Top 10 Student Nightlife Venues in Reading

Reading has some of the most exciting nightlife in the Thames Valley, from laid back pubs serving local beer and pub grub, to fancy cocktail bars and nightclubs that will keep you going ‘til the early hours.  Here’s our pick of the top nightlife venues in Reading, written by a student for students (you’re welcome!).

The Hope Tap

A J.D Wetherspoons located in the heart of Reading’s night life, the Hope Tap is an incredibly popular venue for students in Reading to visit. The Hope Tap’s energetic nighttime atmosphere, budget friendly drinks, and large outdoor area makes it the perfect venue for students to socialise with friends.

LolaLo

A Polynesian themed nightclub offering a variety of feel-good tunes that’ll have you singing your heart out indefinitely, LolaLo is another top student spot. After dancing the night away, not only can you enjoy a tropical beverage from the main bar, but let the drinks come to you! Tables are available for booking and if you need a breather, head to the large outdoor area also featuring its own bar and music.

Club Era

A brand-new venue that opened its doors in September 2023, Club Era has proved itself to be a favourite among students. Whilst the main dance floor is always lively and exciting, Club Era also offers many private booths, for those who prefer a luxurious night out. For those after a budget friendly night out, keep an eye out for the variety of student events offered throughout the year.

Purple Turtle

The Purple Turtle is one on Reading’s most notorious and longest running independent bars, thriving in the town centre for over 30 years. Whether you enjoy live music at the main bar, house and garage music in the Turtle basement, or just a couple of drinks in the large outside area, the Purple Turtle is a great place for students seeking a lively night out.

Be at One

A quirky cocktail bar in the town centre, with over 100 cocktails to choose from, there’s something for everyone here! You’ll find happy hour deals offered every day, with two for one cocktails so you can enjoy the range without denting your wallet! Not only does it have an electric atmosphere, but students are also able to claim cocktails for just £6 all day everyday making this a hot spot for students of Reading to have a great night while getting a great deal.

Cocktail Club

This swanky cocktail bar is brand new to Reading town centre. Featuring great music, yummy cocktails and fantastic deals exclusively for students, this venue is always a fun night out! Whether you’re looking for bottomless brunch in the afternoon with a wide selection of cocktails to choose from, or staying late for some tunes on the dancefloor with occasional live performances, you are guaranteed a fantastic night out!

Back of Beyond

For those looking for a quieter drink in a relaxed pub, this Wetherspoons is located on the edge of the town centre. Although a calmer atmosphere than other locations, its weekly pub quizzes and large outdoor seating area makes for a great night out with friends, and its cheap and cheerful drinks menu makes it even more appealing for students.

Popworld

For those looking for a sing-along, Popworld is the perfect place to end the night. Its groovy old-school tunes and guest appearances from some familiar faces are guaranteed to get you on the dance floor. However, if your feet are feeling tired, Popworld has many booths available all over the venue to sit down and listen to some tunes whilst sipping on one of their many inexpensive drinks. Being open later than most other venues in the town centre, Popworld is the perfect way to end your night!

Blue Collar Corner

This new street food and bar venue is perfect for students and young people looking for various cuisines mixed with a boozy bar and thrilling DJ sets. For those seeking a beer garden during the warmer months, Blue Collar Corner’s venue provides one bar, two floors, and four kitchens serving dishes from all around the world - and transform into a cosy heated bar during the winter, making this the perfect place to socialise year-round!

Slug and Lettuce

Now appearing in two locations in the town centre, Slug and Lettuce is perfect for students who are after an exciting evening drink with a cool atmosphere. Their consistent 2-for-1 deal on selected cocktails makes this a great budget-friendly venue for an evening drink with friends. And if you’re looking for more than just a couple, Slug and Lettuce offer a brilliant bottomless brunch, perfect for birthdays and other events!

Find out more about Reading’s iconic bars, pubs and nightclubs that make for the perfect night out!