|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Bristol has one of the most exciting LGBTQ+ nightlife scenes in the UK, offering a variety of clubs that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy dance floor, a laid-back cocktail bar, or a venue with thrilling drag performances, Bristol has something for everyone.
The city is home to iconic clubs like Queenshilling, OMG Bristol, and Lizard Lounge, each known for their welcoming atmosphere and inclusive crowd. Many of these venues host special LGBTQ+ nights, pride events, and themed parties, ensuring a diverse and entertaining experience.
With affordable entry fees, vibrant music selections, and a strong sense of community, Bristol’s LGBTQ+ clubs provide unforgettable nights out for locals and visitors alike. This guide explores the top 10 gay clubs in Bristol and what makes them must-visit destinations.
What Makes Bristol a Great Destination for LGBTQ+ Nightlife?
Bristol is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife, and its LGBTQ+ club scene plays a major role in this reputation. The city offers a mix of high-energy nightclubs, intimate bars, and alternative music venues that welcome the LGBTQ+ community.
Many clubs, like Queenshilling and OMG Bristol, cater specifically to queer partygoers, while others, such as Thekla and Lakota, regularly host LGBTQ+-friendly events. The city is also home to an active pride community, with regular celebrations and inclusive events that support LGBTQ+ rights.
Bristol’s club scene stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable pricing, and diverse music options. Whether you enjoy commercial pop, electronic beats, or retro anthems, there is a club to match your taste. With safety, inclusivity, and fun at its core, Bristol remains one of the UK’s best cities for LGBTQ+ nightlife.
How Do Bristol’s LGBTQ+ Clubs Compare to Other UK Cities?
Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife is often compared to larger cities like London, Manchester, and Brighton, but it has its own unique charm. While London boasts world-famous clubs and Manchester’s Canal Street is a well-known LGBTQ+ hub, Bristol offers a more intimate and community-driven experience.
The city’s gay clubs are known for their affordability, with many venues charging lower entry fees than those in bigger cities. Unlike London, where large superclubs dominate the scene, Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife is built around welcoming, independent venues like Queenshilling and Lizard Lounge.
The music scene is also diverse, catering to mainstream, underground, and alternative tastes. Additionally, Bristol’s pride events and LGBTQ+-inclusive festivals strengthen the city’s queer nightlife culture. Overall, Bristol provides a balance of inclusivity, affordability, and variety, making it a fantastic alternative to larger UK cities.
Top 10 Gay Clubs in Bristol
1. Lizard Lounge
Lizard Lounge is one of Bristol’s most popular nightclubs, attracting a mixed crowd, including a strong LGBTQ+ following. Located in the Clifton area, this venue offers an energetic and inclusive atmosphere where people can enjoy top-tier music, great drinks, and a vibrant social scene. The club is known for its commercial dance, house, and R&B playlists, catering to a wide audience.
With an entry fee ranging from £10 to £20, Lizard Lounge is a great option for partygoers looking for an affordable and exciting night out. It frequently hosts student nights, theme parties, and special events that keep the energy high.
The venue has multiple bars, ensuring that guests can grab their drinks quickly without long queues. Open from 10 PM, it is a must-visit for those exploring Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife.
- Website: lizard-lounge.co.uk
- Contact: 0117 329 0800
- Location: 66 Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU
- Rating: 4.3/5
2. Queenshilling
Queenshilling is one of Bristol’s most well-established LGBTQ+ clubs, known for its friendly environment and fantastic music selection. This award-winning venue has built a strong reputation for being a safe and inclusive space where everyone can enjoy themselves. The club is smaller compared to others in the city, but its welcoming atmosphere and excellent customer service make up for it.
Music at Queenshilling ranges from chart-topping hits to classic dance anthems, keeping the crowd entertained all night. The entry fee is between £1 and £10, making it an affordable option for a great night out.
The club regularly hosts themed events, DJ nights, and pride celebrations, further cementing its status as one of Bristol’s top LGBTQ+ venues. Open from 10 PM, it is a fantastic spot for those looking for an inclusive and vibrant party experience.
- Website: queenshilling.com
- Contact: 07396 818187
- Location: 9 Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5NA
- Rating: 4.1/5
3. Basement 45
Basement 45 is a well-loved underground nightclub that frequently hosts LGBTQ+ nights, making it a favourite among Bristol’s queer community. Situated in a converted bank vault, the venue offers an intimate yet energetic clubbing experience. It features multiple rooms with different music styles, including house, techno, drum & bass, and more.
The club is known for its affordable pricing, making it accessible to students and young professionals. With an entry fee that varies depending on the event, it provides a top-tier clubbing experience at a reasonable cost.
