Podcast episodes — Bristol

Browse the latest episodes from Spotlight on Bristol.

Showing 12 of 31

Late-Night Food & Dessert Spots in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a night-owl’s guide to Bristol’s late-night food and dessert scene. From indulgent sweet treats to savoury comfort food, this episode highlights places that keep serving long after most kitchens close. Places featured: Pizzarova Website: pizzarova.com Address: Various Bristol locations Highlights: Wood-fired pizza made with fresh ingredients, popular for late-evening dining. Chilli Daddy Website: chillidaddy.co.uk Address: Baldwin Street, Bristol BS1 1SD Highlights: Authentic Sichuan street food known for bold flavours and late-night availability. Swoon Gelato Website: swoononaspoon.co.uk Address: 31 College Green, Bristol BS1 5TB Highlights: Award-winning gelato and sorbet — a favourite late-evening dessert stop. Creams Café Bristol Website: creamscafe.com Address: 23–25 Baldwin Street, Bristol BS1 1NA Highlights: Waffles, crepes, sundaes, and milkshakes served late into the night. Oowee Vegan Website: ooweevegan.com Address: Various Bristol locations Highlights: Plant-based comfort food with burgers, fries, and indulgent sauces — popular for late-night cravings. Bosco Pizzeria Website: boscopizzeria.co.uk Address: Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2PH Highlights: Neapolitan-style pizza with late-night service and relaxed atmosphere.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Independent Gyms & Fitness Studios in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, as he explores six independent gyms and fitness studios shaping Bristol’s health and movement culture. From strength training and climbing to yoga and functional fitness, these are places built around community, expertise, and sustainable wellbeing. Places featured: SweatBox Bristol Website: sweatboxbristol.com Address: 48 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AE Highlights: Strength and conditioning gym focused on inclusive training, coaching, and long-term fitness. CrossFit Bristol North Website: crossfitbristolnorth.com Address: 16 Concorde Drive, Bristol BS10 6PZ Highlights: Well-established CrossFit gym offering coached classes, open gym, and beginner programmes. TCA Bristol (The Climbing Academy) Website: theclimbingacademy.com Address: Various Bristol locations Highlights: Indoor climbing gyms offering bouldering and roped climbing for all levels. Workout Harbourside Website: workoutharbourside.co.uk Address: The Pithay, Bristol BS1 2LZ Highlights: Boutique gym offering personal training, group sessions, and tailored fitness programmes. Elevate Studio Website: elevatetogether.co.uk Address: Unit 11, Cargo 2, Wapping Wharf, Bristol BS1 6ZA Highlights: Yoga, barre, and Pilates studio with a calm, design-led space overlooking the harbour. Bristol Yoga Centre Website: bristolyogacentre.co.uk Address: 10 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LJ Highlights: Central studio offering yoga, Pilates, workshops, and private sessions.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Independent Cinemas & Film Culture in Bristol (Deep Dive)

