The turks head, Reading – 56 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The turks head — student bar photo

The turks head -

Cleanliness
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Smoking

Based on 56 user ratings

1 Green Bank, London E1W 2PA, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Turks Head, also known as La Tête De Turc, is a charming bistro located near the University of Reading. This venue offers a unique blend of French and English cuisine, making it a delightful spot for students looking to unwind after a long day of classes. The bistro's eclectic menu and inviting covered patio create a welcoming environment that students often rave about. While it serves food, many students flock here primarily for its vibrant atmosphere and reasonably priced drinks, making it a popular choice for a laid-back night out.

The atmosphere at The Turks Head is one of its standout features. Students frequently mention the chill vibe, making it an ideal spot to relax with friends. The music is described as decent, complementing the overall ambiance without overpowering conversations. This balance allows for a social experience where students can enjoy each other's company while sipping on affordable drinks. The venue's crowd is often noted to be friendly and easygoing, contributing to the welcoming environment that many students appreciate.

One of the key attractions of The Turks Head is its value for money. Students often highlight the reasonably priced drinks, which make it a great option for those on a budget. The affordability of drinks, combined with the enjoyable atmosphere, means that students can have a fun night out without breaking the bank. Many reviews point out that the venue does not have long queues, which is a significant plus for those eager to get in and start their evening. The quick service also enhances the overall experience, allowing students to spend more time enjoying their night rather than waiting around.

When it comes to the student crowd, The Turks Head tends to attract a mix of individuals looking for a relaxed night out. Many students visit after classes or during the weekends, making it a reliable spot for socializing. The venue tends to get busy during peak hours, particularly on weekends, but the atmosphere remains laid-back rather than chaotic. This makes it a great choice for both first-year students wanting to explore the nightlife and seasoned students looking for a familiar hangout spot.

What makes The Turks Head stand out is its consistency. Many reviews reflect a sense of reliability; students know they can count on a good time whenever they visit. The venue often has something going on, ensuring that each night feels a bit special, whether it’s a themed night or simply a gathering of friends. This consistency in atmosphere and enjoyment is a significant draw for students who want a dependable place to unwind.

However, like any venue, The Turks Head does have its downsides. Some students mention that while the atmosphere is generally great, it can feel a bit standard and not overly unique compared to other nightlife options. Additionally, while the drinks are affordable, a few reviews suggest that they are not the cheapest option available. For those seeking a more upscale experience, this bistro might not fully meet those expectations. Furthermore, while the vibe is generally relaxed, it may not be the best choice for students looking for a more energetic or lively night out.

In summary, The Turks Head is best suited for students who appreciate a chill and friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxed evening with good music and reasonably priced drinks. Whether you’re kicking off a night out or simply looking to catch up with friends, this bistro offers a comfortable and inviting space to do just that. It’s a reliable choice that many students return to time and again, making it a staple in the local student nightlife scene.

For practical tips, students should know that The Turks Head is open daily, making it accessible for both weekday and weekend outings. The covered patio is a lovely feature, especially during warmer months, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors. It’s also advisable to arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as it can get busy during peak hours. Lastly, while the atmosphere is great for conversation, students should be mindful that it can still get lively, so those seeking a quieter experience may want to visit during off-peak times.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Chill atmosphere perfect for socializing with friends.
  • Reasonably priced drinks that appeal to budget-conscious students.
  • Quick service with minimal wait times at the door.
  • Friendly and easygoing crowd creates a welcoming environment.
  • Consistent vibe that students can rely on for a good time.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed and friendly venue to enjoy affordable drinks and good company.

💡 Things to Know

  • The Turks Head is open daily, making it a convenient spot for any night out.
  • The covered patio is a great place to hang out, especially in nice weather.
  • Arriving early on weekends is recommended to secure a good spot.
  • The venue has a reliable atmosphere, perfect for casual gatherings.
  • Expect a friendly crowd, making it easy to meet new people.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Turks Head like?

The Turks Head is a bistro-style venue with a relaxed atmosphere, popular among students for its affordable drinks and friendly vibe.

Is it good value?

Yes, students appreciate the reasonably priced drinks and the overall value for money.

When do students go to The Turks Head?

Students often visit after classes or during weekends, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

What type of crowd can I expect?

The crowd is typically friendly and laid-back, making it a great place for socializing.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Yes, The Turks Head features a covered patio that is popular during warmer months.

