Cleaver and Wake, Nottingham – 26 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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Cleaver and Wake -
Cleaver and Wake -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 26 user ratings
1 The Great Northern Close, Nottingham NG2 3JL
💬 What Students Say
Cleaver and Wake is an energetic bar located near Nottingham Trent University, making it a popular choice for students looking for a fun night out. Known for its welcoming vibe, this venue stands out as a place where you can unwind with friends after a long week or kick off a night of festivities. The atmosphere is frequently described as buzzing, with a diverse crowd that adds to the lively experience. Many students appreciate the inclusive nature of the bar, where everyone seems to be there for a good time, fostering a sense of community among patrons.
The venue has garnered positive feedback for its drink offerings, which are noted to be affordable, making it an attractive option for students on a budget. Reviewers often mention the decent quality of drinks, which allows for an enjoyable evening without breaking the bank. The pricing combined with the vibrant atmosphere creates a perfect blend for students looking to enjoy a night out without the hefty price tag often associated with nightlife.
Students frequently highlight the music as a key feature of Cleaver and Wake. The bar is known for having good tunes that keep the energy high, making it a place where you can easily spend several hours enjoying the ambiance. The music selection contributes to the overall experience, and many patrons find themselves moving and grooving throughout the night. This lively music scene makes it a great spot for those who enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere.
With a varied crowd that includes both students and locals, Cleaver and Wake has a dynamic feel that keeps things interesting. Many reviews indicate that the bar can become quite packed, especially during peak times, which some students appreciate for the bustling energy it brings. However, others note that the crowded nature can sometimes lead to a slightly squished experience, so it’s worth considering timing your visit to avoid the busiest hours if you prefer a more relaxed setting.
The bar is particularly popular among students looking for a place to start their night out before heading elsewhere. Many reviews suggest that it sets the mood for the evening, making it a convenient stop for those planning a longer night of socializing. The overall vibe is described as fun and easygoing, which is ideal for students looking to have a good time without any stress.
While Cleaver and Wake has many positives, it’s important to be aware of a few downsides. Some students have mentioned that the venue can get quite crowded, which might not be ideal for everyone. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, it may be best to visit during off-peak hours. Additionally, while the service is generally described as solid, there may be times when the staff is stretched thin due to the volume of patrons. This can lead to longer wait times for drinks, especially when the bar is busy.
In summary, Cleaver and Wake is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a lively, affordable bar experience. With its fun atmosphere, good music, and reasonable drink prices, it caters well to the student crowd. It’s a place where you can enjoy a night out with friends, whether you’re just starting your evening or winding down after a long week. Just keep in mind the potential for crowds and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience here.
Overall, Cleaver and Wake stands out as a preferred spot for students seeking an enjoyable and budget-friendly night out. Its vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a welcoming crowd, makes it a go-to venue in Nottingham’s nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends or meet new people, this bar offers a great environment to do just that.
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The venue has garnered positive feedback for its drink offerings, which are noted to be affordable, making it an attractive option for students on a budget. Reviewers often mention the decent quality of drinks, which allows for an enjoyable evening without breaking the bank. The pricing combined with the vibrant atmosphere creates a perfect blend for students looking to enjoy a night out without the hefty price tag often associated with nightlife.
Students frequently highlight the music as a key feature of Cleaver and Wake. The bar is known for having good tunes that keep the energy high, making it a place where you can easily spend several hours enjoying the ambiance. The music selection contributes to the overall experience, and many patrons find themselves moving and grooving throughout the night. This lively music scene makes it a great spot for those who enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere.
With a varied crowd that includes both students and locals, Cleaver and Wake has a dynamic feel that keeps things interesting. Many reviews indicate that the bar can become quite packed, especially during peak times, which some students appreciate for the bustling energy it brings. However, others note that the crowded nature can sometimes lead to a slightly squished experience, so it’s worth considering timing your visit to avoid the busiest hours if you prefer a more relaxed setting.