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a deep dive into Bristol’s film culture beyond the big-name indie cinemas. This episode explores the city’s film ecosystem — from micro-cinema bookings and classic film celebrations to festivals, pop-up screenings, and heritage venues that keep cinema alive as a shared community experience. Every listing below is actively operating and includes a verified website and public address so listeners can plan ahead. Places featured: 20th Century Flicks Website: https://20thcenturyflicks.co.uk Address: 19 Christmas Steps, Bristol BS1 5BS Highlights: Part film archive, part video rental institution, and part bookable micro-cinema — this is one of Bristol’s most unique film experiences, with private screenings and deep-cut discoveries. Scott Cinemas Bristol, Westbury Park (Orpheus Cinema site) Website: https://bristolwestburypark.scottcinemas.co.uk Address: Northumbria Drive, Westbury Park, Bristol BS9 4HN Highlights: A classic neighbourhood cinema experience — a great counterpoint to city-centre venues, and ideal for listeners who want a traditional screen, local atmosphere, and a reliable programme. Bristol Film Festival Website: https://www.bristolfilmfestival.com Address: 26 Kings Parade Mews, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RE Highlights: A modern film festival brand focused on “cinema as an event” — screenings in memorable settings, themed nights, and experiences designed for film lovers who want more than just a seat and a screen. Encounters Film Festival (Short Film & Animation) Website: https://www.encounters.film Address: 1 Unity Street, Bristol BS1 5HH Highlights: Bristol’s flagship short film and animation festival energy — a home for emerging talent, bold storytelling, and a strong industry-meets-community vibe that reflects Bristol’s creative DNA. Cary Comes Home Festival Website: https://www.carycomeshome.co.uk Address: Bristol Megascreen (Bristol Aquarium), Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5TT Highlights: A festival celebrating Cary Grant’s Bristol roots with classic film screenings and special events — a brilliant “film heritage” angle that connects Hollywood history back to the city. Slapstick Festival Website: https://slapstick.org.uk Address: 96 Somerset Road, Upper Knowle, Bristol BS4 2JB Highlights: A screen comedy festival that treats film like performance — classic comedy, live events, and curated screenings that bring audiences together for a shared laugh on a big screen.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Bookable Experiences & One-Off Adventures in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, as he explores six bookable experiences in Bristol that go beyond simply “going out.” From immersive games and tastings to creative and sensory adventures, this episode is all about memorable experiences you can plan, book, and gift. Every place featured is actively trading, independently run, and offers a clear, book-ahead experience. 🎟️ Places featured: Wake The Tiger Website: https://www.wakethetiger.com Address: 127 Albert Road, St Philips, Bristol BS2 0YA Highlights: The UK’s first “Amazement Park®” — a large-scale immersive art experience with hidden doors, interactive storytelling, and surreal environments you explore at your own pace. Axe & Trap Website: https://axeandtrap.com Address: 153 Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2RA Highlights: Guided axe-throwing sessions in a safe, social environment. A popular choice for group bookings, birthdays, and competitive fun with expert instructors. Locked In A Room Website: https://lockedinaroom.co.uk Address: 6–8 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5HX Highlights: One of Bristol’s original escape-room venues, offering multiple themed puzzle rooms that challenge teamwork, logic, and problem-solving under pressure. Bristol Blue Glass Website: https://bristol-blue-glass.co.uk Address: Unit 2, 15–17 Bath Buildings, Montpelier, Bristol BS6 5PT Highlights: Hands-on glass-blowing experiences where visitors can create their own piece of Bristol Blue glass with guidance from skilled artisans. 6 O’Clock Gin Experience Website: https://www.6oclockgin.com/experiences Address: 6 O’Clock Gin Distillery, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire BS35 3UT Highlights: Bookable distillery tours and tasting experiences exploring botanicals, copper stills, and the story behind one of the region’s best-known craft gins. SUP Bristol Website: https://www.supbristol.com Address: Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6XG Highlights: Stand-up paddleboarding lessons and guided tours through Bristol’s floating harbour — a relaxed but memorable way to see the city from the water.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Antiques, Interiors & Home Finds in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a six-stop wander through Bristol’s best places to discover antiques, interiors, and characterful home finds. From historic arcades and traditional markets to design-led interiors shops and bold statement furniture, this episode is all about objects with stories, craftsmanship, and personality. Every location featured is actively trading and has a clear, verifiable web presence so you can explore further or plan a visit with confidence. 🪑 Places featured: Clifton Arcade Website: https://www.cliftonarcade.co.uk Address: Boyce’s Avenue, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AA Highlights: A beautiful Victorian arcade housing multiple independent dealers specialising in antiques, jewellery, interiors, and collectables. One of Bristol’s most atmospheric places to browse for unique home pieces. St Nicholas Market Website: https://www.stnicholasmarketbristol.com Address: Corn Street, Bristol BS1 1JQ Highlights: Beyond its famous food stalls, St Nick’s is home to long-standing traders selling antiques, prints, vintage objects, and curiosities — a cornerstone of Bristol’s trading and collecting culture. Prior Shop Home Website: https://priorshop.co.uk/pages/home Address: 49 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5PW Highlights: A thoughtfully curated interiors and lifestyle space focusing on high-quality homeware, lighting, textiles, and timeless design, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and craftsmanship. Midgley Green Website: https://www.midgleygreen.com Address: 12 Colston Yard, Bristol BS1 5BD Highlights: A design-led furniture and interiors showroom showcasing modern classics, contemporary pieces, and statement lighting — ideal for both inspiration and investment buys. Otomi Website: https://www.otomi.co.uk Address: 15 Perry Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1BQ Highlights: A long-standing Bristol favourite offering globally inspired homeware, textiles, rugs, cushions, and decorative accessories sourced from around the world. Repsycho Website: https://www.repsycho.co.uk Address: 60 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5JN Highlights: Bold, theatrical furniture and interiors with a strong vintage and maximalist aesthetic — perfect for anyone who loves dramatic, statement-making home design.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Outdoor Adventure & Specialist Gear Shops in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, as he explores six Bristol businesses that equip the city’s adventurers, explorers, and outdoors-minded locals. From climbing and hiking to cycling, paddle sports, and wild swimming, this episode highlights independent and specialist shops that help Bristolians get outside — whether that’s the Mendips, the coast, or the hills just beyond the city. Every location featured is actively trading, well-established, and easy to visit. 🥾 Places featured: Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports Website: https://www.ellis-brigham.com Address: 10–12 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5HX Highlights: A go-to destination for serious outdoor kit, including hiking, climbing, skiing, and camping gear. Known for expert staff, boot fitting services, and high-quality technical equipment. Cotswold Outdoor (Bristol) Website: https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com Address: 40–42 Queen Square, Bristol BS1 4QP Highlights: A large outdoor retailer offering clothing, footwear, and gear for walking, travel, camping, and adventure sports — popular with beginners and experienced explorers alike. Bristol Rock Centre Website: https://www.bristolrockcentre.com Address: 336 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8TR Highlights: Independent climbing specialists stocking ropes, shoes, chalk, hardware, and bouldering essentials. A favourite among climbers heading to Avon Gorge, the Mendips, or indoor walls. Ground Effect Cycling Website: https://www.groundeffectcycling.com Address: 11–13 Colston Yard, Bristol BS1 5BD Highlights: A long-established independent bike shop offering sales, servicing, repairs, and accessories. Known for friendly advice and supporting Bristol’s strong cycling culture. SUP Bristol Website: https://www.supbristol.com Address: Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6XG Highlights: Stand-up paddleboarding specialists offering lessons, guided tours, equipment hire, and retail — right on the harbourside, making it easy to get straight onto the water. Up and Under Outdoor Website: https://www.upandunder.co.uk Address: 67 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2NT Highlights: One of the UK’s oldest independent outdoor shops, stocking classic and modern gear for climbing, walking, camping, and travel — trusted by generations of adventurers.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Vintage & Thrift Shopping in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a six-stop tour through Bristol’s thriving vintage and second-hand shopping scene. From carefully curated retro fashion to bargain-filled charity shops and iconic resale destinations, this episode celebrates the joy of thrifting in a city that prides itself on individuality and sustainability. Every spot featured is actively trading, independently loved, and ideal for discovering one-of-a-kind finds. 👗 Places featured: Rag Trade Boutique Website: https://www.ragtradeboutique.co.uk Address: 6 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5PQ Highlights: One of Bristol’s best-known vintage shops, Rag Trade specialises in handpicked men’s and women’s vintage clothing from the 70s through to the 90s, including denim, jackets, dresses, and accessories. Re:Up Bristol Website: https://www.reupbristol.com Address: 82 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5PJ Highlights: A colourful, modern resale store focused on reworked and curated vintage fashion. Known for bold streetwear, statement pieces, and a strong sustainability message. Loot Vintage Website: https://www.lootvintage.co.uk Address: 3 St Nicholas Street, Bristol BS1 1UB Highlights: A favourite for affordable vintage and second-hand clothing, with rails packed full of retro shirts, jackets, dresses, and denim — great for treasure hunters and bargain seekers. Sobey’s Vintage Clothing Website: https://sobeysvintageclothing.co.uk Address: 104 Cheltenham Road, Bristol BS6 5RW Highlights: A long-standing independent vintage shop offering well-organised rails of classic menswear, womenswear, and timeless pieces from multiple decades. Revive Charity Shop (Stokes Croft) Website: https://revivecharity.org.uk Address: 21 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PR Highlights: A popular charity shop known for high-quality second-hand clothing, furniture, and homeware. A great stop for ethical thrifting while supporting local community causes. Gloucester Road Vintage & Charity Strip Website: https://visitbristol.co.uk Address: Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 Highlights: One of the longest stretches of independent shops in Europe, Gloucester Road is packed with vintage stores, charity shops, and resale gems — ideal for a full afternoon of thrifting and browsing.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Independent Record Shops & Vinyl Culture in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a crate-digging journey through Bristol’s independent record shops — the places that keep the city’s music culture alive long after the gigs end. From rare pressings and reissues to genre-defining specialists and DJ-favourite bins, this episode celebrates the shops where Bristol discovers, preserves, and obsesses over vinyl. Every location below is independently run, actively trading, and open to the public. 🎶 Places featured: Idle Hands Records Website: https://idlehandsrecords.com Address: 8 Lower Park Row, Bristol BS1 5BJ Highlights: A globally respected independent record shop known for electronic, techno, ambient, experimental, and underground releases. Also operates as a label and distro, attracting DJs and collectors from around the world. Wanted Records Website: https://www.wantedrecords.co.uk Address: 24 Small Street, Bristol BS1 1DW Highlights: A long-standing Bristol institution stocking new and second-hand vinyl across rock, indie, soul, jazz, hip-hop, and classics. Known for fair pricing, knowledgeable staff, and deep crates. Prime Cuts Record Store Website: https://primecutsbristol.co.uk Address: 4–6 St Nicholas Street, Bristol BS1 1UB Highlights: A specialist vinyl shop focusing on soul, funk, jazz, disco, hip-hop, and rare groove. Hugely popular with DJs and collectors looking for quality pressings and hard-to-find records. Plastic Wax Records Website: https://plasticwaxrecords.com Address: 16 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8AE Highlights: A fiercely independent shop known for punk, metal, hardcore, noise, and alternative music. Community-driven, unapologetically niche, and a vital part of Gloucester Road’s creative scene. Friendly Records Website: https://friendlyrecords.co.uk Address: 16 North Street, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 1HT Highlights: A welcoming neighbourhood record shop offering new vinyl, Record Store Day exclusives, in-store signings, and a strong connection to Bristol’s local music community. Specialist Subject Records Website: https://specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk Address: 41 Perry Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1BQ Highlights: Independent label and record shop championing punk, DIY, alternative, and left-field music. Stocks vinyl, tapes, zines, and merch with a strong ethical and community focus.

