The Bootlegger, Guildford – 8 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 8 user ratings

The Bootlegger Richmond, 5 Hill St, London, Richmond, TW9 1SX

💬 What Students Say

The Bootlegger, located in Richmond, London, is an engaging bar that perfectly caters to the nightlife desires of students from the University of Surrey. With its unique speakeasy atmosphere, this venue stands out as a vibrant choice for those looking to relax after a week of studies. The inviting ambiance is characterized by dim lighting and vintage decor, creating a stylish and comfortable environment for patrons to enjoy. This bar is designed to encourage social interaction, making it an ideal spot for students to kick back with friends or meet new people in a lively setting. Many students appreciate the eclectic design, which fosters a sense of community and fun, allowing for an enjoyable night out with a great vibe.

Students frequently highlight the atmosphere at The Bootlegger, noting that it sets the perfect stage for a night of relaxation and enjoyment. The combination of comfortable seating and an open layout encourages guests to unwind while the music plays in the background. The venue’s design creates a balance between intimacy and energy, making it a popular hangout for young adults in the area. Many reviews mention that the crowd tends to be friendly, which adds to the overall appeal of the venue. Whether you’re there for a casual drink or a more spirited night out, the ambiance at The Bootlegger makes it easy to connect with others.

One of the standout features of The Bootlegger is its music selection. While specific genres are not detailed, students have noted that the playlist includes a mix of popular hits, classic anthems, and dance tracks, which keeps the energy levels high throughout the night. The sound system is well regarded, enhancing the overall experience for guests. This focus on music, combined with the venue’s lively atmosphere, makes it a popular choice for students looking to dance and enjoy a good time with friends.

In terms of drinks, The Bootlegger is known for its reasonable pricing, which is a significant factor for students on a budget. Reviews indicate that patrons find the drink prices to be affordable, making it an appealing option for those looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar offers a variety of drink options, catering to different tastes and preferences, which is another reason why students keep coming back. The combination of good value and a fun atmosphere makes The Bootlegger a go-to spot for many.

The student crowd at The Bootlegger tends to be lively, especially during the evenings. Many students visit the bar for a chill night out, and it often sees a decent turnout, creating a vibrant social scene. The reviews suggest that the venue is particularly popular among students looking for a relaxed environment to enjoy music and drinks with friends. The bar is generally busy on weekends, but students have commented on how the queues are manageable, allowing for a smooth entry experience. This aspect is particularly appreciated, as it means you can get in and start enjoying your night without long waits.

What makes The Bootlegger stand out is its unique blend of atmosphere, music, and affordability. The speakeasy vibe combined with a friendly crowd creates a distinctive experience that resonates with students. The venue also hosts events and themed nights, adding an extra layer of excitement and encouraging repeat visits. These events not only enhance the overall experience but also provide students with a reason to return and discover something new each time. Students enjoy the sense of community that The Bootlegger fosters, making it a place where they can feel at home while still enjoying a lively night out.

However, like any venue, The Bootlegger does have its downsides. Some students have noted that while the atmosphere is generally great, it can sometimes get a bit crowded, especially on busier nights. This might detract from the relaxed vibe that many are looking for. Additionally, while the music is generally well-received, there may be nights when the selection doesn’t align with everyone’s tastes. While the venue aims to cater to a variety of musical preferences, there may be moments when the playlist doesn’t hit the mark for some patrons.

In summary, The Bootlegger is an excellent choice for students who appreciate a vibrant bar atmosphere with a speakeasy twist. The combination of good music, reasonably priced drinks, and a welcoming crowd makes it a fantastic spot to unwind after a busy week. Whether you’re looking to dance, socialize, or simply enjoy a drink with friends, The Bootlegger offers an experience that many students are sure to enjoy. Just be prepared for a lively crowd, especially on weekends, and be open to the music selection, which can vary from night to night.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Inviting atmosphere with a unique speakeasy vibe.
  • Affordable drink prices, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Good music selection that keeps the energy high.
  • Friendly crowd that fosters a sense of community.
  • Comfortable seating and spacious layout for social interaction.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively bar with a fun atmosphere to unwind with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • The bar is open Monday to Friday, so plan your visits accordingly.
  • Expect a friendly crowd, especially during the evenings.
  • Drinks are reasonably priced, making it a great spot for budget-conscious students.
  • Keep an eye out for themed nights and events for a unique experience.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger is a lively bar with a speakeasy vibe, perfect for students looking to unwind with friends.

Is it good value?

Yes, The Bootlegger is known for its reasonably priced drinks, making it a great choice for students.

When do students go to The Bootlegger?

Students typically visit The Bootlegger during the evenings, especially on weekdays.

What kind of music is played at The Bootlegger?

The venue features a diverse playlist that includes popular hits, classic anthems, and dance tracks.

Is there a queue to get in?

Generally, the queues are manageable, allowing for a smooth entry experience.

Reviews
1 of 8
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here really know how to create a relaxed atmosphere without the pretentiousness. it makes a big difference when you’re just looking to unwind and hang out without any pressure.
By user484683 on Apr 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
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Smoking
Imagine walking into a place where the vibe is just right, like everyone's on the same page. it's one of those places that’s buzzing enough to feel lively but not overwhelming. it's that rare spot where you can actually chat without shouting.
By user513512 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
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Smoking
Probably wouldn't rush back to The Bootlegger anytime soon. the wait outside was a drag and kind of set a negative vibe from the start, even though it did get better once inside.
By user598060 on Apr 18th 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking
Usually swing by the bootlegger when I need a break from the books. it's got a laid-back vibe that's perfect for hitting pause midweek. the crowd feels chill and the prices don't make me wince, which is always a win.
By user176569 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking
Ordering at the bar was a breeze even when it was packed, which surprised me. sitting in the corner with friends, we got into this deep chat while the music played low in the background, making it a pretty solid night without the usual shouting over tunes.
By user176150 on Apr 10th 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking
Found myself vibing with the music and enjoying the chill crowd. the atmosphere felt friendly, and the prices didn’t hurt my wallet too much either.
By user664612 on Apr 6th 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
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Smoking
Wandered in with some friends one chilled saturday and ended up chatting with this bloke by the bar about the last rugby match. music was at just the right level to keep the convo going and the drinks didn’t make my wallet cry either.
By user713560 on Apr 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Takes a few visits, but eventually it feels like home.
By user812907 on Mar 30th 2026