The Barley Mow, Egham – 43 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

The Barley Mow -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 43 user ratings

Barley Mow Rd, Englefield Green, Egham TW20 0NX, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Barley Mow is a well-loved pub located in Englefield Green, just a stone's throw from Royal Holloway University. This venue stands out for its welcoming vibe, spacious dining area, and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot for students looking to unwind after a long week of classes. With a reputation for being a reliable choice for a night out, The Barley Mow boasts a rich history, including being the site of the last duel in England, which adds an intriguing layer to its charm. Students frequently mention the friendly atmosphere that makes them feel like they’re hanging out with friends, contributing to a laid-back experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

The atmosphere at The Barley Mow is often described as lively yet relaxed, with many students appreciating the variety of people that frequent the venue. The pub tends to attract a diverse crowd, ensuring that everyone feels included and comfortable. Reviewers highlight the energy of the place, with many stating that the night flows perfectly, making it easy to connect with others. This kind of vibe is particularly appealing to students who are looking for a fun environment where they can let loose without feeling overwhelmed.

Music at The Barley Mow plays a significant role in enhancing the overall experience. The tunes are described as catchy, keeping patrons dancing throughout the night. The selection of music contributes to the enjoyable atmosphere, with many students noting that it adds to the overall vibe of the night. The pub also hosts a quiz night every Tuesday, which is a great way to engage with friends and meet new people while enjoying some friendly competition.

When it comes to drinks, The Barley Mow is known for its reasonably priced offerings. While some students mention that it may not be the cheapest option available, they agree that the prices are fair for the quality of the experience. The bar staff are noted for their friendliness, which enhances the overall service and adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Students appreciate the fact that they rarely have to wait long to get served, making it easy to grab a drink and enjoy the night.

In terms of entry and queues, The Barley Mow receives positive feedback for its efficient service. Many students report that they rarely have to wait long to get in or order drinks, which is a significant plus for those looking to make the most of their night out. The queue experience is generally smooth, allowing patrons to enjoy their time without unnecessary delays. This is particularly beneficial for students who may be heading out after a long day of lectures and just want to kick back and enjoy the evening.

Students consistently share their positive experiences at The Barley Mow, often highlighting the inclusive and friendly crowd that makes every visit enjoyable. Many feel that the venue is a solid choice for a night out, with a good mix of people and a lively atmosphere. Reviewers mention that it’s a place where everyone seems to click, contributing to a chill vibe that keeps them coming back. It’s a venue that leaves students smiling and feeling satisfied after a night out, which is exactly what many are looking for.

However, it’s worth noting that while The Barley Mow is highly regarded, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Some students mention that it can get a bit noisy, especially during peak hours, which might not be ideal for those seeking a quieter environment. Additionally, while the drinks are reasonably priced, they may not be the cheapest in the area, so budgeting accordingly is advisable. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience at The Barley Mow is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit spot for students at Royal Holloway.

In conclusion, The Barley Mow is a fantastic venue for students looking for a fun and inclusive night out. With its friendly atmosphere, great music, and reasonably priced drinks, it’s a place where you can truly relax and enjoy yourself. Whether you’re there for a casual drink with friends or a lively night of dancing, The Barley Mow has something to offer everyone. So, if you’re in the area, don’t miss out on this gem of a pub that consistently delivers great experiences and lasting memories.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Welcoming and friendly atmosphere that makes students feel at home.
  • Catchy music that keeps the crowd dancing all night.
  • Reasonably priced drinks with friendly bar staff.
  • Efficient entry and service, with minimal wait times.
  • Diverse crowd that creates an inclusive and fun environment.
  • Regular events like quiz nights that engage students.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get a bit noisy during peak hours.
  • Not the cheapest drinks in the area, so budgeting is advised.
  • May not suit those looking for a quieter night out.
  • Occasional overcrowding during busy nights.
  • Some students feel it lacks unique features compared to other venues.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively and friendly pub experience.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so come as you are.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
  • Check out the quiz night every Tuesday for some fun competition.
  • Arrive early to avoid long queues during peak times.
  • Prices are fair, but be prepared for slightly higher costs than some other spots.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Barley Mow like?

The Barley Mow is a lively pub with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind and have fun.

How long is the queue?

Students report minimal wait times for entry and ordering drinks, making for a smooth experience.

Is it good value?

While not the cheapest option, students find the prices reasonable for the quality of the experience.

What music does The Barley Mow play?

The music is catchy and upbeat, keeping patrons dancing throughout the night.

Are there any events?

