The Basement, Guildford – 66 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing
The Basement — student bar photo

The Basement -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 66 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.
▼ See more

✅ 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.

The Basement — student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 67
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding this place was a bit of an adventure, tucked away down a side street that felt vibrant without being overwhelming. It has a lively energy that made me instantly feel part of the community, a nice change from my quiet little town back home.
By user904316 (Surrey) on Jul 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Prices here are reasonable for a night out, especially for a student budget. with solid drinks and decent music, it feels like a worthwhile way to spend an evening without stressing about funds too much
By user605292 (Surrey) on Jul 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Over time, this place has kept its charm, even as the crowd fluctuates. I appreciate how the music always seems to strike a balance between new hits and classics, making it a reliable choice when I want to unwind with friends.
By user849002 (Surrey) on Jul 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere at the venue was unexpectedly warm and inviting, which I loved. 😄 However, the drink prices seemed a bit steep for my student budget, which was disappointing. Still, it's a pretty good spot to hang out and spend a night out with friends.
By user135599 (Surrey) on Jul 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place offers a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a student budget. The staff are attentive and keep things flowing smoothly, making sure you feel comfortable and valued.
By user596714 (Surrey) on Jul 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding a place that actually feels like it gets student life is rare, but this place nails it. there's a mix of people all just looking to have a good time, and you can really feel the energy. the drinks are reasonable too, which is a big help when you're on a student budget .
By user454425 (Surrey) on Jun 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place surprised me with its relaxed vibe, quite different from the hype. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, it was nice to just chill with friends while the music set a laid-back tone. Prices were reasonable too, making it a refreshing change from other places in town. 😊
By user181643 (Surrey) on Jun 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Basement caught me off guard with its chill vibe for a club. The diverse crowd stood out; everyone genuinely enjoyed themselves without the usual pretentiousness. It's quickly become a top spot for nights out with friends, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere.
By user288826 (Surrey) on Jun 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Had a decent night, but the crowd felt a bit off for me. if the atmosphere changes a bit, i might consider coming back, but for now, it’s not at the top of my list.
By user315221 (Surrey) on Jun 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music here always feels like a breath of fresh air. it manages to create a unique energy that turns each night into something completely different, making every visit feel like an adventure.
By user508658 (Surrey) on Jun 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Enjoying a night out here is a breeze thanks to the way the staff seem to have an innate sense of what the crowd needs. Their knack for picking up on the vibe and offering spot-on drink suggestions definitely elevates the experience. It’s perfect for when you just want to kick back and relax without a care in the world.
By user200950 (Surrey) on Jun 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The laughter here was just what I needed after a week full of assignments. Low lights and pulsing music set a tone that let me forget about deadlines. The crowd had the right energy—lively without being too much. What really stood out was the staff, who were genuinely engaged and shared laughs with us, adding to the relaxed atmosphere that lasted well into the night.
By user261720 (Surrey) on May 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The staff here greet everyone with genuine smiles, which really makes a difference. Their interactions go beyond just taking orders, creating a more personal atmosphere. This small gesture helps me relax and focus on enjoying time with friends, leaving the stress from classes behind.
By user329530 (Surrey) on May 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I was pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere here. The music was fantastic and really added to the energy of the night. It turned out to be a lot more fun than I expected for a student bar, making my evening much more enjoyable than usual.
By user449487 (Surrey) on May 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place stands out for its impeccable cleanliness; the floors and restrooms are so well-maintained that it feels spotless. It's rare to find a nightlife spot with such attention to detail, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The staff clearly take pride in keeping everything in top shape, which really enhances the experience here.
By user875447 (Surrey) on May 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music surprised me in a good way, blending different genres that brought everyone together. however, it did feel a bit cramped at times, especially when trying to navigate through the crowd.
By user934721 (Surrey) on May 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place was surprisingly lively for a student venue. People genuinely seemed into the music, and it was refreshing to see everyone enjoying themselves without any pretentiousness.
By user197039 (Surrey) on Apr 29th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place has a cosy nook by the entrance that's perfect for catching your breath. It's a small, charming area that adds to the overall vibe, making it a spot worth checking out if you need a moment away from the buzz.
By user417759 (Surrey) on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Energy in the basement is always changing, but it somehow still feels like an unchanging and tight-knit escape.
By user448844 (Surrey) on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I'd head back to the basement for the great music and affordable drinks. The crowd's always lively, making it an awesome place to hang out.
