The Basement, Guildford – 49 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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The Basement -
The Basement -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 49 user ratings
Union House, University Of Surrey
💬 What Students Say
The Basement is a unique multipurpose venue located underneath Rubix at the University of Surrey, offering a lively atmosphere that students often rave about. With a capacity of 250, it provides an intimate yet energetic space for students looking to unwind after a long day of studying or simply enjoy a night out with friends. The venue has hosted a variety of events, attracting big names and drawing in crowds, which adds to its appeal. What makes The Basement stand out is its blend of a relaxed vibe and an infectious energy that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Students frequently describe The Basement as a chill spot where they can enjoy good music and reasonably priced drinks. The atmosphere is often lively, with many reviews highlighting the positive energy of the crowd. Whether it’s a weekday or a weekend, students find themselves enjoying the music and engaging with the friendly crowd. The venue is known for its welcoming vibe, making it a great place to hang out with friends or even meet new people. Many students appreciate that they can enjoy their time without feeling pressured or uncomfortable, which is a significant plus for anyone looking to have a laid-back night out.
When it comes to drinks, The Basement is highly rated for its affordability. Students often mention that the drink prices are reasonable, allowing them to enjoy a few rounds without breaking the bank. This aspect is particularly appealing to the student crowd, who are always on the lookout for good value. The venue also boasts a variety of drink deals that are hard to beat, making it an attractive option for those looking to save while still having a good time. The combination of good music and cheap drinks creates an environment where students can let loose and enjoy themselves without worrying too much about their wallets.
The crowd at The Basement is another highlight, with many students noting that the atmosphere is friendly and inclusive. The venue tends to attract a diverse mix of people, which contributes to its vibrant atmosphere. Many reviews indicate that students feel comfortable and welcomed, regardless of when they visit. While the crowd can vary, the overall sentiment is that it’s a positive experience, with many patrons leaving with smiles on their faces. The venue is particularly popular for those seeking a fun night out, whether that be a casual weekday hangout or a lively weekend gathering.
One of the significant advantages of The Basement is its accessibility. Students appreciate that queues are generally manageable, allowing them to get in without long waits. This convenience adds to the overall experience, as nobody enjoys standing in line for too long when they’re eager to start their night. The venue's late closing hours also mean that students can keep the night going as long as they want, making it a go-to choice for those looking to extend their evenings.
However, it’s not all perfect at The Basement. Some students have pointed out that the cleanliness of the toilets could use improvement. While many appreciate the overall cleanliness of the venue, the restrooms sometimes fall short of expectations, which can detract from the experience. Additionally, while the vibe is generally positive, there are occasional mentions of nights where the atmosphere can feel a bit hit or miss, depending on the crowd. This variability is something to keep in mind, as it can affect how enjoyable a particular night out may be.
In terms of what students should know before heading to The Basement, it’s worth noting that the venue is best suited for those looking for a relaxed yet fun night out. It’s ideal for students who enjoy a lively atmosphere with good music and affordable drinks. If you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back experience, this venue might just be your perfect match. Overall, The Basement offers a solid mix of enjoyment, affordability, and a friendly crowd, making it a noteworthy choice for students at the University of Surrey.
In summary, The Basement is a fantastic option for students seeking a vibrant yet chill venue to enjoy a night out. Its good music, reasonable drink prices, and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice among the student body, while its occasional downsides, like cleanliness issues and varying crowd energy, are worth considering. Regardless, it’s a place where many students find themselves returning time and time again, drawn by the promise of a fun and memorable night.
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Students frequently describe The Basement as a chill spot where they can enjoy good music and reasonably priced drinks. The atmosphere is often lively, with many reviews highlighting the positive energy of the crowd. Whether it’s a weekday or a weekend, students find themselves enjoying the music and engaging with the friendly crowd. The venue is known for its welcoming vibe, making it a great place to hang out with friends or even meet new people. Many students appreciate that they can enjoy their time without feeling pressured or uncomfortable, which is a significant plus for anyone looking to have a laid-back night out.
When it comes to drinks, The Basement is highly rated for its affordability. Students often mention that the drink prices are reasonable, allowing them to enjoy a few rounds without breaking the bank. This aspect is particularly appealing to the student crowd, who are always on the lookout for good value. The venue also boasts a variety of drink deals that are hard to beat, making it an attractive option for those looking to save while still having a good time. The combination of good music and cheap drinks creates an environment where students can let loose and enjoy themselves without worrying too much about their wallets.
