The Dairy, Reading – 52 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing
The Dairy β€” student bar photo

The Dairy -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 52 user ratings

University of Reading, London Road Campus, Reading RG1 5AQ, United Kingdom

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Dairy is a popular student cafΓ© located at the University of Reading, situated conveniently on the London Road Campus. This venue has become a go-to spot for students looking to unwind after lectures or enjoy a relaxed night out with friends. With a focus on providing a comfortable atmosphere, The Dairy offers a variety of food and drinks, including coffee, tea, sandwiches, and pastries, making it the perfect place to grab a quick bite or a warm beverage while catching up with classmates. The vibe here is often described as friendly and welcoming, making it easy for students to feel at home.

The atmosphere at The Dairy is one of its standout features. Many students appreciate the laid-back environment that allows them to socialize without the pressures often associated with busier nightlife spots. Reviewers frequently mention the good balance of liveliness and relaxation, making it suitable for both casual hangouts and more spirited evenings. The music played at The Dairy is consistently praised, with students noting that it contributes positively to the overall experience. This combination of a chill vibe and good tunes creates a setting where students can enjoy their time without feeling overwhelmed.

When it comes to drinks and value, The Dairy is highly regarded among students for its affordability. Many reviews highlight the reasonable prices, which make it an attractive option for those on a budget. The venue is noted for having drinks that don’t break the bank, allowing students to enjoy a night out without worrying about their finances. This aspect, combined with the inviting atmosphere, makes The Dairy a reliable choice for students looking to socialize without spending too much.

The crowd at The Dairy is another reason why it’s a popular spot. Students appreciate the diverse mix of people who frequent the venue, which keeps things lively and interesting. Many reviewers mention the friendly nature of the crowd, noting that it’s a place where they can easily connect with others. The venue tends to attract a consistent crowd, creating a familiar environment that many students enjoy returning to. It's also mentioned that the space never feels too packed, allowing for a more enjoyable experience without the stress of overcrowding.

One of the key aspects that sets The Dairy apart from other student venues is its ability to cater to a variety of moods and occasions. Whether students are looking for a relaxed place to study or a lively spot to hang out with friends, The Dairy seems to fit the bill. Many students have noted that it feels like a home away from home, where they can always count on a good atmosphere and familiar faces. This sense of community is a significant draw for many, as it fosters connections among students.

However, while The Dairy has many positive attributes, there are a few downsides to consider. Some students have pointed out that it might not be the most exciting venue in terms of entertainment options, as it primarily serves as a cafΓ© rather than a full-fledged bar or nightclub. This could be a drawback for those seeking a more dynamic nightlife experience. Additionally, while the prices are generally considered reasonable, a few students have mentioned that it’s not the cheapest option available, which might deter some budget-conscious individuals.

In terms of timing, The Dairy tends to get busy during the evenings, particularly on student nights. Many reviews suggest that it’s a popular spot for students to gather after classes, making it a vibrant place to be during these hours. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, visiting during the day might be a better option, as the atmosphere is typically quieter and more conducive to studying or casual conversations.

Overall, The Dairy is best suited for students who appreciate a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where they can enjoy good drinks and food while socializing with peers. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to unwind after a long day of lectures or simply hang out with friends in a comfortable setting. With its strong community feel and dependable vibe, The Dairy is a venue that many students find themselves returning to time and time again.
▼ See more

βœ… What Students Love

  • Friendly and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for socializing.
  • Affordable drinks, making it a great option for students on a budget.
  • Good music that enhances the overall experience.
  • Diverse crowd that keeps the vibe lively and interesting.
  • Relaxed environment suitable for both casual hangouts and studying.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed cafΓ© atmosphere to unwind and socialize with friends.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • The Dairy is located on the London Road Campus of the University of Reading.
  • It offers a variety of food and drink options, including sandwiches and pastries.
  • Expect a friendly and diverse crowd, especially during the evenings.
  • Visiting during the day can provide a quieter atmosphere for studying.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Dairy like?

The Dairy is a laid-back student cafΓ© offering a friendly atmosphere, good music, and affordable drinks.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention that The Dairy offers reasonably priced drinks and food, making it a great choice for budget-conscious individuals.

When do students go to The Dairy?

Students typically visit The Dairy in the evenings after classes, especially on student nights.

What type of crowd can I expect?

The Dairy attracts a diverse and friendly crowd, making it a welcoming place for all students.

