The Orion, Manchester – 16 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Orion -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 16 user ratings

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Orion Inn, 8 Burton Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3ED, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM, Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM, Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM, Thursday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM, Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

The Orion, located at the Orion Inn on Burton Road, is a traditional pub that has become a beloved spot for students from the University of Manchester. With its welcoming vibe, The Orion offers a great mix of hearty pub food, a fantastic selection of beers and ales, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a perfect choice for a night out. It’s not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a social hub where students can unwind after lectures or kick off their weekend plans. The venue has earned high ratings for its overall experience, cleanliness, music, value, queue management, and smoking area, making it a highly rated choice among students looking for a reliable night out.

When you step into The Orion, you’ll immediately notice the friendly and relaxed atmosphere that students frequently rave about. Many reviews highlight the pub’s ability to create a space where everyone is in a good mood, making it easy to meet new friends or catch up with old ones. The crowd tends to be a mix of students and locals, which adds to the charm and diversity of the experience. The venue strikes a balance between being energetic and laid-back, so whether you want to dance the night away or simply enjoy a drink with friends, The Orion caters to both moods.

Music is another strong point at The Orion. Students appreciate the solid tunes that keep the energy up throughout the night. Reviewers often mention that the music selection is enjoyable, and the crowd is usually into it, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re there to dance or just to enjoy the background vibes, the music at The Orion is sure to keep your spirits high.

In terms of drinks and pricing, The Orion has received positive feedback for its affordable options. Many students have commented on the reasonably priced drinks, which is a significant plus for those on a budget. The affordability allows for a more enjoyable night out without the worry of overspending, making it a dependable choice for students. While it may not be the fanciest spot, it certainly delivers on value, allowing you to enjoy a good night without breaking the bank.

The queue and entry experience at The Orion also receive commendations from students. The venue is known for managing queues effectively, which means you won’t spend your night waiting outside. This efficiency is an essential factor for students looking to maximize their time enjoying the night rather than standing in line. Reviewers have noted that it’s not too cramped inside, allowing for easy movement without constantly bumping into others, which enhances the overall comfort of your visit.

Despite its many strengths, The Orion isn't without its weaknesses. Some students have pointed out that it may not be the most upscale venue, which could be a turn-off for those seeking a more sophisticated night out. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally praised, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who prefer quieter settings. It’s also worth noting that while the music is usually great, it can be hit or miss depending on the night, so if you’re particular about your music preferences, it’s good to check ahead.

In summary, The Orion is an excellent venue for students who enjoy a fun, laid-back atmosphere with affordable drinks and solid music. It suits those who are looking for a dependable spot to socialize and unwind without the chaos often found in more crowded bars or clubs. With its welcoming vibe and friendly crowd, it’s easy to see why many students keep coming back for more.

Overall, The Orion is a place where you can enjoy a classic pub experience with a student-friendly twist. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the more hectic nightlife while still enjoying a lively evening out. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink after class or planning a night out with friends, The Orion provides a solid option that balances fun and affordability.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Welcoming atmosphere that fosters social interaction.
  • Affordable drinks, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Great music selection that keeps the energy high.
  • Efficient queue management for a smooth entry experience.
  • Spacious enough to move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
  • Friendly crowd, making it easy to meet new people.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Not the fanciest venue, which may deter some students.
  • Atmosphere may not suit those looking for a quieter night out.
  • Music quality can vary depending on the night.
  • Some may find it lacks the upscale feel of other venues.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for an affordable and fun place to unwind after lectures or kick off their weekend.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Try to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Keep an eye out for drink specials to save even more.
  • The music style is generally upbeat, catering to a lively crowd.
  • It's a great spot for socializing, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation!

❓ Common Questions

What is The Orion like?

The Orion is a traditional pub with a welcoming vibe, perfect for students looking for a relaxed and fun night out.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally well-managed, allowing for a smooth entry experience without long waits.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention the affordable drinks, making it a great value for a night out.

What music does The Orion play?

The music at The Orion is typically upbeat and enjoyable, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

Is there a smoking area?

Yes, The Orion has a smoking area that is well-rated by patrons.

Reviews
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely one of the best student nights I’ve been to.
By user207513 on Mar 24th 2026
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Everyone should check this place out at least once. it’s got a bit of everything going on.
By user381890 on Mar 15th 2026
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Close enough for a good night out but far enough to escape the chaos when needed
By user961506 on Mar 3rd 2026
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Drinks were pretty cheap so that was a plus. made nights out way easier.
By user757939 on Feb 9th 2026
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Smoking
Not the fanciest spot but it gets the energy up. good atmosphere and solid tunes, you know what to expect.
By user359068 on Jan 28th 2026
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It's a dependable spot for hanging out with friends. little things like the atmosphere make it easy to enjoy.
By user366736 on Jan 20th 2026
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Not perfect but i'd choose it again. good music and a relaxed crowd make it a solid pick.
By user290125 on Jan 12th 2026
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Music was sick and the crowd was really into it. little things that make a night out worth it.
By user905737 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Everyone seems to be in a good mood. it’s a nice atmosphere without being too loud or overwhelming.
By user417632 on Dec 27th 2025
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Exactly what you want for a night out – fun, easy and affordable.
By user328183 on Dec 19th 2025
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Smoking
Not too cramped, just the right amount of people. you can actually move around without stepping on toes
By user549945 on Dec 11th 2025
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The orion just hits different every time, it’s always a good night out. that’s what keeps me coming back.
By user484765 on Dec 2nd 2025
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Lots of friendly people, makes it easy to meet new mates while you’re out
By user502641 on Nov 23rd 2025
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Drinks were priced pretty fairly, which is nice to see nowadays. it's a relief not to get ripped off for a night out.
By user556874 on Nov 10th 2025
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The orion has a solid atmosphere. it’s a nice spot to chill after lectures without the chain bar feel.
By user479336 on Oct 29th 2025
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Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking
By user784640 on Apr 9th 2025