The bar is particularly popular among students looking for a place to start their night out before heading elsewhere. Many reviews suggest that it sets the mood for the evening, making it a convenient stop for those planning a longer night of socializing. The overall vibe is described as fun and easygoing, which is ideal for students looking to have a good time without any stress.
While Cleaver and Wake has many positives, it’s important to be aware of a few downsides. Some students have mentioned that the venue can get quite crowded, which might not be ideal for everyone. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, it may be best to visit during off-peak hours. Additionally, while the service is generally described as solid, there may be times when the staff is stretched thin due to the volume of patrons. This can lead to longer wait times for drinks, especially when the bar is busy.
In summary, Cleaver and Wake is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a lively, affordable bar experience. With its fun atmosphere, good music, and reasonable drink prices, it caters well to the student crowd. It’s a place where you can enjoy a night out with friends, whether you’re just starting your evening or winding down after a long week. Just keep in mind the potential for crowds and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience here.
Overall, Cleaver and Wake stands out as a preferred spot for students seeking an enjoyable and budget-friendly night out. Its vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a welcoming crowd, makes it a go-to venue in Nottingham’s nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends or meet new people, this bar offers a great environment to do just that.
✅ What Students Love
- Lively atmosphere that's perfect for socializing.
- Affordable drink prices, ideal for students on a budget.
- Great music that enhances the overall experience.
- Inclusive crowd that creates a fun and welcoming environment.
- Solid service, even during busy times.
- Perfect for starting a night out before heading elsewhere.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Can get quite crowded, leading to a squished experience.
- Longer wait times for drinks during peak hours.
- Not ideal for those seeking a quiet night out.
- Occasional variability in service quality during busy times.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a fun, affordable place to enjoy a night out with friends.
💡 Things to Know
- Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
- Check the music schedule for special events or themed nights.
- Arrive early if you want to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
- Consider this venue as a starting point for your night out in Nottingham.
❓ Common Questions
What is Cleaver and Wake like?
Cleaver and Wake is a lively bar known for its affordable drinks and buzzing atmosphere, perfect for students looking to socialize.
Is it good value?
Yes, students often mention the affordable drink prices, making it a great value for a night out.
When do students go to Cleaver and Wake?
Students typically visit in the evenings, especially on weekends, when the atmosphere is most vibrant.
What type of crowd can I expect?
The crowd is varied, including both students and locals, creating an inclusive and fun environment.
Is it a good place for a quiet night out?
Not really; it can get crowded and lively, making it more suited for those looking for a fun atmosphere.
Reviews
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Walking into this place, the staff made me feel like I belonged even though I was new to the area. they moved quickly to serve everyone, keeping the energy alive without making you feel rushed. interacting with them added a personal touch to the experience, turning a simple night out into something memorable.
By user779453 on Apr 20th 2026
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Other bars around here can be a bit too loud or crowded, but this place keeps a nice balance. it's busy enough to feel lively without being overwhelming 😅 plus, everyone's just chill and friendly, which makes you feel welcome right away.
By user887161 on Apr 5th 2026
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Sat in the low light, you’re surrounded by laughter and the clink of glasses, giving you that warm sense of belonging. everyone seems lost in their stories, like we’re all just characters in the best kind of chaos. it’s the perfect backdrop to those unforgettable moments that make you want to come back again.
By user976225 on Mar 25th 2026
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Noticed straight away how this place is always buzzing with students, everyone seems up for a laugh. it's like the whole bar's ready for whatever antics the night might bring. feels a bit like being on campus, except everyone's got a drink in hand and some stories to share.
By user939026 on Mar 18th 2026
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Expected your usual student bar chaos, but Cleaver and Wake was surprisingly chill yet lively. the balance between fun and laid-back was just right, even for someone who prefers quieter vibes during the week. props for being somewhere i can actually enjoy the night without feeling overwhelmed.
By user602814 on Mar 15th 2026
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Staff seem to remember faces here and it adds a personal touch to the night. even when it's busy, there's a feeling that everyone’s welcome and like you’re part of a familiar scene.
