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 Unusual pub and theatre combination |
18-20 Alma Vale Road Clifton Bristol BS8 2HY United Kingdom +44 117 973 5171 |
Set away from the main road in a quiet street, this seems just another traditional British pub, with a friendly welcoming atmosphere. Upstairs, however (no disabled access unfortunately), things get a little more non-traditional - here you'll find a tiny, 45-seater theatre. This is drama at it's most interesting, unpolished and innovative - past performances have included a variety of humorous and thought-provoking dramatic works, including some extremely adult material! In accordance with pub policy, nobody under the age of 16 is admitted to performances. Access to the seating area is through the performing space, so latecomers may be refused admission. It's also a bad idea to have too much to drink before the performance! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Canis Major Photo. |
 Meet the animators of today and tomorrow |
1 Redcliff Street Watershed Media Centre Bristol BS1 5TX United Kingdom +44 117 929 9188 http://www.encounters-festival... |
Now in its fifth year, this event celebrates the world's finest animation with screenings of short animations over three days (held at Watershed). Selections range from the rude and hilarious to the serious and thought-provoking. The 1970's retro animation night features old favourites Mr. Ben and The Clangers! Targeted for the public and for those in the industry, with talks and seminars as part of the roster. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Innovative arts in the heart of the harbour |
16 Narrow Quay Bristol BS1 4QA United Kingdom +44 117 929 9191 http://www.chicuk.net/bristol/... |
Housed in a large 1830s building, formerly a tea warehouse, the Arnolfini was founded in 1961 and is now an internationally-renowned arts complex. Situated on the harbour, it's made up of a cinema (showing art house and foreign-language films), visual art galleries (the only place in the city large enough to cater for major artists), a cafe-bar and a small bookshop. You can also find performance art, children's art sessions and author events going on every so often. The cafe-bar is particularly popular, attracting an arty crowd who share the communal benches with various trendies and professionals. Snacks and main meals, all with a Mediterranean flavour, are available noon-3pm and 5pm-8pm daily. It's especially wonderful in the summer when Bristolians like nothing better than to buy a pint from here and drink it on the quayside outside, legs dangling over the water. For exclusive offers and privileges, please visit ChicUK at: www.ChicUK.net Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Gibson  |
 Photo: Jonathan Dusheiko |
 Photo: lluniau |
 Photo: Laura Jackson |
 Photo: Mike Powell |
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 Photo: Andy Fall |
 Photo: Anthony Benjamin |
 Photo: James |
 Photo: Joseph Hughes |
 Photo: John Honniball |
 Photo: pandaknitchick |
 Photo: Alison Wood |
 Photo: Matt Gourd |
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 Photo: ciderfrenzy |
 Photo: Robert Mitchell |
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 Bristol's favourite bit of countryside |
Long Ashton Near Clifton Suspension Bridge Bristol BS41 9JN United Kingdom +44 117 963 9174 |
A short hop across the Suspension Bridge and you're in this beautiful estate, with its 850 magnificent acres of park and woodland, with superb views across Bristol. There are excellent nature trails, red deer grazing close by, a pitch and putt golf course, a miniature railway, a cafe inside the Mansion House, plus plenty of open space for flying a kite or just enjoying a walk. Various events are held here throughout the summer including Bristol Community Festival and the Balloon Fiesta. Hot air balloons launch from near the mansion House in the grounds every week - go on a Sunday afternoon, when the weather is fine and you may well see them being inflated and taking-off. There's partial disabled access—some trails would be tricky, but many of the paths are fine for wheelchairs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy |
 Photo: Bryan Eveleigh |
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 Photo: Tim Rogers |
 Photo: Redfern Carraway |
 Photo: Becky Gilmore |
 Photo: Michelle Kilfoyle |
 Photo: John Ashby |
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 Photo: Matt Batchelor |
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 Like Woodstock only smaller! |
1 Ninetree Hill Stokes Croft Bristol, Province of Canterbury BS1 3SB United Kingdom +44 117 904 2275 http://www.ashtoncourtfestival... |
This phenomenally successful arts and entertainment festival is held at Ashton Court, just 10 minutes walk from Clifton Village, across the Suspension Bridge. The festival grows in attendance and popularity each year. Local bands plus the occasional big-name outfit share three stages and there is also a performing arts marquee showcasing cabaret and comedy. Other highlights include bungee jumping, fairground rides, and a huge children's area. See the website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Roberts |
 Photo: Tim |
 Photo: loveandunrest |
 Photo: atulsavur |
 Photo: Dan Calvert |
 Photo: Nathan |
