The Cocktail Club, Reading – 44 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Cocktail Club -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 44 user ratings

6 Gun St, Reading RG1 2JR, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Cocktail Club, located on Gun Street in Reading, is a vibrant cocktail bar that has become a popular hotspot for students from the University of Reading. This venue is known for its fantastic cocktails and a lively atmosphere that sets the stage for memorable nights out. With its central location, it’s easy to see why students flock here to enjoy a fun and laid-back vibe. The Cocktail Club is not just about cocktails; it’s about creating an experience that keeps the energy high and the good times rolling all week long.

As you step into The Cocktail Club, you’re greeted by an inviting and lively atmosphere. The ambience is perfect for those looking to unwind after a long week of classes or celebrate special occasions with friends. Students frequently mention that the vibe here is upbeat and friendly, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. The crowd is diverse, with a mix of students and locals, which contributes to the overall enjoyable experience. Many reviews highlight how the atmosphere fosters a sense of community, where everyone feels welcome and at ease.

One of the standout features of The Cocktail Club is its drink offerings. Students appreciate that the cocktails are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option for a night out. The bar often has good deals that cater specifically to students, allowing them to enjoy their favourite drinks without breaking the bank. The reviews indicate that the cocktails are well-crafted and enjoyable, with many patrons noting that the drinks keep them coming back for more. This affordability is a significant draw for students who are always on the lookout for value.

The music at The Cocktail Club is another highlight, with many reviews praising the DJ and the overall selection. The music keeps the energy alive, encouraging patrons to let loose and enjoy the night. Students often mention that they find themselves dancing and having a great time, thanks to the well-curated playlists that resonate with the crowd. This lively musical backdrop adds to the fun, making it a great place for those who enjoy a spirited night out.

When it comes to the crowd, The Cocktail Club attracts a mix of students, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment. The bar tends to get busy, especially on weekends and during student nights, which adds to the excitement. Students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, where they can easily connect with others and enjoy a night filled with laughter and good company. Many reviews emphasize the positive interactions with fellow patrons, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable vibe throughout the night.

However, it’s essential to note that while The Cocktail Club has many positives, there are a few downsides mentioned by patrons. Some reviews indicate that the music can occasionally be too loud, making conversations a bit challenging. This might not be ideal for those looking for a quieter setting to catch up with friends. Additionally, while the venue is generally clean and well-maintained, it can get quite crowded during peak times, which may lead to a less comfortable experience for some.

Overall, The Cocktail Club stands out as a go-to cocktail bar for students in Reading. Its combination of reasonably priced drinks, a lively atmosphere, and a friendly crowd makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a fun night out. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a place to hang out with friends, The Cocktail Club offers an experience that resonates with the student lifestyle. It’s a place where you can let loose, enjoy great cocktails, and create lasting memories with friends.

In summary, The Cocktail Club is best suited for students who enjoy a lively and social atmosphere. If you’re someone who loves cocktails, good music, and a friendly crowd, this venue is definitely worth checking out. With its central location and vibrant vibe, it’s a staple in the Reading nightlife scene that continues to attract students looking for a fun place to unwind and celebrate life’s moments.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively atmosphere that encourages social interaction and fun.
  • Reasonably priced cocktails, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Great music selection that keeps the energy high throughout the night.
  • Friendly staff who contribute to a positive experience.
  • A diverse crowd that creates a welcoming environment.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Music can be too loud at times, making conversation difficult.
  • Can get crowded during peak hours, which may affect comfort.
  • Not the most glamorous setting, but it has its own charm.
  • Some patrons may find the atmosphere too lively for a quiet night out.

🎯 Best For

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

💡 Things to Know

  • The Cocktail Club is located in the heart of Reading, making it easily accessible.
  • Expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends and during student nights.
  • Check for drink deals that cater specifically to students.
  • Arrive early if you want to secure a good spot, especially during busy nights.
  • The venue has a friendly vibe, so don't hesitate to strike up conversations with fellow patrons.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Cocktail Club like?

The Cocktail Club is a lively cocktail bar known for its fun atmosphere, reasonably priced drinks, and great music.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the cocktails reasonably priced, and there are often good deals available.

When do students go to The Cocktail Club?

Students typically visit on weekends and during student nights when the atmosphere is vibrant.

What kind of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a mix of students and locals, creating a friendly and welcoming environment.

Are there any downsides to The Cocktail Club?

Some patrons mention the music can be too loud and it can get crowded during peak times.

