The turks head, Reading – 38 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The turks head -

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Based on 38 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.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Some students find the atmosphere a bit standard compared to other venues.
  • Drinks, while affordable, may not be the cheapest option in the area.
  • Can get busy during peak hours, especially on weekends.
  • Not the best choice for those looking for a more energetic nightlife experience.

🎯 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.

Reviews
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Made my way here one evening and found the atmosphere pretty laid-back, but I’m not sure if I’d rush back. it felt a bit too quiet for my taste, even though the prices were reasonable.
By user625615 on Apr 25th 2026
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Stumbled in one rainy evening after a lecture, and its warm glow was like entering a friend's living room. the conversation around me was just a soft hum, nothing too loud to compete with. shared a laugh with the bartender about some uni gossip, and it felt like i was part of the local tapestry, even just for a bit.
By user249784 on Apr 19th 2026
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Usually stop by after classes for a relaxed evening, and it somehow energises my Thursdays 😮 a nice way to transition from uni stress to chill mode.
By user866365 on Apr 13th 2026
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Caught up with a few friends at the turks head one evening and it felt like the perfect escape. music was just the right level to chat comfortably while enjoying our drinks. staff were attentive without hovering, which made the night effortlessly fun.
By user798883 on Apr 9th 2026
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Walking into the turks head, i felt instantly relaxed. the atmosphere was warm and inviting with a mix of students and locals chatting around. found a spot at the bar easily, and the staff seemed genuinely welcoming.
By user964752 on Apr 5th 2026
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Expected a typical loud bar but was pleasantly surprised by the laid-back vibe. music played at just the right volume for conversations. drinks didn't break the budget and even managed to meet some friendly folks without any awkwardness
By user851453 on Apr 4th 2026
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Noticed a lot of students relaxing and chatting together, which gave the place a laid-back, welcoming vibe 😅 that felt perfect for winding down.
By user207969 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Staff here are laid-back and keep things moving smoothly, which adds to the relaxed vibe. even on busy nights, they don't make you feel rushed, and that's a massive plus in my book.
By user942974 on Mar 31st 2026
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Chairs can be a bit uncomfortable if you’re planning on sitting for ages, which is sometimes annoying when you're just trying to relax. still, the lively vibe makes up for it and sparks interesting conversations so it's worth a visit.
By user144833 on Mar 30th 2026
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Strolling in on a friday night, i remember the tunes were just the right mix to keep everyone upbeat but relaxed. perched at a table, i found the staff super attentive, even when the place got busier as the night went on.
By user814719 on Mar 27th 2026
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Hanging out at the turks head was a relaxed way to de-stress. it's close enough to campus to pop in for a quick drink, and the mix of French and English dishes made it feel a bit different from the usual places we usually hit up.
By user767235 on Mar 24th 2026
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Thought it would be a bit pretentious, given its French twist, but it's actually super chill. the crowd was mostly students, so it had that laid-back vibe I like. didn't feel out of place at all, even on my first visit.
By user868106 on Mar 19th 2026
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Wasn't expecting the mix of French and English dishes to be this satisfying.
By user260068 on Mar 17th 2026
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Didn't expect such a blend of French and English vibes, but it's surprisingly spot on.
By user776866 on Mar 12th 2026
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Felt like a nostalgic escape with its cozy atmosphere, blending French bistro vibes with an English twist. perfect for a laid-back evening away from campus.
By user168963 on Mar 3rd 2026
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Hanging out at The Turks Head felt easy and relaxed with its mix of cultures and flavours.
By user510678 on Feb 10th 2026
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Chatted with the bartenders for ages and they were a laugh, really made the place feel welcoming. their banter just adds to the laid-back vibe, makes you want to come back even if you're not in party mode. plus, they've got some solid recommendations when you can't decide what to order.
By user756333 on Feb 4th 2026
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Felt like stepping into a warm and inviting space, almost like being welcomed into a friend’s home. always nice seeing the familiar faces of other students as soon as you walk in.
By user673159 on Jan 29th 2026