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Independent Boutiques & Local Makers in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, as he explores six of Bristol’s best independent boutiques and maker-led shops — places where creativity, craftsmanship, and local identity take centre stage. From ethically made fashion and homeware to illustration, gifts, and Bristol-designed products, this episode celebrates shopping local and supporting businesses that do things differently. Every location listed below is independently owned, actively trading, and easy to visit in person. 🛍️ Places featured: Prior Shop Website: https://priorshop.co.uk Address: 49 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5PW Highlights: An ethical menswear store focusing on sustainable, well-made clothing and footwear. Known for timeless design, transparency, and a carefully curated selection of responsible brands. Grace & Mabel Website: https://www.graceandmabel.co.uk Address: 32 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DS Highlights: A stylish independent women’s boutique offering contemporary fashion, accessories, and personal styling. Loved for its friendly service and carefully chosen brands. Fox + Feather Website: https://www.foxandfeather.co.uk Address: 170 North Street, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 1JQ Highlights: A Bristol-based gift shop specialising in locally made prints, cards, jewellery, and homeware. A go-to stop for thoughtful gifts and Bristol-designed pieces. Fig 1 Website: https://fig1.co.uk Address: 10 Clifton Arcade, Boyce’s Avenue, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AA Highlights: A beautifully curated shop focusing on contemporary design, stationery, ceramics, jewellery, and homeware — ideal for design lovers and gift seekers. That Thing Website: https://thatthing.co Address: 127 Cheltenham Road, Cotham, Bristol BS6 5RW Highlights: A much-loved Bristol shop showcasing illustration, prints, books, zines, and creative gifts — with a strong emphasis on independent artists and playful design. Made in Bristol Shop Website: https://madeinbristolshop.co.uk Address: 14 Small Street, Bristol BS1 1DE Highlights: A collective retail space featuring products exclusively made by Bristol-based artists and makers, from ceramics and jewellery to art prints and home décor.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Bristol’s Best Independent Coffee Shops

