Just a few minutes walk from Temple Meads station and Bristol Shopping Quarter lies the vibrant district of Old Market. The area is steeped in history and was once a thriving market on what was for centuries the main road to London. Today, it is home to some of Bristol's most historic buildings, and you can see architecture from all periods nestled side-by-side.
The area is steeped in history and contains over 60 listed buildings, a testament to its storied past. Old Market still bears witness to some ancient customs such as its Pie Poudre Court, which wasn’t formally abolished until 1971. The court was situated in the still open Stag and Hounds pub and dealt out summary justice to market-day offenders.
Old Market is home to a great selection of shops from vintage fashion and antique shops, independent furniture stores to specialist motorcycle stores. As you peruse the shops on street level, be sure to look up at the array of architectural designs of the buildings.
If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, The Old Market Assembly has a menu of pizzas or seasonal sharing plates, Tomo No Ramen serves excellent ramen, Grano is the place to go for handmade pasta, Chido Wey does Cali-Mexican tacos and quesadillas, or Fi Real does plantbased Caribbean dishes.
One of the most popular venues in the area is Trinity Centre, which is recognised as the birthplace of the 'Bristol Sound' and still hosts live music, club nights and community events throughout the week. You’re also on the doorstep of other nightclubs including Lost Horizon, Document and The Jam Jar. The Wardrobe Theatre hosts an exciting programme of theatre, comedy, cabaret and more every night of the week.
The area has achieved the Purple Flag award for its safe and diverse nightlife, whether you want cabaret, live music or a quiet traditional pub.
LGBTQ+ venues
Old Market is known for its strong connections to the LGBTQ+ community and as being a welcoming gay village. Popular gay-friendly venues include Bristol Bear Bar - the UK’s only bespoke bear bar, The Old Castle Green, The Old Market Assembly and The Old Market Tavern. Nearby you'll find The Phoenix, a pub tucked away by Cabot Circus which boasts classy décor and a large beer garden, and hosts DTYM, a LGBTQ+ friends club night on the first Saturday of every month.
Explore Bristol's brewery scene
Nearby is Bristol’s brewery district in St Phillips, where you’ll find a variety of brewery taprooms and craft beer bars which play host to the East Bristol Brewery Trail and open days on selected weekends. The Wiper and True brewery taproom is open most of the week to visitors, as is the bar at Moor Beer’s brewery.
You can also stop into local pubs such as The Barley Mow, Elmer’s Arms or The Ill Repute to try a range of local beers and ciders.
