The Jane Austen Centre, Bath
Step into Regency Bath and explore the life and legacy of Jane Austen at this immersive Georgian townhouse museum and tea room.
Located at 40 Gay Street in the historic city of Bath, The Jane Austen Centre offers an immersive experience into the life and works of Jane Austen, focusing on her time in Bath during the Regency era. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, costumed actors, Regency dress-up, and a charming tea room, all housed in a beautiful Georgian building near Bath's key attractions.
A brief summary to The Jane Austen Centre
- 40 Gay St, Bath, BA1 2NT, GB
- +441225443000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance, especially during weekends and holiday seasons, to avoid disappointment.
- Allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours to fully enjoy the exhibition, tea room, and gift shop.
- Try dressing up in Regency costumes and take photos with the Jane Austen waxwork for a memorable experience.
- Visit the Regency Tea Room upstairs for award-winning afternoon tea with home-made cakes.
- Combine your visit with nearby Bath attractions like the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey for a full day of history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walking
From Bath Spa train station, it is approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk to The Jane Austen Centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through central Bath’s historic streets. No additional transport is needed, making it ideal for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve central Bath with stops near Gay Street. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£3. Check local timetables for exact routes and times. Walking from the bus stop to the Centre takes about 5 minutes.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use nearby public car parks such as Charlotte Street Car Park, about a 5-minute walk from the Centre. Parking fees vary but expect approximately £2-£3 per hour. Bath city centre has some traffic restrictions, so plan accordingly.
The Jane Austen Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Jane Austen Centre
An Immersive Celebration of Jane Austen's Legacy
The Jane Austen Centre in Bath is dedicated to celebrating the life, works, and enduring legacy of one of England's most beloved authors. Situated in a striking Georgian townhouse on Gay Street, the Centre offers visitors a vivid glimpse into Jane Austen's world, particularly her years spent in Bath during the Regency period. Through its permanent exhibition, the Centre explores how the city's elegant architecture, social life, and culture influenced Austen's novels and personal experiences.Engaging Exhibits and Interactive Experiences
Visitors begin their journey with an engaging introductory talk delivered by costumed actors who bring Austen's characters and era to life. The exhibition is self-guided, allowing guests to explore displays featuring period costumes, historical artifacts, and detailed insights into Austen's family and literary influences. Highlights include the opportunity to dress in Regency attire, write with quill and ink, and pose for photos alongside a lifelike waxwork of Jane Austen herself.The Regency Tea Room and Gift Shop
After exploring the exhibition, visitors can relax in the Regency Tea Room located upstairs, which has earned the Tea Guild’s Award of Excellence for its quality and service. The tea room serves traditional afternoon tea, including home-made cakes and cream teas, offering a taste of Regency culinary delights. Adjacent to the Centre is a well-stocked gift shop featuring a wide range of Austen-themed souvenirs, books, and unique gifts, perfect for mementos or special presents.Location and Historical Context
The Centre is ideally positioned in the heart of Bath, close to other historic landmarks such as the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Assembly Rooms. Bath’s distinctive Georgian architecture and social history provide the perfect backdrop to understand the environment that shaped Austen’s novels. The Centre itself occupies a beautifully preserved Georgian building, adding authenticity to the visitor experience.Annual Jane Austen Festival and Special Events
The Jane Austen Centre is also closely linked to the world’s largest Jane Austen Festival, held annually in Bath. This ten-day event celebrates Austen’s life with Regency costume promenades, talks, workshops, and balls, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe. Throughout the year, the Centre hosts special exhibitions and events that deepen appreciation of Austen’s cultural impact.Visitor Information and Accessibility
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (with last entry one hour before closing), the Centre welcomes visitors year-round. It is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, with staff ready to assist and enhance the experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons to ensure entry. The typical visit duration ranges from one to two hours, allowing ample time to enjoy the exhibits, tea room, and gift shop.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.2 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
The Royal Crescent
0.4 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
The Pump Room Restaurant
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Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Green Park Station
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Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
The EASTGATE
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Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Archway
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Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
In and Beyond Bath
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Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bath with personalized tours from In and Beyond Bath, your expert local travel guide.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
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Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
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Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Royal Cres
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Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Chapel Arts Centre
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Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Monks Mill
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Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
Royal Victoria Park Bath
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Explore the lush landscapes and historical charm of Royal Victoria Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Bath.
