6 Vibrant Bars in Leicester for Your Next Night Out

Looking for a proper night out in Leicester? Whether you’re a fresher just getting your bearings or a postgrad looking to let loose after a long day of lectures, the city’s got something for everyone. From live music and neon dancefloors to relaxed rooftops that are perfect for a group selfie, the sheer variety of bars in Leicester offer mean the city is always brimming with energy.

So, grab your housemates, course pals, or society squad, because these student certified spots are where the best memories are made.

1. Firebug: The Indie Favourite

Hidden just off the High Street, Firebug is the kind of place you stumble into once and then never stop going back to. Known for its eclectic music nights, quiz evenings, and a menu full of mouthwatering late night bites, it’s a hit with students who love a casual vibe.

Why students love it: 

• Open ‘til 4am most nights
• Affordable cocktails and pitchers
• Frequent live music gigs upstairs

Bonus tip: Firebug is also a great place to chill after a society social. You’ll often find drama students mixing with sports scientists while singing along to classic indie anthems.

2. The Tree: Cosy, Quirky & Crowd Pleasing

Featuring a quaint, leafy interior, and fairy light covered courtyard, The Tree is a major chill out spot for students in Leicester. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon drink or a catch up with friends or a first date that’s both low key and special.

The wide selection of craft beers also makes it a popular choice among the ale drinking connoisseurs of the city.

Why students love it: 

• Famous for its botanical cocktails
• Board games and comfy corners
• Student discounts on select nights

3. Duffy’s Bar: The Irish Gem

Ask any local and they’ll point you straight to Duffy’s. This traditional Irish pub blends great Guinness with live gigs, spoken word, and one of the warmest welcomes in the city.

Why students love it: 

• Frequent open mic and music nights
• A diverse culture for international students
• Friendly, unpretentious crowd

Fun Fact: Plenty of famous poets and touring musicians often drop in here unannounced. Who knows you you could sip a stout with next time?

4. Veeno: For the Wine Loving Flatmate

By the time you’ve met your flatmates and headed into town, there’s sure to be a few wine lovers among you. Veeno offers more of a grown up atmosphere that isn’t too serious, either. It’s classy meets casual vibe is fantastic for small group gossip sessions.

Why students love it: 

• Italian wine flights and nibbles
• Great weekday deals for students
• An adult feel that’s more chilled than other bars

It’s perfect for those evenings where a nightclub or classic cocktail bar feel a little too much.

5. The Dover Castle: A Friendly & Inclusive LGBTQ+ Hub

Vibrant, inclusive, and always up for a party, The Dover Castle is a student favourite for good reason. As one of Leicester’s most cherished LGBTQ+ venues, it offers karaoke chaos, themed nights, and a guaranteed laugh.

Why students love it: 

• Energetic drag shows and open mic events
• Welcoming space for all identities and backgrounds
• Affordable drinks and a strong student following

This is the kind of bar that doesn’t judge, and invites you to become part of a wider community in Leicester and beyond.

6. Caddyshackers: The Cocktail & Crazy Golf Combo

If you’re after a night out with a twist, Caddyshackers delivers. It’s crazy golf meets wild cocktails in a neon drenched venue that screams group night out.

Just make sure you don’t try any Happy Gilmore swings in here, you’ll soon see yourself thrown out.

Why students love it: 

• 18 holes of golfing madness
• Themed drinks and pumping music
• Group packages and regular student deals

This is the place to go for a night of laughs and to settle any competitive scores among your flat.

Explore Even More Cool Bars in Leicester

Leicester is packed with plenty of mainstream haunts and local gems that cater to all your night out needs. If you’re on the hunt for a specific place, or want to make some bookings, then check out TripAdvisor’s list of the top bars in Leicester right now.

There’s all kinds of venues to discover in the East Midlands, and with both Nottingham and Derby just down the road, you can enjoy the nightlife of three of the UK’s most prominent student cities.

Plan Your Next Night Out

The best nights out aren’t just about the drinks, they’re about the people, the playlists, and the random inside jokes you’ll still be laughing about months later. Whether you’re a commuter grabbing a pint after class or a fresher looking to find your tribe, these Leicester bars are ready to welcome you.

Want even more ideas to help you settle in?

Take a read through some more of our Leicester focussed blog posts, and find more reasons to make it your new home.