Raglan Road Irish Bar, Nottingham – 56 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Raglan Road Irish Bar — student bar photo

Raglan Road Irish Bar -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking

Based on 56 user ratings

69-73 Derby Rd, Nottingham NG1 5BA, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Raglan Road Irish Bar is a vibrant and inviting venue located in Nottingham, making it a popular choice for students from the University of Nottingham. This bar is well-known for its cozy atmosphere, extensive drink selection, and engaging events, providing the perfect backdrop for a fun night out with friends. Many students appreciate the inviting vibe, which is described as relaxed yet lively, allowing for a great social experience without feeling overwhelming. The bar's interior is cozy, and it features a spacious beer garden, which is a fantastic spot to enjoy drinks, especially during warmer months.

The atmosphere at Raglan Road is one of its standout features. Students frequently mention that the vibe is warm and friendly, creating a sense of community among patrons. Many reviews highlight how everyone seems to be in a good mood, contributing to an enjoyable experience. The ambiance can vary depending on the night, with some evenings being particularly lively and energetic, while others offer a more laid-back feel. This versatility makes Raglan Road appealing to a broad range of students, whether you’re looking to dance the night away or simply have a quiet drink with friends.

Music and events play a significant role in the overall experience at Raglan Road. The bar hosts live music, karaoke, and often features a DJ, making it a fantastic spot for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. Students have noted that the music selection is generally well-received, helping to create an engaging environment where everyone can have fun together. The combination of good music and a lively crowd makes for memorable nights, with many students expressing that their time at Raglan Road often flies by because they are having such a good time.

When it comes to drinks and pricing, Raglan Road receives high marks from students for its affordability. The bar is known for its well-priced drinks, which is an essential factor for many students on a budget. The extensive drink menu includes a variety of options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Many reviews specifically mention that the value for money is excellent, which is a significant draw for students looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The relaxed service adds to the overall positive experience, allowing patrons to enjoy their drinks without feeling rushed.

Queue and entry experiences at Raglan Road are generally positive as well. Students have commented that the queue is manageable and not overly long, making it easy to get inside and start enjoying the night. This is particularly appealing for those who want to avoid the frustration of long waits that can often accompany popular nightlife spots. Once inside, patrons often feel that the atmosphere is worth the wait, as they quickly become immersed in the lively environment.

Students have shared numerous positive experiences at Raglan Road, often highlighting it as one of their favorite spots for a night out. The consistent theme in reviews is the sense of enjoyment and relaxation that the bar provides. Many students appreciate that it’s a place where they can let loose and have a good time without feeling pressured. The crowd is described as lively and fun, which enhances the overall experience. However, it’s worth noting that while most nights are enjoyable, some students have mentioned that the atmosphere can vary, with certain nights being more packed than others.

In terms of strengths and weaknesses, Raglan Road shines in its ability to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment. The combination of friendly service, good music, and affordable drinks makes it a reliable choice for students. However, some students have pointed out that it may not be perfect for everyone; those looking for a more upscale or quieter night out might find it less suitable. Additionally, while the bar generally maintains a good atmosphere, there may be nights when it feels more crowded, which could detract from the experience for some. Overall, Raglan Road is highly recommended for students seeking a fun and engaging night out in Nottingham.

In conclusion, Raglan Road Irish Bar is an excellent venue for students from the University of Nottingham looking for a lively and enjoyable night out. Its cozy atmosphere, good music, and well-priced drinks make it a favorite among many. The venue suits those who enjoy a vibrant social scene and are looking to have fun with friends in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re up for karaoke, dancing, or just enjoying a drink, Raglan Road has something to offer everyone, making it a must-visit spot in Nottingham.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and inviting atmosphere with a cozy feel.
  • Affordable drinks and excellent value for money.
  • Great music and events, including live music and karaoke.
  • Manageable queue and entry experience.
  • Friendly and relaxed service.
  • Spacious beer garden for outdoor enjoyment.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Atmosphere can vary depending on the night, with some being more packed.
  • Not ideal for those seeking a quieter or more upscale experience.
  • Some students noted it may not be perfect, but still a solid choice.
  • Can get crowded during peak times, which might detract from the experience.

🎯 Best For

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

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Arriving early can help you avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • Check the schedule for live music and karaoke nights for added fun.
  • The beer garden is a great spot during warmer months, so take advantage of it.
  • Prices are student-friendly, making it a budget-friendly option for nights out.

❓ Common Questions

What is Raglan Road like?