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Reviews
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Expected a decent place with overpriced drinks but was pleasantly surprised by how friendly the crowd and staff were. bumped into a few classmates and it felt more like a casual hangout than a typical night out 🌟
By user268029 on Apr 20th 2026
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Crowd's a mix of uni students and some locals, which keeps things lively and interesting. everyone seemed pretty chilled and just out for a laugh, so it was easy to join in and not feel out of place.
By user426013 on Apr 15th 2026
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Definitely a step up from some other bars in the area, especially with how smoothly they handle the crowd. the drinks weren't outrageously priced either, which is rare for places that get as busy as this one does, so i'd say it was worth sticking around for the night.
By user360831 on Apr 6th 2026
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Drinks menu took a few visits to explore properly, and each time i found something new to try 🍹. music's a blast, always keeps the energy up 🎵.
By user793191 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Music at the cocktail club is what really sticks with me. it's one of those places where as soon as you walk in, you feel the energy rise. great atmosphere that makes you forget your budget worries for a bit.
By user580965 on Apr 1st 2026
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Always amazed at how effortlessly they switch up the vibe each night. some evenings it's buzzing with energy, while other times it's more laid-back and perfect for chatting over cocktails. 🍹
By user599975 on Mar 31st 2026
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Felt instantly at home walking into The Cocktail Club. the lighting and energy just lift your mood right from the start. it’s buzzing with people having a good time, and you can tell it’s a favourite with the uni crowd.
By user486173 on Mar 30th 2026
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Lights dim, music hits a perfect crescendo, and suddenly everyone's dancing like they're at a festival. it feels like every corner of the room is alive and buzzing, but in a way that's thrilling not overwhelming. being in the moment here, you realise this is what makes a night unforgettable.
By user745354 on Mar 28th 2026
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Walked in and felt right at home with the buzzing energy and friendly crowd, like everyone was just there to have a good time and enjoy each other's company.
By user464209 on Mar 25th 2026
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Wasn't really sure what to expect at first, but by the second visit it felt like a home away from home with mates
By user441441 on Mar 20th 2026
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Expected it to be a bit rowdy given its reputation, but it turned out to be surprisingly chill and enjoyable.
By user915783 on Mar 13th 2026
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Popping into the cocktail club for a drink has become a regular highlight of my week.
By user955656 on Mar 9th 2026
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Remember leaving with the kind of stories you'd only share with your closest mates. somehow, the place manages to make a Tuesday night feel like a celebration, with everyone on the same vibe.
By user575547 on Feb 27th 2026
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Didn't expect to find such quirky bartenders who make you feel like you're part of their crew. their banter kept me entertained all night and it just made everything more enjoyable
By user999384 on Feb 11th 2026
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Stepping into The Cocktail Club, it felt like being wrapped in a rush of lively energy. you could just sense that a good night was about to unfold and my worries from uni seemed miles away.
By user279277 on Feb 5th 2026
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Bartenders here know their stuff. their cocktail creations are genuinely some of the best I've had in ages, adding that little extra magic to the night. if you strike up a chat with them, they’ll recommend something you've never tried before that’ll hit just right.
By user427970 on Jan 30th 2026
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Music's a bit too loud sometimes. it's hard to have a proper conversation without shouting, which makes getting to know new people a bit tricky. decent venue otherwise for a night out.
By user559865 on Jan 25th 2026
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Seems like everyone here is just out to have a laugh and forget their stress 😅
By user323669 on Jan 21st 2026
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Staff could be a bit more attentive when it gets busy, as i've had to wait quite a while for drinks on more than one occasion. it'd be smart to maybe have a few more people at the bar during peak times. aside from that, the atmosphere's lively and it's an ideal place to unwind after a study session.
By user843840 on Jan 16th 2026
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Caught it at its peak on a weekend night, and it was just electric. music perfectly matched everyone's mood, setting the energy levels at just the right height. easy to get pulled into the fun with everyone else.
By user945978 on Jan 13th 2026
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Always packed with students and the energy's just infectious. you can tell it's the go-to place when everyone's buzzing and the laughter fills the room , it's kinda hard to have a bad time when the whole crowd's up for a good night.
By user287245 on Jan 10th 2026
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Arriving at The Cocktail Club, the buzz of chatter and laughter was immediately contagious, setting the mood for a fun night. despite the crowd, service was swift and bartenders seemed to juggle orders like pros, which was impressive and kept our drinks flowing. probably my new go-to for nights out since everyone just seemed to click, creating that carefree and exciting energy we needed 😅
By user510753 on Jan 5th 2026
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Stumbled into the cocktail club thinking it might be just another bar, but it surprised me with how fun the crowd was. everyone seemed laid-back which made the night feel more like a big party rather than your typical bar scene. definitely left with a smile on my face 😊
