LGBTQ+ Students' Guide to Bristol
Bristol is a city with a vibrant culture and is full of diversity. From the vibrant pathways of Stokes Croft to the historic quarters of Clifton, Bristol boasts an abundance of LGBTQ+ spaces that invite exploration and celebration!
Both the city and the university host LGBTQ+ events throughout the year including the Pride March which takes place at the end of Pride Month. We have been working with the LGBTQ+ Society, and the LGBT+ Network, to make your lives easier when you move in, and to ensure you know everything you need to know about Bristol’s best clubs, bars, and venues that are LGBTQ+ friendly.
The LGBTQ+ Society🏳🌈
Did you know that here at Bristol SU, we have an amazing and inclusive LGBTQ+ Society? Here's a message from them to you!
"Welcome potential members/new followers! We are an inclusive society with accessibility at heart run by queer students for queer students providing them with a safe space to meet each other and have a good time. Scroll through this post to learn more about what we do. We can't wait to meet you in September!"
The Society will be at Welcome Fair, at stall 340 in the Campaigns, Causes & Identity tent, so that you can come and say hello to them and find out more about how to join. In the meantime, why not follow them on Instagram or check out their webpage?
We really encourage getting involved in this society, as they offer a lovely community of people as well as support sessions and large-scale events such as the LGBTQ+ ball. As a member, you can find out more about these events and when they're happening.
Night Clubs🎵
Queen Shilling
Located on Frogmore Street, near residences such as Unite House, Orchard Heights, and Brunel House, is Queen Shilling. It is a legendary queer nightclub that has been the heart of Bristol's LGBTQ+ nightlife for years. Its pulsating beats, exuberant drag shows, and welcoming atmosphere create an unforgettable experience.
OMG
If you are in the mood for a good night out, you won’t have to go very far as OMG is also located on Frogmore Street! OMG is split into both a club and bar and is known for its free entry on Wednesday nights for students, and cheap drinks starting at just £1. It is a great venue that allows you to completely express yourself and dance along to all your favourite anthems in a welcoming environment.
Performances and Rave Events✨
Lost Horizon Arts Centre & Bar
(1-3 Elton St, St Jude’s, BS2 9EH)
This alternative venue often hosts queer events. You can find all the dates and details on their social media platforms, and website. Recent events included their ‘Dragily Ever After’ show which was a magical drag cabaret for LGBTQIA+ youth, families, and allies.
Crotch Bristol and Misscoteque
These queer raves/safe spaces are great for meeting people and having parties. Their tickets are also promoted by Lost Horizon.
Loco Klub
If you fancy venturing out of the city centre, Loco Klub by Temple Meads is a fantastic option. They frequently host Conqueer and Kitsch Bristol, both of which are performance art and rave events.
The following Instagram accounts also post queer safe spaces and event promotions in Bristol:
- @livingforthestreetz
- @queerbristol
- @queer_haus_bristol
- @bristolqpocsocials
There are also some helpful online guides listing queer-friendly businesses and venues hosting queer events:
- In Bristol - 'Queer Bristol: A guide to Bristol’s Queer Friendly Independent Businesses'
- Queer In The World - 'Gay Bristol, England | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide!'
- Secret Bristol - '6 Of The Very Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Bars In Bristol'
Pride Events🏳🌈
Bristol Pride works tirelessly to put on a range of spectacular events every year! 2024’s Pride Day will be taking place on the 13 July, with events starting on the 29 June.
It is a unique and important event that offers all individuals the chance to celebrate and connect with one another. This year, events included boat tours, dog shows, drag performances and, of course, the march!
