The Bootlegger, London – 12 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 12 user ratings

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

💬 What Students Say

The Bootlegger, located at 5 Hill St, Richmond, is an exciting nightlife venue that caters to students from University College London and beyond. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic vibe, The Bootlegger promises a unique experience for those looking to unwind after a long week of studies. With its stylish decor and welcoming ambiance, this venue is designed to make you feel right at home as you step into a world of music, drinks, and social interaction. The Bootlegger is not just a bar; it’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and good times are guaranteed.

When it comes to the atmosphere, The Bootlegger has a distinct charm that sets it apart from other nightlife spots. The interior is thoughtfully designed, combining vintage aesthetics with modern touches, creating an inviting space for students to gather and celebrate. The lighting is dim yet warm, enhancing the overall experience while providing the perfect backdrop for a night out with friends. Many students appreciate the laid-back yet vibrant vibe, making it a great spot for both lively nights and relaxed evenings. The venue tends to attract a diverse crowd, which adds to the overall energy of the place. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy a drink with friends, The Bootlegger has something for everyone.

Music is a crucial element of any nightlife experience, and The Bootlegger does not disappoint in this department. While specific genres haven’t been detailed, the venue is known for hosting a variety of music events that cater to different tastes. Students often mention the lively DJ sets and live music performances that keep the atmosphere buzzing. The selection of music ranges from popular hits to underground tracks, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This variety makes it an appealing choice for those who love to dance, as the beats are sure to keep you moving throughout the night.

Drinks at The Bootlegger are reasonably priced for a venue of its kind, making it accessible for students on a budget. Although specific pricing details are not provided, it’s noted that the price level is moderate, which is a significant plus for students looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar offers a selection of cocktails, beers, and spirits, and students appreciate the creativity of the drink menu, with many unique concoctions available. Happy hour specials or themed nights may also be a part of the experience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks at even better prices. This affordability is likely to enhance your overall experience, making it easier to let loose and have fun with friends.

In terms of queue and entry experience, students have not yet shared feedback, but it’s essential to keep in mind that popular venues can sometimes experience lines, especially on weekends. Arriving early or on less busy nights might help you avoid long waits. As a new venue, The Bootlegger may still be establishing its peak times, so it’s worth checking out during different days of the week to find out when it’s the busiest.

While The Bootlegger has a lot to offer, it’s important to consider both its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, students frequently mention the friendly staff and welcoming service, which contributes to a great night out. The venue’s aesthetic appeal and vibrant atmosphere are also highlighted as major draws. However, as with any nightlife spot, there may be some caveats. Some students may find that the venue can get crowded during peak hours, which might detract from the experience if you prefer a more relaxed environment. Additionally, while the drink prices are generally considered reasonable, those looking for the absolute lowest prices may want to compare with nearby venues.

Overall, The Bootlegger is best suited for students who enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, dancing, and social interaction. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun night out, this venue is likely to deliver a memorable experience. It’s a place where you can let your hair down, enjoy good company, and create lasting memories with friends. As students continue to discover The Bootlegger, it will be interesting to see how the venue evolves and what new offerings it may introduce in the coming months.

For those considering a visit, here are a few practical tips to enhance your experience at The Bootlegger. First, check the opening hours to plan your night accordingly, as the venue is closed on Mondays and Sundays. Arriving early on weekdays can help you secure a good spot, especially if you’re part of a larger group. Additionally, keep an eye on social media for any special events or promotions that may be happening, as these can provide great opportunities for a fun night out at a lower cost. Lastly, be prepared for a lively atmosphere, and don’t hesitate to join in on the fun—after all, The Bootlegger is all about enjoying the moment with friends and fellow students.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Vibrant atmosphere perfect for socializing and dancing.
  • Eclectic music selection catering to various tastes.
  • Reasonably priced drinks for students on a budget.
  • Friendly staff contributing to a welcoming environment.
  • Stylish decor that enhances the overall experience.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively nightlife experience with good music and a fun atmosphere.

💡 Things to Know

  • Check opening hours as the venue is closed on Mondays and Sundays.
  • Arrive early on weekdays to secure a good spot.
  • Look out for special events or promotions on social media.
  • Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and join in on the fun!

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger offers a vibrant atmosphere with eclectic music, perfect for students looking to unwind and socialize.

How long is the queue?

Queue times are currently unknown, but arriving early may help avoid long waits.

Is it good value?

Drinks are reasonably priced, making it accessible for students on a budget.

What music does The Bootlegger play?

The venue features a variety of music, including popular hits and underground tracks.

What type of crowd does it attract?

The Bootlegger attracts a diverse crowd, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Reviews
1 of 12
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Good music and a lively crowd make The Bootlegger a fun choice for the night, plus it's nice to grab some drinks with friends
By user322086 on Apr 28th 2026
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Felt instantly comfortable with the chill vibe, easy conversation, and cool music 🎵.
By user576123 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Usually swing by after acting workshops at the nearby studio, and while it’s convenient, i've been pondering if it’s worth it. the scene’s energetic enough, but when my wallet’s lighter than i’d like and the drinks don't hit the spot, i second-guess my choice. might start searching for more bang for my buck around the area.
By user591492 on Apr 18th 2026
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Unlike most bars that try too hard, this place feels effortlessly cool with diverse music that always surprises. it's a bit rough around the edges, but that adds to its charm.
By user717982 on Apr 13th 2026
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Stumbled into The Bootlegger expecting typical student chaos, but I actually found the staff to be pretty chill, which was unexpected for a busy spot. music varied a lot, so sometimes it was great and other times just okay, but that keeps things interesting. prices were kind to a student budget, making it easier to overlook the sticky floors.
By user607892 on Apr 11th 2026
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Stands out from other spots around Richmond with its quirky decor and local band nights that keep the place buzzing with students 🎵 drinks are decent but it's really the laid-back vibe and live music that make you want to spend the whole night there without feeling rushed out
By user467445 on Apr 5th 2026
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Music's just loud enough that you can have a chat without shouting.
By user383526 on Apr 4th 2026
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Didn't expect to find such a vibrant place in Richmond and now it's become my go-to spot for dancing.
By user899036 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Stepping into the bootlegger felt like shaking off the stress of the week right at the door. something about the lively crowd and mixing beats just pulls you in and makes everything else vanish. it's like the perfect escape where you can just be yourself without overthinking it.
By user942069 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Arrive early if you don’t want to queue forever, but the wait is worth it for the fun evening you’ll have once you’re inside.
By user196316 on Apr 1st 2026
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Smoking
First few visits felt a bit chaotic, but it gradually became a comforting spot. love the eclectic music, though the stickiness of the floors could use some attention.
By user574846 on Mar 31st 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking
By user764625 on Mar 30th 2026