 Photo: Straight Outa Bristo |
 Photo: hatsandbikes |
 Photo: Kieran Connellan |
 Bristol's three newest attractions |
Anchor Road (Harbourside) Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 845 345 1235 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk |
At-Bristol is the collective name for the new, lottery-funded area around the harbourside, which houses the IMAX cinema, and the Wildwalk and Explore science centers. Since opening, these attractions have already won a Best Family Attraction award. Cafes are located inside the complex, with bars and restaurants nearby. The harbourside itself is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Gibson |
 Photo: Fred Dawson |
 Photo: Dave Chandler |
 Photo: seawead |
 Photo: skittzitilby |
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Festival of short but sweet films |
1 Redcliff Street Watershed Media Centre Bristol BS1 5TX United Kingdom +44 117 929 9188 http://www.encounters-festival... |
This annual festival celegrates the art of film, and features short films from new and established artists, as well as retrospectives and lectures from the best in the industry. Each year the festival reveals new, fresh talent from around the world. The screenings take place at the Watershed and Arnolfini both great venues that offer state of the art technology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A sky full of hot air balloons! |
Kennel Lodge Road (Ashton Court Estate) Bristol BS41 9JN United Kingdom +44 117 966 8716 http://www.bristolfiesta.co.uk |
Hot air balloon enthusiasts from across the world have been gathering at Ashton Court every year since 1979 for this weekend aerial spectacle. The fiesta attracts approximately half a million visitors each year, all come to watch the amazing sight of over 150 hot air balloons taking to the skies each day, making a truly impressive sight across the Bristol skyline. You can contact Bristol Balloon Fiestas Limited at St. John's Street, Bedminster. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: continental mic |
 Photo: Vic |
 Photo: Tarique Naseem |
 Photo: Owen Haberfield |
 Photo: Graeme Churchard |
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 Photo: Samantha Vickery |
 Photo: Nic Peglar bonnet0uk |
 Photo: Jane Kerrigan |
 Photo: f22 Images |
 Photo: Wil Watts |
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 Photo: Gra Nicholls |
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Must-see museum with something for everyone |
Queen's Road Bristol BS8 1RL United Kingdom +44 117 922 3571 http://www.bristol-city.gov.uk... |
This is an extremely popular museum and a great place to go to on a rainy day (there are quite a lot of those in Bristol). It houses fine arts, natural and human history, marine wildlife, a freshwater aquarium, archaeology, Oriental art, and temporary exhibitions. In fact, there are over four million objects on display, making this a great place to discover the exciting world of arts and sciences. Particularly popular with kids are the large glass cases containing stuffed animals. The Museum Shop contains Egyptian reproductions, books, cards and Bristol Blue Glass. There's also a cafe serving hot and cold drinks and snacks. Disabled access is through the entrance on University Road, just after Browns bistro. Unfortunately, the second floor is not accessible. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Keith Ramsey |
 Photo: Keith Ramsey |
 Photo: Dr Broadchurch |
 Photo: Richard Buck |
 Comedy venue inside lively pub |
Am Falkplatz Bristol 10437 United Kingdom |
The name says it all - there are live acts most weekends, be they musicians or touring stand-up comedians, as the Bristol Comedy Pub is part of the Jester Comedy Pub Empire (Jesters comedy venue is just across the road). Anything's funny after your fourth cocktail, so take advantage of their occasional crazy cocktail special - four pints of cocktail for £10 before 7.30pm. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional nights when Bristol legend DJ Derek spins some discs. DJ Derek is a 60-something white man with a seriously excellent record collection of ska, reggae and rock steady. This is a recommended but unnerving experience, like seeing your cardigan-wearing Dad suddenly going punk-rock! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Home to the big shows |
St Augustines Parade Bristol BS1 4UZ United Kingdom +44 0870 607 7500 http://www.chicuk.net/bristol/... |
Bristol's West End equivalent, the Hippodrome is undoubtedly the more commercial end of theatre, but this is not to criticize it. A magnificent stage and auditorium has been host to internationally-renowned shows (often transferred from the West End) such as Les Misérables, Saturday Night Fever and Blood Brothers. Alongside these huge shows are more specialist shows, often for children, but also for adults - ballet and opera, being two examples. The bill is always unashamedly crowd-pulling (as witnessed by the coaches parked outside, disgorging hordes of theatre-goers every weekend) and if you choose to go you can expect a night of dazzling entertainment from one of the leading Show Houses in the country. For further information on exclusive privileges and offers at this venue, visit ChicUK Bristol at www.ChicUK.net Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Smale |
