The top 8 places to have a party in Bristol

A former German cargo ship moored in Bristol’s Floating Harbour since 1984, Thekla is an award-winning and world-famous live music venue and club.

Since the 1980s, Thekla has served as a popular nightclub and live music venue and has continuously provided Bristol clubbers with afloat nights out.

Thekla is the ultimate party venue. Showcasing a selection of saccharine music genres (limited only by the size of the hold), from weekly Pop Confessional of guilty pleasures, through to Drum and Bass dedicated nights – you’re in with a good chance of finding an event that floats your boat.

Located in the heart of Bristol on The Triangle, The London Cocktail Club is an ode to Neverland, where the energetic atmosphere and flashing lights allow your inner child to run free for the night.

A haven for mischief and mixology, the skilled bartenders expertly craft the extensive menu, from the Bullfrog to the Beverly Hills – and that's just the B's.

Whatever the size or requirements of your get-together, reserve a table, book a cocktail masterclass, hire a private room – or even the whole venue – it's a strong contender in the Bristol party venue scene.

The Square Club is Bristol’s most refined members’ club with a public cocktail bar and an award-winning restaurant, supplying a seasonal and locally sourced British menu – both of which are available for private party hire, whether you’re turning 16 or 60.

Their lower-deck cocktail bar boasts a dance floor, private bar, DJ booth, and access to a private hire terrace. Meanwhile upstairs, the Square Kitchen restaurant allows you and 70 guests to enjoy a delicious bite to eat in a contemporary yet classic Georgian townhouse setting.

The Milk Thistle is an award-winning cocktail bar, dispersed over four floors in one of the most spectacular historic buildings in Bristol city centre.

With a reputation for some of the best drinks in Bristol, this prohibition-style bar is the perfect venue for parties and celebrations, whether you’re searching for pre and post dinner drinks, decadent dinner parties, or cocktail and spirit experiences.

Their chilled atmosphere and top-notch service, combined with a variety of intimate spaces and function rooms available for hire, The Milk Thistle is the perfect party venue for a sophisticated celebration.

Racks is a popular bar and restaurant located in the heart of Clifton. Having been at the heart of the community for 30 years, Racks is renowned for its friendly and relaxed vibe.

Racks is a great venue for any party. Offering a range of different spaces to suit all group sizes – from cosy alcoves perfect for drinks parties and private dining, to the playroom with a private bar, a DJ and a dance floor area.

Additionally, the benefits at Racks include free venue hire, discounts available on off-peak dates, and a dedicated team on hand to help make organising your party a piece of cake.

The Lost & Found is a popular Victorian-style cocktail bar and restaurant nestled on the Clifton Triangle. The venue takes inspiration from a mythical professor of astronomy and astrology, Elizabeth E. Lightfoot, who sought to find meaning among the stars.

Upon entering the venue, you and your guests will be transported to another world to enjoy drinking and dining experiences that transcend space and time.

The Lost & Found is the perfect party venue if you’re searching for something extra special. With a variety of event spaces, from secret rooms to sprawling lounges, and a dedicated team, they endeavour to make your party a fabulous affair.

Located in a spectacular historic building in the heart of Bristol, the RWA is the city's oldest art gallery bringing world class visual art from around the world since 1844.

With beautifully constructed interiors filled with natural light, these 19th century galleries have housed works from the biggest names in British art. And now, they are ready to house you and your party guests.

The spectacular galleries are available for event hire throughout the year. Hire includes access to the impressive marble landing, overlooked by a breath-taking atrium, and spacious balcony with views across the historic area of Clifton.

Located opposite Saint Nicholas’ Market, the chic Bristol Harbour Hotel is set in the Venetian-style buildings of two former banks.

The Bristol Harbour Hotel offers three stylish spaces, perfect venues for a variety of celebrations and parties. The three impressive areas on offer – the Sansovino Hall, The Vaults, and the Blue Room – provide elegant, contemporary spaces for up to 400 of your guests.

There is a selection of off-the-shelf packages also available to help get your party planning started. However, if you’d prefer a more personalised package, their dedicated events team are happy to accommodate and ensure you have a fantastic party.