The Griffin, Loughborough – 55 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Griffin — student bar photo

The Griffin -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 55 user ratings

Ashby Square, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 5AA

💬 What Students Say

The Griffin is a popular pub located in Ashby Square, Loughborough, that has become a go-to venue for students from Loughborough University. With its inviting atmosphere and a reputation for delivering enjoyable nights out, it’s a place where students can unwind, socialize, and enjoy great music. The venue is known for its friendly vibe, making it an ideal spot for those looking to have a fun, relaxed evening with friends. The Griffin is not just a bar; it’s a community hub where students gather to celebrate, chill, and create memories. Many students appreciate the local feel of the pub, which sets it apart from the more commercial chain bars. This authenticity contributes to the overall charm and appeal of The Griffin, making it a beloved choice among the student crowd.

Atmosphere is a key highlight at The Griffin. Many reviews emphasize the inclusive and friendly vibe, where everyone feels welcome. The crowd is described as laid-back, which fosters an enjoyable environment for hanging out with friends. The atmosphere is often described as chill yet lively, striking a balance that allows for both relaxed conversations and energetic moments when the music is pumping. Students frequently mention that the venue feels cozy, which makes it easier to connect with friends and enjoy the night. The ambiance is enhanced by the presence of a good crowd that contributes to the overall energy of the place.

Music is a significant part of the experience at The Griffin. The venue is well-rated for its music selection, with many students noting that the DJ keeps the energy high with a mix of throwback tracks and current hits. The consistent flow of music helps maintain a lively atmosphere, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. Whether students are looking to dance or simply enjoy the tunes while chatting, The Griffin delivers on the music front. The venue often hosts themed student nights, which are particularly popular and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere students have come to love.

When it comes to drinks and pricing, The Griffin is considered a solid choice. Many students appreciate the reasonable prices, which allow them to enjoy a night out without feeling the pinch on their wallets. The drink selection is varied, catering to different tastes and preferences. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes The Griffin a favorite among students looking to have a good time without overspending. The pub’s beer garden is an added bonus, providing a lovely outdoor space for those who want to enjoy their drinks in the fresh air.

The queue and entry experience at The Griffin are generally favorable. Students have noted that the queue is manageable, and the staff are efficient in getting people inside. This aspect is crucial, especially on busy nights, as it helps maintain the positive vibe right from the start. The rating for queue management is high, indicating that students can expect a smooth entry process, allowing them to quickly join their friends and enjoy the night.

Review patterns show that students consistently have a good time at The Griffin. Many express their satisfaction with the overall experience, often highlighting that it’s a place they can rely on for a fun night out. The combination of a friendly atmosphere, good music, and reasonable drink prices makes it a reliable option for students. While some reviews mention that the venue can get a bit crowded at times, this is often seen as a minor drawback compared to the overall positive experience. The Griffin has a reputation for being a place where students can feel safe and comfortable, even when it’s packed.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Griffin is ideal for students who enjoy a social atmosphere where they can hang out with friends, listen to good music, and have a few drinks. It’s perfect for those looking for a balance between a lively night out and a relaxed environment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind after a long week of classes, The Griffin offers a space that caters to various moods and preferences.

However, there are a few honest assessments of the venue’s weaknesses. While many students love the atmosphere, some reviews suggest that it can become too packed during peak times, which might detract from the experience for those who prefer a more spacious setting. Additionally, while the venue has its charm, it may not have the glamorous appeal of some other nightlife spots in the area, which could be a consideration for students looking for a more upscale experience. Despite this, the reliability and consistent fun that The Griffin offers make it a beloved choice for many.

Overall, The Griffin stands out as a student-friendly venue with a lot to offer. With its inviting atmosphere, great music, reasonable prices, and a welcoming crowd, it’s hard to go wrong with a night out here. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, you’re likely to leave with good memories and a desire to return. The Griffin is more than just a pub; it’s a place where students can come together, enjoy each other’s company, and create lasting memories.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Inviting and friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.
  • Great music selection that keeps the energy high throughout the night.
  • Reasonable drink prices that cater to student budgets.
  • Efficient queue management for a smooth entry experience.
  • Cozy beer garden for outdoor drinks during nice weather.
  • Consistently positive reviews highlighting reliability for a good night out.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun and relaxed night out with friends in a friendly atmosphere.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Try to arrive early on busy nights to avoid long queues.
  • Keep an eye on student nights for special events and deals.
  • Music is typically upbeat, with a mix of throwbacks and current hits.
  • The beer garden is a great spot for sunny days and socializing.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Griffin like?

The Griffin is a vibrant pub with a friendly atmosphere, great music, and a cozy feel, perfect for students looking to unwind.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, with efficient staff ensuring a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drink prices reasonable, making it a budget-friendly choice for a night out.

What music does The Griffin play?

