The Lowther, York – 38 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

The Lowther -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 38 user ratings

8 Cumberland St, York YO1 9SW, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Lowther is a casual bar located by the River Ouse, making it a popular spot for students at the University of York. This venue is known for its laid-back vibe, which can get a bit rowdy, especially on weekends. It's the kind of place where you can kick back with friends over a few drinks, play some pool, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that comes with a crowd of fellow students. The Lowther stands out as a reliable meeting point before heading out to the nearby clubs, making it a staple in the student nightlife scene. With its focus on casual enjoyment, it’s no wonder that students frequently mention it as a go-to spot for a fun night out.

The atmosphere at The Lowther is often described as lively yet comfortable. Students enjoy the mix of energy that fills the space, allowing for a balance between having a good time and being able to chat with friends. Many reviews highlight how the venue feels safe and friendly, contributing to a welcoming environment. This is particularly appealing for students who might be looking for a relaxed place to unwind after a long week of studying. The crowd is diverse, with a solid mix of people, which helps create a more inclusive vibe rather than a feeling of cliques or exclusivity. The overall energy in the bar is often described as upbeat, making it a perfect setting for socializing.

One of the standout features of The Lowther is its affordability. Students regularly rave about the drink deals available, especially during the week, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. The pricing is consistently noted as reasonable, which is a major plus for students looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar also receives high marks for cleanliness, which adds to the overall positive experience. Reviewers appreciate that the venue is well-maintained, from the seating areas to the restrooms, which can sometimes be overlooked in student bars.

When it comes to drinks, The Lowther offers a selection that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Many students mention enjoying the good quality of the drinks available, whether it's pints of beer or other options. The value for money is a recurring theme in reviews, with many students highlighting that they can enjoy a few rounds without feeling guilty about their budgets. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes The Lowther a popular choice among students looking to enjoy a night out with friends.

The student crowd at The Lowther tends to gather primarily during the evenings, especially on weekends when the energy is at its peak. Students often flock to the bar before heading out to clubs, making it a bustling hub of activity. The reviews suggest that it’s a great place to start the night, where you can enjoy drinks and socialize before moving on to other venues. On quieter nights, it still serves as a comfortable spot for catching up with friends, which adds to its versatility as a bar.

Despite the many positives, there are a few downsides that potential visitors should keep in mind. Some students have noted that queues can get a bit long, particularly during peak times. However, most reviews mention that the queues tend to move quickly, so it’s usually not a major hassle. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally lively, some students may find it a bit too rowdy on busier nights. It’s important to be prepared for a bustling environment, especially if you prefer quieter settings.

Overall, The Lowther is best suited for students who enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere where they can relax with friends over affordable drinks. Whether you're looking to kick off your night or just hang out in a friendly environment, this bar has a lot to offer. With its combination of good vibes, reasonable prices, and a welcoming crowd, it’s no wonder that The Lowther is frequently recommended by students at the University of York as a must-visit spot for a good time. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, The Lowther promises to deliver a memorable experience that you’ll want to return to time and again.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere perfect for socializing.
  • Great drink deals, especially during the week.
  • Clean and well-maintained venue.
  • Diverse crowd that enhances the social experience.
  • Good quality drinks at reasonable prices.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Queues can get long during peak times, but usually move quickly.
  • Can be a bit rowdy on busier nights, which may not suit everyone.
  • Limited food options compared to other venues.
  • Some students may prefer a quieter environment.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively bar to socialize and enjoy affordable drinks.

💡 Things to Know

  • The Lowther is a popular meeting point before heading out to clubs.
  • Expect a bustling crowd, especially on weekends.
  • Check out the drink deals for great value during the week.
  • The venue is known for its cleanliness, making it a pleasant place to hang out.
  • It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Lowther like?

The Lowther is a casual bar known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and friendly crowd.

Is it good value?

Yes, The Lowther is highly rated for its reasonable drink prices and great deals, especially during the week.