Raglan Road is a lively Irish bar known for its cozy atmosphere, good music, and affordable drinks, making it a favorite among students.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, with students noting it's not overly long, making it easy to get inside.

Is it good value?

Yes, Raglan Road is highly rated for value, with students appreciating the affordable drink prices.

What music does Raglan Road play?

The bar features a mix of live music, karaoke, and DJ sets, creating an engaging atmosphere.

What is the atmosphere like?

The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, with a relaxed vibe that encourages socializing.

Raglan Road Irish Bar — student bar photo
Reviews
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Atmosphere here is lively, drawing in a mix of students and locals that makes every visit feel a bit different. Even though I enjoyed it, I might look for somewhere new next time just to switch things up, but no complaints about the place when I'm in the mood for that energy.
By user830005 (UoN) on Jul 11th 2026
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Crowd here mixes locals and students, creating an easygoing scene that feels welcoming. During my visits, the lively chatter and energetic music blend just right, making it a nice spot to unwind without feeling rushed or pretentious.
By user925340 (NTU) on Jul 9th 2026
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Spent a night here and really felt the warmth in the atmosphere. staff genuinely seem to care about making sure you have a good time, which makes a difference when you're out with friends. it's nice to be somewhere that feels alive and people are actually enjoying themselves.
By user864780 (UoN) on Jul 1st 2026
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Atmosphere can really make or break a night out, and here, it hits just right. The music blends seamlessly with the buzz of conversation, creating a lively yet comfortable environment where you feel at home, no matter how busy it gets.
By user411472 (NTU) on Jun 29th 2026
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Finding a quiet corner here felt like a little victory, especially when most places are packed with noise. It’s not easy to find a spot where you can actually hear yourself think while still enjoying the atmosphere. The staff was chill about letting you take your time, which was appreciated when trying to focus on schoolwork with a drink in hand.
By user737357 (UoN) on Jun 24th 2026
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Students looking for a laid-back place to unwind will feel right at home here, especially if you love a bit of live music with your drinks. it’s the kind of spot where you can grab a pint and chat with mates without feeling the pressure to keep things fancy,
By user147734 (NTU) on Jun 21st 2026
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Crowd here always seems laid back, making it a chill place to unwind.
By user985259 (UoN) on Jun 16th 2026
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Walking into Raglan Road on a Saturday night, you can feel the energy pulsing in the air, with laughter and chatter filling every corner. The mix of students enjoying drinks and live music creates a lively scene that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking for a venue where the atmosphere captures the essence of a good night out, this place definitely delivers.
By user734338 (NTU) on Jun 12th 2026
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Staff at Raglan Road really know how to keep the energy up as the night rolls on. You can feel the connection they have with the crowd, making it feel less like a typical bar and more like a friendly hangout. It's those little interactions that keep you coming back for more.
By user948538 (UoN) on Jun 9th 2026
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Walking into Raglan Road on a Saturday night, the lively energy hits you immediately, but it still somehow manages to feel relaxed. Love how the music blends with chatter, providing just the right backdrop to catch up with friends without straining to hear each other.
By user684758 (NTU) on Jun 3rd 2026
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Staff here really add to the experience with their attentiveness and warmth. It feels like they care about making sure everyone has a good time, which turns a simple night out into something more enjoyable .
By user450767 (UoN) on May 27th 2026
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Walking in here feels like stepping into a lively corner of Dublin, with laughter and chatter filling the air. Music sets a relaxed tone while everyone seems to be enjoying themselves, whether they’re nursing a pint or engaged in animated conversation. It’s refreshing to find a place where the staff are attentive without being intrusive, allowing the evening to flow in a laid-back manner.
By user811581 (NTU) on May 20th 2026
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Walking into raglan road was a pleasant surprise since it felt way more vibrant than I expected. the energy from the crowd and the live music really lifted the atmosphere, making it a fun place to unwind with friends.
By user869167 (UoN) on May 19th 2026
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Sitting here, you can't help but feel the energy of the people around you. being in such a lively area adds a unique buzz that makes each visit feel fresh and exciting, no matter how many times you come back.
By user584919 (UoN) on May 12th 2026
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Walking in here feels like stepping into a lively Irish pub, and I'd consider coming back for the fun atmosphere. Every time I've visited, the staff have been welcoming and it’s a nice place to unwind with friends, so why not enjoy it again sometime.
By user946728 (NTU) on May 12th 2026