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People watching here is a bit of an art form , you see everyone from fellow uni students animatedly discussing politics to locals just soaking in the atmosphere. it's that mix of chatter and laughter that almost feels like you're part of a larger story being written around you.
By user638832 on Jan 24th 2026
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Staff here are just fab, really know how to keep the atmosphere buzzing. they’re welcoming without being over the top, which makes everything feel more relaxed. didn't feel like just another face in the crowd, which is a nice change.
By user351088 on Jan 20th 2026
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Stumbled upon this place after classes, and the casual vibe was everything. genuinely felt like time disappeared in the best way possible.
By user688512 on Jan 15th 2026
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Staff has that perfect balance of laid-back but attentive, which makes hanging out here really easy. felt like they genuinely wanted everyone to have a good time, and it worked.
By user176955 on Jan 13th 2026
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Really enjoyed my visit to the turks head and i'd definitely go back. the mix of french and english food added a nice twist to the evening, and it was quite the change from the usual campus spots 😅. perfect place to relax away from the academic grind, with a warm atmosphere that just makes you feel chill.
By user429654 on Jan 9th 2026
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Didn't expect to find such a chill spot away from home. compared to the cramped bars in london, this place feels spacious and laid-back, which I really appreciate 😅. though the food's not the main reason I'd come back, it adds a nice touch to the evening.
By user641628 on Jan 4th 2026
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Seems like half the uni ends up here, but somehow it never feels crowded or tense. wandered in after a lecture and found myself chatting with people i hadn't seen in ages 😅 perfect for a laid-back catch-up session.
By user698829 on Jan 1st 2026
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Instantly felt welcomed by the warm lighting and relaxed atmosphere. it almost feels like a mix between a homey pub and a cosy corner bistro, which is quite refreshing when you're in need of a break from campus life fatigue.
By user535091 on Dec 27th 2025
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Would absolutely head back to the turks head for the laid-back vibe and the way they mix two cuisines so smoothly.
By user836325 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Lost track of time chatting with a few classmates over some surprisingly good French dishes. it was one of those nights where everything felt easy and relaxed, with music at just the right volume to keep the conversation going.
By user309599 on Dec 18th 2025
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Discovered this place after a training session and it's got such a laid back atmosphere, which was a surprise given its location. kind of feels tucked away from the usual hustle, even though it's near campus. staff made everyone feel welcome, which instantly put me at ease.
By user874366 on Dec 14th 2025
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Easy to drop in for a chill evening, and it didn’t take long for it to feel like my go-to spot. i always leave having met a few new faces and enjoying good chats with familiar ones.
By user973643 on Dec 9th 2025
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Never expected a bistro to feel this lively. walked in thinking it’d be all quiet dinners, but people were really buzzing and the staff seemed just as excited to be there. great mix of cultures and a welcoming vibe really came through, it’s like they’ve built a little community in the middle of town.
By user750274 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Stands out for its mix of French and English dishes, which isn't what you'd expect from most places around uni. it's a unique spot.
By user530693 on Nov 29th 2025
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Wander into the turks head on a wednesday and you'll likely lose track of time. it's got that effortlessly laid-back vibe, where everything's relaxed and you end up chatting with strangers who feel like friends by the end of the night.
By user354838 on Nov 25th 2025
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Always something interesting happening at the turks head, whether it's a blend of languages from the mix of french and english dishes or the lively crowd. it’s not just about grabbing a bite; it feels like you’re part of some vibrant, cultural exchange. definitely stands out from other spots near campus because of that unique atmosphere.
By user512743 on Nov 19th 2025
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Service could be a bit faster when it's busy, but it's worth the wait when the vibe picks up later. get there early to snag a decent spot, as it fills up quickly.
By user174350 on Nov 13th 2025
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Told a mate the place has a laid-back vibe and the mix of French and English food is pretty decent. staff are genuinely welcoming and helpful 😊
By user283026 on Nov 7th 2025
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Stumbled upon this place thinking it was just another space for a casual drink, but was surprised to find it turned out quite fancy with its blend of cultures on the menu. not what you'd expect when you're just popping by. it’s a bit of a surprise, yet oddly comforting after the monotonous student meals.
By user993570 on Oct 30th 2025
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By user166922 on Apr 3rd 2025