Best Bars near St James' Priory

Alcotraz Bristol is a unique immersive cocktail bar located in the heart of Bristol, styled as a covert prison speakeasy. Guests smuggle in their own liquor to be transformed into bespoke cocktails by inmate bartenders while interacting with live actors in a theatrical storyline. This interactive experience blends immersive theatre with expertly crafted drinks, making it perfect for groups, date nights, and celebrations in an unforgettable, playful setting.

Blame Gloria Bristol is a vibrant, retro-inspired cocktail bar located at 22 Small Street in the heart of Bristol. Known for its wild, colorful atmosphere, it offers themed bottomless brunches, creative cocktails, and lively entertainment including drag shows and dance-offs. The venue’s eclectic decor, inspired by rock ’n’ roll legends and disco culture, creates an unforgettable party experience for groups and celebrations.

Hidden within a historic four-story townhouse on Colston Avenue, The Milk Thistle captivates with its speakeasy allure, inventive cocktails, and eclectic decor blending taxidermy, vintage furnishings, and dim, atmospheric lighting. This Bristol icon spans a ground-floor bar, lounge, and private rooms, perfect for intimate nights or celebrations. Signature drinks feature complex flavors like passionfruit syrup and cinnamon tincture, served in small, potent measures amid a buzzing yet cozy vibe. Open evenings from 5pm, extending later on weekends, it draws cocktail enthusiasts to its multi-level charm.

Nestled within the historic Harbour Hotel in Bristol’s city centre, The Gold Bar offers a luxurious speakeasy atmosphere where classic cocktails meet eclectic modern twists. Set in a Grade-II listed building with distinctive masonry, high ceilings, and rich décor, this stylish cocktail bar is renowned for its opulent interiors, intimate corners, and vibrant social scene, making it a prime destination for cocktail lovers and night owls alike.

Nestled on vibrant Corn Street in Bristol's Old City, Dirty Martini captivates with its glamorous cocktail haven. Royal blues and golden accents create an Instagrammable interior, perfect for savoring expertly crafted martinis, bottomless brunches, and lively nights with DJs and saxophonists. This stylish bar pulses with energy, offering happy hours, private events, and indulgent festive drinks amid historic surroundings.

Nestled in the heart of medieval Bristol on All Saints Lane, The Rummer is a celebrated cocktail bar and historic pub established in 1742. Revered as the godfather of Bristol’s craft cocktail scene, it offers an intimate atmosphere with over 500 premium spirits, including award-winning local gins. Combining tradition with innovative mixology, The Rummer is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking quality, local flavors, and a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.

Flight Club Bristol is a lively cocktail bar and pub located at 41 Corn Street, blending the rich heritage of British darts with a carnival-like atmosphere. This venue offers an innovative social darts experience known as Social Darts®, featuring tech-enabled scoring and a variety of games suitable for all skill levels. With an impressive bar, friendly staff, and a vibrant setting, it’s a top spot for celebrations, casual nights out, and group gatherings in Bristol city centre.

The Cocktail Club on Corn Street in Bristol is a vibrant, multi-room cocktail bar known for its expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and stylish galactic-themed interiors. With three spacious rooms, a heated outdoor terrace, and a basement club, it offers a dynamic nightlife experience featuring world-class bartenders and energetic music, perfect for unforgettable nights out in the heart of Bristol's Old City.

Situated in a stunning Grade II listed Neo-Palladian building on Bristol’s historic Corn Street, Cosy Club offers a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere for brunch, breakfast, and drinks. Known for its elegant 1930s-inspired interiors, including marble floors and a domed roof, it serves British classics alongside vegan options in a welcoming, family-friendly setting open daily from 9am until late.

Tucked away on St Nicholas Street, The Library Bristol is a captivating dual-personality venue. By day, it serves as a vintage afternoon tea parlour offering brunches and Sunday roasts in an elegant setting. By night, it morphs into an exclusive cocktail lounge with expertly crafted drinks and an intimate atmosphere. This hidden gem blends sophistication with charm, perfect for daytime indulgence or evening mixology in Bristol's vibrant heart.