The Scholars Arms, Southampton – 53 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Scholars Arms β€” student bar photo

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fvisitsouthampton.co.uk%2Fbusiness-directory%2Fscholars-arms&psig=AOvVaw0xJ8CMw7XLZ5UJk2-I0vBN&ust=1704559017133000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBUQjhxqFwoTCIih86fXxoMDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

The Scholars Arms -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 53 user ratings

166 Above Bar St, Southampton SO14 7DU, United Kingdom

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Scholars Arms is a well-loved pub located in the heart of Southampton, making it a go-to spot for students from the nearby University of Southampton. This venue is celebrated for its inviting atmosphere, where students can unwind after a long day of lectures or kick off a fun night out with friends. The pub serves hearty food and boasts a diverse drink selection, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy good company, and have a great time without breaking the bank.

Students frequently mention the lively and friendly vibe at The Scholars Arms, which makes it an ideal location for socializing. The atmosphere is described as chill yet vibrant, allowing patrons to enjoy a laid-back experience while still feeling the energy of a bustling pub. Many reviews highlight that the crowd is generally relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to strike up conversations and meet new people. This friendly environment contributes significantly to the pub's popularity among students, who often return for the enjoyable nights spent there.

When it comes to drinks, The Scholars Arms does not disappoint. Students appreciate the affordable drink deals that keep the night flowing without emptying their wallets. The pub is known for its good value, with many patrons noting that they can enjoy a night out without the stress of overspending. This aspect is particularly appealing to students, who often seek budget-friendly options while still wanting to have a good time. The combination of reasonably priced drinks and a lively atmosphere creates a perfect setting for both pre-drinks and full nights out.

In terms of crowd dynamics, The Scholars Arms tends to attract a lively mix of students, particularly during the evenings and weekends. Many reviews indicate that the pub gets busy, especially on weekends, when groups of friends gather to enjoy the night together. The manageable queues are often mentioned as a bonus, allowing patrons to get in quickly and start enjoying their time without long waits. This accessibility adds to the overall appeal of the venue, making it a reliable choice for students looking for a fun night out.

What truly sets The Scholars Arms apart is its ability to create a sense of community among its patrons. Many reviews highlight the friendly interactions and the welcoming atmosphere, where everyone seems to be there to enjoy themselves. Students appreciate that they can let loose and have fun without feeling out of place or overwhelmed. This charm and warmth make it a standout option in Southampton’s nightlife scene, where students can feel at home while enjoying a night out.

However, while The Scholars Arms has many strengths, there are a few downsides that potential visitors should keep in mind. Some students note that it may not be the most extravagant venue, as it focuses more on being a reliable pub rather than a high-energy nightlife hotspot. This means that if you’re looking for a wild night out, it may not fully meet your expectations. Additionally, due to its popularity, the pub can get quite crowded during peak times, which might detract from the experience for those who prefer a quieter setting.

In summary, The Scholars Arms is a fantastic pub that offers a balanced mix of good drinks, a friendly atmosphere, and a sense of community. It is particularly well-suited for students looking to enjoy a night out without the stress of high costs or pretentiousness. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual hangout or a lively night with friends, this pub has something to offer everyone. With its welcoming vibe and affordable options, it’s no wonder that The Scholars Arms has become a staple for students in Southampton.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere perfect for socializing.
  • Affordable drink deals that cater to students' budgets.
  • Manageable queues for quick entry, especially on busy nights.
  • A welcoming crowd that makes it easy to meet new people.
  • Good food options enhance the overall experience.
  • Regular entertainment adds to the fun atmosphere.
  • Consistently clean and well-maintained environment.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, affordable night out with friends in a friendly environment.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • The pub is located centrally, making it easily accessible for students.
  • Happy hour deals may be available, check their website for specifics.
  • It's a great spot for pre-drinks before heading out to other venues.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends and during major sports events.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can fill up quickly.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Scholars Arms like?

The Scholars Arms is a popular pub known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and welcoming crowd, making it a favorite among students.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention the affordable drink deals and good value for money, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious nights out.

When do students go to The Scholars Arms?

Students typically visit in the evenings and on weekends, especially for pre-drinks or casual nights out.

What type of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a friendly and relaxed crowd, generally consisting of students looking to have a good time.

Are there any food options available?

Yes, The Scholars Arms serves hearty food, making it a great spot for a meal before enjoying drinks.

