Locals and visitors are spoiled with a range of choices when it comes to the best places to drink in Leicester. Leicester also has a wide variety of nightlife and is home to cosy pubs, cool cocktail bars, sports lounges and live music, to name a few. However, when you talk to those who know the city best, one name will be repeated time and again, and this is The Bowling Green Pub.
Bowling Green has a history of more than 1733 years and has established its image as a drinking house of choice in Leicester. This pub offers multiple options to anyone who wants to have an excellent night out, be it a chilled-down beer, a fruity cocktail, or just a place to hang out with your friends. We have spent this blog on a tour of why Bowling Green has been ranked as the best place to have a drink in Leicester and why it has managed to keep loyal customers over the years.
The Leicester Pub Scene – A Mash-up of the Past and the Present
Leicester represents a city that is a perfect mixture of the traditional and modern tendencies. This is reflected in its nightlife. There are old pubs that have been operating for centuries and new cocktail bars that serve creative, Instagram-worthy cocktails. To most people the delight of going out in Leicester is in finding a place that seems friendly, vibrant and cheap.
Bowling Green is where it is different. Being one of the oldest pubs in Leicester, it is a mix of the historical background and the modern and fun atmosphere. It is not a regular bar; it is a venue where people get to gather, either to watch the live sporting events, or to play a game of darts, or to eat some delicious food along with their drink.
Why Do Locals Keep Coming Back?
Leicester after all these years, and Bowling Green remains at the top of the list of places to drink? Why? It all leads to a combination of cheapness, ambience, amusements, and a true sense of community. It is not attempting to be an upscale or fancy bar. Rather, it emphasises the things that really count: good drinks, good food, and good times.
The residents are aware that Bowling Green will put on a good night out, a game-day atmosphere that is vibrant, or a night to remember with family and friends. It is the very dependability of it, coupled with its inviting atmosphere, that has made it a favourite after almost three centuries.
Why Bowling Green Tops the List of Places to Drink in Leicester
There’s no shortage of pubs and bars in the city, but locals keep returning to Bowling Green for several reasons. Let’s dive into what makes this pub special and why it deserves its reputation as one of the top places to drink in Leicester.
1. A Rich History with a Modern Touch
Established in 1733, Bowling Green is Leicester’s second-oldest pub. That history alone makes it worth a visit. But what makes it even better is how it has evolved with time. The pub has managed to keep its timeless charm while also adapting to modern expectations. You’ll still feel the classic pub warmth, but you’ll also find stylish interiors, spacious seating, and entertainment that appeals to today’s crowd.
This balance of old and new is something few pubs manage to pull off, and it’s a big reason why Bowling Green is so popular among locals looking for places to drink in Leicester.
2. Great Drinks at Great Prices
At the end of the day, most people head to a pub for one thing – the drinks. Bowling Green doesn’t disappoint here. With an impressive selection of beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails, there’s something for everyone.
What really stands out is the affordability. Drinks are priced fairly, making it one of the best value-for-money places to drink in Leicester. For students, there are discounts and loyalty schemes, while regulars enjoy deals that keep them coming back week after week.
3. Delicious Food to Match the Drinks
A good drink always tastes better with good food, and Bowling Green delivers on this front too. Their menu is filled with crowd-pleasers – from cheesy pizzas and sharing platters to hearty pub classics.
The warm aroma of freshly baked pizza is enough to make anyone hungry, and it’s one of the reasons why people don’t just stop by for drinks but also for meals. Whether it’s a casual night out or a family dinner, the food here is always a winner.
Final Thoughts
Pubs and bars are not lacking in Leicester, but few have a better combination of history, value and atmosphere than Bowling Green. It is an old pub that has passed the test of time, being able to comply with the new tastes and preserve the old flavor.
Bowling Green is not just a recommendation as to the best drinking establishments in Leicester, it is the solution. It is not just a pub but a part of Leicester history, a community spirit and above all it is a place to have a memorable visit.
Therefore, the next time you are thinking about going out or simply a cold drink, keep in mind: you have your place at Bowling Green.