Yes, The Barley Mow hosts a quiz night every Tuesday, which is popular among students.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
1 of 44
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Arriving here on a Wednesday, the bartender greeted me with a smile and a cheeky recommendation that made my night. Little things like that really change the mood, especially when the place starts to fill up with familiar faces from uni. Good music and affordable drinks added to the fun, but it was that personal touch that stuck with me.
By user531743 on Apr 28th 2026
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Noticed quite a mix of people hanging around, mostly students from Royal Holloway and a few locals just having a chat. it's the sort of place where everyone seems to know someone, which gives it a nice, welcoming feel. might be tempted to pop back in, even if it means waiting a bit for service.
By user615238 on Apr 20th 2026
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Expected a typical pub close to uni but was pleasantly surprised by the mix of lively atmosphere and relaxed seating. the crowd seems to have a good balance of energy, especially on weekends. prices were fair for what you get and it's definitely a place to unwind without feeling rushed.
By user154993 on Apr 14th 2026
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Definitely heading back because the mix of outdoor and indoor seating lets you pick your vibe depending on your mood. this place draws a decent crowd, especially from uni, and you can chill out without worrying too much about your wallet.
By user399835 on Apr 9th 2026
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Often swing by the barley mow on thursday evenings with my mates. it's just become a bit of a ritual to shake off the stress with their laid-back atmosphere. what i love is their outdoor seating area, perfect for when the british weather decides to be on our side for once.
By user738330 on Apr 6th 2026
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People there were mostly students, so it was easy to strike up a conversation. everyone seemed relaxed and just looking to enjoy themselves, which made the whole night more fun. didn't feel out of place at all, and the friendly crowd kept things buzzing in a good way.
By user844186 on Apr 1st 2026
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Landlord here actually remembers your name, which is rare now. not just another pub-blurred face, you feel more like part of a community. 😊 also, that outdoor seating gives you space to breathe, especially when it’s packed inside.
By user600716 on Mar 30th 2026
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Swing by barley mow every friday, and it's always chill, which is just what i need. prices never make me wince, and the bar staff are cool with a bit of banter.
By user507295 on Mar 30th 2026
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Met some fellow sports science mates here last weekend, and even with different courses, felt like we were part of the same crew. managed to chat over a drink under the fairy lights and it just felt naturally comfortable.
By user671022 on Mar 25th 2026
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Finding a cozy spot by the fireplace at The Barley Mow, i felt the stress of coursework just melt away 😌. the staff were attentive, making sure everything was just right without being intrusive. loved the mix of locals and students, which created a warm, friendly buzz that really rounded off the evening nicely.
By user441599 on Mar 20th 2026
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Wandered into The Barley Mow expecting just a typical campus pub, but was pleasantly surprised by how spacious and laid-back it feels inside. it's an easy spot to settle into a relaxed evening, and those outdoor tables make for a nice change when the weather allows.
By user333039 on Mar 14th 2026
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Grab a seat outside at the barley mow on a sunny afternoon and you instantly feel like you're where you should be. everyone's chatting, and it feels like a little patch of home. i reckon it's that open, uncomplicated energy that just makes you want to relax and enjoy.
By user194026 on Mar 3rd 2026
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A proper mix of laid-back and buzzing, different from your typical local pub where it's just about pints and chatter. I love that they have this massive dining space but still manage to feel cozy, a real change from the cramped spots near campus. even the outdoor seating is something special, offering a slice of peace with laughs and tall tales among mates.
By user858278 on Feb 10th 2026
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Staff were decent but the service did take a while when it got busy. it felt like they were a bit understaffed or maybe just overwhelmed with the amount of people. wish they'd plan better for peak times because waiting so long for a drink can be annoying.
By user824440 on Feb 4th 2026
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Outdoor seating at the Barley Mow is such a highlight , i spent so many afternoons soaking up the sun and chatting with friends there 😊. it's got this relaxed feel that makes you forget about coursework for a bit, and it's really easy to just enjoy being outside.
By user505812 on Jan 29th 2026
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Spent an unexpectedly lovely afternoon watching the footie in the garden and chatting with other students heading to royal holloway.
By user267613 on Jan 24th 2026
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Stepping inside felt like walking into an old friend's living room, which was exactly what I needed after a packed week. loads of comfy seats and a charming outdoor area if you want a bit of fresh air for a change.
By user832001 on Jan 20th 2026
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Expected a typical student pub, but the Barley Mow was a pleasant surprise. the atmosphere really pulled me in with its laid-back vibe and friendly patrons. ended up staying longer than planned because i just felt so welcome and at ease.
By user892117 on Jan 16th 2026
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Every friday, stopping by The Barley Mow is like a little ritual after finishing up lectures. it's the perfect place to relax and catch up with friends, plus it makes balancing uni work and social life feel like a breeze. with the spacious outdoor seating, it's a favourite spot for our group when the weather plays nice.
By user310812 on Jan 13th 2026
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Staff behind the bar seem to know most of the regulars by name, which makes it feel more like a community hangout than just another pub. it’s a little touch that makes you feel like you belong, even if it’s your first time there.
