The Victoria, London – 46 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2F55935853%40N00%2F38111508911&psig=AOvVaw3CLNzPbEwo25L0bNUei0pk&ust=1711541870767000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqFwoTCIDdp7j0kYUDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

The Victoria -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 46 user ratings

42 Grove Rd, London E3 5TW

💬 What Students Say

The Victoria, located at 42 Grove Rd, London, is a traditional pub that has become a favourite among students at Queen Mary University London. Known for its friendly welcome and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a great place for students to unwind after a long week. With an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5, it stands out for its cleanliness, music, and queue management. The venue is particularly popular for its good selection of beers, wines, and spirits, making it an ideal spot for a casual drink or a lively night out.

The atmosphere at The Victoria is often described as buzzing yet relaxed, creating an inviting environment for a diverse crowd. Reviews frequently highlight the chill vibe, making it a great place for students to hang out with friends or even meet new people. Many students appreciate that the venue is not overly crowded, allowing for easy conversations without the overwhelming noise that can come with busier bars. This balance of energy and laid-back moments makes it suitable for various moods, whether you're looking to dance or just enjoy a drink while chatting with friends.

Music plays a significant role in the overall experience at The Victoria. The venue is known for its solid sound system and a consistent music genre that keeps the energy flowing throughout the night. Students often mention the great tunes that encourage dancing, making it a fun spot to let loose after classes. The music selection is well-received, with students noting that it stays consistent, ensuring that they know what to expect. This reliability in music adds to the overall enjoyable experience, as patrons can dance the night away without any sudden jarring changes in the playlist.

When it comes to drinks, The Victoria is praised for its reasonable prices, which is a significant plus for students on a budget. Reviews indicate that the drinks are solid, and the value for money is commendable, making it a popular choice for students looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The pub’s selection of beers, wines, and spirits caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. This aspect, combined with the friendly service, enhances the overall experience, as students feel they are getting good value for their money.

Students also appreciate the queue and entry experience at The Victoria. The venue receives high marks for its queue management, with many reviews noting that entry is quick and hassle-free. This is particularly appealing for students looking for a last-minute night out, as they can easily get in without long waits. The efficient service is complemented by friendly staff who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. This combination of quick entry and attentive service makes The Victoria a go-to spot for students who want to enjoy their nights without unnecessary stress.

While The Victoria has many strengths, it’s essential to consider some caveats. Some students mention that the crowd can vary from night to night, with occasional mixes that might not suit everyone’s taste. This variability means that while some nights are filled with friendly faces and a great atmosphere, others might feel a bit off depending on the crowd. Additionally, while the venue is generally well-reviewed, it’s not without its flaws. A few students noted that it’s not perfect but still a solid choice for a night out.

In terms of who this venue suits best, it’s ideal for students looking for a relaxed night out with good music and a friendly crowd. Whether you’re unwinding after a long week or gearing up for a fun night with friends, The Victoria provides a welcoming space. Its laid-back vibe is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more casual setting over the typical club scene.

If you’re considering a visit to The Victoria, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience. First, check the venue’s official website or authorized ticket vendors for any events or special nights that might be happening. Arriving early can help you avoid long queues, especially on busier nights. The atmosphere is typically more relaxed earlier in the evening, making it a great time to grab a drink and settle in. When it comes to music, expect a consistent genre that keeps the energy up, so you can dance if you feel like it. Lastly, since it’s a pub, the dress code is likely casual, but it’s always good to check if any specific events require a different attire.

In conclusion, The Victoria offers a welcoming, friendly atmosphere that is perfect for students looking to enjoy a fun night out in London. With its good selection of drinks, lively music, and efficient service, it has become a popular choice among students from Queen Mary University. While it’s not without its occasional crowd variability, the overall experience is one that many students cherish. So whether you’re looking to unwind after classes or kick off your weekend, The Victoria is a venue worth checking out.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Chill and friendly atmosphere, perfect for students.
  • Quick entry and efficient queue management.
  • Good selection of reasonably priced drinks.
  • Consistent and enjoyable music that encourages dancing.
  • Diverse crowd that creates a welcoming environment.
  • Friendly and attentive staff enhancing the overall experience.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Crowd can vary, leading to mixed experiences on different nights.
  • Not perfect but still a solid choice for a night out.
  • Occasional mix of people that might not suit everyone.
  • Can get busy on popular nights, though entry is generally quick.
  • Some reviews suggest it may not be the ideal spot for those seeking a high-energy club atmosphere.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed night out with good music and a friendly crowd.

💡 Things to Know

  • Check the venue's website for events and special nights.
  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on busy nights.
  • Expect a casual dress code, but check for specific event requirements.
  • The music genre stays consistent, so you can dance the night away.
  • Drinks are reasonably priced, making it budget-friendly for students.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Victoria like?

