spot to unwind, The Phil caters to all. It’s particularly great for groups of friends or couples looking for a place to enjoy good music and drinks in a friendly environment.

In summary, The Philharmonic stands out as a top choice for students in Liverpool. Its combination of a vibrant atmosphere, great music, affordable drinks, and a rich history makes it a unique venue to explore. While there are minor drawbacks like queue times, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a spot worth visiting. Whether you’re celebrating the end of exams or just looking for a place to chill after classes, The Phil has everything you need for a memorable night out.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Great atmosphere that balances lively and relaxed vibes.
  • Affordable drinks, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Good selection of music that includes popular student anthems.
  • Clean facilities, particularly the toilets, which is a plus.
  • Friendly service that doesn't feel intrusive.
  • Ideal for both casual hangouts and dates.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill yet lively atmosphere to unwind with friends after a long week.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, making it easy to drop by after classes.
  • Expect queues during peak hours, especially on weekends.
  • Drink prices are student-friendly, perfect for budget nights out.
  • The music style is diverse, catering to various tastes.
  • The venue is popular for both groups and casual dates.

❓ Common Questions

What is Philharmonic like?

The Philharmonic is a lively pub with a relaxed atmosphere, great music, and affordable drinks, perfect for students.

How long is the queue?

Queues can be a bit annoying during peak times, but overall they are manageable.

Is it good value?

Yes, the drink prices are fair, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.

What music does Philharmonic play?

The music includes a mix of popular student anthems and lively tracks that keep the atmosphere energetic.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is casual, making it easy for students to visit after classes.

Philharmonic  — student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 28
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The grand feel of the place made it special.
By user173138 (Liverpool) on Aug 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Beautiful building full of character
By user741260 (Liverpool) on Jul 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
ornate interiors and leather sofas
By user175834 (Liverpool) on Jul 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Victorian Marble toilets are truly something else.
By user218979 (Liverpool) on Jul 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The food was surprisingly good.
By user823700 (Liverpool) on Jun 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
definitely try the dessert
By user869540 (Liverpool) on Jun 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
awesome victorian décor
By user738674 (Liverpool) on Jun 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
proper beautiful place
By user294092 (Liverpool) on May 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
leather sofas and chandeliers
By user401897 (Liverpool) on May 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
historic charm with delicious food
By user281560 (Liverpool) on May 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Loved the chandeliers here, really set the mood. 😍
By user985847 (Liverpool) on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The place was a lovely touch, very comfy indeed.
By user290759 (Liverpool) on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Victorian vibes and leather sofas 😍
By user225240 (Liverpool) on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Eating here feels like a trip back in history with great food.
By user780735 (Liverpool) on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The stained glass is absolutely gorgeous, reminds me of a museum.
By user221878 (Liverpool) on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
classic vibe with wood paneling
By user552405 (Liverpool) on Mar 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
enjoyed the dessert, so good
By user758617 (Liverpool) on Mar 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
classic woodwork and stained glass
By user465299 (Liverpool) on Mar 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
super worth it and i loved the food
By user456494 (Liverpool) on Mar 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The wood panelling is really impressive.
By user746864 (Liverpool) on Feb 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great place for mates
By user987140 (Liverpool) on Jan 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This pub is a lovely spot to sip a pint.
By user147799 (Liverpool) on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
fantastic for history lovers
By user335608 (Liverpool) on Jan 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Highly appreciate both the decor and the food quality.
By user400232 (Liverpool) on Dec 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
class old building
By user501328 (Liverpool) on Dec 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
the pub is big and spacious
By user286489 (Liverpool) on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
If it's hot, a little fan won't hurt.
By user853676 (Liverpool) on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The architecture here is truly stunning and worth seeing.
By user768060 (Liverpool) on Nov 10th 2025