This article was written by Sofia Lambis, a student writer based in Bristol.
Nothing quite beats the feeling of going out after an intense day at uni – and in terms of student bars Bristol is the place to be. Whether you’re into watching sports, getting drinks with your mates or going to comedy nights, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Bristol has a great variety of places for students to hang out, including themed pubs, cocktail bars and comfy pubs. Generally, Bristol has great nightlife with lots of venues to choose from, but I’ve found the best student bars in the city if you’re looking to hang out with other students. Take a look at my top 10 below.

1. The Bristol Fringe 

The Bristol Fringe 
Source: The Bristol Fringe
If jazz music and social events are your thing, look no further than the Bristol Fringe. With its old-world design and vibrant yet cosy atmosphere, this little gem is one of the best student bars in Bristol for live entertainment.  Frequently hosting Bristol legends such as The Hangover Club and the Dylegans, there’s always something to look out for here. For up-and-coming songwriters and spoken word poets, the bar also hosts monthly showcases to display local talent. You can also catch magic shows, tarot readings, comedy and jazz nights and much more, as The Bristol Fringe’s calendar is always full of interesting events for students. Many of their free events are ticketed – so make sure to check their website to book your place! 

Address: 32 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4BZ

2. The Brass Pig

Next on the list of best student bars in Bristol is the iconic Brass Pig. It has loads of great drinks deals throughout the week, which makes it easy to drink on a student budget. as well as quiz nights and freshers events. They also host live music every Thursday and 2 for £10 on cocktails Brass Pig, so it’s definitely the place to be for students who can’t wait for the weekend to start having a good time. You should also check our their random events and parties designed for students, like their Scooby-Doo themed Halloween night (and yes, you do get a free drink if you dress up). 

Address: 1, Clifton Heights, 45 Triangle W, Bristol BS8 1EJ

3. AllStars Sports Bar  

AllStars Sports Bar  
Source: AllStars Sports Bar   Bar  Facebook
If you’re a big sports fan, Allstars is one of the best student bars in Bristol for you. Their HD TVs and projectors allow multiple events to be screened at once, and they’ve got access to all the best channels including Sky Sports, BT Sport and Racing UK. With pool and snooker tables, darts and fruit machines it’s an incredibly social space to just hang out. It’s also close to the university campus, so perfect for watching a post-lecture game.

Address: 15-19 Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QE

4. Green House  

Here are the 10 Best Student Bars in Bristol
Source: https://www.crafted-social.co.uk/greenhouse-bristol
For sports fans who prefer a slightly quieter atmosphere – Green House located just off Park Street is an ideal place to sit and watch a game with mates. Showing live sports and serving drinks in a warm atmosphere, it’s also dog friendly! Not to mention their amazing Christmas dinners during winter (nachos with pigs in blankets are a winning – if not slightly bizarre – combo). To make the most of their student discounts sign up to Unicrew via their website. 

Address: 37 College Green, Bristol BS1 5SP

5. The Balloon Bar 

how many healthy is beer?
Source: Canva
It wouldn’t be a complete list of the best student bars in Bristol without Bristol SU’s very own Balloon Bar (sorry UWE). Located in the Richmond Building, it’s perfect for a cheap drink after a dance lesson or show rehearsal. Offering half price on selected drinks every Wednesday and discounts for postgrad students on Thursdays – their special offers should definitely be taken advantage of. Keep an eye on their website for student takeover events like pub quizzes, open mic nights and Mario kart tournaments.  

Address: Richmond Building, 105 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LN

6. Steam 

Steam 
Source: Steam-Bristol Facebook
Is it a bar? Is it a train? No one knows. Tucked away just off Whiteladies Road is Steam, one of my favourite student bars in Bristol to hang out. Steam’s interior (designed to resemble an old steam train carriage) makes it one of the most unique venues in Bristol. There’s room for everyone as they have one of the city’s largest covered and heated terraces, so you can drink outdoors all year round. The spacious open terrace makes Steam a great venue for pub crawls and socials too. You’ll even get your drink in Steam’s very own custom pint glass – coveted by freshers and a staple in almost all UoB kitchens. It’s also one of the best student bars in Bristol for discounts. They frequently hold competitions on Facebook where you have the chance to win a table to watch the Six Nations live and a round of free drinks and food. Or you can surprise the special people in your life with a Steam voucher. Who wouldn’t want a four-pint happy hour jug for Valentine’s Day? Bottomless cocktail brunches, famed ‘Hangover Dirty Roasts’ and live broadcasts of the Six Nations rugby every year. What’s not to like? 

