The Students’ Union Bar And Coffee Shop — Café, Bar, Coffee Shop in Bristol

The Students’ Union bar and coffee shop in Bristol is a combined café and bar on the University of the West of England campus. Situated on Coldharbour Lane, this space is a central meeting point for students and the university community. The venue is known for its plant-based menu, especially the Buddha Bowl, a wellness-focused meal. It’s a handy spot for a coffee, lunch, or evening drinks. Expect a lively atmosphere close to university life.

About The Venue

Founded in 1875, the Students’ Union bar and coffee shop began as a social and cultural hub. The building’s Victorian Gothic style reflects its history, while the interior has a modern design. The venue is energetic with bright lighting and tends to be busy. It offers a mix of branding, with both Starbucks and Costa Coffee available. It prioritises local sourcing for its plant-based menu. The space is fully accessible, with step-free access and accessible toilets. The venue uses self-service payment systems.

Typical Experiences

The Students’ Union bar and coffee shop offers a café and bar experience for students and visitors. It serves coffee and alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, with the Buddha Bowl as a popular food choice. With its consistent buzz and long hours, it's ideal for a quick bite or casual meet-up. Click-and-collect ordering is available, and the space has power outlets for work or study. It's geared towards students and offers affordable food and drink.

Notable Features

  • Plant-based menu with local sourcing
  • Buddha Bowl as signature dish
  • Mixed branding with Starbucks and Costa Coffee
  • Self-serve payment system
  • Costa Coffee and bar service
  • Student Union integration
  • Cashless service
  • Click-and-collect ordering
  • Student-centric design and pricing
  • Long opening hours (8am–10pm)
  • Outdoor seating
  • Low-cost coffee shop

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Information about this venue is based on publicly available sources and may be incomplete. Last updated in October 2026.