The Bootlegger, London – 9 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Bootlegger -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 9 user ratings

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

💬 What Students Say

Located in Richmond, The Bootlegger is quickly becoming a go-to venue for students from the University of West London looking for a vibrant night out. This bar and nightclub combines a relaxed atmosphere with an energetic vibe that appeals to a diverse crowd. The venue is designed with a speakeasy theme, featuring vintage décor and cozy seating areas, making it an ideal spot for both casual hangouts and lively nights out. The ambiance is often described as welcoming, making it a great place to unwind with friends after a long week of studying.

When it comes to music, The Bootlegger offers a mix that caters to various tastes. Students can expect a blend of popular hits and classic tracks that keep the energy high throughout the night. The venue regularly hosts themed nights and events that add to the excitement, providing opportunities for students to dance and socialize. The diverse music selection is a highlight for many, as it creates an engaging atmosphere for those looking to let loose and enjoy their evening.

Drinks at The Bootlegger are reasonably priced, which is a significant plus for students on a budget. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, beers, and spirits, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Many students appreciate the creative cocktail menu, which features both classic and unique concoctions. The pricing is generally considered fair for the quality of drinks offered, making it a popular choice for pre-drinks or a nightcap after a long day.

As for the queue and entry experience, students have mixed feelings. While some report that the entry process is smooth and efficient, especially during off-peak times, others have mentioned that it can get busy on weekends, leading to longer wait times. Arriving early is often recommended to avoid the rush, particularly on nights when special events are scheduled. Overall, students seem to appreciate the friendly staff who help maintain a positive atmosphere.

In terms of who this venue suits best, The Bootlegger is ideal for social butterflies and those looking to immerse themselves in the local nightlife scene. It attracts a youthful crowd, making it a great place for students to meet new people and enjoy a lively night out. The mix of seating options allows for both intimate conversations and larger gatherings, catering to different social preferences. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet drink with friends or dance the night away, The Bootlegger accommodates various moods and occasions.

While there are numerous strengths to The Bootlegger, it’s essential to consider a few caveats as well. Some students have mentioned that the venue can become quite crowded, particularly on weekends, which may detract from the overall experience for those who prefer a more relaxed environment. Additionally, while the drinks are reasonably priced, some students feel that certain cocktails could be more generously poured. It’s also worth noting that the venue is closed on Mondays and Sundays, which could limit options for those seeking a night out at the beginning or end of the week.

Overall, The Bootlegger stands out as a highly-rated venue for students seeking a fun and engaging nightlife experience near the University of West London. Its unique atmosphere, diverse music, and fair pricing make it a solid choice for a night out. Students frequently mention the enjoyable vibe and friendly staff, which contribute to the overall appeal of the venue. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind after a long week, The Bootlegger has something to offer everyone.

In summary, if you’re a student at the University of West London looking for a vibrant nightlife venue, The Bootlegger is worth checking out. With its eclectic music, reasonable drink prices, and lively atmosphere, it’s a place where you can create lasting memories with friends. Just remember to plan your visit accordingly to avoid long queues, especially on popular nights. The Bootlegger is a venue that promises a good time and a chance to experience the local nightlife scene in Richmond.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Vibrant atmosphere with a speakeasy theme.
  • Diverse music selection that caters to various tastes.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, including creative cocktails.
  • Friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming environment.
  • Ideal for both casual hangouts and lively nights out.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively atmosphere and a chance to socialize with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, particularly on weekends.
  • Expect a mix of popular hits and classic tracks for music.
  • Dress code is generally casual, but smart casual is recommended.
  • Check for themed nights or special events for a unique experience.
  • Prices are fair, but keep an eye on cocktail sizes.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Bootlegger like?

The Bootlegger is a lively nightlife venue with a speakeasy vibe, popular among students for its music and drinks.

How long is the queue?

Queues can vary; it’s generally smoother on weekdays but can be longer on weekends.

Is it good value?

Yes, drinks are reasonably priced, making it a good option for students.

What music does The Bootlegger play?

Expect a mix of popular hits and classic tracks that keep the energy high.

What is the atmosphere like?

The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, perfect for socializing and enjoying a night out.

Reviews
1 of 9
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Honestly, I expected it to be way busier and noisier but it turned out surprisingly chill.
By user447299 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Fun memories of evenings at The Bootlegger are always with a bustling mix of locals and students.
By user664417 on Apr 18th 2026
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Music had everyone dancing and it felt electric. seemed like groups of students and locals just meshed together naturally.
By user255173 on Apr 13th 2026
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Didn't expect to find a decent dancefloor vibe in such a chill spot. turns out, the music is surprisingly good, keeping everyone dancing. drinks are decently priced too, though the line for the bar can be a bit slow.
By user676613 on Apr 9th 2026
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What sets The Bootlegger apart is the unique speakeasy design that gives you this hidden-from-the-world feel while still being in the middle of Richmond. unlike a lot of places that feel samey after a while, this spot has a personality that just stands out. it's refreshing mixing with people who come for more than just a basic night out.
By user162318 on Apr 6th 2026
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Smoking
Would probably go back because the music creates such a lively atmosphere and the drink prices fit a student budget without much guilt 😅. haven't had any major issues the few times i've visited, and the energetic crowd always makes it feel like a good choice for a night out. it's one of those spots where you sort of know what to expect.
By user262088 on Apr 4th 2026
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Totally would go back to The Bootlegger for a chilled night out. everyone there seems pretty laidback and not in a rush, which is always a win for me. plus, it's got that relaxed but lively feel without being too over the top and that's really my scene.
By user137226 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Cleanliness
Music
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Smoking
Strolling into the bootlegger felt a notch above my usual haunts, with its lively yet chill atmosphere that strikes a perfect balance 🙌 and the reasonable drink prices mean you don't have to compromise on quality to have a good time.
By user308481 on Mar 31st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
By user994100 on Mar 30th 2026