The Bootlegger, Reading – 8 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 8 user ratings

The Bootlegger Richmond, 5 Hill St, London, Richmond, TW9 1SX

💬 What Students Say

The Bootlegger is a vibrant bar located in Richmond, London, and is a popular choice for students from the University of Reading and beyond. This venue combines vintage charm with a modern flair, providing a welcoming atmosphere that is ideal for socializing and enjoying a lively night out. With its eclectic decor and comfortable seating areas, The Bootlegger invites patrons to relax and unwind after a long week of studies or simply to enjoy a fun evening with friends. The ambiance is dynamic and energetic, making it a perfect spot for students who appreciate an engaging nightlife experience.

Students frequently mention the good music and lively vibe at The Bootlegger, which contribute to its popularity. The venue is known for its friendly staff and welcoming crowd, creating a sense of community among its patrons. The evenings at The Bootlegger are filled with laughter and conversation, making it an excellent place for students to connect and enjoy their time together. The music selection is tailored to keep the energy high, and while specific genres are not detailed, students can expect a diverse mix that caters to various tastes. This makes it a versatile choice for those looking to enjoy a night out.

One of the standout features of The Bootlegger is its affordability. Reviews highlight that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it a great option for students on a budget. This aspect is particularly important for university students who often seek out venues that won't break the bank. The value for money is consistently praised, with many students remarking on the reasonable drink prices that allow them to enjoy their night without worrying too much about their wallets. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes The Bootlegger a go-to destination for students looking for a good time.

The student crowd at The Bootlegger is typically lively and energetic, with many students visiting during the week for a mid-week break or on weekends to celebrate the end of the week. The venue tends to get busy, especially on popular nights, but students have noted that the queues are usually manageable, which is a significant plus. This means that patrons can get in quickly and start enjoying their evening without long waits. The friendly atmosphere and the mix of patrons also contribute to a fun and engaging experience, as students can mingle and socialize with each other.

What truly makes The Bootlegger stand out is its unique aesthetic and the themed nights that it hosts. The vintage speakeasy decor adds an interesting touch, making it visually appealing and a great backdrop for a night out. While specific details on upcoming events are not provided, students often seek out venues like The Bootlegger for its vibrant nightlife offerings. Themed nights and special events are a common feature, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting happening at the venue. This element of surprise and variety keeps students coming back for more.

However, it's important to mention some downsides. While many reviews are positive, a few students have noted that The Bootlegger may not be the most thrilling venue compared to others in the area. Some have mentioned that while the atmosphere is good, it might not reach the heights of excitement found at other nightlife spots. Additionally, although the queues are generally manageable, there can be longer waits on particularly busy nights, which could be a drawback for those eager to get in quickly. The toilets, while usually clean, may not meet everyone's expectations, so it's worth keeping that in mind when planning a visit.

Overall, The Bootlegger is an excellent choice for students looking for a lively bar experience in Richmond. Its combination of good music, reasonable drink prices, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a solid spot for socializing and enjoying a night out. Whether you're looking to unwind after classes or celebrate with friends, this venue provides a fun and engaging environment that caters to the student crowd. With its unique decor and vibrant vibe, The Bootlegger is sure to be a memorable part of your university experience.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and unwinding after classes.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Friendly staff and welcoming crowd contribute to a sense of community.
  • Good music selection that keeps the energy high throughout the night.
  • Eclectic decor and comfortable seating create a unique and inviting environment.
  • Regular themed nights and events keep the experience fresh and exciting.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun and affordable night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • The venue tends to get busy, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.
  • Check out themed nights for a unique experience.
  • Expect a friendly crowd that enhances the social atmosphere.
  • Be prepared for possible queues during peak times, but they are generally manageable.
  • The eclectic decor adds to the overall experience, so take some time to enjoy the ambiance.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger is a lively bar with a vintage speakeasy decor, known for its good music and vibrant atmosphere.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention that the drink prices are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option.

When do students go to The Bootlegger?

Students often visit during the week for mid-week breaks or on weekends to celebrate the end of the week.

What kind of events does The Bootlegger host?

The venue regularly hosts themed nights and events that resonate with the student crowd.

Is there a smoking area at The Bootlegger?

Yes, there is a smoking area, which has received positive feedback from patrons.

Reviews
1 of 8
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sometimes it's all about finding a spot where the energy aligns, and the bootlegger totally nailed it, although my ears are still ringing from the absurdly loud music.
By user767806 on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed a mix of students and locals grooving together, which made the night 🎶.
By user941015 on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Queues can be a bit of a pain on weekends, but it's worth it. music always gets us dancing, and drinks are decently priced.
By user265992 on Apr 13th 2026
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Music
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Smoking
Usually busy on weekends, which fits with my schedule perfectly. after a week of nursing placements, it's nice to unwind here. not too pricey, thankfully, so i don't feel guilty when i pop in for a pint or two.
By user733363 on Apr 9th 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
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Smoking
Got dragged here by my flatmate and didn't expect much, but ended up pleasantly surprised. the vibe was super welcoming, and even though it's packed, it felt like everyone was in good spirits. told my mate about it and now he can't wait to check it out next weekend.
By user936812 on Apr 5th 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music here was better than most other places i've been, and the crowd was definitely a lively bunch. while it's not a standout in terms of drink options, the friendly staff and buzzing energy make up for it in a big way.
By user691666 on Apr 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music was too loud for conversations, making it hard to chat.
By user974931 on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bartenders here know how to keep things lively with a good mix of music and chat. makes the night feel like a proper escape.
By user563986 on Mar 30th 2026