 Photo: Paul Spoard |
 Photo: Adrian Hillier |
 Beware the ghosts in Britain's oldest working theatre! |
King Street Bristol BS1 4ED United Kingdom +44 117 949 3993 http://www.bristol-old-vic.co.uk |
It's the oldest working theatre in the country (it opened in 1766) and remains the home of some of the best theatre you're likely to see, ranging from contemporary shows, comedy, dance, experimental and good old classical productions. There are three areas - The Theatre Royal (for big shows and pantomime), The New Vic Studio (contemporary shows, dance routines etc.), and The Basement (small-scale theatre). Whatever you're into, your taste is bound to be catered for in one of the three. There is a cafe for pre-theatre meals, lunches and coffee and backstage tours can also be arranged - they start in the foyer every Friday and Saturday from noon (except Saturdays in July and August) and cost approximately £4. Watch out for the legendary ghost! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Morris |
 Photo: Stuart Thorn |
 Photo: jolou |
 Winner of "Zoo of the Year" |
Guthrie Road Bristol BS8 3HA United Kingdom +44 117 974 7399 http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk |
Bristol Zoo is extremely popular and if you want to avoid the crowds, get there as soon as it opens in the morning, especially during school holidays. It draws the crowds because it's a very modern and well-done place, housing over 300 different species of animals and wildlife. There's also a strong educational and conservational slant, so the kids will actually learn something as well. Much of it is undercover, so it's still a good place to visit on rainy days. Highlights include Gorilla Island and the Seal and Penguin Coasts, whose landscaped beaches, tunnels and cliffs are home to some very lively wildlife. Every kind of wildlife is here, from lions to lizards and elephants to dung beetles. Check out the hands-on activity centre and interactive Zoolympics trail - see how you match up to the animals! As you'll no doubt spend a whole day here, take advantage of their covered picnic area or restaurant. Admission: adults £11, children (aged three-14) £7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark McLaughlin |
 Photo: Martin Irwin |
 Photo: Mary |
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 Photo: Lorrie Hartshorn |
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Panorama from an historic hilltop |
Brandon Steep Bristol BS15QT United Kingdom +44 117 926 0767 |
Rising from the summit of Brandon Hill, this famous landmark was built in 1897 to commemorate the fourth centenary of John Cabot's epic voyage of discovery to North America. The spiral stairs of this 105-foot tower climb to around 350 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the city center and surrounding countryside. The hill is also the site of a Nature Park which includes woodland, a butterfly garden, meadow, pond and Wildlife Trust Center. Look out too for the remains of a Civil War hillfort, built to defend the north-west flank of Bristol against the Royalists during the siege of 1643. And don't forget to feed the extremely tame squirrels! There is no disabled access to the tower, but many of the park's paths are wheelchair accessible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joseph Harkness |
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Former fire station - now a super-club |
The Old Fire Station, Silver Street Bristol BS1 2PY United Kingdom +44 117 940 5626 |
Very popular with Bristol's young and trendy this club is housed in a converted fire-station, hence the enormous double glass doors. It can accommodate 1,700 party people and has been renovated to look slick and modern, although there are some nice original features still in place. Three rooms play different music, so you can wander from each and back again, enjoying the different vibes. This is a place for those who take their clubbing seriously - the management have a policy of only attracting the best DJ talent and some big names have monthly or weekly residencies here. The music played ranges from garage, underground house and trance, to breakbeat and techno. Food is served between 9p-2a and if it's hot outside (it's always hot inside!) they occasionally let you dine alfresco. All in all, an important venue for those looking for a night's clubbing. Admission: varies, but on average about £6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Straight-friendly gay club |
72-73 Old Market Street Old Market Bristol BS2 0EJ United Kingdom |
Walk on to the dance floor at this gay, but straight-friendly, venue and your heartbeat will automatically begin jumping in time with the techno music that makes the walls vibrate. When you've had enough of dancing, you can retire upstairs to the friendly, quieter lounge area where you'll find seating. With a capacity of 150, it's certainly cosy — particularly since one of the dance floors is a narrow old bowling alley. The dim lighting, glow in the dark details and resident DJ adds atmosphere, while the late license ensures you can shake your thing until it's nearly dawn amid a lively, charged crowd. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Bristol United Kingdom |
