Xiaohongshu
Written by Toby Payne, BA in History
The Phineas Bar above the Students Union is often characterised as your go-to ‘something for everyone’ Union bar’. The newly refurbished space was reopened after summer and kitted out with a brand-new bar and open area space, mainly used as a study space/ lunch area during the day but come 17:00 on most weekdays begins operating as the University’s most popular bar.
The iconic dimly lit interior is no more, and a modern and bright design space certainly makes the space feel much more welcoming, and I for one was pleasantly surprised by its aura. Arriving there I chatted to a few students who were finishing up their work for the day as those arriving for a drink in the evening began to stream in. The new space certainly allows for greater standing room and the light makes meet ups and casual hangouts much more fun. The bar doubling as a co-working site in the day also, just by the number of students at the bar, seems to have been welcomed, and I for one am keen to explore it as another space to collaborate with friends.
Phineas has an extensive list of offers, at least one available each night of the week apart from Sundays, where the bar is closed.
Jazz night, on a Tuesday, was one of my highlights during my first few years at university, and the event still attracts a large crowd. The new space allows for more standing room and a better atmosphere although some will miss the more iconic dingy appearance of past years.
Of course, Sports Night remains for many the pinnacle of the Phineas experience. The routine will remain the same for many students but a new addition this year is the ability for students to purchase tickets to Loop at the bar, which is cheaper than the on-the-door price at the club itself. I spoke to Ana, a fourth-year who works as a supervisor behind the bar. She told me how last year she used to go to sports night almost religiously and that it felt like a tradition. Regardless of whether she came by herself or with friends, it was familiar and fun, a sentiment surely others will recognise.
Finally, I reached out to Carol, the Union’s Democracy, Operations and Community Officer, who worked at Phineas previously. She looked back fondly at how the bar was a cosy and enjoyable space for her, irrespective of the weather outside and how the Jazz Jams were always new and that there was always a great crowd there to enjoy the music. She especially enjoyed Glittoris (the bar’s monthly LGBT+ club night). It was her “favourite night in Phineas, with drag queens, lip-syncs and pride flags everywhere, it’s hard not to have loads of fun dancing the whole night away!” With the new addition of the open stage, “all of the performances at Glittoris are even better than before! There’s a much better atmosphere and disco lights actually work!!”
Whatever your experience was of Phineas before, or if you’re new to UCL this year, make sure you head down to the bar this term, and make sure to check out their offers on their website in advance!