The very best 12 nightlife spots in Bristol, United Kingdom

Welcome to Bristol, the vibrant city that knows how to party! Get ready to dance the night away at some of the best nightlife spots in town, guaranteed to have you boogieing till dawn. From the quirky underground speakeasies to trendy rooftop bars with breathtaking views, Bristol has it all. So, buckle up, grab a drink, and let's explore the twelve sensational places that will ensure your nights are anything but dull!

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1. The Lanes

4.2 (1901)

22 Nelson St, Bristol BS1 2LE, UK

Welcome to The Lanes in Bristol, a place where even the most directionally challenged will feel at home. This maze of narrow streets is a delightful concoction of quirky shops, cozy cafes, and unsuspecting passageways that seem conveniently designed to confuse tourists. Don't fret if you find yourself lost amidst the jumble of Georgian architecture, for stumbling upon hidden gems and spontaneous adventures is the true essence of exploring The Lanes. As you wander through this tangled web of streets, keep an ear out for the faint sound of a banjo or a melodious saxophone being played with heart and gusto. Street performers, like chameleons, blend seamlessly into the vibrant tapestry of this bohemian playground, their eclectic music adding an aural flavor to your journey. Be prepared to engage in impromptu dance-offs or to showcase your amateur harmonica skills; after all, spontaneity is the name of the game here. When hunger strikes, fear not, for The Lanes know how to cater to your every craving. Whether it's devouring a scrumptious homemade pie in a hidden courtyard, sipping on artisanal coffee in a cafe that doubles as a bookstore, or embracing your inner foodie with a delicious falafel wrap from a street food stall, you're sure to find sustenance that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So, savor each bite and revel in the knowledge that calories consumed in The Lanes don't count – it's a well-established scientific fact!

www.thelanesbristol.co.uk

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2. The Milk Thistle

4.5 (775)

Quay Head House, Colston Ave, Bristol BS1 1EB, UK

Welcome to The Milk Thistle, where you can sip on cocktails that are so cool, they make James Bond look like a teetotaler. This hidden gem in Bristol will transport you back in time, with its lavish décor and ambiance that screams "I just stepped into the Roaring Twenties!" Don't be surprised if you find yourself whispering secret codes to a wall, hoping it's the secret entrance to a speakeasy; just remember, this is not the prohibition era, so the cocktail police won't throw you in the slammer for having too much fun!

milkthistlebristol.com

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3. The Volunteer Tavern

4.6 (1108)

9 New St, Bristol BS2 9DX, UK

Welcome to The Volunteer Tavern, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bristol. This quirky pub boasts an impressive selection of craft beers that will make you do a happy dance and forget all about your daily troubles. Prepare to be charmed by its rustic interior, where you can enjoy a pint while pretending to be in a medieval tavern, minus the questionable hygiene. Don't be surprised if you find yourself engaging in lively conversations with locals who have a knack for telling tall tales and making you snort with laughter. Cheers to good times and unforgettable memories at The Volunteer Tavern!

www.volunteertavern.co.uk

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4. The Pump House

4.1 (1395)

Merchants Rd, Hotwells, Bristol BS8 4PZ, UK

Tucked away in Bristol, a city known for its quirky charm and vibrant energy, lies The Pump House, a hidden gem that boasts a unique blend of history and entertainment. This former waterworks-turned-pub will surely tickle your fancy as you step into its rustic charm and wonder if the beer taps are fueled by the River Avon. Be prepared to immerse yourself in delightful conversations and indulge in some delicious grub, all while imagining the ghosts of thirsty plumbers from centuries past raising a pint in approval.

www.the-pumphouse.com

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5. The White Hart

4.1 (481)

Lower Maudlin St, Bristol BS1 2LU, UK

Tucked away in the heart of Bristol, The White Hart is the perfect sanctuary for those seeking good food, cheerful vibes, and perhaps a dash of wild nightlife. This place offers a delightful fusion of classic British pub charm and bohemian eccentricity, making it the natural habitat for hipsters, ale enthusiasts, and even the occasional unicorn (yes, really!). Soak in the cozy ambiance as you savor the lip-smacking delights of their menu, or loosen up your limbs and dance like nobody's watching on their surprisingly spacious dance floor - just remember to watch out for the enthusiastic disco-loving deer adorning the walls, as they might just out-boogie you!

www.thewhitehartpubbristol.co.uk

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6. The Hatchet Inn

4.3 (1559)