The Victoria is a chill pub with a friendly atmosphere, great for students looking to unwind and enjoy good music.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally quick, with efficient entry management, making it easy to get in without long waits.

Is it good value?

Yes, The Victoria is highly rated for its reasonable drink prices and overall value, making it a popular choice for students.

What music does The Victoria play?

The music is consistent throughout the night, with a genre that encourages dancing and keeps the energy up.

What type of crowd can I expect?

The crowd is diverse and generally friendly, creating a welcoming environment for all students.

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2F55935853%40N00%2F38111508911&psig=AOvVaw3CLNzPbEwo25L0bNUei0pk&ust=1711541870767000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqFwoTCIDdp7j0kYUDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

Reviews
1 of 47
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into The Victoria, you can sense a real community spirit among the crowd; people seem to genuinely care about connecting. even as a first-year, striking up conversations felt natural, and that warm vibe made it easier to feel at home in this new city.
By user926130 on May 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Being right in the thick of the city really adds to the atmosphere , you can feel the pulse of everything around you, especially late at night when everything comes alive. it makes the whole experience that much better.
By user190809 on Apr 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the victoria always felt like slipping into a well-worn hoodie , instantly comforting and just the right amount of familiar 😊. you could almost feel the week's stress melting away as soon as you step inside.
By user493692 on Apr 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the seating arrangement seems to encourage random chats with strangers, which is oddly comforting. it's as if you're bound to accidentally make a new friend while nursing a drink or waiting for your mates to show up. 🍻 atmosphere's easygoing, making it a lovely place to just chill and soak it all in with good company or even alone.
By user694921 on Apr 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bartenders here seem to genuinely care about having a chat with you.
By user970812 on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed that the crowd at The Victoria was a mix of students and locals, which made for interesting conversations. everyone seemed pretty relaxed, sharing laughs and swapping stories over pints. you could tell people appreciate the easygoing vibe, making it a popular spot for unwinding without the fuss.
By user905273 on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music here hits that sweet spot where you can chat without shouting, which is a rare find for a pub. tables fill up pretty quick, but the staff never seem stressed and manage to keep things flowing smoothly. the crowd's always laid-back, so it's perfect if you're not in the mood for anything too hectic.
By user918358 on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Had better luck here than other pubs around campus. drinks didn't cost an arm and a leg and there was room to actually sit with mates instead of fighting for a table. music was decent, which is rare to find since most places blast it too loud for talking.
By user221485 on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Remember sitting under the warm pub lights with my mates, laughing about some silly history lecture. the atmosphere was just right, not too loud but lively enough. drinks flowed and the bartender even threw in a cheeky joke or two when we ordered.
By user635951 on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff really make it feel like you're visiting a mate's place rather than a pub. there's always a cheerful conversation going on and they seem properly invested in making sure everyone has a good night.
By user103962 on Mar 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed that the bartenders here always remember your face after just one or two visits, which makes you feel more at home each time. it’s the sort of familiar vibe that draws you back again. doesn't hurt that they’re always up for a chat about random stuff too.
By user434281 on Mar 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Thought it'd just be another average local pub, but it surprised me in a chill way. atmosphere was genuinely relaxed, and the people were amiable without being overbearing. didn't expect much at first, but ended up being a cool spot to hang out and just let things flow naturally.
By user881165 on Mar 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wish the music wasn't quite so loud, it can be tricky to have a proper chat without shouting. it sort of detracts from the otherwise chill vibe of the place, especially when you're just trying to unwind and catch up over a pint.
By user686277 on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Felt instantly at home with how welcoming everyone was at the victoria.
By user955982 on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Strolling into the victoria for the first time, the cozy buzz made me feel right at home in this massive city.
By user168280 on Feb 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hung out there after a stressful exam and it was just what i needed. the staff were warm and chatting with other students made the place feel like a second home.
By user235673 on Feb 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely planning to head back to The Victoria since it's a chill spot where you can actually hear what your friends are saying over the table. the relaxed vibe and friendly faces make it easy to just settle in for a bit of downtime 🍕
By user729570 on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bit loud when you're trying to chat, especially on weekends, which can get a bit annoying. people are nice and all, but sometimes a quieter place would be nice for just catching up properly.
By user645027 on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled upon some incredible live music the other night and it completely changed my perception of this place. i came in just for a casual drink, but ended up staying way longer than expected because the performance was just so captivating.
By user913571 on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Going back to the victoria is a no-brainer because the staff make you feel at home the moment you walk in. it's rare to find a pub with such a genuinely relaxed vibe, especially one bustling with students. it’s just the kind of spot i’d choose for decompressing after tackling code for hours.
