The Swan in the Rushes, Loughborough – 24 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Swan in the Rushes -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking

Based on 24 user ratings

21 The Rushes, Loughborough LE11 5BE, UK

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM

💬 What Students Say

Nestled in the heart of Loughborough, The Swan in the Rushes stands out as a beloved venue among students from Loughborough University. With its rich history as part of the local real ale scene for over three decades, this pub has become a staple for those looking to unwind after a long week of studies. The atmosphere here is a delightful blend of cozy and energetic, making it an ideal spot for both relaxed drinks and lively nights out. Students frequently mention the inviting vibe, where the crowd is always friendly and ready to enjoy themselves. Whether you're popping in for a casual drink or gearing up for a night of dancing, The Swan has something for everyone.

The venue's ambiance is often described as vibrant yet laid-back. Many students appreciate the balance it strikes between being lively enough to dance and cozy enough to have a good chat with friends. The music selection is consistently praised, with many reviews highlighting that the tunes played are just right for the mood. The crowd is generally enthusiastic, contributing to a lively atmosphere that makes each visit feel special. The combination of a welcoming environment and a good mix of people allows for easy socializing, making it a go-to spot for many.

When it comes to drinks, The Swan in the Rushes does not disappoint. The pub offers a wide selection of beverages, including award-winning ciders, craft beers, wines, and spirits. Students often comment on the quality of the drinks, stating that they exceed expectations. While it may not be the cheapest place in town, many feel that the prices are reasonable given the quality and atmosphere. The value for money is highly rated, with students noting that the drinks are well worth the price, especially for a night out.

One of the highlights of The Swan is the efficient service. Many reviews mention that the wait times at the bar are minimal, which is a significant plus for students eager to start their night. The friendly staff contribute to the overall positive experience, making patrons feel welcomed and valued. This attentive service helps ensure that the night flows smoothly, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying their time with friends.

In terms of crowd dynamics, The Swan is noted for having just the right amount of people. It’s not overly packed, which many students appreciate as it allows for a more enjoyable experience without feeling cramped. This creates a comfortable setting where you can either dance the night away or simply enjoy a laid-back drink. The mix of people is also a positive aspect, as it leads to engaging conversations and a sense of community among patrons.

However, it's worth noting that the atmosphere can vary depending on the night. While many students love the vibrant energy, some feel that it can be a bit overwhelming at times, especially during busier evenings. This means that if you're looking for a quieter night, it might be best to visit during off-peak hours. Additionally, while the venue is generally reliable, a few students have mentioned that it can get a bit chaotic on particularly busy nights, so it's good to be prepared for that.

Overall, The Swan in the Rushes has established itself as a highly rated venue for students looking for a fun night out. With its strong focus on quality drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and efficient service, it certainly lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink or planning a full night out with friends, this pub is a solid choice that rarely disappoints. The consistent positive feedback from students highlights its reliability as a go-to spot in Loughborough.

In summary, The Swan in the Rushes is perfect for students who appreciate a blend of good drinks, a lively atmosphere, and a friendly crowd. Its welcoming environment, combined with high-quality beverages and efficient service, makes it a standout venue for any student looking to enjoy a night out in Loughborough. Just remember to check the crowd levels and pick your night wisely for the best experience!
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✅ What Students Love

  • Great atmosphere that balances lively and cozy, perfect for dancing or chatting.
  • High-quality drinks including award-winning ciders and craft beers.
  • Friendly and efficient staff who make patrons feel welcome.
  • Short wait times at the bar, allowing for a smooth night out.
  • Consistently positive reviews from students about their experiences.
  • A good mix of people, fostering an engaging and social environment.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get chaotic on busy nights, which may not suit everyone.
  • Not the cheapest option in town, though many feel it's worth it.
  • Atmosphere can vary significantly depending on the night.
  • Some students prefer quieter spots, which may be hard to find here.
  • Occasional overwhelming energy on peak nights might deter those looking for a chill vibe.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a vibrant and friendly atmosphere to enjoy a night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, making it easy to pop in after classes.
  • Best to visit during off-peak hours if you're looking for a quieter experience.
  • Prices are reasonable for the quality of drinks offered.
  • Expect a lively music selection that complements the buzzing atmosphere.
  • Ideal for pre-drinks that can easily turn into a full night out.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Swan in the Rushes like?

The Swan is a vibrant pub with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for both relaxed drinks and lively nights out.

How long is the queue?

Students report minimal wait times at the bar, making for a smooth entry experience.

Is it good value?

While not the cheapest, many students feel the quality and atmosphere provide excellent value.

What music does The Swan in the Rushes play?

The music selection is lively and well-received, creating a fun atmosphere for dancing.

Is it crowded on weekends?

It can get busy on weekends, so visiting during off-peak hours is recommended for a more relaxed experience.

Reviews
1 of 24
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The swan in the rushes had a great vibe and the drink prices were reasonable. the music was good and kept us all on the dancefloor. would go back for sure.
By user136926 on Apr 6th 2026
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Stumbling into the Swan on a Tuesday night feels like stepping into a vibrant little world where the music just hits right, and the crowd is always buzzing with energy. Cozy enough to be friendly but lively enough to get you dancing, it's the perfect spot for students to unwind after a long week. Drink prices are decent, and I don’t think I’ve ever waited more than a few minutes to get served — which is always a win!
By user356730 on Mar 26th 2026
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Always a great vibe, everyone just there for a good time.
By user204582 on Mar 21st 2026
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Staff were friendly and made you feel welcome. that's what matters most.
By user996175 on Mar 17th 2026
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Not the cheapest place but worth it for a random night out. wouldn't have picked anywhere else honestly
By user951133 on Mar 13th 2026
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Drinks were spot on and the atmosphere felt just right all night.
By user830946 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Each night feels like something special, just a nice change from the usual. little touches that make it worth the visit.
By user773965 on Feb 9th 2026
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Always something happening which can be either a blast or a bit much, just depends on the mood
By user647143 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Drinks were better than i thought they'd be and staff were really chill.
By user332825 on Jan 26th 2026
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Every time i go it's a good night. never had any issues with the place either.
By user515054 on Jan 20th 2026
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Had a blast with friends, just what everyone looks for in a night out. by the end, it felt like the go-to spot.
By user326791 on Jan 15th 2026
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Had a proper laugh with my mates here
By user510042 on Jan 10th 2026
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Such a good laugh, everyone was just there for a good time!
By user290852 on Jan 5th 2026
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Perfect for a laid-back drink or coffee. it’s easy to pop in without any fuss.
By user754118 on Jan 1st 2026
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Not too packed, just the right amount of people around. a little thing but makes it better.
By user204768 on Dec 26th 2025
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The crowd was way more into it than i thought. felt like everyone was just having a laugh together.
By user218743 on Dec 20th 2025
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Perfect spot for pre’s that turn into an actual night out
By user932559 on Dec 15th 2025
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Always a mix of people which makes it more engaging. never felt out of place there
By user605429 on Dec 9th 2025
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Atmosphere's always chill, just people enjoying themselves without any pretense.
By user279407 on Dec 3rd 2025
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People are really friendly here, which makes it easy to chat and meet new folks. it feels relaxed and inviting without being too crowded.
By user788882 on Nov 27th 2025
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Always a reliable spot for a night out, never leaves you disappointed
By user886670 on Nov 20th 2025
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The atmosphere is just right for hanging out or dancing. can't ask for much more than that
By user574993 on Nov 13th 2025
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Sound bar staff and good crowd make it a 10/10 night.
By user629423 on Nov 3rd 2025
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By user507249 on Jul 30th 2024