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Walking into this place, the unexpected warmth from the staff immediately made me feel at home, which is a nice change when you're juggling deadlines. Every time I ordered a drink, they remembered what I liked, adding a personal touch that made my visits more enjoyable. It’s those little moments that really help you unwind and remind you how important connections can be, even during busy university years.
By user295511 (UoN) on Apr 30th 2026
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Crowd here has a distinct energy that feels more authentic and lively compared to similar places.
By user100094 (NTU) on Apr 30th 2026
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Popped in for a quick pint and stumbled onto a live music night, which was a total surprise. didn’t expect the band to be this good. ended up staying longer than planned.
By user351406 (UoN) on Apr 20th 2026
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Wasn't expecting it to be so lively, but the energy from the live music was infectious. i thought it would be more chill, but everyone was really up and about. though, finding a comfortable spot to sit when it's packed is a bit of a challenge.
By user444713 (NTU) on Apr 20th 2026
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Queue at raglan road moves quicker than most places i've been, which is a relief when you're not a fan of standing around in the cold. it's definitely a bonus compared to other nights out where i've spent ages just trying to get in 😅. drinks won't have you squirming at the cost either, so that's always appreciated on a student budget.
By user277866 (UoN) on Apr 14th 2026
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Heard about Raglan Road being lively, but the energy totally exceeded expectations. Drinks were decent priced and the music really kept the crowd going, definitely vibey enough that I’ll be back.
By user888158 (NTU) on Apr 13th 2026
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Pub quizzes here have become a staple in my week. it's always relaxed, and i appreciate the reasonable pricing that doesn't stretch my budget.
By user197302 (NTU) on Apr 9th 2026
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Visit raglan road irish bar if you want a lively spot with a welcoming atmosphere. it sits conveniently near Nottingham Trent, so it's a popular hangout for students eager to unwind. you’ll find it’s a fun place to catch up with friends over a drink or two after classes.
By user423856 (NTU) on Apr 6th 2026
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Stepping in on a friday night, Raglan Road buzzes with energy. music's at the right level to chat or dance, and the crowd's always lively.
By user859806 (UoN) on Apr 4th 2026
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Always a lively crowd and the perfect place to unwind with mates, plus the staff makes everyone feel at home.
By user858703 (NTU) on Apr 3rd 2026
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Didn't expect it to be so lively on a weeknight. music was surprisingly good, and it filled up fast with people having a great time.
By user418316 (UoN) on Apr 2nd 2026
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Fridays often find me at raglan road, mainly for its lively atmosphere. though queues can stretch along the pavement, getting in turns the wait into part of the social buzz.
By user195996 (NTU) on Apr 1st 2026
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Stumbled upon a live music session here one weekend, which I didn’t see coming at all. the band was absolutely brilliant and really brought the atmosphere alive, making it a perfect place to chill after classes. it’s definitely a spot i’d recommend if you’re looking for a bit of unexpected fun in Nottingham.
By user292894 (UoN) on Mar 25th 2026
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Crowded nights when a live band plays are the best , everyone’s singing along and you can feel the buzz of excitement 😊. it’s one of those places where even if you come alone, you’ll leave with stories and new friends.
By user961462 (NTU) on Mar 24th 2026
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Warmed up to Raglan Road after a few visits; initially a backup plan, but the lively energy and surprising sense of community made it a staple in my social calendar without even realising it
By user662754 (UoN) on Mar 19th 2026
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Staff are genuinely friendly and you instantly feel at home when you walk through the door. you can always count on a lively atmosphere and plenty of laughs, which is why it’s such a magnet for students from Trent.
By user589881 (NTU) on Mar 15th 2026
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Would go back just for the live music that makes it feel like you're home with old friends. there’s a buzz about the place that you can't really find elsewhere in nottingham. definitely a solid spot to unwind after cramming medical terms in the library for hours.
By user104987 (UoN) on Mar 15th 2026
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Getting a seat here is easier compared to some other popular spots around campus, which is a relief when you're just after a chill hangout. the atmosphere has this infectious energy and the staff make you feel part of the crew, which is a nice touch. felt more like chatting with mates than ordering from staff at times, which makes it a place i'd happily revisit.
By user351071 (NTU) on Mar 4th 2026
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Hearing everyone talk about Raglan Road, i wasn't totally convinced, but after a few outings it really started to feel like part of my routine. there's just something about the atmosphere that makes it feel like the right spot to unwind.
By user507700 (UoN) on Mar 2nd 2026
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Raglan road has this cool mix of lively and laid-back that you don't find everywhere. told a mate they should come next time, the vibe is great and there's usually some interesting event going on.