The Scholars Arms β€” student bar photo

infoImage credit: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fvisitsouthampton.co.uk%2Fbusiness-directory%2Fscholars-arms&psig=AOvVaw0xJ8CMw7XLZ5UJk2-I0vBN&ust=1704559017133000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBUQjhxqFwoTCIih86fXxoMDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

Reviews
1 of 53
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Friendly staff and hearty pub classics make it worth visiting.
By user841701 (Southampton) on Aug 17th 2026
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me and the lads love it
By user629668 (Southampton) on Aug 10th 2026
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nice place, good food
By user532356 (Southampton) on Aug 4th 2026
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cheap drinks and good crowd
By user390288 (Southampton) on Jul 28th 2026
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fries are always hot.
By user806249 (Southampton) on Jul 23rd 2026
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definately worth trying the food.
By user339695 (Southampton) on Jul 18th 2026
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food was massive and delicious. πŸ‘Œ
By user322954 (Southampton) on Jul 13th 2026
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lovely spot for students
By user229331 (Southampton) on Jul 6th 2026
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proper good pub
By user355387 (Southampton) on Jul 1st 2026
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The staff were very welcoming and friendly, great service.
By user706406 (Southampton) on Jun 26th 2026
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cold beers here are class
By user169706 (Southampton) on Jun 21st 2026
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felt very relaxed with mates, chilled vibes over food and a match, really didn't want the evening to end, we should do it again
By user737380 (Southampton) on Jun 16th 2026
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football matches and beers
By user870266 (Southampton) on Jun 10th 2026
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fun, friendly atmosphere
By user216786 (Southampton) on Jun 5th 2026
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nice spot for beers and chats.
By user430119 (Southampton) on May 29th 2026
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great food and drinks
By user532318 (Southampton) on May 24th 2026
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always some decent food
By user483235 (Southampton) on May 19th 2026
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buzzin place to chill
By user457530 (Southampton) on May 12th 2026
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Really enjoyed finding comfy seating close to the TVs.
By user889240 (Southampton) on May 6th 2026
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good food menu available.
By user540076 (Southampton) on Apr 30th 2026
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went in with some mates for a quick pint, ended up staying hours cause the atmosphere was so chill, great vibe all around and felt super comfortable just hanging about
By user794932 (Southampton) on Apr 25th 2026
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always buzzing with games
By user417094 (Southampton) on Apr 19th 2026
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ordered food and it was amazing.
By user634296 (Southampton) on Apr 13th 2026
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great drink offers regularly
By user707975 (Southampton) on Apr 6th 2026
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had a great time with friends. 😍
By user391472 (Southampton) on Mar 31st 2026
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nice beer on offer
By user637029 (Southampton) on Mar 27th 2026
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football match nights here are always lively and fun.
By user862339 (Southampton) on Mar 24th 2026
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really enjoyed the food here.
By user325680 (Southampton) on Mar 19th 2026
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freindly and pleasant atmposhere inside.
By user255482 (Southampton) on Mar 17th 2026
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relaxing vibe with good drinks.
By user245371 (Southampton) on Mar 13th 2026
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nice pub for sports matches
By user836524 (Southampton) on Feb 28th 2026
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i love the friendly staff.
By user196008 (Southampton) on Feb 9th 2026
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great place to catch a match
By user731569 (Southampton) on Feb 3rd 2026
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casual spot for drinks
By user822992 (Southampton) on Jan 28th 2026
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great for sports fans
By user203669 (Southampton) on Jan 23rd 2026
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sound little joint
By user801445 (Southampton) on Jan 19th 2026
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really lovely place
By user645266 (Southampton) on Jan 15th 2026
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heaven for snacks
By user255219 (Southampton) on Jan 12th 2026
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the food was tasty and filling.
By user850852 (Southampton) on Jan 8th 2026
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Food was the highlight with friends.
By user375867 (Southampton) on Jan 3rd 2026
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my fav spot for games. 🍻
By user725826 (Southampton) on Dec 31st 2025
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Had a blast during match day.
By user688603 (Southampton) on Dec 26th 2025
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quite busy on weekends
By user696975 (Southampton) on Dec 22nd 2025
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big portions and tastey food here.
By user408021 (Southampton) on Dec 18th 2025
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once met up with my mates for a beer, one football match led to a feast, never left till closing
By user148407 (Southampton) on Dec 13th 2025
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I felt welcome from the minute I got there.
By user805830 (Southampton) on Dec 9th 2025
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The environment was friendly and staff ensured everyone was comfortable.
By user206026 (Southampton) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Popular with sports fans
By user468819 (Southampton) on Nov 28th 2025
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good food and banter
By user267149 (Southampton) on Nov 25th 2025
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Good place for watching sports and nice pub atmosphere.
By user411216 (Southampton) on Nov 18th 2025
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just a fun night out
By user635849 (Southampton) on Nov 11th 2025
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fab burgers and drinks. πŸ”₯
By user285272 (Southampton) on Nov 4th 2025
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best place to catch a game.
By user394520 (Southampton) on Oct 30th 2025