Bristol Student Nightlife Guide

Bristol is a city that is perhaps underrated for its music scene. Think of all the massive contributions they’ve made to music in the UK with groups such as Massive Attack and IDLES. It has one of the most thriving underground scenes in the entire country and that results in some amazing nights out.

Freshers week

So, you’ve just moved over to Bristol and you’re looking to find your feet in this busy new city. Well luckily, we’ve got your back with this Freshers guide, here you’ll find all the best places to go on a night out and the areas that are particularly handy for students. Think bars, clubs, venues and more.

Stokes Croft

Stokes Croft is an example of just how good the nightlife in Bristol is. Here you’ll find clubs such as Lakota in this area where Bristol’s underground scene really comes to light. Here you can experience club nights that will take you to a whole new world.

Park Street

Another area in Bristol that is absolutely thriving, Park Street has a plethora of bars that you may need more than one trip to fully experience. Whether its pints, cocktails or a bit of a dance you’re after Park Street has you covered.

Old Market

A historic and colourful part of the city, Old Market is an area that has strong ties to the LGBTQ+ community, with as many as five festivals being held here each year. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from including To The Moon, The Gin Palace and the Phoenix pub.

Live Music

02 Academy Bristol

The 02 Academy in Bristol is one of the most diverse venues that you’ll find in the city, with huge names from all kinds of genres making appearances on the stage. It doubles as both a club and live music venue but it’s the live performances that really get the greatest atmosphere.

With huge bands bringing their best material and DJs taking to the decks amongst high quality production value, you can’t go wrong with a gig here.

The Louisiana

The Louisiana is a small 140 capacity family-run venue that holds a huge space in the hearts of Bristol gig-goers. First used for gigs in 1996 where it hosted Super Furry Animals and Placebo, it has since become a key venue that tests out some of the best new bands.

There have been so many names through these doors that have gone on to do great things and perform in front of thousands of people. If you go to a gig at The Louisiana you can claim to have seen them first.

Thekla

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thekla Bristol (@theklabris)

Thekla can safely claim to be one of the most unique venues in the UK. Originally a trading vessel in the 50’s, it was eventually abandoned and moved to its new home in Bristol in the 80’s. This converted boat is now a music venue and it hosts all kinds of gigs from indie rock to reggae.

An intimate space, Thekla is definitely the place to see your favourite underground acts. It’s a unique gig experience.

Click here to view more Bristol gigs.

Clubs

Basement 45

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Basement 45 (@basement45)

Basement 45 was opened in 2009 and was formerly called The Mandrake. The underground space has two floors and a capacity of 300. Musically it is quite diverse, you’ll find local promoters putting on a whole range of club nights. They’ve had an incredible selection of names through the door.

You can find anything here from the latest upcoming DJ to the seasoned professionals.

The Fleece

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Fleece (@fleecebristol)

The Fleece is a live venue that can also put on some quite impressive club nights. Famous for having names such as Oasis, Radiohead and White Stripes some through the door, you can find some suitably themed rock music nights. 

A place that is always popular with students, you can find sounds from almost any decade here as you dance the night away.

Lakota

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lakota Nightclub (@lakota.bristol)

You’ll find Lakota nestled in the heart of Stokes Croft. This is a nightclub that has been laying down a marker in Bristol with its phenomenal sound-system. It’s a place that always manages to pull off massive line ups of the very best DJs.

A three-storey building with warehouse style interior it features four different dancefloors and a private garden. It’s one of the biggest and best in Bristol.

Motion

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Motion (@motionbristol)

Motion is one of the biggest clubs in Bristol and one of the most exciting in the UK. Previously voted as the best club in the UK by DJ Mag, this is a place where ravers flock to all the time just to say that they’ve been.

You’ll find special guests here from every corner of the world and from the very top of their games. It’s always a massive party at Motion.

SWX

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SWX Bristol (@swxbristol)

SWX is a huge open space that makes for some thrilling club nights. With an emphasis on high production values, they put on shows with huge light shows and pyrotechnics. Be prepared to see sets from the biggest of names here. There’s always a brilliant atmosphere at SWX.

Click here to view more Bristol clubs.

Freshers FAQ’s

When does Freshers week take place in Bristol?

Freshers in Bristol will be from Saturday 18th September to Sunday 26th September.

Do I need to provide ID at events?

Yes, as a requirement of law all bars, pubs, clubs and venues will require some form of valid ID which proves you are at least 18 years of age. Accepted forms of ID include a driver’s license or passport.

Will I need a facemask?

Yes. Although the law has now changed, within some premises, you may still need to wear a mask, with each individual hospitality venue able to apply their own rules. You may be asked to wear one when moving around a restaurant or bar for example but not when seated. You’ll also need to wear a mask if travelling on public transport.

 

More about Bristol

Irrespective of whether you're a first time visitor to the city, a frequently returning guest or a lifelong inhabitant, our guides are essential reading for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Bristol.

nightlife

nightlife

Bristol is a city that is perhaps underrated for its music scene. Think of all the massive contributions they’ve made to music in the UK with groups such as Massive Attack and IDLES. It has one of the most thriving underground scenes in the entire country and that results in some amazing night…

Back to Bristol freshers guide »