When do students go to The Lowther?

Students typically visit The Lowther in the evenings, particularly on weekends before heading to clubs.

What type of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a diverse mix of students, creating a friendly and inclusive vibe.

Is there food available?

While The Lowther offers some food options, the focus is primarily on drinks and socializing.

Reviews
1 of 38
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Place delivers a decent night without draining your wallet too much. felt like a good balance between price and what you actually get.
By user289066 on Apr 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Getting a drink here is always faster compared to other places i've been, which is a blessing when you're surrounded by a crowd. i expected chaos on a saturday night, but the staff managed the bustle impressively well. you'll often leave with new memories, thanks to the easygoing yet energized atmosphere.
By user423790 on Apr 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Weekends at The Lowther can be a bit chaotic, especially when fighting through the crowd at the bar just to get a drink. staff are friendly but it feels like they might need a few extra hands when things get busy, which seems to be all the time.
By user489551 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff at the lowther are pretty laid back and seem to handle the weekend chaos quite well.
By user327103 on Apr 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Thought it'd be packed and hard to get in because of the riverside location 😅, but we were inside pretty quickly. the music was spot-on for dancing, but still let us chat without shouting. normally expect more chaos on a weekend, but it was just the right kind of lively and surprisingly tidy.
By user433462 on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
River lights reflecting, tunes pumping, and everyone just feeling the night. nothing forced, just pure fun. a proper 🏆 night for a group chill.
By user584604 on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
When the sun sets over the river and the place is packed, it almost feels like everyone's in sync.
By user937494 on Mar 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed it's a spot where the locals and students mix in the most interesting way. everyone's just letting loose, making living in york feel unexpectedly lively. you sort of get drawn into chats with random people and somehow it's just comfortable.
By user509260 on Mar 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Initially i thought the lowther might be too chaotic for my taste, but after a few visits, it quickly became a favorite. the atmosphere's lively energy is just what i needed to feel at home in my final year, somehow comforting amidst the chaos.
By user730265 on Mar 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Worth checking out if you're in york. it's by the river, so the view is decent, but what stands out is how easy it is to just hang out with a group. sure, weekends can be a bit mad, but that's sometimes exactly what you want.
By user139213 on Mar 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Ended up at The Lowther one chilled Friday night, and that riverside air was just perfect. the kind of night where everyone seemed a bit more approachable, and laughter just felt louder out there. truly what we needed.
By user771602 on Mar 8th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the tables by the window have a perfect view of the river where it catches the light beautifully in the evening. it's like the world outside pauses for a moment while it gets lively inside.
By user908065 on Mar 7th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Unlike most student bars, the lowther offers a refreshing mix of relaxation and chaos that's strangely comforting 🎉. it's right by the river, so you can unwind with a pint while the world drifts by.
By user768212 on Mar 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed that the music can be way too loud sometimes, making it hard to chat with friends. even shouting doesn't seem to work on those nights. honestly, i think it would be better if they turned it down just a notch to balance the lively atmosphere with actually having a conversation.
By user855720 on Mar 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always a good laugh watching people try not to spill their drinks when dancing near the river's edge. makes for some hilarious conversations with the mates when someone inevitably loses the battle.
By user671572 on Mar 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Being right by the River Ouse really adds something special to a night out, especially when you can just stroll outside for some fresh air. it gets a bit lively on weekends, but that's part of the fun if you're in the mood for it. having a laid-back spot to unwind with friends without any pretentiousness is why i'd come back.
By user241066 on Feb 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the lowther felt like entering a lively living room where everyone's just chill.
By user118371 on Feb 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected a calm riverside drink but found a pleasantly wild atmosphere instead 😮.
By user127264 on Feb 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Unlike other spots by the river, the lowther somehow manages to feel like a local hangout rather than just another student venue.
By user826201 on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music's much better than other places, rides that perfect line between hype and hangout. honestly, it doesn't feel like they're trying too hard, just a natural spot to let loose.