Open from 10 PM, Basement 45 offers a diverse crowd and an inclusive atmosphere where LGBTQ+ partygoers can dance freely. Whether you’re a fan of electronic beats or looking for an underground party vibe, this venue is one of the best choices in Bristol.
- Website: basement45.co.uk
- Contact: 0117 929 3554
- Location: 8 Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5NA
- Rating: 4.4/5
4. Antix
Antix is a late-night bar and nightclub that caters to a stylish, energetic crowd, including many from the LGBTQ+ community. The venue is best known for its lively dance floor, great cocktails, and electric atmosphere. Unlike other clubs, Antix stays open later into the night, making it an excellent choice for those looking to party until the early hours.
The club plays a mix of commercial dance, R&B, and house music, creating an upbeat and engaging vibe. Entry fees range from £20 to £30, positioning Antix as a slightly more upscale venue compared to others in the area. With its sleek interior and premium drink options, it offers a high-end clubbing experience. Open from 9 PM, Antix is a great choice for those who enjoy stylish yet energetic LGBTQ+-friendly venues in Bristol.
- Website: barantix.com
- Contact: 0117 925 1139
- Location: 44 Park St, Bristol BS1 5JG
- Rating: 3.8/5
5. Tonight Josephine – Bristol
Tonight Josephine is an Instagram-worthy cocktail bar known for its extravagant pink décor, themed events, and lively LGBTQ+ nights. It’s a favourite spot for those who love a mix of glamorous aesthetics and exciting entertainment, offering events such as drag brunches, bottomless cocktails, and disco parties.
Unlike traditional nightclubs, Tonight Josephine opens earlier at 5 PM, making it an ideal pre-party venue. The bar’s signature cocktails and high-energy atmosphere make it a hotspot for LGBTQ+ partygoers looking to start their night in style. With its strong focus on fun, inclusivity, and top-quality drinks, Tonight Josephine is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fabulous night out in Bristol.
- Website: tonightjosephine.co.uk
- Contact: 0117 214 1172
- Location: 28 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1NG
- Rating: 4.9/5
6. OMG Bristol Bar
OMG Bristol Bar is one of the most well-known LGBTQ+ venues in the city, offering a lively clubbing experience with themed nights, drag performances, and high-energy dance music. As part of the OMG club chain, it is a go-to spot for those looking for a fun and inclusive environment to party.
The club features a spacious dance floor, affordable drinks, and a playlist packed with pop, dance, and house music. It regularly hosts student nights and pride-themed events, making it a popular destination for younger crowds.
The venue also attracts well-known drag queens and guest DJs, ensuring an entertaining night out. Open from 8 PM, OMG Bristol Bar is ideal for those seeking a casual yet exciting LGBTQ+ clubbing experience in the heart of the city.
- Website: omgclubs.com
- Contact: N/A
- Location: 3 Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5HX
- Rating: 3.3/5
7. Thekla
Thekla is one of Bristol’s most unique nightlife venues, set inside a converted cargo ship. While not exclusively an LGBTQ+ club, it is a well-known hotspot for queer-friendly events, alternative club nights, and live music. The venue attracts a diverse crowd, offering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Thekla is known for its eclectic music lineup, featuring everything from house and electronic beats to indie and alternative rock. With an entry fee typically between £10 and £20, it remains an affordable option for a night out.
Open from 10 PM, Thekla is perfect for those looking for a mix of clubbing and live entertainment in an unconventional setting. If you enjoy a creative venue with a vibrant crowd, Thekla is a must-visit LGBTQ+-friendly destination in Bristol.
- Website: theklabristol.co.uk
- Contact: 0117 929 3301
- Location: The Grove, East Mud Dock, Bristol BS1 4RB
- Rating: 4.4/5
8. The Underground
The Underground is a hidden gem in Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, offering an intimate and inclusive space for partygoers. Located in Broadmead, this club is known for its welcoming environment and diverse music selection, featuring everything from house and techno to pop and commercial hits.
Unlike some larger clubs, The Underground provides a more personal and friendly atmosphere where guests can easily socialise. The venue regularly hosts LGBTQ+-friendly nights, attracting a mix of locals and visitors.
The club’s layout includes a dance floor and a well-stocked bar, making it a great place for a casual yet energetic night out. With reasonable entry fees and an emphasis on inclusivity, The Underground is an excellent choice for those looking for a more laid-back LGBTQ+ venue in Bristol.
