The Red Lion, Liverpool – 15 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

The Red Lion -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 15 user ratings

36 Slater St, Liverpool L1 4BX, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM, Thursday: 12:00 PM – 1:30 AM, Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM, Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM

💬 What Students Say

Located at 36 Slater St, Liverpool, The Red Lion is a quintessential British pub that offers a welcoming environment for students looking to unwind after a long day of lectures. With its timeless interior, friendly staff, and a crowd that ranges from locals to fellow students, The Red Lion has carved out a niche as a reliable spot for a night out. This venue is especially popular among University of Liverpool students, thanks to its combination of affordable prices, good music, and a relaxed vibe. The pub serves a variety of classic ales and delicious pub grub, making it an ideal place to grab a bite and enjoy a drink with friends.

The atmosphere at The Red Lion is often described as lively yet low-key, striking a balance that appeals to many students. Reviewers frequently mention that the vibe can vary from night to night, but it generally maintains a friendly and easygoing feel. This is a place where you can feel comfortable just hanging out without the pressure to engage in a wild night out. Many students appreciate that it provides a good space to relax after a busy day, making it a solid choice for those who want to enjoy a chill evening with friends. The pub's interior, characterized by its classic British decor, contributes to the overall warm and inviting atmosphere.

Music is a highlight at The Red Lion, with many students noting that the tunes played here keep the energy up throughout the night. The selection of music is generally well-received, and it’s clear that the staff put thought into creating a playlist that resonates with the crowd. Whether you’re looking to dance or simply enjoy the ambiance while chatting with friends, the music adds a vibrant layer to the experience. Many reviews suggest that this aspect of the pub is what makes it stand out compared to other venues in the area.

When it comes to drinks and pricing, The Red Lion is often praised for its affordability. Students frequently mention that the prices are lower than expected, which is a significant plus for anyone on a budget. The pub’s value rating is notably high, indicating that patrons feel they get good quality for what they pay. This makes it an attractive option for students who want to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The selection of drinks, including a variety of ales and cocktails, ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

However, it’s worth noting that the queue and entry experience can sometimes be a downside. While many students report that the queues are manageable, there are occasions when waiting can be a bit of a hassle. The queue rating suggests that it’s not the worst experience, but it’s something to keep in mind, especially during peak hours. Arriving early may help you avoid longer waits, and it can also give you a better chance to snag a good spot inside.

Students who have visited The Red Lion often describe their nights out as enjoyable and memorable. Many reviewers have shared that they’ve had some of their best nights here, with laughter and fun being a common theme. The mix of friendly patrons adds to the overall experience, creating a sense of community that many students cherish. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning a longer evening with friends, the overall sentiment is that The Red Lion delivers a reliable and enjoyable night out.

In terms of who this venue suits best, it’s clear that The Red Lion is ideal for students looking for a casual and friendly environment. It caters well to those who appreciate a laid-back pub atmosphere where they can enjoy good music and drinks without the pressure of a high-energy club scene. If you’re someone who enjoys socializing in a relaxed setting after classes, this pub is likely to be a good fit for you.

In summary, The Red Lion stands out as a solid option for students at the University of Liverpool. Its strengths lie in its friendly atmosphere, good music, and affordable drinks, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind. While there are occasional concerns about queues, the overall experience tends to be positive, with many students returning for more. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, The Red Lion is worth considering for your next night out in Liverpool.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Affordable drinks, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.
  • Lively atmosphere with a mix of friendly patrons.
  • Good music selection that keeps the energy up.
  • Clean facilities, contributing to a pleasant experience.
  • Friendly staff who enhance the overall vibe of the pub.
  • A relaxed setting ideal for unwinding after lectures.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Queues can be an issue during peak times.
  • The atmosphere may feel low-key or dull on quieter nights.
  • Not the most exciting venue for those seeking high-energy nightlife.
  • Limited food options compared to some other pubs.
  • Some students may find it less appealing if they prefer a club scene.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a casual and friendly pub atmosphere to enjoy affordable drinks and good music.

💡 Things to Know

  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • The dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Expect a mix of music styles, with a focus on popular tunes.
  • The pub can get busy, so be prepared for a lively crowd on peak nights.
  • Check for any special events or promotions that may be happening.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Red Lion like?