By user239534 (UoN) on Feb 9th 2026
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Popped in a couple times and honestly, i always leave wanting to come back. there's something about the energy and the music that's just spot on for a fun night out.
By user736146 (NTU) on Feb 6th 2026
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Definitely would head back to raglan road for a night out. it has such an upbeat vibe and there's always something going on which feels perfect when you're up for mingling or just hanging out with mates.
By user151163 (UoN) on Jan 28th 2026
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Popping into raglan road has become a bit of a mid-week tradition. it's the ideal spot for winding down after classes, with a solid crowd and a relaxing vibe.
By user269177 (NTU) on Jan 26th 2026
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What really sets raglan road apart from other bars in nottingham is how lively and genuine the atmosphere feels. even when it's packed, the energy doesn't get overwhelming like in some other spots. you always leave with a sense that you've been part of a proper irish gathering, something you don't get everywhere else.
By user325381 (UoN) on Jan 20th 2026
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Heard it's always lively at raglan road and that's spot on.
By user863607 (NTU) on Jan 17th 2026
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Walked in and was immediately surprised by how roomy it felt despite being packed. managed to get a table without hassle, which was a nice touch in a city where space is often tight.
By user450524 (UoN) on Jan 13th 2026
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Pop by after lectures and you'll find yourself surrounded by that warm buzz that makes you feel instantly at home. the bartenders give off a genuinely welcoming vibe, and it’s one of those places where a quick drink turns into an evening of laughs without much effort.
By user924964 (NTU) on Jan 10th 2026
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Never thought i'd care about live music, but the musicians here really know how to get everyone tapping the table. it's like they're genuinely having fun and it sweeps up the whole room. easy to miss how their energy subtly makes your night better.
By user242900 (UoN) on Jan 4th 2026
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This place stands out from other spots near the uni with how lively it gets, especially later in the evening. the staff are genuinely friendly, making you feel like you’ve been there loads of times even if it’s your first visit.
By user695163 (NTU) on Jan 1st 2026
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Staff always seem in good spirits, which noticeably lifts up the entire place and makes every night out feel fun.
By user488407 (UoN) on Dec 27th 2025
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Seating often feels cramped when the place gets busy, but that's about it really.
By user616806 (NTU) on Dec 22nd 2025
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Noticed so many students there just having a good laugh together. 😊
By user816475 (UoN) on Dec 19th 2025
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Popped over after a late study session and found it buzzing without feeling overwhelming. great vibe for unwinding and having a laugh with mates before heading back to campus.
By user394975 (NTU) on Dec 14th 2025
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Heard so much about this place being lively and it lived up to the hype. honestly thought it might be a bit too rowdy for my taste, but it was actually really inviting and not overwhelming at all.
By user167026 (UoN) on Dec 11th 2025
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Noticed how the staff actually remember regulars’ names and drink preferences, which gives the place a real personable touch. adds to the relaxed vibe where you feel more like a local than just a customer.
By user425220 (NTU) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Often pop into raglan road after classes for a bit of downtime, and it's become this staple in my week. the place is always buzzing with folks just looking to chill, which is great when you just need a break. i've met some solid mates here over pints, and it's just a good spot to unwind without any fuss.
By user394786 (UoN) on Dec 2nd 2025
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Walking into Raglan Road Irish Bar, there's an instant feeling of being welcomed, like you're part of a community even if you don't know anyone. it's got this warm energy that just draws you in, perhaps because you know you'll have a blast surrounded by people who are there to have a good time too. definitely a spot where you can let loose and enjoy yourself without any pretension.
By user159815 (NTU) on Nov 24th 2025
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At raglan road, you just feel welcome as soon as you step in. it’s one of those places where everyone’s just having a genuine good time without pretense, and that’s why i keep going back.
By user741131 (UoN) on Nov 23rd 2025
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Slowly warmed up to Raglan Road , always found myself noticing new things, like the lively vibe or interesting character of the crowd each visit. 📚 honestly, it became a favourite.
By user624745 (UoN) on Nov 11th 2025
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Initially just popped by to see what the fuss was about, but now it feels like a regular haunt where everyone's a bit familiar.
By user697493 (NTU) on Nov 11th 2025
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Made it through the door pretty quick, and trust me, the lively atmosphere and good vibes inside were worth the wait.
By user169609 (UoN) on Oct 29th 2025