By user780880 on Jan 9th 2026
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Music can be a bit too loud for my liking, especially when you're trying to have a conversation and not just drown in noise. not great if you're looking for some peace.
By user814782 on Jan 5th 2026
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Pop by the barley mow when you're in need of a place that feels both familiar and lively. the spacious outdoor seating is a lifesaver when the sun's out, and you'll find it packed with students unwinding and catching up.
By user932732 on Jan 1st 2026
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Finding The Barley Mow was a game-changer for me during my first term here. initially, it was just another local pub, but it quickly became my go-to place for decompressing. the friendly faces and laid-back setting make it easy to feel at home, whether i'm catching up with friends or just chilling by myself.
By user119523 on Dec 28th 2025
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Thought it would be just another average pub but was pleasantly surprised. the atmosphere was way more chill and welcoming than I expected, and the outdoor seating was a bonus. didn't feel rushed at all, which makes it such a nice place to hang out and relax.
By user720653 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Staff are friendly and make you feel right at home, which makes a big difference when you're in a new area. had some good chats with them while enjoying the outdoor seating, definitely planning to come back soon.
By user698454 on Dec 19th 2025
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Never expected the garden at the barley mow to be such a chill hangout spot.
By user626157 on Dec 14th 2025
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Definitely going back to The Barley Mow. it's perfect for those random midweek times when you just want a cozy chat with friends without the chaos 😅 plus, i love how familiar the staff are, makes it feel a bit like a second home.
By user404849 on Dec 10th 2025
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Great place to catch up with mates since the outdoor area is perfect for chill evenings.
By user465630 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Popping into the Barley Mow has become part of my weekly routine, especially since it's right by Royal Holloway. the friendly atmosphere helps break up the week and makes it feel more manageable. i didn’t expect how much i’d start looking forward to it as a regular reset.
By user505078 on Nov 30th 2025
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Considering it's just outside royal holloway, i was surprised at how quiet the pub felt inside 😮. caught me off guard in the best way and made for the perfect spot to relax with a pint and some uni mates.
By user367178 on Nov 25th 2025
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Definitely would go back to the barley mow. it's just got that laid-back feel, perfect for unwinding. the outdoor seating is especially great when the weather's nice.
By user485900 on Nov 20th 2025
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Didn't expect the garden area to be that nice and spacious, especially for how compact the place looks from the outside. met some genuinely interesting people there, which was a pleasant surprise.
By user262955 on Nov 14th 2025
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Found myself enjoying the garden more each visit. it turns out the outdoor seating's perfect for catching up with classmates over a pint.
By user255570 on Nov 7th 2025
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Walking into the Barley Mow feels like finding a slice of home away from home, especially with its warm and inviting atmosphere. it's just one of those places where you instantly feel at ease, and the chatter from other students makes it feel lively yet comforting.
By user932328 on Oct 31st 2025
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Noticed the staff always have a quick chat with you, which makes the place feel really homely. they've mastered that balance between busy and relaxed, which is rare and very much appreciated when you're just trying to unwind.
By user785446 on Oct 26th 2025
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Always felt welcome at the barley mow thanks to the staff who genuinely seem to like their jobs. they're quick with a pint and just chatty enough without ever being too much.
By user524516 on Oct 23rd 2025
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Stumbled upon it with low expectations, but the atmosphere caught me off guard. it was surprisingly lively for a place so near campus. ended up chatting with some locals, which isn't what i expected when we first walked in.
By user518444 on Oct 19th 2025
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Normally small pub gardens feel cramped but this one is quite open making it better than others in the area. you can always find a spot and chat without feeling like you're squished in with strangers.
By user498435 on Oct 16th 2025
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Love how the staff here remember faces and make you feel at home. always up for a quick chat, and you never have to wait long for a drink.
By user108426 on Oct 8th 2025
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Unplanned chats with regulars at the barley mow made it special. laughter and shared stories in a relaxed setting , it felt like finding a temporary home.
By user851770 on Oct 3rd 2025
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Friday nights often lead me to the barley mow, where mates and i decompress before the weekend kicks off. 📚 good company and decent tunes make it feel just right.
By user578648 on Sep 28th 2025
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Feels like a local hangout where everyone genuinely knows each other, which you don't find at other pubs near campus. the outdoor seating is perfect for those rare sunny days, and it doesn’t get overly crowded like some of the other spots. staff are laid-back yet attentive, so it's an easy place to relax without any fuss.
By user915155 on Sep 24th 2025
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Loved chilling at the Barley Mow with mates , such a nice place to unwind. their outdoor seating is quite spacious, which is perfect when the sun decides to show up 😎. super laid-back vibe and the staff always have a chatty energy, making it feel more like a local hangout spot than just some pub.
By user683221 on Sep 11th 2025
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By user531174 on Jul 25th 2024