Things To Do At Night In Bristol UK

Bristol’s nightlife has one of the strongest reputations of any city in the UK. Besides the musical pedigree contained in the local club scene, the city is a bonanza of after-dark experiences whether you’re in the mood to dance, dine or anything else. Below are some of the best, most unique and interesting options.

1. Watershed

Bar, American

The cafe bar at the watershed, bristol harbourside

Sitting right on the harbourside, Watershed is a multi-functional arts centre which always has plenty to offer. The Pervasive Media Studio is host to various installations throughout the year and there is space for stage shows, three cinema screens and a café and bar. Watershed is just over the road from Bristol Cathedral, a 15-minute walk from the city centre.

2. The Old Duke

Pub, Pub Grub

The Old Duke is one of the oldest pubs in the city, which makes it interesting from the outset, but there’s more. The pub is a popular venue for local bands, particularly in the jazz realm. While Bristol might have a strong clubland reputation, if relaxed, live music is your thing, you could do far worse. The Old Duke is on King’s Street, less than 5 minutes south of Castle Park.

3. Lido Bristol

Swimming Pool

Swimming might not seem like the obvious thing to do with a free evening, but the Victorian pool is heated, open until 10pm and well worth a visit. As well as the pool, the lido is kitted out with a tapas bar and a spa. Lido Bristol is on St Paul’s Road, 30 minutes on foot from the city centre.

4. Hyde and Co

Bar, Pub Grub

While the UK never languished through prohibition in the same way the USA did, there are still plenty of speakeasies dotted around the country and Hyde & Co is Bristol’s most famous. Founded in 2010, it offers an authentic prohibition experience to those willing to find it. Hyde & Co is not-so-secretly nestled on Upper Byron Place.

5. PuzzLair

Amusement Park

If you really want to get your heart pumping without needing to jump up and down, PuzzLair might be just the ticket. The foremost escape room in Bristol, it stays open late, takes bookings of two to five people and offers six different experiences, including a prison van and a poltergeist room. PuzzLair is on Midland Road, 10 minutes on foot from the city centre.

6. Thekla

Music Venue, Theatre

The Thekla nightclub and music venue floodlit at night, The Grove in Bristol Harbour, England.

If you’re looking for the authentic Bristol clubbing experience, Thekla is about as Bristolian as you can get – it’s literally a boat. Hosting club nights, live bands and more, this award-winning club is a mainstay in both sound-system culture and the nightlife of the South West. Thekla is on the harbourside, 15 minutes from the centre.