Charles XII, York – 48 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Charles XII -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 48 user ratings

8 Main Street, York YO10 5EA England

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

Nestled in the heart of Heslington, just a stone's throw from the University of York, Charles XII stands out as a vibrant spot for students looking to unwind after a long day of classes. This traditional pub combines a cozy interior with a spacious beer garden, making it an ideal venue for both relaxed hangouts and energetic nights out. With a solid reputation among students, Charles XII is frequently praised for its friendly vibe and lively atmosphere, which sets the stage for memorable evenings with friends.

The atmosphere at Charles XII is often described as uplifting and energetic. Many students appreciate the balance it strikes between being lively enough for a night out while still allowing for easy conversation. The crowd tends to be relaxed, making it a great place to chill with mates or meet new people. Reviewers often mention that the energy in the room is palpable, with patrons dancing and smiling, creating a positive environment that enhances the overall experience. This welcoming vibe is a significant draw for students, who find it a comfortable space to enjoy themselves without the pretentiousness that can sometimes accompany nightlife venues.

Music plays a crucial role in the appeal of Charles XII. The venue is noted for its excellent selection of tunes that keep the dance floor buzzing throughout the night. Students frequently mention how the music is consistently on point, contributing to the overall fun of the evening. Whether you’re in the mood for chart-toppers or classic anthems, the soundtracks at Charles XII seem to cater to a broad range of tastes, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. The lively music encourages a dynamic atmosphere, making it easy for guests to let loose and have a good time.

When it comes to drinks, Charles XII offers a variety of options that are generally considered affordable by students. Many reviews highlight the reasonable drink prices, allowing for a fun night out without breaking the bank. While some students note that there are cheaper places nearby, they often feel that Charles XII provides a better overall experience, making it worth the few extra pounds. This value for money is a recurring theme in reviews, as patrons appreciate being able to enjoy a night out without worrying too much about their budgets. Additionally, the venue has exciting offers specifically for students, which further enhances its appeal.

The queue and entry experience at Charles XII are often reported as positive aspects of visiting the pub. With a queue rating that reflects efficiency, many students indicate that they don’t have to wait long to get inside, which is a significant advantage on busy nights. This efficiency helps maintain the upbeat atmosphere, allowing guests to start enjoying their evening as soon as they arrive. While queues can occasionally get a bit long, especially during peak times, the overall experience of entering the venue is generally smooth and hassle-free.

Students who frequent Charles XII highlight the importance of the crowd and the overall vibe. Many reviews suggest that the experience can vary depending on who is in attendance, with some nights being more vibrant than others. However, the consistent charm of the venue seems to shine through, regardless of the crowd. This adaptability makes Charles XII a reliable choice for students looking for a fun night out, as there’s always the potential for an enjoyable experience, whether it’s a busy weekend or a quieter weekday meet-up.

Despite its many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider when planning a visit to Charles XII. While the atmosphere is generally praised, some students have noted that it can become quite crowded at peak times, which might detract from the experience for those who prefer a more relaxed setting. Additionally, while the drink prices are seen as reasonable, some students point out that there are cheaper options available in the area. This could be a consideration for those on a tighter budget. Lastly, while the venue is appreciated for its charm, some reviews suggest that it may not be the fanciest spot in town, which could be a factor for those looking for a more upscale nightlife experience.

In summary, Charles XII is a beloved choice for students at the University of York, providing a lively and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for both casual hangouts and energetic nights out. With its great music, affordable drinks, and efficient entry experience, it’s no wonder that many students consider it one of their go-to spots for a night on the town. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply relax with friends, Charles XII has something to offer for everyone.

Overall, Charles XII suits students who enjoy a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with a lively vibe. It's particularly appealing for those who are looking for a place to hang out with friends, enjoy good music, and create lasting memories without the pressure of high prices or pretentious surroundings.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and energetic atmosphere perfect for a night out.
  • Great music that keeps the dance floor buzzing.
  • Affordable drink prices that cater to student budgets.
  • Efficient entry experience with minimal queuing.
  • Relaxed crowd that makes it easy to socialize.
  • Spacious beer garden for outdoor enjoyment.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded during peak times, impacting the experience.
  • Some students find cheaper options nearby.
  • Not the fanciest venue, which may not appeal to everyone.
  • The vibe can vary depending on the crowd present.
  • Occasional long queues during busy nights.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, laid-back night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Try to arrive early to avoid long queues on weekends.
  • Keep an eye out for special student drink offers.
  • The music style varies, but it's generally upbeat and dance-friendly.
  • The beer garden is a great spot for a chill hangout when the weather is nice.

❓ Common Questions

What is Charles XII like?

Charles XII is a vibrant pub with a cozy interior and a lively atmosphere, perfect for students looking to socialize and have fun.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally efficient, with minimal waiting times, although it can get longer during peak nights.

Is it good value?

Yes, many students find the drink prices affordable, making it a great spot for a fun night out without overspending.

What music does Charles XII play?

The music is upbeat and dance-friendly, appealing to a wide range of tastes and keeping the energy high.

