The Bootlegger, London – 5 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 5 user ratings

The Bootlegger Richmond, 5 Hill St, London, Richmond, TW9 1SX

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: Closed, Tuesday: 6:30 PM – 3:30 AM, Wednesday: 5:30 PM – 3:30 AM, Thursday: 6:30 PM – 3:30 AM, Friday: 6:30 PM – 3:30 AM, Saturday: 8:00 PM – 3:30 AM, Sunday: Closed

💬 What Students Say

The Bootlegger is a lively nightlife venue located in Richmond, London, making it an appealing choice for students from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) looking to unwind after a long week of studies. This venue stands out with its unique speakeasy vibe, reminiscent of the Prohibition era, which adds an intriguing twist to the typical night out. The interior is stylishly decorated with vintage furnishings and atmospheric lighting, creating an inviting environment where friends can gather and enjoy a night of fun and laughter.

The atmosphere at The Bootlegger is often described as energetic and vibrant. Students frequently mention the friendly and welcoming staff who contribute to the overall positive vibe. The venue is designed to encourage social interaction, with ample seating and a layout that allows for easy movement throughout the space. Whether you're catching up with friends or meeting new people, the ambiance is conducive to a great night out.

When it comes to music, The Bootlegger offers a diverse range of genres that cater to various tastes. While specific playlists or DJ events have not been detailed in reviews, the venue is known for its eclectic mix, which often includes popular hits and classic tracks that get everyone on the dance floor. Students appreciate the blend of music that keeps the energy high and the mood lively throughout the night.

Drinks at The Bootlegger are reasonably priced, fitting within a mid-range budget that many students can appreciate. The bar offers a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Students often highlight the creative cocktail menu, which features unique concoctions that are perfect for those looking to try something new. Additionally, happy hour specials and promotions may be available, making it an even more attractive option for budget-conscious students.

As for the entry experience, The Bootlegger typically has a relaxed approach to queues, though peak times may lead to a bit of a wait. Students recommend arriving early, especially on weekends, to avoid long lines and secure a good spot. The venue's opening hours are accommodating, with late-night service available on most days, allowing students to enjoy their evenings without feeling rushed. The midweek openings are particularly appealing for those looking to enjoy a night out during the week without the weekend crowds.

Despite the positives, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Some students have noted that the venue can get quite busy, especially on weekends, which may lead to a crowded atmosphere. While many enjoy the hustle and bustle, others might find it overwhelming at times. Additionally, as with any popular nightlife spot, noise levels can be high, which might not suit everyone’s preferences for a night out.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Bootlegger is ideal for students who enjoy a lively and energetic atmosphere. It’s perfect for groups looking to celebrate special occasions or simply unwind after a week of classes. The speakeasy theme also attracts those who appreciate a unique twist on the typical bar experience, making it a great choice for anyone interested in exploring different nightlife options in London.

In summary, The Bootlegger promises a fun and engaging night out for students near LSE. Its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and diverse music selection make it a great place to relax and socialize. While the potential for crowds and noise may be a downside for some, the overall experience is generally positive, with many students looking forward to returning for another night of fun. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or looking to meet new people, The Bootlegger is definitely worth checking out.

For those planning to visit, here are some practical tips: dress smart-casual to fit in with the venue's vibe; consider arriving early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends; keep an eye out for drink specials to save a bit of money; and be prepared for a lively atmosphere that might get a bit loud as the night progresses. Overall, The Bootlegger is a solid choice for students seeking a memorable night out in Richmond.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Unique speakeasy vibe that enhances the nightlife experience.
  • Friendly and welcoming staff contribute to a positive atmosphere.
  • Diverse music selection that keeps the energy high.
  • Reasonably priced drinks with creative cocktail options.
  • Accommodating opening hours for late-night outings.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded, especially on weekends, which may be overwhelming for some.
  • Noise levels can be high, making conversation difficult.
  • Limited reviews mean less feedback on consistent experiences.
  • Entry queues may form during peak times, especially on weekends.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively night out with friends in a unique setting.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress smart-casual to match the venue's vibe.
  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, particularly on weekends.
  • Keep an eye out for happy hour specials to save on drinks.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere that may get loud as the night progresses.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger offers a vibrant atmosphere with a unique speakeasy theme, perfect for students looking to unwind.

How long is the queue?

Queues can form during peak times, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Is it good value?

Drinks are reasonably priced, and creative cocktails provide good value for the experience.

What music does The Bootlegger play?

The venue features a diverse range of music, keeping the energy lively throughout the night.

What are the opening hours?

The Bootlegger is open Tuesday through Saturday, with varying hours each day.

Reviews
1 of 5
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The bootlegger has a relaxed vibe and the music was on point for a student night. drinks were reasonably priced and the dancefloor had a good atmosphere. would go back for another night out.
By user368707 on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Entry was quick and the vibe was chill. the bootlegger had decent music and the drinks were reasonably priced. definitely a spot to revisit with friends.
By user353114 on Apr 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The queue moved quickly and drinks were reasonably priced. the music had a good vibe, just loud enough to dance without losing the ability to chat. the crowd felt friendly and the place had a nice atmosphere all night.
By user474552 on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The queue was quick and the drinks were reasonably priced. the music was good, creating a nice vibe for chatting and dancing. toilets were clean too, which is always a plus.
By user875502 on Apr 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
By user490018 on Mar 30th 2026