By user774158 on Jan 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are genuinely the best part , they're always up for a chat and know how to make you feel at home 😅. it's got a nice balance between feeling lively and being able to actually hear your mates without shouting over blaring music. definitely a spot where i’ve spent a few long evenings just hanging out.
By user187257 on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People seem to really enjoy themselves here without getting rowdy, which is rare for a pub near a uni. it's got that relaxed buzz that's perfect for starting off the night.
By user340028 on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Catch it on a friday night when everyone's relaxing; the chatter fills the room and it feels like you're part of something bigger. it's easy to lose track of time in that kind of company, especially with such a welcoming vibe.
By user446330 on Jan 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the victoria felt like finding an unexpected pocket of calm in the midst of london's usual chaos. the friendly faces and warm vibe instantly made me feel at home, like i could kick back and relax with mates, which is no small feat 😅
By user161403 on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
You'll feel at home the moment you walk in as if it's where you were always meant to be. perfect spot to relax and chat over pints that don't cost a fortune.
By user575665 on Dec 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always appreciated the way the staff made us feel welcome here, especially as it was a new spot for us 😅.
By user107191 on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grab a seat at the bar because it’s the best spot in the house to chat with whoever's around. the staff always treat you like an old mate even if it’s your first time in, setting the perfect tone for a chilled afternoon.
By user123912 on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wander into the victoria and you'll find it feels like chatting with an old mate. students from queen mary mix with locals, creating a relaxed vibe where you can unwind without any fuss 😅
By user922034 on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Takes a bit to settle into the vibe here but once you do, it's a really nice spot to hang out with uni mates 😅
By user194647 on Dec 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into The Victoria always feels like entering a friend's cozy living room where you can just sit back and chat without any fuss.
By user894349 on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepping inside felt like a warm hug. the buzz of conversations and clinking glasses immediately put me at ease and made me forget about the stressful week of classes.
By user861849 on Dec 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Scattered with other uni students, their laughter and banter filled the space, which made it feel like our own little community hangout.
By user604899 on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff seemed genuinely interested in whether we were having a good time, which made a big difference. not everywhere feels this welcoming when you just want to chill with your mates without any fuss.
By user390117 on Nov 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Honestly, i thought the pub would be a bit stuffy, but it turned out to be the opposite. it's got that perfect mix of relaxed and lively, not too loud but definitely not dull either. ended up staying much longer than planned, just chatting and soaking up the good vibes.
By user825420 on Nov 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Victoria's got that classic pub feel, perfect to escape from studying with a laid-back crowd. makes you feel welcome the second you walk in, a bit like catching up with an old friend.
By user958521 on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heading to The Victoria on a thursday has become a bit of a weekly ritual. it's got that chilled-out vibe i need after endless hours in the library, and it never fails to be the perfect place to have a laugh with mates.
By user200029 on Nov 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Tucked away in london, the victoria's unique charm lies in its blend of old school decor and an effortlessly vibrant crowd.
By user622188 on Oct 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Gets super crowded on weekends, and it can be a bit tricky to find a spot to sit. i usually end up hovering around with my drink, trying to avoid bumping into people. it'd be awesome if they could expand a bit or maybe add some more outdoor seating when it gets busy.
By user672462 on Oct 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely would return for the chill vibe; caters perfectly to unwinding with friends. plus, the staff's welcoming nature makes it feel like a second home.
By user794464 on Oct 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Busy day or not, staff always seem like they've got a good energy, making everything feel relaxed and fun.
By user509069 on Oct 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled into the victoria on a dreary tuesday, and honestly didn't expect much, but it turned out to be a proper escape from uni stress. the atmosphere was surprisingly warm and the chatty staff made it feel like home.
By user215042 on Oct 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
People here are just as laid-back as the atmosphere, which makes it easier to relax.
By user398039 on Oct 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wasn't expecting too much, but it turned out to be surprisingly nice and far better than anticipated. chilled vibe and genuinely a good time without all the usual crowded chaos.
By user339562 on Oct 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff really know how to make you feel welcome here. nothing feels forced and they're happy to chat if things aren’t too busy.
By user827221 on Sep 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Catching a lively quiz night here is a treat, especially when the crowd's buzzing and everyone's mixing. it’s the perfect blend of energy without feeling packed, making it a staple hangout for us.
By user560270 on Sep 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expect a chill vibe when you walk into the Victoria. people are relaxed, and it genuinely feels like a place where everyone unwinds. great escape from the rush of university life without any pretentiousness.
By user490249 on Sep 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely planning a return visit because it feels easygoing and you never feel rushed to leave 😅. perfect for just hanging out without any pretentiousness, and the staff really know how to put everyone at ease.
By user516851 on Sep 11th 2025