Founder's Arms, Loughborough – 56 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Founder's Arms β€” student bar photo

Founder's Arms -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 56 user ratings

52 Hopton Street, London , SE1 9JH

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

Nestled by Blackfriars station in London, Founder's Arms is a popular pub that caters well to students from Loughborough University and beyond. Known for its inviting atmosphere and vibrant social scene, this venue offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. With its diverse crowd and friendly staff, students often find this spot ideal for winding down after a hectic week or kicking off a night out with friends. The venue is highly rated for its value, cleanliness, and music, making it a staple for many who are looking for a good time without breaking the bank.

The atmosphere at Founder's Arms is consistently described as lively and filled with laughter. Many students appreciate the chill vibe, which allows for easy socializing and enjoyment. The space is spacious enough that it never feels overly crowded, providing a comfortable environment to hang out with friends. Students frequently mention how every night feels special here, with the ambiance contributing greatly to their overall experience. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening or a night that ends in dancing, the venue adapts to the mood of its patrons.

Music plays a significant role in the experience at Founder's Arms. The DJ is known for reading the crowd well, ensuring that the dance floor remains lively throughout the night. Students rave about the quality of the music, noting that it sets the perfect mood for a night out. The mix of tunes keeps the energy high, and many find themselves dancing until the early hours. This aspect is crucial for students who enjoy a venue that not only serves as a place to drink but also as a space to enjoy great music and dance.

When it comes to drinks, Founder's Arms is praised for its reasonable prices and enticing drink deals. Students appreciate that they can enjoy a night out without worrying about their budget, which is a significant factor for many. The pub offers a variety of beverages, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The value for money aspect is particularly highlighted, with many reviews emphasizing that it’s worth spending a bit more for the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. This makes it a go-to spot for students who want a good night without the hefty price tag.

Queue and entry experience at Founder's Arms is generally smooth, with many students noting that they rarely face long waits to get in. The venue's rating for queue experience is solid, suggesting that it efficiently manages its entry process, allowing patrons to get to the fun part of their night without unnecessary delays. This is particularly appealing for students who may be coming from classes or other commitments and want to maximize their time enjoying the venue.

Feedback from students who frequent Founder's Arms highlights that it is a great place for making memories with friends. Many reviews mention how the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to meet new people and enjoy a night filled with laughter. The inclusive vibe often leads to a fun crowd, which is a significant draw for students looking for a social experience. However, some mention that while it is a good spot, it may not always be the most exciting venue, depending on the night and the crowd. This mixed feedback suggests that while the venue is generally reliable, experiences can vary.

In terms of who this venue suits best, Founder's Arms is ideal for students looking for a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. It appeals to those who enjoy a good mix of chill conversations and vibrant music, making it a versatile choice for different types of nights out. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up with friends or a more energetic night of dancing, this pub caters to both moods, making it a popular choice among the student community.

While Founder's Arms has many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students note that it may not be the cheapest option available, which could be a factor for those on a tight budget. Additionally, while most nights are enjoyable, the vibe can vary depending on the crowd and the day of the week. Some students have mentioned that it may not always be the most exciting place, so it’s worth checking out the vibe before committing to a night out. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is that Founder's Arms remains a reliable and enjoyable venue for students looking to unwind and have fun.

In summary, Founder's Arms offers a well-rounded experience for students seeking a fun night out in London. With its lively atmosphere, great music, and friendly crowd, it stands out as a go-to spot for many. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink or dance the night away, this pub has something for everyone, making it a beloved venue among students.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere perfect for socializing.
  • Great music with a DJ who knows how to keep the crowd engaged.
  • Reasonably priced drinks and attractive drink deals.
  • Spacious layout that prevents overcrowding.
  • Consistently positive reviews for a fun night out.
  • Inclusive vibe that attracts a diverse crowd.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill yet lively atmosphere to enjoy a night out with friends.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual; come as you are.
  • Expect a good mix of music, perfect for dancing.
  • Arrive early to avoid potential queues on busy nights.
  • Check for drink deals to make the most of your budget.
  • The venue is spacious, so there’s plenty of room to find a good spot.

❓ Common Questions

What is Founder's Arms like?

It's a lively pub with a chill atmosphere, perfect for socializing and enjoying good music.

How long is the queue?

Queues are generally short, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, it offers reasonably priced drinks and great value for a fun night out.

What music does Founder's Arms play?

The music is varied and energetic, with a DJ who keeps the dance floor lively.

What is the vibe like?

The vibe is friendly and inclusive, making it easy to relax and have a good time.

