Bristol boasts vibrant LGBTQIA+ nightlife and festivals, two award-winning gay villages, and more.
The city celebrates its diverse LGBTQIA+ community and unique fusion of cultures with a stellar range of events, including the annual Bristol Pride festival, regular club nights, arts festivals, and intimate parties hosting international performers from across the world.
Click read more below to discover more about Local groups and resources, regular events, LGBTQIA+ Clubs and Bars and LGBTQIA+ Sports.
LGBTQIA+ history in Bristol
Although it may not be one of the best-known cities for its LGBTQIA+ scene and history, Bristol has played its own role in the liberation of queer people and the struggle for equality.
Local groups and resources
Regular Events
Bristol Pride
One of the biggest celebrations of the LGBTQIA+ community in the UK. Come along to the annual parade and Pride Day on the Downs, as well as various events and activities you can participate in all around Bristol.
When: 27 June - 12 July 2026. Pride Day is 11 July.
Queer Vision Film Festival
Experience a diverse programme of International and UK Queer films. Showcasing a carefully curated array of LGBTQIA+ cinema, including short films, feature-length stories, independently-made and award-winning productions.
When: Various events and activities all year long, with the main events happening during Bristol Pride
Don’t Tell Your Mother (DYTM)
Monthly indie-pop LGBTQIA+ friends night. Hang out at the popular bar, dance your socks off, or relax out on the terrace. DYTM comes into its own in the summer months, when the bustling, friendly vibe extends into the yard.
When: Currently first Saturday of the month at The Phoenix Pub.
DYTM Facebook
ESDR (Eat Sleep Drag Repeat)
Catch the best of the drag scene with this RuPaul-inspired night at Queenshilling. All are welcome.
When: Various – see their website or Instagram page for details.
ESDR Instagram
LGBTQIA+ Clubs and Bars
In Bristol, there are two key areas for Queer venues. 'The Village', located in Old Market, demonstrates a focus on community, pubs and events, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Nearby to Cabot Circus shopping centre and Temple Meads Station.
'The Strip' on Frogmore Street, off Park Street, is a great location for locals, visitors and students alike, buzzing with activity, especially at night, and right next to the city centre and Bristol Beacon.
Queenshilling
Bristol’s oldest & friendliest LGBTQIA+ club and bar. Mixed, friendly atmosphere & home to popular club nights, including Just Jed’s Karaoke. Drop by for pre-drinks, or party the night away in safe, fun and friendly surroundings.
Facebook | Website
OMG
Bristol’s largest LGBTQIA+ club. Popular with the younger and student crowds. Expect dance, house & chart tunes. Busy at weekends. Don't miss its sister bar. OMG Bar, just down the road.
Facebook | Website
The Phoenix
Relaxed LGBT+ and queer-friendly pub situated at the entrance to Old Market, just a stone's throw from Cabot Circus. The Phoenix stocks a great range of drinks and is a great place to kick back for an evening with friends. In summer, the large terrace comes alive.
Website
Bristol Bear Bar
Compact & friendly bar on Old Market, popular with gay men. Well worth a visit for its unique atmosphere and special club nights, including Euphoria and weekly drag cabarets.
Facebook
Old Castle Green
A fun and welcoming pub on Old Market which hosts regular community events including quizzes, cabaret and themed nights.
Website
The Old Market Tavern
A traditional, queer-friendly pub in the centre of Bristol. For those who prefer a cosy, inclusive atmosphere when downing a few pints.
Website
The Old Market Assembly
This bar and its in-house performance venue, The Wardrobe Theatre, host regular queer and LGBTQIA+ events, from storytelling and cabaret to club nights.
Filthy XIII
This multi-award-winning cocktail bar is located on Stokes Croft and is a self-proclaimed safe space for the Queer community.
Website
Seamus O'Donnells
An Irish, gay-friendly pub in the Old City known for its drag shows and karaoke.
Instagram
LGBTQIA+ Sports
Bristol City Panthers FC
Affiliated with Bristol City FC through Bristol City Robins Foundation, this club provides a welcoming experience for the queer community to play and practice football, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional. They play in Division 1 of the GFSN (Gay Football Supporters Network), shield and cup competitions, and the South West Pride Football League as a co-founder.
Website
Bristol Bisons RFC
The South West's premier Inclusive and Gay-friendly rugby club. and a welcoming and friendly place for rugby-lovers of all abilities and backgrounds. In 2024, the Bristol Bisons launched their strategic relationship with Bristol's regional rugby club, the Bristol Bears, streamlining the call for inclusive rugby.
Instagram
Bristol Frontrunners
A safe, inclusive and accessible running club in Bristol that meets weekly for a social and fun run. They offer various groups for differently paced runners.
Website
Athena Combat Club
A martial arts club made to be a safe space for all women and marginalised genders. For people of all levels.
Website