By user879619 on Jan 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into the lowther, there's this immediate sense of ease, like you can just let your shoulders drop and relax. people were laughing and chatting, and even though it was busy, you could still carve out a little space to settle in. it struck me as a place where the chaotic energy somehow felt inviting and comfortable.
By user828678 on Jan 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Located right by the river, the Lowther stands out from other spots because of its unique mix of chill vibes and lively energy. Not every place manages to blend a relaxed atmosphere with a crowd that's ready to party, especially on weekends. It's the sort of spot where you might start off with casual drinks and end up on the dance floor without realizing it.
By user716100 on Jan 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hanging out by the river feels like a mini escape from all the studying 📚. sometimes it gets pretty wild and loud inside, but you can always find a quiet spot outside to enjoy a cool breeze with your drinks.
By user938214 on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking in here instantly felt like joining a big, boisterous house party at someone's place. everyone seemed to just be buzzing, and you couldn't help but get caught up in it
By user786599 on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Usually hit up The Lowther midweek with my mates when we need a break from studying 📚. it's kind of become our routine escape to chat and unwind over a drink or two by the river. on weekends it gets wild and crowded, which isn't my usual scene, but during the week it’s the perfect spot to recharge.
By user177853 on Jan 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Getting a spot by the river was surprisingly quick, given it was a buzzing friday night. ended up having a proper laugh with mates and the sound of the water in the background added an unexpected chill vibe despite the chaos around us.
By user424197 on Jan 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Chill spot by the river that's perfect for unwinding. i'd definitely go back because there's always someone having a good time, and it's easy to join in the fun. weekends can be loud, but that's part of what makes it lively and exciting.
By user106192 on Dec 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grabbing a drink at the lowther is all about unwinding and enjoying yourself. it's right by the river, so the view is pretty awesome, especially when the sun's setting and gives everything a chill vibe.
By user681361 on Dec 23rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Used to feel a bit overwhelming at first with its lively buzz and crowd but after a few visits, really grew to appreciate that energy. once you're in the swing of things, the mix of familiar faces and the occasional new ones make it special. the perfect spot to unwind after a cycle around the city.
By user997987 on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the river view gave the place a chilled-out feel, even when everyone started singing along to cheesy classics. always nice when you don't have to shout over the music to chat.
By user481527 on Dec 15th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Got caught up in a heated game of pool against some locals while tunes blared in the background. it was one of those nights where time just slipped away and before i knew it, we were laughing and sharing stories like old mates. the way the place hums with energy makes it hard to ever leave when you're having that much fun.
By user241080 on Dec 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found myself chatting with a sociology major about quantum physics after a drink or two 😬. didn't expect such random, deep conversations in a student bar but that's what makes lowther's nights memorable. it's more than just a rowdy hangout spot.
By user811097 on Dec 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Was expecting it to be hectic near the river, but it’s surprisingly chill during the week. turns out it's a solid spot to unwind without the usual weekend chaos.
By user284715 on Nov 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Kick back with a pint by the river and enjoy the student buzz that fills the Lowther. gets lively at the weekend, but that's half the fun.
By user540855 on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grab a table by the river and you'll have the best view to unwind. it's usually packed with students, so it's got a lively crowd. if you're looking for something low key but fun, this is definitely worth checking out.
By user509709 on Nov 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard from a mate that it's one of those places that feels like organized chaos. it's fun to just show up and see what might happen, especially since it's a favorite among York students. plenty of laughs and unexpected moments here, and the weekend crowd just adds to the madness.
By user261284 on Nov 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Would definitely go back because of the fun atmosphere and laid-back vibe. it's the kind of spot where you can chill with friends and let loose a bit, especially when the crowd picks up. plus, being right by the river adds to the whole experience, making it a memorable place to unwind.
By user583367 on Nov 7th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Imagine a night where you start by the river, lose track of time with a group of mates, and the DJ just keeps the energy right. it's that kind of spot.
By user807129 on Oct 30th 2025