27 Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5NA, UK

Welcome to The Hatchet Inn, a fascinating establishment nestled in the heart of Bristol! This historic pub, with its charming facade and questionable tales of haunted corridors, provides a truly memorable experience. Prepare to be whisked away to a bygone era as you enter through its creaking doors, where service speed may mimic the pace of a three-toed sloth, but the cold beer more than compensates for the wait. So, gather your courage, as you navigate through quirky rooms emanating an unmistakable aroma of rustic charm, and embrace the lively ambiance that will make you forget all about those ghostly whispers.

www.jwbpubs.com

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7. The Canteen

4.4 (1449)

Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, St Paul's, Bristol BS1 3QY, UK

Welcome to The Canteen in Bristol, where the fusion of brilliant music, scrumptious food, and vibrant atmosphere creates a not-to-be-missed experience. Prepare your taste buds to be blown away by their delightful offerings, from hearty burgers that make even the most dedicated vegetarians reconsider their choices to mouthwatering desserts that will render you helpless against temptation. And don't worry if you don't possess ninja-like dancing skills; at The Canteen, the eclectic tunes will make you move so strangely that you'd fit right in.

www.canteenbristol.co.uk

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8. The Barley Mow

4.6 (1062)

39 Barton Rd, St Philip's, Bristol BS2 0LF, UK

Prepare yourself for a pint-sized adventure at The Barley Mow in Bristol, a charming establishment that oozes old-world charm disguised as a pub. With walls adorned in centuries-old beer stains and a scent that can only be described as a sweet blend of hops and nostalgia, this watering hole is a true delight for ale enthusiasts and time-travel dreamers alike. Grab a seat next to the resident grumpy gnome, named Bob, who begrudgingly shares wisdom from the bottom of his perpetually full glass.

www.bristolbeerfactory.co.uk

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9. The Stable

4.4 (2917)

Canon's Rd, Bristol BS1 5UH, UK

Nestled in the heart of Bristol lies The Stable, a haven for pizza and cider enthusiasts alike. Brace yourself for a unique gastronomic experience where your taste buds will be set on an adventurous rollercoaster ride. From their eccentrically named pizzas to their extensive selection of craft ciders, The Stable promises to leave you with a belly full of joy and a smile that even the legendary Bristolian street artist Banksy would envy.

stablepizza.com

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10. The Secret Bars

4.6 (450)

Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PH, UK

Nestled amidst the maze-like streets of Bristol, the Secret Bars await intrepid explorers seeking refuge from mundane watering holes. These hidden gems are like the Sherlock Holmes of the city's nightlife, challenging even the savviest of locals to uncover their elusive entrances. Once inside, prepare to be transported to a world where mixologists concoct liquid potions resembling art, and the atmosphere exudes a clandestine charm that will make you feel oh-so-exclusive.

www.hmssbristol.com

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11. The Old Duke

4.5 (2368)

45 King St, Bristol BS1 4ER, UK

Nestled in the boisterous heart of Bristol, The Old Duke serves as a sanctuary for both seasoned jazz lovers and novice toe-tappers alike. With its dimly-lit and time-worn interior, this lively establishment exudes more character than a Shakespearean play. Prepare to be serenaded by the enchanting melodies of live jazz while trying not to trip on the dance floor, for the rhythm might get the better of even the most coordinated two-left-footed enthusiast.

www.theoldduke.com

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12. The Apple

Welcome to The Apple, a quirky cider pub nestled in the vibrant city of Bristol. Get ready to embark on a cider-tasting voyage and dive headfirst into a sea of apple-based adventures. This pub knows its apples like no other, offering a myriad of cider options that could make any apple orchard blush. From sweet and subtle flavors to tangy and cheek-puckering varieties, you'll have a cracking time exploring the fruity wonders of The Apple.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bristol by plane is to fly into Bristol Airport which is approximately 8 miles from the city centre. There are direct flights available from many locations across Europe and the UK, including London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam and Paris.

Car

The best way to get to Bristol by car is to take the M4 motorway from London or the M5 motorway from Birmingham. The journey time from London is approximately 2 hours and from Birmingham it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is recommended to use a sat nav or map to navigate the city centre.

Train

The best way to get to Bristol by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and operates regularly throughout the day.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Bristol, however there are many options for boat tours and river cruises available from Bristol Harbour. These provide a unique way to see the city and surrounding areas from the water.

Bus

The best way to get to Bristol by bus is to take the National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are also regular services from other UK cities including Birmingham, Manchester and Cardiff.

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