The city centre suffered severe damage during bombing in World War II. Only the shattered foundations of the castle and churches remain in what is left of the original shopping area by the bridge. Though the bombing and ensuing fires devastated the nearby church of St. Nicholas, it was later restored and now boasts one of the more remarkable church clocks in all of Britain. The post-war reconstruction of the city centre consisted of road expansion and brutalist architecture, a style marked by large, cheap tower blocks. Since the 1980s, however, many of these unattractive boxes have been torn down and rebuilt. The change was marked recently with the demolition and rebuilding of the Broadmead shopping centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David L Reynolds |
 Photo: m_ek |
 Photo: www.tgwphotos.com |
 Photo: Andy Munzer |
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Bristol United Kingdom |
One of the oldest and wealthiest parts of Bristol, Clifton earned most of its wealth in the tobacco and slave trade. Servants were necessary because many of the houses were three or more floors high. Twenty-seven percent of the adult population are full-time students. Clifton was recorded in the "Doomsday Book" as "Cliston", which means "hillside settlement", since it was located on a steep hill. It is an absolutely gorgeous place and a wander round here leaves you with the impression that you've somehow stepped back into time. You can visit all its attractions - Clifton Suspension Bridge, Clifton Observatory and Caves, and Bristol Zoo Gardens for example - or just stroll around, taking in all the marvellous Georgian terraces with their iron balconies. Due north of Clifton is a flat area called Durdham Down, which is often used for recreational purposes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Nolte |
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Panoramic views of Bristol |
Clifton Down (adjacent to Suspension Bridge) Bristol BS8 3LT United Kingdom |
Very close to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Clifton Observatory houses a camera obscura, a rotating mirror in the roof that reflects panoramic views of the area down onto a dish-shaped screen. For a different view, visit the adjoining caves. You have to walk down a narrow passage with steep steps to get to the Giant's cave at the end, through which you arrive at the cliff-face. Here you can stand on a platform, suspended over the gorge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dan taylor |
 Photo: Bryan Eveleigh |
 Photo: Gianfanco Trucchi |
 Photo: ianrobins |
 Photo: Chris Tazewell |
 Photo: Dave Napier |
 Photo: Tejananda John Wakeman |
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Bristol's most famous landmark |
Suspension Bridge Road (Clifton) Bristol BS8 4AP United Kingdom |
Spanning the Avon Gorge, this bridge has become the symbol of the city and is a must for any visitors. Designed by Brunel and completed in 1864, you can learn all about its troubled history in the nearby Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre but the way to really appreciate it is to take a walk across it and look down into the spectacular gorge and beyond. Make sure you see the bridge at night as well, it looks truly amazing lighted against the night sky. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bluemonki |
 Photo: Mark Hobbs |
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Bristol's biggest live-act venue |
Colston Street Bristol BS1 5AR United Kingdom +44 117 922 3682 http://www.colstonhall.org |
Bristol's largest music venue, with a capacity of just under 2,000, is one of the few places in the city to see big name performers. It's actually quite an impressive old building, which is now slightly shabby, although a face-lift s planned. Names who've played there in the past include Nanci Griffith, Portishead, Paul Weller, Mel C, Bill Wyman and The Rhythm Kings. It's also a good bet for world music performers, classical orchestras, opera companies and comedians. Seats at the front are removed for rock/pop gigs to allow for dancing, which is a good things as the atmosphere can be rather staid otherwise. Classical concerts and more sedate occasions remain all-seated however. Booking is recommended - either by phone with a credit card, or call in to the hall itself, where you'll find the ticket office. For further information on exclusive privileges and offers at this venue, visit ChicUK Bristol at www.ChicUK.net Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Dowle |
 Photo: Thomas Hancock |
 Photo: Terry M |
 Photo: Steve Selwood |
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Plush, lush superclub for glammed-up nights |
13-21 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1NA United Kingdom +44 117 922 7177 |
A lot of money has been spent on this venue, and it shows. The walls are plush red velvet, there's some wonderfully deep, comfy sofas and booths in the chill out rooms (a very dark and womb-like area), a back room playing slightly more mellow tunes and two bars, plus a VIP bar which towers above the dance floor for those who don't want to mix with the riff-raff. Ah yes, the dance floor—it's large and almost always full of posing lads and groovy, lyrca-wearing women strutting their stuff! People dress up to come here and you'll stand out if you don't. It regularly attracts big name DJs thanks to its state-of-the-art sound systems and enthusiastic crowds. Avoid it at chucking out time—the surrounding streets resemble some kind of apocalyptic scene, with crowds of folks stumbling drunkenly all over the place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cube Cinema Microplex |