The crowd at The Basement is another highlight, with many students noting that the atmosphere is friendly and inclusive. The venue tends to attract a diverse mix of people, which contributes to its vibrant atmosphere. Many reviews indicate that students feel comfortable and welcomed, regardless of when they visit. While the crowd can vary, the overall sentiment is that it’s a positive experience, with many patrons leaving with smiles on their faces. The venue is particularly popular for those seeking a fun night out, whether that be a casual weekday hangout or a lively weekend gathering.
One of the significant advantages of The Basement is its accessibility. Students appreciate that queues are generally manageable, allowing them to get in without long waits. This convenience adds to the overall experience, as nobody enjoys standing in line for too long when they’re eager to start their night. The venue's late closing hours also mean that students can keep the night going as long as they want, making it a go-to choice for those looking to extend their evenings.
However, it’s not all perfect at The Basement. Some students have pointed out that the cleanliness of the toilets could use improvement. While many appreciate the overall cleanliness of the venue, the restrooms sometimes fall short of expectations, which can detract from the experience. Additionally, while the vibe is generally positive, there are occasional mentions of nights where the atmosphere can feel a bit hit or miss, depending on the crowd. This variability is something to keep in mind, as it can affect how enjoyable a particular night out may be.
In terms of what students should know before heading to The Basement, it’s worth noting that the venue is best suited for those looking for a relaxed yet fun night out. It’s ideal for students who enjoy a lively atmosphere with good music and affordable drinks. If you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back experience, this venue might just be your perfect match. Overall, The Basement offers a solid mix of enjoyment, affordability, and a friendly crowd, making it a noteworthy choice for students at the University of Surrey.
In summary, The Basement is a fantastic option for students seeking a vibrant yet chill venue to enjoy a night out. Its good music, reasonable drink prices, and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice among the student body, while its occasional downsides, like cleanliness issues and varying crowd energy, are worth considering. Regardless, it’s a place where many students find themselves returning time and time again, drawn by the promise of a fun and memorable night.
✅ What Students Love
- Lively atmosphere with a friendly crowd
- Good music that keeps students entertained
- Reasonably priced drinks and great deals
- Manageable queues for easy entry
- Welcoming vibe that makes it easy to meet new people
- Late closing hours to extend the night out
⚠️ Things to Note
- Cleanliness of toilets could be improved
- Vibe can be hit or miss depending on the crowd
- Occasional variability in the overall experience
- Some nights may be busier than others, leading to a different atmosphere
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a fun and affordable night out with friends.
💡 Things to Know
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
- Check for any special drink deals before ordering.
- The venue can get busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
- Keep an eye on the cleanliness, especially in the restrooms.
- It's a good idea to go with a group for a more enjoyable experience.
❓ Common Questions
What is The Basement like?
The Basement is a vibrant student venue known for its lively atmosphere, good music, and friendly crowd, making it a great spot for a night out.
Is it good value?
Yes, The Basement is highly rated for its reasonable drink prices and great deals, making it an affordable choice for students.
When do students go to The Basement?
Students typically head to The Basement for casual weekday hangouts or lively weekend nights out.
What type of crowd can I expect?
You can expect a friendly and diverse crowd, with many students looking to enjoy a fun night out.
Are there any cleanliness issues?
Some reviews mention that the toilets could use more attention, but overall the venue is considered clean.
Reviews
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Finding a quiet corner here might seem impossible at first, but there's a cosy nook near the entrance where you can catch your breath.
By user417759 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Energy in the basement is always changing, but it somehow still feels like an unchanging and tight-knit escape.
By user448844 on Apr 18th 2026
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Definitely head back for the tunes and decent drink prices, plus the cool crowd.
By user479318 on Apr 13th 2026
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Usually pop into the basement after a morning of training because it's just the right size for a bit of fun without being overwhelming. always get a good laugh with mates and the wait to get in isn't too bad either.
By user412951 on Apr 11th 2026
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Was surprised by how lively it got despite being a smaller venue. music was always spot on, and the crowd had such a friendly vibe that it felt like a mini student community down there.
