10 Unmissable Nights Out in Bristol

Once a thriving maritime hub for explorers, merchants and sailors, Bristol offers a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. Its historic harbourside is now home to vibrant bars, floating venues and characterful pubs that echo its nautical past. The city’s music scene is legendary, too. As the birthplace of trip-hop, its live music legacy has shaped the UK’s underground club culture. With a large student population and a local crowd that keeps the energy high, the city pulses with creativity every night of the week. Whether you're looking for laid-back drinks by the waterfront, dancing until the early hours or something totally different, the city's after-dark scene is ready to impress. Here's our guide to the top 10 venues for a fun night out in Bristol.

A working dock until the 1970s, Bristol's historic harbourside is now home to some of the city's liveliest bars and restaurants, especially on a warm summer's evening when the whole area is buzzing. One standout venue is Watershed, a laid-back bar and arthouse cinema located right on the water's edge. It's a favourite for those who enjoy a more relaxed, scenic vibe where you can watch the ferries go by. If you're after something a little more upbeat, Grain Barge is a boat bar offering live music and a wide range of ales; the combination of great drinks and waterside views make this an atmospheric sunset spot.

Watershed

• 1 Canon's Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX
• Open daily

Bristol's food scene has earned its spot on the map for being adventurous and packed with flavour. For a relaxed start to your evening, grab a bite at one of the city's famous street food markets like St. Nicholas Market, to sample local favourites such as gourmet burgers or pie and mash, or international dishes from Korean and Jamaican to Sri Lankan and Malaysian.

For something a little more upscale, head to the Michelin-starred Paco Tapas for creative Spanish dishes made from local ingredients. The shipping container restaurants at Wapping Wharf also house some upscale gems, including modern British at BOX-E and an incredible plant-based menu at Root.

St. Nicholas Market

• The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JQ
• Open Monday-Saturday, 9:30 am–5 pm

One of the most unique nights out in Bristol, Thekla is an award-winning nightclub that's housed on a converted 1950s cargo ship. A staple of Bristol's alternative music scene, it hosts live gigs and DJ nights across a variety of genres, from indie to electronic. Some of Bristol's best-known artists have played here, including Massive Attack, Portishead and Roni Size, and the club is synonymous with Bristol's thriving music culture. Located in the Mud Dock area of Bristol's floating harbour, it's easily walkable from the elegant, city-centre Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel.

Thekla

• The Grove, East Mud Dock, Bristol BS1 4RB
• Open Thursday 9:30 pm–3 am, Friday 10 pm–3 am, Saturday 9:30 pm–4 am

For those seeking something a little more under the radar, Bristol is home to several speakeasy-style bars, providing an exclusive experience for those in the know. One example is Her Majesty's Secret Service, a bar hidden down an alleyway near Clifton Down train station. Its retro charm and expertly crafted cocktails add a touch of mystery to your night out. Another must-visit is The Milk Thistle, an elegant bar located in a Grade II listed building, offering a wide variety of decadent cocktails in a classy yet understated setting.

Her Majesty's Secret Service

• Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PH
• Open Monday-Thursday, 5 pm–midnight; Friday-Saturday, 5 pm–1 am

For fans of live music, The Fleece is one of Bristol's oldest and most respected venues, having hosted the likes of Radiohead, Oasis, Amy Winehouse and Ed Sheeran, to name but a few! Situated in a former wool warehouse, this intimate venue always has a first-class line-up of live acts ranging from indie and folk to punk and rock. The Fleece's relaxed atmosphere, great acoustics and rich history make it an essential spot for anyone who enjoys live performances. Located in the heart of the city, it's easily accessible and a perfect choice for a night filled with live tunes.

• 12 St Thomas St, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6JJ
• Open Monday-Wednesday, 7:30 pm–2 am; Thursday 7:30 pm–4 am; Friday-Saturday, 7 pm–4 am; Sunday 1 pm–2 am

For something entirely different, why not take a dip at Bristol Lido in Clifton, a stunning heated outdoor swimming pool housed in a Victorian building? The pool is open daily all year round and features a hot tub, sauna and steam room. It's particularly magical during the summer months for a tranquil swim under the stars in one of Bristol's most upscale neighbourhoods. Once you've dried off, you can enjoy tasty tapas-style food and drinks at the poolside restaurant, making it a fantastic option for a night of relaxation and fun – but be sure to book ahead.

• Oakfield Pl, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ
• Open daily 7am-10pm
• It's a members' club but you can book a guest swim online

You can't have a night out in Bristol without sampling its famous cider. And what better way to enjoy a pint than aboard a beautifully converted Dutch barge? The Apple, moored on the River Avon in the heart of the Old City, offers a fun, laid-back setting to sip on local ciders while taking in the views of the water and city skyline. It's a unique experience in Bristol, where you can enjoy a truly local drink in a quirky and relaxed atmosphere. Note that some of the ciders are particularly strong, so be sure to enjoy them responsibly.

• Welsh Back, Bristol BS1 4SB
• Open Monday-Wednesday, 4:30 pm–midnight; Thursday 3:30 pm–midnight; Friday-Saturday, noon-midnight; Sunday noon–10:30 pm

For a night of nostalgia, head to NQ64, a retro arcade bar in the city centre that's open late into the night. With 36 arcade games, pinball machines and consoles, you'll find all your favourites here, from Pac Man and Donkey Kong to Guitar Hero and Mortal Kombat. There's a top-notch drinks menu too, featuring themed cocktails like Power Start Martini or Mad Max. Decorated from top to toe in neon graffiti, it has a cool, quirky vibe – perfect for anyone looking for a night of alternative entertainment.

• 14-16 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1SE
• Open Monday-Thursday, 4 pm–2:30 am; Friday-Sunday, noon–2:30 am

For a different kind of playful, head to The Lanes, an old-school bowling alley that transforms into a lively nightclub after dark. With retro décor, karaoke and a friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for groups of friends or students looking to have some fun. Grab a drink, order a pizza and take your turn at bowling before belting out your favourite tunes in the karaoke rooms. It's a great way to keep the night going after the city-centre pubs have closed.

• 22 Nelson St, Bristol BS1 2LE
• Open Monday-Wednesday, 5 pm–midnight; Thursday 2 pm–midnight; Friday 2 pm–3 am; Saturday noon–3 am; Sunday noon-midnight

If you love to dance until the early hours, Motion is the go-to spot for a serious night out in Bristol. Internationally recognised for its top-tier sound system and unbeatable vibe, this industrial-style venue in a former warehouse hosts some of the biggest names in electronic music. With multiple rooms, including an outdoor space for summer nights, it's an ideal spot to immerse yourself in Bristol's renowned underground scene. A short walk from Temple Meads train station, it's also only 15 minutes on foot from the four-star Novotel Bristol Centre hotel.

• 74-78 Avon St, Bristol BS2 0PX
• Open daily 24 hours

Bristol's vibrant nightlife scene reflects the city's unique character. Live music, hidden bars and packed pubs add to the city's charm, while its creative energy ensures there’s always something new to discover. With a mix of iconic venues and unexpected gems, a night out in Bristol is guaranteed to be one to remember. So why wait? Grab your friends, pick your spot and dive into the city’s unforgettable after-dark scene. And if you're looking for a relaxing escape after all that partying, check out our guide to the UK's most chilled cities.