The Black Horse, Loughborough – 23 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Black Horse -

Cleanliness
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Based on 23 user ratings

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6 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1HL, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

💬 What Students Say

Located at 6 Rathbone Pl, The Black Horse is a popular venue for students from Loughborough University looking for a relaxed yet vibrant night out. This pub is known for its easy-going atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for hanging out with friends after a long day of classes or during a shopping break. With a well-balanced mix of people and a solid music selection, it’s a place where students can unwind, chat, and enjoy some good times together. Whether you're after a chill evening or a lively night out, The Black Horse delivers an enjoyable experience that keeps students coming back.

The vibe at The Black Horse is often described as laid-back and friendly. Many students appreciate the atmosphere, noting that it’s not overly loud, which allows for easy conversation. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to catch up with friends without shouting over the music. The venue strikes a balance between being lively enough to dance and chill enough to relax, ensuring that everyone can find their groove. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by a buzzing ambiance that sets the stage for a fun night.

When it comes to music, The Black Horse doesn’t disappoint. Students frequently mention the solid music selection that keeps the energy up throughout the night. The venue features a good mix of genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood to dance or just want to enjoy the tunes with friends, the music enhances the overall experience. Many reviews highlight that the crowd is decent and contributes positively to the vibe, making it a place where everyone can feel comfortable and have a good time.

Drinks are another highlight at The Black Horse. The venue offers a variety of craft beers, international lagers, and an extensive selection of wines and spirits. Students often mention the reasonable prices, which make it an attractive option for those on a budget. The value for money here is particularly praised, with many noting that they can enjoy a few drinks without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the relaxed atmosphere, makes it a popular choice for student gatherings, celebrations, or just a casual night out.

Entry to The Black Horse tends to be smooth, with students reporting that the queue is manageable. The venue has a good queue rating, which suggests that waiting times are generally short, allowing you to get inside and start enjoying your night without too much hassle. The service is also frequently praised, with many reviewers noting that staff are friendly and efficient, contributing to a stress-free experience. This is particularly important for students who want to make the most of their time out.

Despite the many positives, there are a few caveats to keep in mind. Some students mention that the space can feel a bit cramped at times, especially during peak hours when the venue is packed. While this can create a lively atmosphere, it may not be ideal for those who prefer more room to move around. Additionally, while the decor is inviting, it may not be as extravagant as some other venues, which could be a consideration for those looking for a more upscale night out. However, for most students, the relaxed vibe and good company more than make up for any minor shortcomings.

Students often reflect on their nights at The Black Horse with fondness, recalling hilarious moments and good times spent with friends. The venue is known for creating an environment where laughter and fun are abundant, making it a memorable spot for many. The combination of a chill start to the evening and a more lively end perfectly encapsulates what student nights should be about. It’s a place where you can let loose, enjoy the company of your friends, and create lasting memories.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Black Horse is ideal for students looking for a fun and relaxed night out without the pretentiousness often found in other bars. It caters well to those who appreciate a good mix of music and a friendly crowd. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to hang out after classes, this venue offers a welcoming space that feels like home.

In summary, The Black Horse stands out as a highly rated venue for students seeking a chill yet lively night out. With its solid music, friendly atmosphere, and great value, it’s no wonder that it has become a favorite among Loughborough University students. The combination of a buzzing vibe and affordable drinks makes it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in London. So gather your friends, head over to The Black Horse, and get ready for a night filled with laughter, good music, and unforgettable memories.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Chill atmosphere that allows for easy conversation.
  • Solid music selection that keeps the energy up.
  • Affordable drinks with a variety of options.
  • Friendly and efficient service enhances the experience.
  • Good mix of people contributes to a fun vibe.
  • Manageable queues make entry easy.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Space can feel cramped during peak hours.
  • Not the most extravagant decor compared to other venues.
  • Some students may prefer a more upscale environment.
  • Minor details like crowd size can impact comfort.
  • Limited space for dancing when busy.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed and enjoyable night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Expect a laid-back dress code; casual attire is generally acceptable.
  • Arrive early during weekends to avoid longer queues.
  • Keep an eye out for special drink offers or events.
  • The music varies, so check in advance if you're looking for specific genres.
  • It's a good idea to visit in groups for a more enjoyable experience.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Black Horse like?

The Black Horse is a chill venue with a friendly atmosphere, solid music, and affordable drinks, perfect for a relaxed night out.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, The Black Horse is highly rated for its value, with affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.

What music does The Black Horse play?

The venue features a good mix of music that keeps the energy up and caters to various tastes.

What type of crowd can I expect?

The crowd is laid-back and friendly, making it a comfortable space for everyone.

Reviews
Overall
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Atmosphere was chill, not too loud so chatting was easy. minor detail in the bigger picture
By Anonymous Student on Mar 25th 2026
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A go-to spot for hanging out with mates but could use a bit more space to move around. small issue really
By Anonymous Student on Mar 21st 2026
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The music's solid and the crowd's decent, can't really ask for much more than that.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 17th 2026
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Had some hilarious moments here with friends. always remember the laughs we had.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 12th 2026
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Always a solid experience here, never a dull moment really. can lose track of time with friends 😊
By Anonymous Student on Mar 4th 2026
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Easy-going atmosphere, had a good time without any stress. made the night feel way more relaxed.
By Anonymous Student on Feb 12th 2026
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Looking back it was a good spot. not too crowded, just enough people to enjoy the atmosphere.
By Anonymous Student on Feb 5th 2026
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It’s a good mix of people and music, so you can hang out or dance if you want. that balance makes it easy to enjoy the night.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 29th 2026
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The atmosphere is something else, can't help but enjoy yourself in there.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 23rd 2026
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It's a chill spot to hang with mates. always feels easygoing when we're there.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 17th 2026
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Really good fun and safe too, no worries at all.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 13th 2026
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The crowd's laid-back with no pretentiousness, just people enjoying themselves. it's nice to be around that kind of energy.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 8th 2026
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One of those places where the night just flows perfectly.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 3rd 2026
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Service is solid and it’s easy to have a good night without any stress. no awkward moments or slow service to ruin the flow.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 28th 2025
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Always a varied crowd which makes it enjoyable. never had any issues there
By Anonymous Student on Dec 22nd 2025
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Not the most extravagant spot but the music gets everyone up and dancing. you know what to expect here.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 18th 2025
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The type of place that instantly puts you in a good mood.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 12th 2025
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Crowd's decent every time, seems to keep the energy up.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 5th 2025
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It was just a really good student atmosphere from the start and made everything feel more fun.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 29th 2025
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Not the most glamorous spot but it works for student nights. good atmosphere and reasonable prices, you'll have a decent time.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 24th 2025
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Chilled start, wild end – exactly how student nights should be!
By Anonymous Student on Nov 16th 2025
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Atmosphere is always buzzing, exactly what you want on a night out.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 7th 2025
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Great night out, music was spot on and the vibe was brilliant.
By Anonymous Student on Oct 29th 2025