The Red Lion is a laid-back British pub with a friendly atmosphere, good music, and affordable drinks.

How long is the queue?

Queues can be manageable, but may get longer during peak times, especially on weekends.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention that drinks are affordable and provide good value.

What music does The Red Lion play?

The music selection varies but is generally popular and upbeat, keeping the energy lively.

What type of crowd can I expect?

Expect a mix of friendly locals and students, creating a welcoming and social environment.

Reviews
1 of 15
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion always has that perfect vibe where everyone’s just chilling and enjoying themselves. drinks are easy on the wallet and the music's always good, making it a go-to for a fun night out. it’s nice knowing there’s a spot close by with a laid-back crowd that’s just here to unwind together.
By user314784 on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion isn't the most thrilling place, but it hits the spot for a casual night out. drinks are cheap and the music keeps it lively, even if the queues can get a bit long. it's nice that the staff are friendly and the toilets are in decent shape, making it a solid choice when you want to hang out with friends.
By user831964 on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the absolute cheapest around, but the vibe at the red lion makes it worth it for a solid night out. drinks are reasonably priced, and you can actually enjoy a decent atmosphere instead of slumming it in some dark corner. plus, the crowd is lively without feeling too chaotic, which is a nice balance. 🍻
By user549668 on Mar 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion is a great spot to kick back after lectures. it’s always got a nice mix of students, and while most chill in their own groups, the vibe still feels friendly and welcoming. perfect place to grab a drink and unwind.
By user497875 on Mar 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The vibe at the Red Lion is really chill, making it easy to unwind after a long week of studying. the staff are super friendly and there's often some great tunes playing, which makes for a great atmosphere to hang out with friends 🍻.
By user715549 on Mar 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The vibe at the red lion is just great, always filled with laughter and good energy. it’s so easy to lose track of time with friends while enjoying a drink, and the staff are always friendly and quick to serve. it’s the kind of place where you can really kick back and unwind after a long week 🎉
By user355077 on Mar 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Not the fanciest pub around, but the red lion nails that student vibe. drinks are easy on the wallet, and the mix of locals and students means it never feels dull. with the music pumping, it's the perfect spot to kick back with mates after a long week 📅.
By user648183 on Feb 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Really enjoyed the relaxed vibe at the Red Lion, with plenty of room to chill out or catch up with friends. the staff were super friendly and genuinely seemed to care about making everyone feel welcome. it’s got that perfect mix of affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a go-to spot after a long day of lectures.
By user396106 on Jan 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion is a great spot to unwind after lectures. it was nice to find that the bar staff were friendly and actually seemed to care about making it a chill place, which isn’t something you get everywhere. the vibe always felt relaxed, making it easy to catch up with mates.
By user685758 on Jan 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion has a relaxed vibe that's perfect for unwinding after a long day of lectures. it's refreshing to hang out somewhere that feels genuine and not like a sterile chain, with the crowd mostly made up of fellow students enjoying affordable drinks and decent banter. the atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming, making it a solid spot to catch up with friends.
By user398832 on Jan 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion has such a great vibe, especially with the music playing loudly while everyone’s enjoying themselves. it’s definitely a go-to for grabbing affordable drinks with friends after class and meeting new people.
By user149046 on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Drinks are solid and the vibe is chill, plus it’s got a good mix of locals and students. being so close to campus makes it easy to swing by after a long day. always a fun place to unwind with friends without breaking the bank.
By user538154 on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion has that easy vibe where you can just chill with mates after lectures. the crowd's a good mix of folks who are either there to unwind or grab a quick bite. it's definitely the spot for a relaxed night where you can just enjoy affordable drinks and a chat without any pressure.
By user149090 on Dec 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It’s a chill spot that really brings everyone together, especially on a Saturday night when the place fills up with students. the vibe is always lively, and it’s just nice knowing you can grab a drink without breaking the bank.
By user297737 on Nov 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The red lion is a great spot for winding down after lectures with a chilled crowd that feels right at home. people from all backgrounds come together; some are just having a laugh, while others are focused on their assignments. the vibe changes as the night goes on, and it’s nice how everyone seems to let loose a bit more as the hours pass.
By user636393 on Nov 9th 2025