The Griffin features a mix of throwback tracks and current hits, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

The Griffin — student bar photo
Reviews
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many tvs for sports.
By user456672 (Loughborough) on Aug 13th 2026
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Good place for sports.
By user762836 (Loughborough) on Aug 5th 2026
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I defo recomend the friendly service here.
By user565764 (Loughborough) on Jul 28th 2026
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Enjoyed some really tasty food, super satisfying.
By user374836 (Loughborough) on Jul 22nd 2026
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Great selection of draft beers. 🍻
By user630195 (Loughborough) on Jul 16th 2026
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Good place to catch live sports
By user528740 (Loughborough) on Jul 10th 2026
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Friendly atmposhere and decently priced drinks.
By user264223 (Loughborough) on Jul 3rd 2026
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really clean bathrooms
By user461266 (Loughborough) on Jun 28th 2026
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Board games were a fun surprise, we played for ages.
By user349040 (Loughborough) on Jun 22nd 2026
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Menu always has something tasty. 👌
By user663945 (Loughborough) on Jun 16th 2026
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nice draft beer selection
By user413883 (Loughborough) on Jun 11th 2026
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nice pub to hang at
By user703466 (Loughborough) on Jun 4th 2026
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Listening to live sports on a lazy Sunday was the best.
By user290619 (Loughborough) on May 26th 2026
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Watching the game in the garden was a highlight.
By user680762 (Loughborough) on May 20th 2026
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Great atmosphere with engaging board games. 👌
By user799191 (Loughborough) on May 12th 2026
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Food is a solid choice.
By user246418 (Loughborough) on May 6th 2026
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cheap beer options
By user632136 (Loughborough) on Apr 28th 2026
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fab heated garden to relax in
By user285186 (Loughborough) on Apr 20th 2026
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plenty of draft beers to try
By user947388 (Loughborough) on Apr 13th 2026
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Lots of TVs for sports
By user849376 (Loughborough) on Apr 10th 2026
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Really appreciated the wide beer selection available.
By user800113 (Loughborough) on Apr 6th 2026
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awesome heated garden
By user743490 (Loughborough) on Apr 3rd 2026
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a warm relaxed vibe
By user180115 (Loughborough) on Mar 26th 2026
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Relaxing airy space
By user407372 (Loughborough) on Mar 21st 2026
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Had a fun night with the board games.
By user830153 (Loughborough) on Mar 13th 2026
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The board games were a blast with friends. 🍻
By user602853 (Loughborough) on Mar 4th 2026
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cool place to chill out here
By user877765 (Loughborough) on Feb 25th 2026
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top spot to unwind
By user943740 (Loughborough) on Feb 24th 2026
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Nice pub with clean toilets.
By user263361 (Loughborough) on Feb 22nd 2026
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Deffo recomend the friendly vibe and staff here.
By user954263 (Loughborough) on Feb 21st 2026
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The drinks selection was unique and varied.
By user185246 (Loughborough) on Feb 20th 2026
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nice heated garden area
By user993392 (Loughborough) on Feb 19th 2026
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The pool table is such a chill spot.
By user777538 (Loughborough) on Feb 18th 2026
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had a great evening here
By user161499 (Loughborough) on Feb 17th 2026
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Friendly welcoming staff, highly recommended. 😍
By user927970 (Loughborough) on Feb 16th 2026
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nice spot for beers
By user309695 (Loughborough) on Feb 15th 2026
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Enjoyed the friendly welcoming atmosphere here.
By user397180 (Loughborough) on Feb 14th 2026
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Go for their food, seriously good choice.
By user294897 (Loughborough) on Feb 13th 2026
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Loved spending time in the heated beer garden.
By user424814 (Loughborough) on Feb 6th 2026
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totally recommend it
By user530839 (Loughborough) on Jan 29th 2026
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cool place for draft beers and chillin'. defo recomend it.
By user444624 (Loughborough) on Jan 23rd 2026
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great place just for drinks
By user358329 (Loughborough) on Jan 18th 2026
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Realy nice place for group hangouts and freinds.
By user968054 (Loughborough) on Jan 13th 2026
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Food was legit tasty, recommend trying it.
By user648320 (Loughborough) on Jan 9th 2026
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Great drinks with reasonably priced food options.
By user452503 (Loughborough) on Jan 3rd 2026
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chilled drinks and good vibes
By user859201 (Loughborough) on Dec 29th 2025
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The variety of draft beers is great here.
By user972961 (Loughborough) on Dec 23rd 2025
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cool little sport bar
By user494630 (Loughborough) on Dec 19th 2025
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Nice collection of draft beers and food.
By user853742 (Loughborough) on Dec 13th 2025
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Loved chilling in their heated beer garden.
By user769561 (Loughborough) on Dec 5th 2025
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Try the mini dishes, they're fab! 👌
By user935816 (Loughborough) on Nov 30th 2025
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friendly staff and pool table
By user518865 (Loughborough) on Nov 25th 2025
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Nice place for a chill evening. 🙌
By user232073 (Loughborough) on Nov 17th 2025
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Really enjoyed trying the vegetarian options.
By user767043 (Loughborough) on Nov 9th 2025
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Beer garden is super cozy. 🍻
By user496622 (Loughborough) on Oct 30th 2025