St George's Bristol: Historic Concert Hall and Cultural Hub
Historic Georgian concert hall in Bristol with world-class acoustics, vibrant live music, and a welcoming café bar in a stunning heritage setting.
St George's Bristol is a renowned concert hall housed in a beautifully preserved Grade II* listed Georgian church dating back to 1823. Located in the heart of Bristol, it offers exceptional acoustics and a vibrant program of over 200 live music events annually, spanning classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary genres. The venue features a modern pavilion extension with a café bar, exhibition spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere for diverse audiences.
A brief summary to St George's Bristol
- Great George St, Bristol, BS1 5RR, GB
- +441179294929
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the event schedule in advance to catch a wide range of music genres and special performances.
- Visit the ‘Our Story’ heritage exhibition beside the café bar to explore the venue’s rich history.
- Arrive early to enjoy refreshments in the contemporary café bar and relax in the garden area.
- Use the venue’s lifts and step-free access for easy mobility throughout the building.
- Consider hiring the venue for private events to experience its unique blend of historic and modern spaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Great George Street from Bristol city centre, with journey times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the venue.
-
Train
Bristol Temple Meads railway station is approximately 3 km from St George's Bristol. Taxi or bus connections take 10-15 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £8 to £12. The venue is accessible via public transport from the station.
-
Walking
From Bristol city centre, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through historic streets leads to St George’s Bristol. The route is mostly flat and suitable for all mobility levels, with accessible paths and crossings.
-
Car
Limited on-street parking is available near Great George Street, but spaces are scarce. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates from £2.50 to £4.00. The area is subject to city centre traffic restrictions, so plan accordingly.
St George's Bristol location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St George's Bristol
A Landmark of Georgian Architecture and Musical Heritage
St George's Bristol began its life as St Augustine's Chapel in 1823, designed by Sir Robert Smirke, the architect also famed for the British Museum. Its Greek Revival style and imposing portico originally faced the harbourside, making a bold architectural statement in the city. The building served as a parish church for over 160 years, witnessing the social contrasts of Clifton's affluent residents and the nearby harbourside's working-class community. Despite damage during World War II air raids, including an unexploded bomb that left a star-shaped mark in the ceiling, the structure endured and evolved.Transformation into a World-Class Concert Venue
In the 1970s, St George's was rescued from redundancy and repurposed as a concert hall by St George’s Music Trust. Since then, it has become one of the UK’s finest music venues, celebrated for its superb acoustics—praised by Sir Simon Rattle as among the best in Europe for chamber music. The venue hosts a diverse program of over 200 events each year, including classical, jazz, blues, folk, world music, spoken word, and family-friendly performances. The transformation included replacing church pews with seating, rebuilding the stage, and adding modern amenities like lifts and a box office.Modern Enhancements and Visitor Experience
A major refurbishment completed in 2018 introduced a contemporary pavilion extension housing a stylish café bar, exhibition and education spaces, and improved front-of-house facilities. Designed with sensitivity to the historic fabric and surrounding environment, the extension offers natural ventilation and acoustic separation to preserve the concert hall’s sound quality. The crypt now serves as a versatile space for workshops and smaller performances, enriching the venue’s community engagement. Visitors enjoy a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, with comfortable seating and easy accessibility throughout the building.Community and Cultural Significance
St George’s Bristol operates as an independent charity dedicated to making live music accessible and affordable, aiming to keep ticket prices low while supporting artistic innovation and education. Its mission extends beyond concerts to include talks, philosophy seasons, and events for children and families. The venue’s heritage space offers an interactive exhibition tracing its journey from Regency church to modern cultural hub, deepening visitors’ connection to Bristol’s rich history.Architectural and Acoustic Excellence
The venue’s architecture blends historic grandeur with modern design elements, maintaining the original neo-Classical aesthetic while incorporating contemporary functionality. Acoustic engineering ensures exceptional sound clarity, with special glazing and soundproofing preventing noise disruption from the extension’s multi-use spaces. The building’s setting near Brandon Hill and the city centre provides iconic views and a peaceful parkland backdrop, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Versatile Venue for Events and Celebrations
Beyond concerts, St George’s Bristol offers flexible venue hire options for weddings, corporate events, and private functions. Its combination of historic charm and modern facilities makes it a sought-after location for a variety of occasions. The venue’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement positions it as a vibrant cultural landmark in Bristol’s West End.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.3 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.5 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Cascade Steps
0.5 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.5 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Old Post Office
0.7 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
The Nails
0.7 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Queen Square
0.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Queen Square, a stunning green oasis in the heart of Bristol, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Bristol Ferry
0.8 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Bristol from the water with Bristol Ferry, a delightful ferry service showcasing the city's stunning waterfront and rich history.
Prince Street Bridge
0.8 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Medieval Vaults
0.8 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.8 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Floating Harbour
0.8 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Bristol at the Floating Harbour, a captivating marina filled with history, dining, and artistic treasures.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.8 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
M Shed
0.8 km
Explore Bristol's maritime past at M Shed, a vibrant museum with engaging exhibits, a delightful cafe, and a unique gift shop on the waterfront.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Georgian House Museum
0.1 km
Step back into 18th-century Bristol at The Georgian House Museum, a restored merchant’s townhouse rich with history and stories of life above and below stairs.
Wills Memorial Building
0.2 km
A towering neo-Gothic icon of Bristol and the heart of the University of Bristol’s academic and ceremonial life.
Cabot Tower
0.2 km
Discover the historic Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Bristol's maritime heritage.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.2 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s rich heritage and art treasures in a stunning Edwardian Baroque museum with free entry and diverse exhibits.
Brandon Hill
0.3 km
Bristol’s oldest park with panoramic city views, a nature reserve, and family-friendly spaces just minutes from the city centre.
The Red Lodge Museum
0.3 km
Step behind a red door into a 16th-century Tudor lodge and discover 400 years of Bristol’s history, from merchant grandeur to Victorian reform, in a free, atmospheric city-centre museum.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Bristol Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.4 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Bristol Beacon
0.4 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.4 km
Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
Harbourside
0.4 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
The Centre
0.5 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Essential places to dine
Botanist Bristol
0.2 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Bambalan
0.4 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Lost & Found Bristol
0.4 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
No.1 Harbourside
0.5 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Pieminister
0.5 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
The Bristol Stable
0.5 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Under the Stars
0.5 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Steak of the Art
0.5 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.6 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.6 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Pasta Ripiena
0.6 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ganesha
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.1 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.1 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Zhyper
0.5 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Orendo
0.5 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Blaze
0.5 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
my a2space
0.6 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.6 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Memories
0.7 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.7 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.7 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.7 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
uchi clothing co
0.7 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Urban Fox
0.7 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
This Feeling
0.7 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hyde & Co
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
Be At One - Bristol
0.3 km
Energetic cocktail bar in Clifton, Bristol, serving over 100 expertly crafted drinks with vibrant vibes and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Brass Pig
0.4 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
0.4 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
Bag of Nails
0.4 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Eldon House
0.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.5 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.6 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Milk Thistle
0.6 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
The Clockwork Rose
0.6 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Flight Club Bristol
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.1 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Silk Nightclub
0.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
0.1 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
OMG
0.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
La Rocca
0.3 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.3 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.3 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.4 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
0.6 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
PRYZM
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Thekla
0.9 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Lakota
1.3 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