By user479318 (Surrey) on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I like to head down here after a morning of training because it's perfectly sized for some fun without being too much. Always share a good laugh with friends, and getting in doesn't take too long either.
By user412951 (Surrey) on Apr 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Apr 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Apr 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bumping into classmates on the dance floor made it feel like a night out at home.
By user926292 (Surrey) on Apr 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Got stuck outside in the rain once and they let me in early to warm up.
By user598155 (Surrey) on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Apr 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely planning to go back to The Basement because the crowd was welcoming and the DJ knew their stuff 😅.
By user142699 (Surrey) on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Honestly, i'd go back mainly because the drinks don't cost much, even if the vibe changes.
By user208815 (Surrey) on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place feels like a world apart from everyday life. The atmosphere is laid-back and everyone is eager to chat, making it easy to forget any stress you brought with you. There's a natural vibe here that encourages laughter and connection among strangers.
By user716636 (Surrey) on Feb 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Feb 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I wasn't expecting much from The Basement, but it turned out to be a nice surprise. With a 250 person capacity, I thought it'd feel cramped, yet it manages to stay laid-back and not overcrowded. It's definitely a cool spot if you're near the uni and looking for a chill hangout.
By user583963 (Surrey) on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place has such a lively energy, making it an ideal spot for a night out. I particularly enjoy the friendly atmosphere, as everyone seems ready to enjoy themselves. It's bustling with people, but never feels overwhelming, which sets it apart from larger, more impersonal venues.
By user975054 (Surrey) on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Jan 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Jan 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed there's always a spot to sit and catch your breath, which is a rare find in busy venues.
By user783799 (Surrey) on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The atmosphere at the venue is lively and full of energy, which is great if you're in the mood to be surrounded by a buzzing crowd. I just wish there were more laid-back spots where you could hang out with friends and chat without having to raise your voice so much. Overall, it's a fun place to be if you enjoy an energetic vibe.
By user182631 (Surrey) on Dec 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I'll definitely be back because the tunes absolutely had everyone on the floor 🎶
By user809551 (Surrey) on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place offers a different vibe with its unique DJ mixes that aren't what you'd typically hear at other student spots. It's a refreshing change if you're looking for something out of the ordinary. 🎶
By user639493 (Surrey) on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Dec 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place has a ceiling that's quite low, which oddly makes it feel cozy. It's like being in a little hideaway, perfect for sharing stories or just having a relaxing time with friends. Every visit offers something new to enjoy, even if you've been here many times.
By user750376 (Surrey) on Dec 4th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Chatting with the staff over a drink is a highlight here. Everyone genuinely seems happy, which really enhances the vibe. It feels like catching up with old friends, even on your first visit.
By user496787 (Surrey) on Dec 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding a cozy spot in the club for a breather was a nice surprise. At Grooves, there's a small corner where you can relax and actually have a conversation without straining your voice. It made chilling out between dance breaks so much more enjoyable.
By user664874 (Surrey) on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Nov 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place has an infectious energy that's hard to resist. The music is always blasting, and there's a steady stream of people to chat and dance with. If you haven't checked it out yet, you're definitely missing out on a night that's both chaotic and unforgettable in the best way.
By user169494 (Surrey) on Nov 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Even on the busiest nights, this place runs smoothly, which is impressive. The staff are great at managing the chaos with ease, and chatting with them at the bar is a nice perk. 🕺
By user129857 (Surrey) on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Spending time here felt like hanging out with a bunch of laid-back friends. The atmosphere was super chill, which made everything so much more enjoyable.
By user739873 (Surrey) on Nov 1st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Oct 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Oct 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the low ceilings make the music feel like it's wrapped around you completely.
By user829823 (Surrey) on Oct 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are chatty and down-to-earth, making the place feel welcoming.
By user232013 (Surrey) on Oct 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I initially felt a bit squashed here, but it's actually part of the charm. This place brings everyone together, creating a wild little community vibe that's brilliant for meeting new folks. Totally loving it!
By user373394 (Surrey) on Oct 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Oct 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
This place is a great spot for uni students to cut loose and dance the night away. I left with tired legs from all the grooving! Love how it's tucked away and feels like our own little hideaway 😊
By user567537 (Surrey) on Oct 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Sep 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Sep 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
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 (Surrey) on Sep 16th 2025