By user484041 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Lights flashing, music blasting, the whole place just lit up when the DJ dropped a classic tune. everyone was on their feet, the energy was unreal and you could feel the bass in your bones. just one of those nights where you don't want to leave the dance floor.
By user876559 on Dec 28th 2025
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Bumped into a few classmates here and the music was banging, creating a mood where you just forget everything else. definitely worth a visit for a night out.
By user705074 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Going to The Cocktail Club is basically like a midweek ritual for us, offering just enough escape before the weekend chaos begins. the mix of students creates this unpredictable energy every time, making me look forward to each visit even though it's only a few hours of fun.
By user780137 on Dec 19th 2025
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Didn't expect to run into my lecturer on a night out, but we ended up chatting about politics over drinks. seemed like every student in the area was there, creating an excellent atmosphere to unwind from lectures.
By user599863 on Dec 15th 2025
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Noticed how every time you step in, the staff seem genuinely stoked to see you again, like you're an old mate. it's got that bit of charm that makes the whole night feel more personal, setting it apart from other spots on Gun Street.
By user266079 on Dec 10th 2025
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Stumbled upon it on a random night and it honestly felt like a small escape from uni stress. the bartenders were laid-back and didn't rush you through orders, which was nice. it’s full of people just out to have a good time, which makes the place come alive.
By user886259 on Dec 4th 2025
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Absolutely buzzing on a friday night , the energy is contagious. once you step inside, you can't help but get caught up in the 🎉, and the staff keep the vibe going strong with quick and friendly service.
By user248194 on Nov 30th 2025
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Noticed how the bartenders here always seem to remember a face, even on packed nights. makes ordering so much less hassle when you're shy or just tired of shouting over the music. it's those little touches that make it more than just a stop on a night out.
By user596409 on Nov 25th 2025
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Stands out from other bars by making every night feel like a massive house party 🎉. you just end up chatting with everyone, whether you're out with friends or just dropped by for a drink , it's got that inclusive buzz that's rare to find.
By user946906 on Nov 21st 2025
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Heard about it from a mate and gotta say, it lived up to the hype 😅. place was packed but in a fun way, not overwhelming, and the bartenders were quick on their feet despite the crowd.
By user455038 on Nov 14th 2025
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Being at the cocktail club feels like walking into a party right from the get-go, music pumping and people just vibing with the energy. if you're looking for a place to shake off the uni stress, this place covers it well.
By user109066 on Nov 7th 2025
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Walking in felt like stepping into a different world, buzzing with energy from the get-go. totally sets the mood for the night, and you can just feel the excitement building up in the air. it's like everyone was ready for a good time.
By user860699 on Oct 31st 2025
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Felt like it took ages to get our drinks even though it wasn't super busy. staff were nice enough, but they seemed a bit overwhelmed and disorganised that night.
By user640800 on Oct 26th 2025
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Walking into the cocktail club felt like entering an oasis of energy and excitement. the bustling crowd and upbeat music instantly put me in a party mood, and i couldn't help but feel this would become a regular hangout for me and my mates.
By user866424 on Oct 23rd 2025
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Didn't expect to bump into my course mates at the cocktail club, but it seems like everyone had the same idea. the staff are genuinely welcoming, making for a comfortable vibe that had us staying way longer than planned.
By user907253 on Oct 20th 2025
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Getting comfortable here didn't take long at all. the lively crowd and easygoing vibe make it feel like a second home every weekend.
By user251732 on Oct 16th 2025
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Getting used to The Cocktail Club took no time at all, honestly. the mix of colourful cocktails and friendly chatter makes it a perfect weekend hangout. even if you're usually shy, the energy kinda pulls you in without you realizing.
By user281712 on Oct 13th 2025
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Always packed with familiar faces which makes it feel almost like an extension of campus life.
By user211481 on Oct 9th 2025
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Definitely would go back to the cocktail club on gun street. it’s just one of those places where you can count on having a proper good time, and the energy is always buzzing. plus, it’s perfect for bumping into mates or making new ones with how packed it gets.
By user481714 on Oct 3rd 2025
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Bartenders here really know how to read the room, shifting the energy with just the right soundtrack as the night progresses. sometimes it's the small details, like the way they pace it, that make hanging out with friends feel special without overwhelming the senses.
By user292048 on Sep 28th 2025
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What sets this place apart is how it's got that perfect blend of chaos and fun without feeling overwhelming. loads of similar spots get too crowded, but here everything flows naturally. feels like a party where you're surrounded by friends even if you came alone.
By user774200 on Sep 24th 2025
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Getting to the cocktail club is a breeze and the lively crowd makes it quite an experience. there are often students mingling, and it seems everyone knows each other, which adds to the charm. definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a fun night out without the hassle of a queue.
By user965621 on May 8th 2024