The nightlife in Bristol: Things to do after dark

Motion Bristol

Housed in a former skatepark behind Temple Meads station, Motion could hardly be much different to its former guise. A vast super club with numerous smaller rooms and outdoor areas spilling off the huge main space, this is the place to go for late night partying and getting your groove on to both local and internationally renowned DJs and acts.

The Island

Another Bristol nightlife venue known for its top club nights, this former police station also generates a unique atmosphere - particularly when you party in one of the old cells. The Island is a vibrant arts centre renting out affordable studio space during the day, with the creative classes and relaxed vibes replaced by late-night raves after sundown.

OMG Bristol Club

This is one of the highlights of Bristol’s welcoming and lively LGBTQ+ scene. You can start off at OMG Bar across the street for a quieter drink, before heading over to the club where things are likely to get a little crazier. Expect pumping tunes and neon lights as you catch a drag show, throw some shapes on the LED dance floor or maybe even get up on the podium.

Bristol Beacon

Formerly known as Colston Hall, this is the largest concert hall in the South West and regularly plays host to some of the biggest names across a variety of musical genres. The Beatles, Elton John, David Bowie and Ella Fitzgerald have all played here in the past, as well as Nina Simone, Bob Dylan and Motörhead. The historic Bristol Beacon first opened in 1867 and also puts on classical music performances as well as pop, rock, folk and jazz shows.

Thekla

Another fascinating place popular on the city’s music scene, there are few venues quite like Thekla anywhere in the world. An old German ship now docked next to Queen Square, this is an unusual haunt to catch one-off Bristol nightlife events from exciting bands, DJs and other musical acts. After building up a bit of a sweat below deck at a show, head up to the top deck for some fresh air and twinkling Harbourside views.

From northern suburbs such as Patchway to the Filwood area to the south of the city centre, there are lots of great places to call home in Bristol. There are also a number of fantastic developments where you can find brand new homes built to exacting modern standards. These include Ladden Garden Village, Blackberry Park and Lyde View to look out for.