Is it a good place to study?

Yes, during the day, The Dairy offers a quieter atmosphere that is suitable for studying or casual conversations.

The Dairy β€” student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 52
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Surprised by how laid-back the atmosphere was, I found it a good spot to unwind without feeling rushed. With the budget-friendly drinks and friendly vibe, I'd definitely consider coming back to recharge after busy days at uni.
By user262410 (Reading) on Aug 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
stopped by for drinks, cool place
By user794802 (Reading) on Aug 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
the pool table made it a fun hangout spot
By user722427 (Reading) on Aug 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
big outdoor patio space
By user922278 (Reading) on Jul 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
grab a seat outside early if it's sunny
By user930689 (Reading) on Jul 22nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Good drinks selection πŸ‘Œ
By user688740 (Reading) on Jul 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great place for lectures' breaks.
By user687407 (Reading) on Jul 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
had a proper nice time on the pool table
By user207437 (Reading) on Jul 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
staff are quite freindly and helpful
By user341656 (Reading) on Jul 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A perfect spot for unwinding with a good drink.
By user414759 (Reading) on Jun 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
had a laugh playing pool with friends last Saturday
By user712438 (Reading) on Jun 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Loved the patio, perfect for chill evenings.
By user424080 (Reading) on Jun 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great for grabbin' cold pints
By user783076 (Reading) on Jun 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
cheap drinks, nice place to chill
By user138127 (Reading) on Jun 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
we got there early, grabbed our fav table outside, ordered some food and enjoyed our night chatting, laughing, very comfortable place
By user818375 (Reading) on May 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
tried global beers, loved it
By user565056 (Reading) on May 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Tasty and warm food 🍻
By user907851 (Reading) on May 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
decent place to have a beer
By user899749 (Reading) on May 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
cheap drinks lets you have a good time πŸ”₯
By user432486 (Reading) on May 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
try the pool table, it’s often free
By user331473 (Reading) on Apr 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
chillin with a pint, top choice
By user833146 (Reading) on Apr 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
spent a lovely afternoon out on the patio with mates
By user491404 (Reading) on Apr 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
drinks are very affordable
By user261174 (Reading) on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Great space to hang with uni friends after class.
By user916524 (Reading) on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
they've got cheap pints and great atmposhere for freinds
By user457850 (Reading) on Mar 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Good food and beers.
By user548067 (Reading) on Mar 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Best part is the global beer selection they offer.
By user755518 (Reading) on Mar 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
definitely worth visiting
By user957792 (Reading) on Mar 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great service by the bar staff πŸ‘Œ
By user686941 (Reading) on Feb 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
food, decent drinks
By user523712 (Reading) on Feb 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A solid spot with a nice outdoor area.
By user630510 (Reading) on Feb 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
cheaper than other spots
By user724476 (Reading) on Jan 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The selection of global beers is impressive and worth trying.
By user420559 (Reading) on Jan 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
grab a global beer when it's slow
By user464991 (Reading) on Jan 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
get drinks first, lines for food can build
By user383743 (Reading) on Jan 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
global beers and chill patio
By user221656 (Reading) on Jan 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
global beers, lively atmposhere
By user602612 (Reading) on Jan 7th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
enjoyed a great beer with friends on the patio
By user317832 (Reading) on Jan 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
nice for a quick outdoor break
By user524968 (Reading) on Dec 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Great patio and pool table
By user104895 (Reading) on Dec 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A really nice place to unwind after lectures.
By user151632 (Reading) on Dec 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
relaxed vibe inside, friendly faces
By user875000 (Reading) on Dec 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Global beers available here
By user739590 (Reading) on Dec 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
loved sitting on the patio on sunny days
By user633176 (Reading) on Dec 6th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
food's not expensive at all πŸ”₯
By user807283 (Reading) on Dec 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Get there early for best seats.
By user471896 (Reading) on Nov 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great outdoor seating area, best on sunny days
By user248372 (Reading) on Nov 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
easy-going atmosphere, great for breaks
By user173010 (Reading) on Nov 18th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A relaxed spot to catch up with uni mates, love it.
By user988428 (Reading) on Nov 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Cheap and good drinks 🍻
By user822330 (Reading) on Nov 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
great outdoor space! 🍻
By user618684 (Reading) on Oct 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
By user557255 (Reading) on Apr 3rd 2025