By user625334 on Apr 10th 2026
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Boasting an underground location, the basement has this cool, tucked-away feel that's different from your average uni bar. it's vibey and intimate, and you don’t need to hustle for a drink, which means less standing around and more dancing 🕺🎶
By user794704 on Apr 6th 2026
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Bumping into classmates on the dance floor made it feel like a night out at home.
By user926292 on Apr 5th 2026
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Got stuck outside in the rain once and they let me in early to warm up.
By user598155 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Hit up The Basement if you’re into a buzzing student crowd 😅, though having some patience helps as queues might test your chill. overall, great for letting loose.
By user653225 on Apr 1st 2026
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Definitely planning to go back to The Basement because the crowd was welcoming and the DJ knew their stuff 😅.
By user142699 on Mar 31st 2026
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Honestly, i'd go back mainly because the drinks don't cost much, even if the vibe changes.
By user208815 on Mar 30th 2026
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Noticed the bouncers here were surprisingly chill and just had a friendly vibe, which made getting in a breeze. it's something you don't always get at uni venues, where you tend to find the opposite. set a good tone for the whole night being so relaxed from the start.
By user541238 on Mar 26th 2026
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Loved how music just fills the room and gets everyone moving, even when you arrive feeling super tired 😅 it's like the whole place buzzes with good energy and excitement.
By user683921 on Mar 23rd 2026
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You know when you just want a place where everyone seems to be having the best time? that’s what basement is all about. one night there and you’ll see why everyone keeps chatting about it , perfect for when you just need fun without any fuss.
By user736942 on Mar 18th 2026
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Walking down those stairs for the first time, i didn't expect it to be so buzzy for such a small venue. quite different vibe with everyone crammed in, chatting, and just having a laugh. made it feel like a proper escape from all the uni chaos above.
By user299125 on Mar 17th 2026
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Gets super crowded to the point where you can hardly move. waiting at the bar takes forever, so i'd suggest pre-drinking to make the night smoother.
By user257018 on Mar 12th 2026
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Stumbled into The Basement expecting just another usual night and found it turned into one big sing-along 🎶 everyone's enthusiasm was kind of contagious, which made it feel less like a crowded bar and more like a bunch of mates in a really lively basement party
By user190650 on Mar 10th 2026
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Space really gives off that cozy feeling where you're around great people and forget your stress. music's not too loud, so you can actually chat and unwind
By user847458 on Feb 28th 2026
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Seating yourself in The Basement is like entering a world where the outside stops existing. everyone's so relaxed and quick to chat, you forget any stress you dragged in with you. plus, the place just seems to have this natural pull for laughter and connection among strangers.
By user716636 on Feb 11th 2026
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Stepping into the basement felt like entering a world separate from campus stresses. it was buzzing, and you could feel the anticipation in the air. i just felt instantly uplifted, like you'd leave your worries at the door.
By user639892 on Feb 4th 2026
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Wasn't really sure what to expect when heading to The Basement, but it was a pleasant surprise. I thought it'd be cramped with a 250 person capacity, but it managed to keep its chill without feeling overcrowded 😮. it's definitely a cool place to hang out if you're around the uni.
By user583963 on Jan 30th 2026
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Can't get over how close the crowd feels at The Basement. it's packed but not suffocating, making it perfect for a night out without feeling like you're in a huge, impersonal club. especially love how everyone's just there to have a good time, which adds a real friendly vibe to the place.
By user975054 on Jan 25th 2026
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You know how we always end up at the same places? well, last week someone dragged me to The Basement and honestly, i was so glad. it’s got this electric vibe that's just right.
By user278371 on Jan 20th 2026
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Love spending my friday nights here relaxing with friends after a week of lectures. it's become the usual spot to unwind and catch up.
By user590092 on Jan 16th 2026
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Winding up at The Basement with its electric atmosphere and music that somehow made studying feel like a distant memory really nailed it. the staff kept everything rolling smoothly, which made the whole night actually work.
By user483544 on Jan 13th 2026
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Hitting up The Basement on a friday night when it's packed is wild. everyone's just vibing and the energy's through the roof. nothing like when the DJ knows exactly what the crowd wants and you can just lose yourself in the music.
By user615848 on Jan 10th 2026
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Surprisingly found myself actually loving the music choices here, which is not something i usually pay attention to. despite the limited space, everyone seemed to be in their own world, really just having a good time.