The turks head — student bar photo
Reviews
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The energy here takes you by surprise with its laid-back vibe, creating a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.
By user925074 (Reading) on Aug 6th 2026
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Friendly staff and welcoming vibes, feels like a community. 😊
By user593874 (Reading) on Jul 30th 2026
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Everyone's super chill, great atmosphere.
By user510724 (Reading) on Jul 25th 2026
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Decent prices, lively crowd without being overwhelming. Good budget night out.
By user218571 (Reading) on Jul 20th 2026
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Love the mix of French and English dishes and the buzzing student vibe.
By user678685 (Reading) on Jul 15th 2026
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Dim lights and vibrant art create a chatty, communal vibe.
By user928227 (Reading) on Jul 10th 2026
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Perfect balance of lively and relaxed, can finally chat properly. 😊
By user722848 (Reading) on Jul 5th 2026
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Lighting's perfect for chats. Seating's smartly arranged. Great atmosphere.
By user125457 (Reading) on Jun 29th 2026
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Surprisingly chill for London, perfect for a catch-up. 😊
By user709593 (Reading) on Jun 24th 2026
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Chilled crowd, cool chats over some decent food.
By user165848 (Reading) on Jun 19th 2026
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Crowds can get overwhelming here, especially on weekends, but that energy can be really fun.
By user627288 (Reading) on Jun 14th 2026
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Ideal for catching up over drinks. No loud music, just good chats.
By user143674 (Reading) on Jun 9th 2026
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Buzzing with life, everyone's just vibing together.
By user841450 (Reading) on Jun 4th 2026
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Staff are lively and welcoming. Feels like a proper community. 🎉
By user612482 (Reading) on May 27th 2026
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Music's perfect—just the right volume for chatting. Great with mates.
By user354106 (Reading) on May 21st 2026
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Great for a casual night out with friends and good food. 😊
By user632956 (Reading) on May 13th 2026
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Always a fun vibe here, never gets old!
By user482079 (Reading) on May 7th 2026
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Staff make everyone feel like part of the scene. Refreshing!
By user859554 (Reading) on May 1st 2026
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Reasonable prices but quieter than I like. More for chill seekers. 😄
By user625615 (Reading) on Apr 25th 2026
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Warm glow and friendly banter on a rainy evening. Felt at home.
By user249784 (Reading) on Apr 19th 2026
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Perfect Thursday spot to unwind after classes.
By user866365 (Reading) on Apr 13th 2026
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Perfect escape with friends, great music for chatting and attentive staff.
By user798883 (Reading) on Apr 9th 2026
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Cozy vibe, easy to chat with locals and students.
By user964752 (Reading) on Apr 5th 2026
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Relaxed atmosphere, balanced music, budget-friendly drinks, and nice people. 🍻
By user851453 (Reading) on Apr 4th 2026
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Laid-back vibe with students chatting and relaxing. 😅
By user207969 (Reading) on Apr 2nd 2026
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Chill vibe even when busy. Never feel rushed. Love it!
By user942974 (Reading) on Mar 31st 2026
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Chairs aren't comfy for long, but lively vibe's worth it.
By user144833 (Reading) on Mar 30th 2026
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Chilled Friday night vibes with attentive staff. Loved it!
By user814719 (Reading) on Mar 27th 2026
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Close to campus, love the French-English menu twist. 🍷
By user767235 (Reading) on Mar 24th 2026
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Thought it'd be pretentious, but it's super chill with student vibes.
By user868106 (Reading) on Mar 19th 2026
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Refreshing mix of flavours, a nice break from typical student meals. 🍽️
By user260068 (Reading) on Mar 17th 2026
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Lively atmosphere, friendly staff. Perfect for unwinding after classes.
By user776866 (Reading) on Mar 12th 2026
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Cosy escape with French bistro vibes and English flair.
By user168963 (Reading) on Mar 3rd 2026
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Cozy blend of cultures and flavours. Perfect spot to unwind. 😊
By user510678 (Reading) on Feb 10th 2026
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Bartenders are a laugh, makes you want to return.
By user756333 (Reading) on Feb 4th 2026
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Feels like a hug! Familiar student faces everywhere. 😊
By user673159 (Reading) on Jan 29th 2026
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Great for people-watching, mix of lively conversations and laughter.
By user638832 (Reading) on Jan 24th 2026
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Fantastic atmosphere, feels like I'm part of the crowd. 🌟
By user351088 (Reading) on Jan 20th 2026
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Great post-class unwind spot; time just flies by! 😊
By user688512 (Reading) on Jan 15th 2026
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Perfect balance for unwinding with a laid-back vibe. 😊
By user176955 (Reading) on Jan 13th 2026
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Chill spot with a tasty French-English menu. Def going back! 😅
By user429654 (Reading) on Jan 9th 2026
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More space than London bars. Food's a nice bonus. Chill spot.
By user641628 (Reading) on Jan 4th 2026
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Plenty of space to chill and catch up with mates.
By user698829 (Reading) on Jan 1st 2026
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Homey pub meets cozy bistro vibes—ideal escape from uni stress.
By user535091 (Reading) on Dec 27th 2025
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Relaxed vibe and French-English cuisine are top reasons to return.
By user836325 (Reading) on Dec 22nd 2025
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Surprisingly good French dishes. Perfect night for relaxed chats.
By user309599 (Reading) on Dec 18th 2025
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Refreshing find near campus. Instantly relaxing atmosphere.
By user874366 (Reading) on Dec 14th 2025
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Quickly became my spot for a chill evening. Always make new mates.
By user973643 (Reading) on Dec 9th 2025
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Lively spot, not just for quiet dinners. Everyone's having a blast!
By user750274 (Reading) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Unique mix of cuisines. Not your usual uni hangout. 🌟
By user530693 (Reading) on Nov 29th 2025
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Easy to lose track of time here on a Wednesday.
By user354838 (Reading) on Nov 25th 2025
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Vibrant place, always a mix of languages and lively crowd.
By user512743 (Reading) on Nov 19th 2025
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Service slows down when busy, but worth it—great vibe later on.
By user174350 (Reading) on Nov 13th 2025
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Great mix of French and English dishes, staff are sound. 😊
By user283026 (Reading) on Nov 7th 2025
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Thought it was a casual bar, surprised by the fancy menu twist.
By user993570 (Reading) on Oct 30th 2025
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By user166922 (Reading) on Apr 3rd 2025