Reviews
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Charles xii is the kind of place you end up at most weeks because it's just easy and the crowd's always on point. the music keeps the vibe going and the drink deals make it a win for student wallets. queues can get a bit long, but it's never enough to put you off a night out with friends.
By user138697 on Apr 4th 2026
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Good spot for a night out with mates. decent drink deals and a nice vibe on the dancefloor. queues can get a bit long but once you're in, it’s a chill place to hang.
By user372786 on Mar 30th 2026
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Charles xii was a decent spot for a night out. the music was on point and the drink prices were reasonable. didn't have to queue for long and the atmosphere was lively. would come back for sure.
By user921152 on Mar 28th 2026
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Been a few times and it's always a solid night, just depends on the crowd really. some nights are way better than others 😅
By user626708 on Mar 25th 2026
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Cheap enough to keep going back but lively enough to have a good time every time
By user563867 on Mar 20th 2026
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The energy in the room was unreal — loved it.
By user397509 on Mar 16th 2026
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Definitely coming back soon, had a blast all night.
By user441832 on Mar 11th 2026
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Not too noisy so chatting is easy, which is a bonus when you're out with mates.
By user220420 on Mar 2nd 2026
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Some cheaper places around, but this one just felt like a better choice. looking forward to coming back again.
By user469197 on Feb 25th 2026
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The atmosphere is just right for hanging out and having a good time. it's a solid spot for making memories.
By user900140 on Feb 24th 2026
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Honestly one of my favourite spots for a night out.
By user547807 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Music was banging all night, everyone was into it. left feeling hyped and satisfied.
By user753092 on Feb 20th 2026
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Had a proper laugh here, made some proper memories.
By user722146 on Feb 19th 2026
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Atmosphere was really good, made for some memorable nights.
By user102412 on Feb 18th 2026
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Drinks are pretty cheap and the crowd can be wild depending on when you go 😅
By user433986 on Feb 17th 2026
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Close enough to hit the dance floor but far enough to escape the noise when you need a break
By user219857 on Feb 16th 2026
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This place has a charm that just doesn't fade, which can be a little much sometimes.
By user537936 on Feb 15th 2026
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People are just dancing and smiling all night, which is what you want. no one’s standing around looking bored.
By user160926 on Feb 14th 2026
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The crowd's pretty chill and the atmosphere's relaxed, makes it easy to hang out.
By user412058 on Feb 13th 2026
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Went there for a weekend meet-up and it was pretty chill. not too many people around, so it felt nice and laid back.
By user226354 on Feb 9th 2026
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Not the fanciest spot but it’s where students hang out for a reason. good tunes and prices that make sense.
By user720278 on Feb 1st 2026
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Cheap enough to enjoy without worrying but lively enough to keep you moving
By user246072 on Jan 27th 2026
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The crowd is really relaxed and the drinks don’t break the bank. that’s what keeps me coming back to charles xii.
By user675655 on Jan 22nd 2026
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Had some good tunes and met some cool people. can't really ask for anything more.
By user993328 on Jan 18th 2026
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The energy at charles xii is unmatched, just the right scene for students. that’s what makes it a go-to spot.
By user162511 on Jan 14th 2026
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Went there once and it was worth checking out. everyone should try it at least once.
By user582656 on Jan 10th 2026
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Location's spot on, always loads of people around. it feels lively and makes nights out better.
By user126651 on Jan 6th 2026
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Place had a decent atmosphere. it was affordable and felt comfortable enough to hang out.
By user598420 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Door staff were friendly and the crowd was cool, made the night way better.
By user445663 on Dec 29th 2025
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Energy in here is always pretty good. you can just feel the buzz as soon as you walk in
By user793112 on Dec 24th 2025
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The atmosphere is really uplifting and everyone seems to be in a good mood. it’s nice to be around people who are just enjoying themselves.
By user521183 on Dec 19th 2025
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Not perfect but i'd go back again. had a good night there and it's a fun spot to hang out.
By user733310 on Dec 16th 2025
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Felt like everyone knew each other, it was a proper student hangout.
By user336012 on Dec 11th 2025
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The lighting's really nice and the music's always got a good beat. makes it easy to enjoy hanging out with everyone.
By user501513 on Dec 4th 2025
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Charles xii has a unique feel. it's not a generic club, just a straightforward spot to have a good time.
By user508236 on Nov 30th 2025
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The kind of night that just puts you in a great mood.
By user133976 on Nov 25th 2025
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Been here a bunch and it’s usually a laugh, just depends on who’s out that night
By user638154 on Nov 21st 2025
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Each night has its own vibe and it's never the same. keeps things interesting all year round.
By user999342 on Nov 15th 2025
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Location's solid, a mix of lively people but it’s not overwhelming.
By user455867 on Nov 7th 2025
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Never had a bad night here – always a vibe!
By user666232 on Oct 31st 2025
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Atmosphere is always buzzing, exactly what you want on a night out.
By user632245 on Oct 26th 2025
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Music was pumping and the crowd was decent, perfect for students.
By user619540 on Oct 23rd 2025
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Chilled start, wild end – exactly how student nights should be!
By user392587 on Oct 20th 2025
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Couldn’t stop laughing all night – pure fun from start to finish!
By user928506 on Oct 16th 2025
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Always end up having a great laugh here with friends.
By user850811 on Oct 13th 2025
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Stumbled in with my mates and ended up making some pretty cool memories. would totally go back
By user571354 on Oct 9th 2025
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Perfect spot for student nights, just a laid-back crowd enjoying themselves. it’s a good shout if you’re looking to have a laugh with mates.
By user124304 on Oct 3rd 2025
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One of the highlights of student life – great place to go.
By user155237 on Sep 28th 2025
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Atmosphere's really nice for just chilling after lectures.
By user270902 on Sep 24th 2025
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Had an amazing time here, will definitely be back again!
By user267843 on Sep 12th 2025