By user517401 on Jan 6th 2026
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Noticed there's always a spot to sit and catch your breath, which is a rare find in busy venues.
By user783799 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Music was a bit too loud for my taste, and it sometimes drowned out conversation. wish there were more chill areas to chat with mates without yelling yourself hoarse. atmosphere is pretty energetic otherwise.
By user182631 on Dec 28th 2025
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I'll definitely be back because the tunes absolutely had everyone on the floor 🎶
By user809551 on Dec 24th 2025
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Noticed the DJ seems to throw in some unique mixes that you don't hear in the usual student spots.
By user639493 on Dec 19th 2025
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Music in The Basement is always spot-on, like they've got a knack for just knowing what everyone's in the mood for. found myself on the dance floor with strangers who felt like old mates by the end of the night 🙌
By user288127 on Dec 15th 2025
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Never thought i’d wind up dancing in a basement, but here we are. kind of surprise how it feels so packed yet comfy at the same time. music pulls you right in and suddenly you're in your own little world.
By user778967 on Dec 11th 2025
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Noticed the ceiling is surprisingly low but somehow it adds to the coziness of the place. it feels like you're all tucked away from the world, sharing stories or just enjoying the night with familiar faces. even if you've been there a dozen times, each visit has something different that makes you smile 😅
By user750376 on Dec 4th 2025
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Staff here are pretty cool and worth chatting with over a drink. everyone seems genuinely happy to be there, which adds to the vibe. you leave feeling like you've caught up with old friends even if it’s your first time.
By user496787 on Dec 1st 2025
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Noticed a small corner where you can actually hear each other talk without shouting over the music. kind of rare in clubs, and it made moments to chill out between dance breaks feel more relaxed.
By user664874 on Nov 26th 2025
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Music is always blasting way too loud, which is cool for dancing but makes any attempt at a chat impossible. one time i had to practically shout at my mate even when we were just by the entrance. bit more balance on the volume would make for a much better night out.
By user725618 on Nov 21st 2025
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Walk into The Basement and you're met with an infectious energy that makes it impossible to not feel pumped. music's always loud and there's a constant flow of people to chat with or dance around. if you haven't been, you're seriously missing out on a night that's both chaotic and unforgettable in the best way.
By user169494 on Nov 15th 2025
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Staff here always keep things moving even on the busiest nights, which is actually impressive. you can tell they're used to handling the chaos of student nights with a smile, so chatting with them at the bar's a nice bonus.
By user129857 on Nov 9th 2025
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Noticed the staff here are really chill and it made the whole experience way more relaxed, like chatting with friends rather than being served
By user739873 on Nov 1st 2025
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Noticed how everyone seemed to find their own little dance area without feeling packed in like sardines, which made the night feel so much more relaxed 😅
By user896674 on Oct 27th 2025
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Checked out The Basement last weekend and James wasn't kidding when he said it's perfect for a night of dancing. the place is buzzing with energy and feels like a cool little retreat from all the uni stress.
By user239630 on Oct 24th 2025
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Noticed how the low ceilings make the music feel like it's wrapped around you completely.
By user829823 on Oct 20th 2025
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Staff here are chatty and down-to-earth, making the place feel welcoming.
By user232013 on Oct 17th 2025
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It's a bit cramped, but that's what makes it brilliant for meeting folks. at first i felt squashed, but now it's more like everyone's just part of this wild little community, and i love it.
By user373394 on Oct 13th 2025
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Went there with my flatmates during freshers' week and it was mad fun. squeezing onto the packed dancefloor with everyone else felt kind of surreal but so good for breaking the ice with new people.
By user144150 on Oct 9th 2025
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Wandered into The Basement with a curious mind and left with tired legs from all the dancing. love how it's tucked away and just for us uni lot 😊
By user567537 on Oct 5th 2025
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Felt like a secret escape once you stepped in, away from the stress of projects and deadlines. the DJ knew exactly how to keep everyone moving, making it impossible not to get lost in the rhythm.
By user506912 on Sep 29th 2025
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Music was on point and matched the energy I needed after a tough week. bumping into people from my course was a nice surprise, and the whole place felt cozy yet buzzing.
By user757569 on Sep 24th 2025
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Would absolutely go back to the basement. loved the compact space and energetic crowd. plus, the staff were really friendly and made the night stress-free.
By user995528 on Sep 16th 2025
Review published! ✓