Dove Street South Kingsdown Bristol BS2 8JB United Kingdom +44 117 907 4190 www.cubecinema.com |
Much-loved by Bristol's hipsters, The Cube is the antithesis of a multiplex. Walk down the stairs of what looks like a suburban house in a residential 18th century square and before you can say "hmm, this is odd", you're inside. Its great feature is a licensed bar that allows you to take your drinks with you through to the screening. It's very small, somewhat eccentric and features an eclectic programme that makes the other two art house cinemas in the city (The Watershed and The Arnolfini) look positively mainstream! You might find 1960s martial arts trailers, audio-visual talks on crop circles, special music nights with DJs through to straightforward screenings of a few mainstream films - although its speciality is weird and wonderful, little-known movies. You have to become a member the first time you go, which only costs 50p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dorkbotbristol |
 Photo: Mat Ranson |
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Fun and boats galore |
Harbourside Bristol United Kingdom 44 (0)117 926 0767 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Being such a watery city, it is only natural that Bristol should have its own regatta, and it certainly holds it in style. There are hundreds of boats on display at this event, all crowded into the city docks area, along with food and craft stalls, three stages of music and performances, a funfair, a trapeze act over the water, street performers, kids entertainment, a reverse bungee jump and fireworks. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert |
 Photo: Nick Foster |
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Twice the clubbers dream |
The Harbourside, Canons Road Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0330 |
Walk past this venue on a weekend night and here's what you'll see - an enormous queue of glammed-up clubbers, most under 21, with the girls wearing very little and all the boys wearing identikit shirts. The number of people waiting to get in is testament to this place's popularity. It's slick, right on the waterfront, and offers two rooms in which to party - one playing popular chart hits and "cheesy" hits of yesteryear, the other devoted to all the latest club anthems - plus large dance floors, and plenty of seating to rest your legs. To get in, dress smartly, leave your jeans and trainers at home and bring ID (proof of age), or the enormous and strict (they have to be - it's that sort of place!) bouncers won't let you in. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Live music venue south of the river |
Willway Street Bedminster Bristol BS3 4BG United Kingdom +44 117 987 3403 |
One of the few music venues in south Bristol, this place is hidden away in an unlovely back street. You would easily dismiss it as another industrial warehouse, were it not for the small sign above the door telling you it was actually a pub/club. Nevertheless, it's a favourite venue for local bands, tribute bands, the occasional trendy group and up-and-coming bands. It's particularly popular with world music performers and has been the scene of many a wild Latin night. Tickets for all gigs can be bought in advance from Bristol Ticket Shop and from Fiddlers itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bands almost every night of the week |
12 St. Thomas Street Bristol BS1 6JJ United Kingdom +44 117 945 0996 / +44 117 929 9008 |
If you are serious about your live music, head here: the Firkin showcases big-name bands and a lot of up-and-coming bands that you've maybe never heard of. There are bands on almost every night of the week and the average charge to get in is £5. You can get tickets in advance from Bristol Ticket Shop in town, or buy them on the door. If you want to find out who's playing when, email them at the address above. Expect familiar, frill-free pub surroundings including a bare wooden floor doubling as a dance floor, a long bar at one side, large stage and annoyingly few seats (well, at least it gets people moving). Dress down to fit in. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not your ordinary film experience |
Anchor Road, Harbourside Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 117 915 1000 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk/i... |
What is an IMAX cinema? Well, the name comes from the type of film and projector used, called "Image Maximum". This basically means that everything is 10 times as big as in a normal cinema and when you're seated in the 350 capacity auditorium, you feel as though you're inside the film itself - thanks to the massive screen and digital surround sound system. Truly amazing - a bit on the expensive side but definitely worth a visit. Films shown vary, but there is usually something about dinosaurs (the kids' choice), a natural history type film and probably one about technology of some kind. Whatever film is on, remember you're going for the whole spectacle of the thing - plot and acting are secondary. With everything being so life-like and large, certain films can be scary for youngsters, so check beforehand. Admission: adults £6.50, children £5.50, concs £4.50, family £19. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.msmoll.co.uk |
