The Orion, Manchester – 34 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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The Orion -
The Orion -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 34 user ratings
Orion Inn, 8 Burton Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3ED, United Kingdom
💬 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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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.
✅ 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.
🎯 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
1 of 34
Overall
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Smoking
Quality of this place has stayed strong over time, making it a reliable option for a night out. Staff have always been on point and the crowd is easy to hang with, which keeps me coming back when I need a break from studying.
By user822664 (Manchester) on Sep 3rd 2026
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The vibe during Sunday nights is electric.
By user627161 (Manchester) on Aug 12th 2026
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great for sports fans
By user462055 (Manchester) on Jul 30th 2026
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The lively atmosphere is complemented so well.
By user721247 (Manchester) on Jul 23rd 2026
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lively and welcoming
By user414816 (Manchester) on Jul 15th 2026
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no vaping allowed inside
By user202341 (Manchester) on Jul 6th 2026
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great local hangout
By user366181 (Manchester) on Jun 27th 2026
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no vaping which is nice
By user268498 (Manchester) on Jun 21st 2026
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just an all around great pub
By user195373 (Manchester) on Jun 14th 2026
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Good place, friendly staff
By user198463 (Manchester) on Jun 5th 2026
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good drinks here
By user562570 (Manchester) on May 24th 2026
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class pint of bitter
By user294093 (Manchester) on May 16th 2026
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friendly spot, nice drinks
By user689856 (Manchester) on May 11th 2026
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love the jukebox on sundays
By user598791 (Manchester) on Apr 28th 2026
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After the game, we sang along to the jukebox tunes.
By user305611 (Manchester) on Apr 20th 2026
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Solid pub. Welcoming atmosphere
By user441537 (Manchester) on Apr 13th 2026
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Deffo recomend the friendly atmposhere.
By user357873 (Manchester) on Apr 11th 2026
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great vibe and sound staff
By user910845 (Manchester) on Apr 10th 2026
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good one for weekends
By user207513 (Manchester) on Mar 24th 2026
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remember watching a match here, such a buzzing vibe.
By user381890 (Manchester) on Mar 15th 2026
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love the free jukebox
By user961506 (Manchester) on Mar 3rd 2026
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No vaping policy makes the air so fresh inside.
By user757939 (Manchester) on Feb 9th 2026
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solid neighborhood pub
By user359068 (Manchester) on Jan 28th 2026
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I appreciated the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere throughout.
By user366736 (Manchester) on Jan 20th 2026
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Joe Holts bitter was the highlight, great choice.
By user290125 (Manchester) on Jan 12th 2026
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really nice pub
By user905737 (Manchester) on Jan 3rd 2026
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Love joe holts bitter and location 🙌
By user417632 (Manchester) on Dec 27th 2025
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great friendly place
By user328183 (Manchester) on Dec 19th 2025
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Friendly staff outside beer is very nice 🍻
By user549945 (Manchester) on Dec 11th 2025
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solid place for games
By user484765 (Manchester) on Dec 2nd 2025
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great match day atmosphere
By user502641 (Manchester) on Nov 23rd 2025
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Properly enjoyed sitting outside with a pint of Joe Holts.
By user556874 (Manchester) on Nov 10th 2025
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Friendly staff make everything better, love the welcoming feel.
By user479336 (Manchester) on Oct 29th 2025
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By user784640 (Manchester) on Apr 9th 2025
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