Founder's Arms β€” student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 56
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The heated patio is very welcoming, especially on chilly nights.
By user412611 (Loughborough) on Aug 13th 2026
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their mushy peas were especially nice with fish.
By user769345 (Loughborough) on Aug 5th 2026
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Try the fish and chips here.
By user387498 (Loughborough) on Jul 28th 2026
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loved sitting on the patio with friends.
By user738065 (Loughborough) on Jul 23rd 2026
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great riverside bar vibes
By user483556 (Loughborough) on Jul 16th 2026
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head to the patio for views
By user521800 (Loughborough) on Jul 10th 2026
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food was soo good
By user789327 (Loughborough) on Jul 3rd 2026
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cosy and welcoming inside
By user273406 (Loughborough) on Jun 28th 2026
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Mushy peas were lovely, highly recomend them.
By user239410 (Loughborough) on Jun 23rd 2026
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Good food and fab views.
By user803096 (Loughborough) on Jun 17th 2026
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Bring friends for a great time.
By user885358 (Loughborough) on Jun 11th 2026
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fantastic night out πŸ‘Œ
By user967690 (Loughborough) on Jun 5th 2026
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nice little place
By user789362 (Loughborough) on May 26th 2026
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views over the thames
By user587271 (Loughborough) on May 20th 2026
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solid place with great food
By user726616 (Loughborough) on May 12th 2026
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great food for sure
By user712117 (Loughborough) on May 5th 2026
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Perfect study break destination by the water.
By user235262 (Loughborough) on Apr 28th 2026
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perfect spot for a sunset drink
By user674100 (Loughborough) on Apr 20th 2026
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Warm service with a cracking atmosphere.
By user687716 (Loughborough) on Apr 14th 2026
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loved sitting by the water
By user501251 (Loughborough) on Apr 11th 2026
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fish and chips winner
By user336454 (Loughborough) on Mar 30th 2026
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view and atmosphere
By user331380 (Loughborough) on Mar 26th 2026
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get the mushy peas
By user483700 (Loughborough) on Mar 21st 2026
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drinks were spot on, definitely a highlight of the night.
By user114447 (Loughborough) on Mar 17th 2026
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try the peach jubel beer
By user794556 (Loughborough) on Mar 13th 2026
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Chilled drinks were just perfect by the riverside.
By user252324 (Loughborough) on Mar 9th 2026
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Food was delicious and drinks were well-prepared.
By user639413 (Loughborough) on Feb 27th 2026
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large heated patio
By user288602 (Loughborough) on Feb 25th 2026
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all about the views here
By user284672 (Loughborough) on Feb 24th 2026
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amazing food and atmosphere
By user113029 (Loughborough) on Feb 22nd 2026
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proper chill place to relax
By user984796 (Loughborough) on Feb 21st 2026
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love the view at sunset
By user933939 (Loughborough) on Feb 20th 2026
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great food and views
By user946597 (Loughborough) on Feb 19th 2026
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The atmosphere is cozy with a beautiful river view.
By user119725 (Loughborough) on Feb 18th 2026
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Realy enjoyed the Peach beer 🍻
By user933427 (Loughborough) on Feb 17th 2026
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beer selection on point 🍻
By user996742 (Loughborough) on Feb 16th 2026
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right by the river
By user584363 (Loughborough) on Feb 15th 2026
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riverside views and chill vibes
By user103801 (Loughborough) on Feb 14th 2026
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cosy indoor space
By user455923 (Loughborough) on Feb 13th 2026
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right by st pauls
By user971475 (Loughborough) on Feb 6th 2026
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fantastic view of Thames
By user454635 (Loughborough) on Jan 30th 2026
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Really enjoyed their chilled drinks.
By user830894 (Loughborough) on Jan 23rd 2026
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top quality fish cakes
By user955191 (Loughborough) on Jan 18th 2026
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Fish cakes were deffo tasty.
By user777589 (Loughborough) on Jan 13th 2026
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Chilled spot near the water.
By user845501 (Loughborough) on Jan 9th 2026
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great drinks selection here
By user246128 (Loughborough) on Jan 3rd 2026
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Enjoyed the evening with the perfect Thames view.
By user557339 (Loughborough) on Dec 29th 2025
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beautiful views outside
By user659435 (Loughborough) on Dec 23rd 2025
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veiw of st pauls is ace.
By user482356 (Loughborough) on Dec 19th 2025
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nice view, good vibes
By user958192 (Loughborough) on Dec 13th 2025
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lush atmosphere by the river 😍
By user855822 (Loughborough) on Dec 6th 2025
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Had an amazing view of St Paul's while dining.
By user415645 (Loughborough) on Nov 30th 2025
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The riverside atmosphere was fantastic 🍻
By user473376 (Loughborough) on Nov 25th 2025
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fab roast with mates
By user252417 (Loughborough) on Nov 17th 2025
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right on the thames
By user685697 (Loughborough) on Nov 9th 2025
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perfect to chill with mates 🍻
By user470977 (Loughborough) on Oct 30th 2025