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a six‑stop tour of Bristol’s vibrant coffee culture. From relaxed neighbourhood cafés to speciality brewers with cult followings, this episode highlights the city’s standout spots for expertly brewed espresso, filter coffee, delicious pastries, and welcoming atmospheres. Each venue below has a confirmed address and active presence so you can plan your own caffeinated adventure. Bridges & Balloons ☕️ Places featured: Full Court Press Website: https://fcp.coffee/ Address: 59 Broad Street, Bristol BS12EJ, United Kingdom Highlights: A central favourite for speciality coffee lovers, roasting its own beans and serving expertly crafted espresso drinks and filter brews in a lively city location. Small Street Espresso Website: http://www.smallstreetespresso.co.uk/ Address: 23 Small Street, Bristol BS11DW, United Kingdom Highlights: One of Bristol’s earliest specialty coffee pioneers — intimate, excellent espresso and filter, great spot for a morning pick‑me‑up or slow coffee break. Gather Coffee Website: https://gathercoffee.co.uk/ Address: 56a Park Street, Bristol BS15JN, United Kingdom Highlights: Highly rated café with a warm, bright interior and stellar reviews for both coffee quality and service — a favourite for relaxed catch‑ups in the heart of town. Greytone Coffee Website: https://burrabristol.co.uk/ Address: UnitA, Dean Street Works, 13‑19 Dean Street, Bristol BS28SF, United Kingdom Highlights: Stylish speciality coffee shop with a modern aesthetic, excellent single‑origin pours, and moreish baked goods — great for remote work or midday coffee runs. New Cut Coffee Website: https://newcutcoffee.com/ Address: Museum Street, Bristol BS16UD, United Kingdom Highlights: A beloved neighbourhood café with consistently high ratings — known for smooth brews, welcoming service, and a local feel. The Coffee Box Instagram: @thecoffeeboxbristol Address: 100 Temple Street, Redcliffe, Bristol BS16HT, United Kingdom Highlights: A hidden gem in Redcliffe with a stellar review score, neat coffee menu, and friendly vibe — perfect for a quieter, neighbourhood coffee stop.