By user596767 on Feb 26th 2026
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Finding a seat here takes more effort than other spots but it’s worth it for the lively energy 😊.
By user580873 on Feb 12th 2026
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Music's always spot on, and at peak hours, the energy makes the whole place come alive. it's just what you need to shake off the week.
By user348304 on Jan 30th 2026
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You said cleaver and wake feels like a party every time we go.
By user683456 on Jan 20th 2026
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Caught a live band here once with my mate and the energy was contagious. it was one of those nights where everyone seemed to know each other, chatting and just having a laugh together.
By user242177 on Jan 13th 2026
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Cleaver and wake is buzzing with energy and a welcoming vibe, perfect for letting loose with your mates 😊. with its friendly staff and lively crowd, it feels more personal and less like those generic bars everywhere else. if you want a night out that's guaranteed to be fun, it's worth checking out.
By user532721 on Jan 4th 2026
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Staff seemed genuinely chill which made things laid-back from the start. crowd's always lively, so you're in for a good time just being there.
By user942078 on Dec 27th 2025
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Always found it lively, which is perfect when you're just getting to know new people. it's one of those places where even if you start the evening feeling a bit awkward, you end up laughing with someone new by the end of the night. somehow, it made navigating the whole university social scene feel easier.
By user237127 on Dec 18th 2025
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Cleaver and wake has some of the friendliest staff i have ever experienced in nottingham, which makes grabbing a drink here feel like a mini celebration 😊.
By user337103 on Dec 8th 2025
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Seating can get a bit cramped, especially when everyone's clamoring for a spot.
By user887302 on Nov 28th 2025
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Usually swing by Cleaver and Wake midweek for a breather from uni stress, it's like a pitstop before tackling assignments again 😅 nothing too flashy, just solid vibes and good company
By user880228 on Nov 17th 2025
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People were buzzing, and the whole place felt like one big cheer squad for the weekend 🎉. yup, it's definitely somewhere you find yourself letting loose without even realising it.
By user790238 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Found myself vibing with the crowd easily thanks to the lively music and warm atmosphere at cleaver and wake.
By user118231 on Oct 28th 2025
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Noticed the bartenders here really know how to read the crowd and keep the energy up 🎶.
By user464730 on Oct 24th 2025
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Bumped into some of the staff while they were off-duty and you could tell they genuinely love the place , makes you feel like you're part of their little community whenever you stop by for a drink
By user188557 on Oct 21st 2025
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Definitely planning on going back to cleaver and wake, especially when the lectures pile up. the vibe there is just right for forgetting about all the intensity of medicine studies for a bit. it's such a lively place to catch up with friends and just let loose without having to worry too much.
By user940039 on Oct 17th 2025
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Told my mate it's the spot if you want a lively night without being broke by the end 😅
By user255308 on Oct 14th 2025
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Felt like everyone there was buzzing with energy, which instantly made us feel like part of the crowd as soon as we walked in. super easy to relax and chat, plus you’re right near NTU so running into mates is almost guaranteed 🙌
By user804226 on Oct 11th 2025
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It's all about the friendly staff here, they really know how to keep the atmosphere lively without being over the top. felt like they were genuinely happy to be there, which just made everything flow so nicely. i left feeling relaxed and ready for whatever was next in the night without a single hitch.
By user752270 on Oct 6th 2025
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Staff here are super chill, which is exactly what you want when you just want to relax. they're quick to help if you actually need anything, always keeping things flowing without hovering. makes a night out feel easy.
By user232701 on Sep 30th 2025
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Mate, you know how student pubs can be a bit hit or miss, but cleaver and wake was solid. someone mentioned it had a killer atmosphere and after going, I’d agree there's definitely a lively energy about the place.
By user855788 on Sep 25th 2025
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Didn't expect it to be so packed with students right from the start. felt like the entire year decided to gather there, but that just added to the lively atmosphere and made the evening more fun than anticipated.
By user850295 on Sep 18th 2025
Review published! ✓