- Website: theundergroundbristol.co.uk
- Contact: N/A
- Location: Fairfax St, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3BN
- Rating: 4.1/5
9. Lakota
Lakota is a legendary Bristol nightclub known for its vibrant LGBTQ+-friendly events, electronic music scene, and large-scale club nights. Located in St Paul’s, the club boasts multiple rooms, each with different music styles, ensuring a unique experience for every visitor.
Lakota frequently hosts themed LGBTQ+ nights, pride after-parties, and drag performances, making it a staple in the queer nightlife scene. The venue is famous for attracting top DJs and performers, offering a high-energy atmosphere perfect for dance lovers.
Entry fees vary depending on the event, but they are generally affordable for the experience provided. Open from 10 PM, Lakota is ideal for those seeking a high-energy clubbing experience in an iconic Bristol venue. With its diverse crowd and world-class music, it remains a favourite LGBTQ+-friendly destination.
- Website: lakota.co.uk
- Contact: N/A
- Location: 6 Upper York St, St Paul’s, Bristol BS2 8QN
- Rating: 4.1/5
10. Popworld Bristol
Popworld is a lively and colourful nightclub known for its retro-themed parties, cheesy pop music, and LGBTQ+-friendly crowd. While it is not an exclusively queer venue, it is incredibly popular within the LGBTQ+ community due to its fun, inclusive, and welcoming atmosphere.
The club plays classic throwback hits from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s, creating a nostalgic party vibe. Guests can enjoy themed nights, fancy dress events, and drink deals, making it a great option for a lighthearted night out.
Entry fees are reasonable, usually under £10, making it an affordable choice for clubgoers. Open from 9 PM, Popworld is a top pick for those who enjoy a fun, carefree, and inclusive clubbing experience. If you love dancing to classic pop anthems in a friendly environment, this is the place to be.
- Website: popworldparty.co.uk
- Contact: 0117 945 8891
- Location: 16 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1SE
- Rating: 4.0/5
What Should You Expect When Visiting an LGBTQ+ Club in Bristol?
Visiting an LGBTQ+ club in Bristol guarantees an energetic and welcoming night out. Most clubs, like OMG Bristol and Popworld, feature vibrant dance floors, commercial and house music, and themed events, including drag performances and student nights. Expect an inclusive crowd, as Bristol’s clubs welcome everyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Many venues also offer affordable drinks and free or low-cost entry on certain nights, making them budget-friendly. Some clubs, like Thekla, provide a more alternative experience, with live music and unique settings. Dress codes are generally relaxed, but dressing up for themed nights is common.
Security at LGBTQ+ venues prioritises safety, ensuring a fun and comfortable environment. Whether you’re dancing to pop anthems or attending a drag show, Bristol’s LGBTQ+ clubs offer an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Conclusion
Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife is thriving, with clubs that embrace inclusivity, fun, and diversity. Whether you prefer a classic clubbing experience, a venue with alternative music, or a space that hosts regular drag shows, the city has a variety of options.
Many of these clubs are known for their friendly atmosphere, ensuring a safe and enjoyable night out. From high-energy party spots like OMG Bristol to stylish venues like Tonight Josephine, there is something for everyone in the city’s queer nightlife scene.
With reasonable entry fees, top DJs, and exciting events, these clubs remain the heart of Bristol’s LGBTQ+ entertainment. If you’re planning a night out, this list will help you find the perfect spot to dance, socialise, and celebrate in one of the UK’s best LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations.
FAQs
What is the most popular gay club in Bristol?
Queenshilling is often considered the most popular LGBTQ+ club due to its inclusive atmosphere, great music, and long-standing reputation in the city.
Do you have to be LGBTQ+ to visit these clubs?
No, most LGBTQ+ clubs in Bristol welcome everyone, as long as they respect the inclusive and diverse environment of these venues.
Are there any LGBTQ+ clubs in Bristol with free entry?
Some venues, like Queenshilling, offer free entry on select nights, while others have low-cost entry fees depending on the event.
What type of music do LGBTQ+ clubs in Bristol play?
Music varies by venue, ranging from pop and commercial dance at OMG Bristol to house, techno, and live music at clubs like Thekla and Lakota.
Are Bristol’s LGBTQ+ clubs safe for visitors?
Yes, these clubs prioritise safety, with strict security measures in place to ensure a fun and welcoming environment for all guests.
Do LGBTQ+ clubs in Bristol have age restrictions?
Yes, most clubs require visitors to be 18+, so it’s important to bring a valid ID when attending any nightclub in Bristol.
What’s the best time to visit an LGBTQ+ club in Bristol?
Most clubs get busy between 11 PM and 2 AM, making this the best time to experience the full energy and atmosphere of Bristol’s LGBTQ+ nightlife.