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Indoor Fun & Family‑Friendly Activities in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a six‑stop dive into Bristol’s top indoor spots — perfect for rainy days, family outings, or just a fun break from city bustle. From science centres to activity parks, this episode explores a mix of engaging, playful, and interactive venues where everyone from kids to adults can have a great time. 🧩 Places featured: We The Curious Website: wethecurious.org Address: One Millennium Square, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB Highlights: An interactive science centre with 200+ hands‑on exhibits and the UK’s 3D planetarium. Great for families — lots of experiments, creativity zones, and educational fun indoors. Website: bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN Highlights: A social‑history museum telling the story of Bristol — ideal for history buffs, curious minds, or a thoughtful indoor visit that gives deeper context to the city. King Pin Bowling & Arcade – Cabot Circus Website: kingpins.co.uk Address: Cabot Circus, Broad Weir, Bristol (inside Cabot Circus complex) Highlights: Bowling, arcade games, shuffleboard, darts, karaoke — a fun, lively venue for friends, families or groups looking for games and social fun come rain or shine. AirHop Bristol Website: airhop.co.uk Address: Unit 5 Britannia Road, Patchway, Bristol. BS34 5TA Highlights: Trampolining, active play zones — a great pick for energetic kids or adults who want to bounce, play, and Laser Combat Bristol Website: laser-combat.co.uk Address: C/O, TeamSport Go Karting, Avonmouth Way, Avonmouth, Bristol BS11 9EA Highlights: Indoor multi‑level laser tag arena — perfect for groups, families, or friends looking for a fun, competitive indoor adventure (great for birthdays or group outings). Tenpin Bristol Website: tenpin.co.uk Address: Avonmeads Retail Park, St Phillips Marsh, Bristol, BS2 0SP Highlights: Bowling, karaoke, arcade, and games rooms — a versatile indoor leisure spot where you can mix games, music, and social fun under one roof.

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Spotlight on Bristol

Bristol’s Theatres & Live Performance Spaces

Join your host, Terence Williams, for a front‑row seat to Bristol’s vibrant performing arts scene. In this episode, we visit six of the city’s most beloved and varied performance venues — from grand historic stages to intimate fringe spaces — each offering a different flavour of live theatre, music, comedy, improv, and performance culture. All are active, have real websites or strong public listings, and are easy to visit. 🎭 Places featured: Bristol Old Vic Website: https://bristololdvic.org.uk Address: King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED, United Kingdom Highlights: The oldest continuously working theatre in the English‑speaking world, Bristol Old Vic presents acclaimed drama, comedy, contemporary work, and family‑friendly shows from its historic King Street home. Bristol Hippodrome Website: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome Address: St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ, United Kingdom Highlights: One of Britain’s largest theatre stages, the Hippodrome hosts touring West End musicals, opera, ballet, comedians, and classic pantomimes year‑round — a must‑visit for spectacular productions. Tobacco Factory Theatres Website: https://www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com Address: Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF, United Kingdom Highlights: A dynamic cultural hub in a converted factory building, with a packed calendar of theatre, puppetry, comedy, dance, family shows and innovative performance work. Tobacco Factory Theatres The Wardrobe Theatre Website: http://thewardrobetheatre.com Address: 25 West Street, Old Market, Bristol BS2 0DF, United Kingdom Highlights: Bristol’s leading fringe theatre, known for bold, eclectic programming that includes comedy, improvisation, local writing, and family productions — intimate and engaging. Bristol Beacon Website: http://www.bristolbeacon.org Address: Trenchard Street, Bristol BS1 5AR, United Kingdom Highlights: More than a concert hall, Bristol Beacon is a major performance venue celebrating music, spoken‑word, community events and cross‑genre performances, with a stunning programme and heritage. Redgrave Theatre Website: http://www.redgravetheatre.com Address: Percival Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE, United Kingdom Highlights: A classic theatre venue boasting a varied event calendar of plays, live music, comedy and community performances — beloved for its welcoming atmosphere and regional programming.

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