 Photo: corbs83 |
 Photo: Nick Tonkin |
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Popular comedy club |
140-142 Cheltenham Road Bristol BS6 5RL United Kingdom +44 117 909 6655 |
Jesters is a nightclub dedicated to comedy! A 200-seater auditorium, air conditioning, a licensed bar (open till 1a) means that although it's only been in operation since 1995 - previous acts have included Mark Lamarr, Lee Hurst and Mark Jupitus - Jesters has already gained a reputation as a good place to visit. On Friday and Saturday there's usually a disco after the performance, while Wednesday is regular student comedy night, for all those budding comedians who are brave enough to get up and have a go. Basic but filling food is available - burgers, nachos, curries - good for soaking up the alcohol! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: smmcgrath121 |
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The most famed club in the area |
6 Upper York Street Bristol BS2 8QN United Kingdom +44 117 924 4993 |
Despite being one of the best known party places in Bristol, you may well miss this venue if you don't know where to look. Set well back from the main bus route to town, the only factor setting it apart from surrounding buildings is the metal sign facing the street. Inside, the decor is nothing dramatic either, but the events held here (famed nationwide) are what gives this club its ooomph! With four bars, a balcony overlooking the dance floor, a capacity of 800 and attracting the best national and international DJs and the liveliest of clubbing crowds (only the trendiest of you need apply, naturally) you cannot go far wrong no matter which night you hit the dance floor here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Selwyn Leeke |
 Photo: Selwyn Leeke |
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Comedy club above south Bristol pub |
The Hen and Chicken 210 North Street Bristol BS3 1JF United Kingdom +44 117 922 3683 |
This venue, above the rather rough Hen and Chicken pub (don't bother going for a drink here afterwards), is fully table seated, creating a comfortable, cosy atmosphere - table allocations are made for all advance bookings, so it's a good idea to book early (ring or visit the Colston Hall box office for this). Only sit near the front if you don't mind being made the brunt of the comic's jokes! Acts vary between big-name comedians and lesser-known acts and take place fortnightly on Saturdays. Ring for latest programme details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Toe-tapping tapas |
26 The Promenade Gloucester Road Bristol BS7 8AL United Kingdom +44 117 942 7319 http://www.theprom.co.uk/ |
This cult venue attracts folks from all over town, and here's why. There's a large bar with both English and tapas meals and snacks, plus alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, all served in vibrantly decorated, uplifting surroundings. It's a wonderful place for an all-day breakfast, then in the evenings, things hot up! The corner stage boasts frequent live bands—making it a real magnet for those who adore rock, blues and jazz. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful old building hosting classical concerts |
Great George Street Bristol BS1 5RR United Kingdom +44 117 923 0359 http://www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk |
This unique venue is very highly rated in the classical music world and has many fans. One BBC presenter described it as such: "It feels as though the artists have come to play to you and you alone. It has a warm welcoming atmosphere and the ambience of a truly great concert hall but it's much prettier than them all". Visiting classical music fans will be equally enamoured with it no doubt. The resident orchestra, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, perform regularly and there are recitals from major composers, plus pieces by contemporary and little-known composers. There are also regular jazz performances, world music, choirs, opera, lunchtime concerts and the occasional lecture. Look out for rare and very special performances by some of the pop/rock world's big names - Bjork and Elvis Costello have both performed here, to name just two. A small gallery of contemporary art and a licensed cafe, reside in the wonderfully atmospheric and beautifully-restored crypt at the basement of the building - a great place for a civilised snack, or glass of wine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Brewer |
 Photo: graffiti badges |
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Bristol's version of a Soho jazz bar |
39-41 St Nicholas Street Bristol BS1 1TP United Kingdom +44 117 940 2304 http://www.tantric-jazz.co.uk |
Is it a cafe or is it a nightclub? Thats for you to decide. The Tantric is a new concept for the downtown Corn Street area of Bristol—a groovy and laid back jazz bar, offering food and live music or DJs playing jazz and world music, seven nights a week. Take your pick from any dish off the North African/Middle Eastern menu. Very popular with Bristol's arty and Bohemian crowds, this place gets deservedly and extremely busy at weekends, when booking is essential. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Large club for Bristol's young and loud |