Address: Clifton Down Station, Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PN

7. The Old Duke

The Old Duke
Source: The Old Duke Facebook
The Old Duke’s fantastic jazz and blues nights make it one of the best student bars in Bristol to relax and unwind. It boasts retro decor, cheap pints and live music every single night. The Old Duke’s often packed with people of all ages from around Bristol, making it a great experience for students new and old. If you’re into lively places, buzzing atmospheres and meeting new people- The Old Duke’s the place to be. 

Address: 45 King St, Bristol BS1 4ER

8. Chance and Counters  

Chance and Counters  
Source: Chance and Counters Facebook
Not to be confused with the cafe near the Christmas Steps, the Chance and Counters on Gloucester Road is a unique board games bar that boasts over 500 games and deliciously unhealthy comfort food. There’s a gaming fee of £2 per person per hour and from 12-5pm Monday to Friday you can grab a burger & fries, a drink and two hours of gaming for just £10. They also offer top-notch vegan food and are wheelchair accessible. Come along on Tuesdays for their social gaming night where gaming is half price from 6pm. You can come alone or in a group to play board games with like-minded people. But try not to get too competitive – especially if you’re hoping to make some new friends! Chance and Counters has a relaxed yet bubbly atmosphere – a great place to have a chat and get to know new people. 

Address: 79-81 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8AS

9. Be At One 

Be At One 
Source: Be At One
This bar offers unmissable cocktail deals – offering 2-for-1 every weeknight. You’ll be spoilt for choice in one of the best cocktail bars in Bristol as they have over 100 cocktails to choose from. Happy hour changes depending on the day so check their website to keep up to date. You can also download their app to receive an extra two hours of happy hour and be in with a chance of winning £6 cocktails along with other goodies.  

Address: 55 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1QQ

10. The Den and Terrace 

Den & Terrace student bars in Bristol
Source: Den & Terrace Facebook
And finally…. dubbed ‘Bristol’s Best Kept Secret’ The Den and Terrace in Clifton. Close to campus, the bar’s a great place to pop into for any occasion; a quick pint after lectures, a sweet treat in the afternoon, or a game of pool in the evening. Of course, Friday and Saturday nights have a bit more of a party vibe. With plenty of outside seating, the Den and Terrace is a perfect place to hang out with friends in the summer. It’s open from 12am-12pm every day, with free pool on Sundays, a free jukebox and a variety of board games. It’s arguably the best student bar in Bristol for snack lovers, as they offer half-price pizzas from 12-6pm and during happy hour (4-6pm) crisps, popcorn and peanuts are only 10p extra. 

Address: 31 St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LX

Did we miss any? You’ll be sure to have a great time with this list of Bristol’s best student bars.  If you want to make the most of your time in this vibrant city, check out our recommendations for 10 things to do at night in Bristol, or head to a top gin bar in Bristol if you’re partial to a G&T! 

Last Updated on June 12, 2025

Published on February 11, 2024

Authors

  • My name is Sofia and I'm in my first year studying English at the University of Bristol. I'm interested in films, writing and finding new places to visit!

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  • Aminah is a dedicated content expert and writer at Unifresher, bringing a unique blend of creativity and precision to her work. Her passion for crafting engaging content is complemented by a love for travelling, cooking, and exploring languages. With years spent living in cultural hubs like Barcelona, Sicily, and Rome, Aminah has gained a wealth of experiences that enrich her perspective. Now based back in her hometown of Manchester, she continues to immerse herself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. An enthusiastic Manchester United supporter, Aminah also enjoys delving into psychology and true crime in her spare time.

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