In the recent economic crisis, finding a cheap pint in the city centre can be a challenge, especially for the consistently broke student budget. Abi Willock visited a range of five pubs and bars, all within walking distance of the De Montfort University campus, to find the most affordable pint, spirits and cocktails.
The first stop was the famous Bowling Green, situated a mere five minutes from the campus, and a popular watering hole for students. Several student deals make this one of the most affordable pubs in the area, especially with the new ‘UniCrew’ incentive, where students can sign up for drinks at discounted prices. The Bowling Green also offers ‘Happy Hour’ from 7pm on Mondays and Sundays offering one-pound shots and pitchers for a fiver.
De Montfort University student Joseph McCarthy said: ‘The Bowling Green is my favourite pub in Leicester, drinks are a great price and the food is good too. I go there every week.’
Next up is Soar Point, on the opposite side of campus, a student-orientated pub which offers deals on food and drinks throughout the week and boasts two-for-one cocktails all day every day - what could be better than that?
Aside from this the bar has a bubbly atmosphere and students are often seen enjoying the pool tables and gaming facilities.
The Rutland and Derby Arms is the next spot on our list. While this pub is not a typical student hangout, it does offer a wider range of drinks than other student pubs and is surprisingly good value.
Leicester student Zoe Graham said: ‘I wouldn’t usually go to Rutland and Derby for an everyday pint, but their cocktail menu is so much nicer than other pubs, so I’d definitely recommend it for a special occasion.’
This family-owned pub has a lively atmosphere and hosts a well-attended quiz night on Mondays. With the recent end to quiz nights at The Bowling Green, could The Rutland and Derby Arms be the next spot for students to put all that trivia knowledge to good use?
Firebug is another popular spot for students and is open later than most other bars. Not only does Firebug have its own mini-arcade and upstairs dance floor, it’s also a great place to go for a reasonably priced late-night drink.
O’Neills is the final stop on our pub crawl. While this Irish bar is also not typically considered a student hotspot, possibly because of its slightly higher-than-average prices, it has a great atmosphere and often offers live music, as well as a great range of food.
In conclusion, if you want a cheap casual pint in a student pub, Soar Point is probably your best bet, but if you want a fancy cocktail for a more grown-up occasion, The Rutland and Derby Arms is well worthy of your visit.
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