15 Nelson St Bristol BS1 2JY United Kingdom +44 117 929 2658 http://www.worksbristol.com |
Infamous amongst Bristolians, this venue, with a capacity of nearly 2000 has a lot to offer its patrons - free membership, cheap admission, two spacious dance floors (one for more commercial music and the other for an alternative), two bars, and a great fusion of music mixed by resident DJs. Flamboyant, glamorous and modern are the best terms to describe it. It might not be painfully hip and trendy, but it's a lot of fun. Particularly popular is the videocam, which ensures that by the end of the night everyone on the dance floor will have had their few seconds of fame on the large video screen. The Works hosts a students' night (Tuesday), plus nights for those over 21 only (Saturday), with entry ranging from £3-6. Be warned - no ID (proof of age), no entry. Check website for upcoming events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Legendary club on a boat |
East Mud Dock The Grove Bristol BS1 4RB United Kingdom +44 117 929 3301 |
The infamous Thekla is one of Bristol's oldest clubs located inside an iron ship moored in the harbour. Do not expect super-club glam, do not bother dressing up and definitely do not look for any frills. However, what you can expect is top music; downstairs the live acts and DJs get the dance floor moving and upstairs is often more lively. Hosting various nights, from jungle to break beats to garage and funk, the crowd attracted is a good mix. This is the only club in the city where you can gaze out of portholes at swans asleep on the water below! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Bracken |
 Photo: MatHampson |
 Photo: smushed_cow |
 Photo: Alice Bottini-Hall |
 Photo: Peter Broderick |
 Photo: Benjamin Brown |
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Bristol's newest theatre |
Junction of North Street/Raleigh Road Bedminster Bristol BS3 1TF United Kingdom +44 117 902 0345 / +44 117 902 0344 http://www.tobaccofactory.com |
A relatively new addition to Bristol's theatre scene, this imposing building was indeed a former tobacco factory and is an enormous red brick building, standing on North Street in Bedminster. It's a particularly welcome addition to south Bristol, which, until now, did not have a theatre space to call its own and is home to two acclaimed theatre companies - Show of Strength and Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory. The latter have been praised for their productions of various Shakespeare plays (often ones neglected by larger companies) in both local and national press. It also plays host to various other travelling companies, comedy performers and is always worth a bet for more off-the-wall and unusual plays and performances. Recently opened in the basement is a branch of the popular Chinese/Thai restaurant Teohs - a welcome addition to the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stuart Bishop |
 Photo: Stephen Curtis |
 Photo: nigel@wildberrys |
 Historical and elegant concert/conference venue |
Queens Road Clifton Bristol BS8 1SA United Kingdom +44 117 954 5032 |
Designed by Bristol architect Charles Dyer (noted for his classical and Gothic designs), the Victoria Rooms were built in the first half of the 19th century in the Greek Revival style - one of its most notable features is its octostyle (eight columned) Corinthian portico. The building has belonged to the University of Bristol since the 1920s and now houses the Music Department. As such, there is no entry, except during the concerts and in any case, the building is much more imposing from the outside. Lunchtime concerts are held throughout the year and there are classical concerts also. Tickets are available from the building itself (ask at the Porter's Lodge) or from the university bookshop on nearby Tyndall's Avenue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Hobbs |
 Photo: Wasif's Pictures |
 Photo: j-go & erango in the |
 Photo: Amy Butlin |
 Photo: Nik Jones |
 Photo: Sam Boudria |
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Country matters in the heart of the city |
Philip Street (Bedminster) Bristol BS3 4EA United Kingdom +44 117 963 3252 |
Established back in 1976, this working farm was the first outside of London and is just half a mile from the city centre. It is a good choice for those of you with kids—they love it here and it's enjoyed by tens of thousands of them every year. In addition to the hands-on experience of a wide range of animals (including goats, sheep, pigs, cattle, rabbits and poultry, with some rare breeds), children are particularly attracted by the adventure playground, and family playroom, which is billed as "a creative and safe place for young children." The Farm specifically aims to help people understand the practicalities of food production, and to present a balanced view of sustainable lifestyles. There is also a conservation area, a lovely little cafe and a farm shop, selling some delicious organic food. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Owen Haberfield |
 Photo: shipscompass |