Henrietta Park
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Discover the tranquility of Henrietta Park in Bath, a serene escape filled with beautiful gardens and lush greenery perfect for relaxation.
Marlborough Buildings
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Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
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Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein in this immersive museum experience in the heart of historic Bath.
Milsom St
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Elegant Georgian street in Bath famed for upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and lively courtyards at Milsom Place.
Beauford Square
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A tranquil Georgian square in Bath blending historic charm with architectural resilience and social history.
Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution
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A historic Georgian venue in Bath inspiring minds with science, literature, and art for over 200 years.
The Raven
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A cozy multi-floor Bath pub famed for unique pies, local ales, and a warm, friendly atmosphere steeped in British tradition.
Georgian Garden
0.2 km
Step into Bath’s Georgian Garden, a serene, historically restored 18th-century town garden nestled between iconic Georgian landmarks.
Antiques in Bath
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Explore Bath’s largest antiques centre with over fifty expert dealers offering fine art, jewellery, vintage collectibles, and timeless treasures.
Bartlett Street Antiques Centre
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Discover over fifty dealers’ treasures in Bath’s largest antiques centre, where history and craftsmanship meet in a vibrant, historic setting.
The Circus - Bath
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Discover The Circus, Bath’s iconic Georgian circle blending classical architecture, druidic symbolism, and Masonic mystery in a stunning urban masterpiece.
Bath Independent Shops
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Discover Bath’s vibrant independent shops at Fountain Buildings, where craftsmanship meets Georgian charm in a unique shopping enclave.
Theatre Royal, Bath
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s historic Theatre Royal, a stunning Georgian theatre blending rich heritage with vibrant contemporary performances.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
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Step into the elegant world of Georgian Bath at the Assembly Rooms, a historic hub of dance, music, and society since 1771.
Fashion Museum Bath
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Discover centuries of style and culture at Bath’s Fashion Museum, soon reopening in a stunning new city-centre home.
Victoria Falls Adventure Golf
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An enchanting 18-hole adventure golf course in Bath, blending scenic gardens and playful challenges for all ages.
The Museum of East Asian Art
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Explore 7,000 years of East and Southeast Asian art in Bath’s unique Georgian townhouse museum.
Essential places to dine
Clayton's Kitchen
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Modern British fine dining in a Georgian townhouse, where seasonal ingredients and refined technique create memorable meals.
Comptoir+Cuisine
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A cozy French bistro in Bath serving refined tapas-style dishes with quirky charm and attentive service.
The Salamander - A Great British Pub.
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Intimate Georgian pub serving locally sourced British classics and Bath Ales in Bath's historic city centre.
La Terra
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Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Ole Tapas
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
Boho Marché
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Experience vibrant Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in Bath’s eclectic Boho Marché, where bold flavors meet whimsical décor.
The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden
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Sophisticated British dining with seasonal flair, elegant interiors, and a charming garden in the heart of historic Bath.
Pintxo de Bath
0.2 km
Authentic Basque tapas and sherry bar in Bath’s theatre district with a sunny garden and vibrant Spanish flavors.
Corkage Bath
0.2 km
Award-winning wine bar and restaurant serving creative Mediterranean small plates in a charming Bath city-centre setting.
Côte Bath
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Stylish French brasserie in Bath’s historic Milsom Place, serving seasonal modern classics with vegan and gluten-free options in a charming courtyard setting.
Raphael Restaurant
0.2 km
A relaxed, wine-focused restaurant in a Georgian townhouse, serving modern British dishes with seasonal, local ingredients in the heart of Bath.
Woods Restaurant
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Family-run modern British bistro with French technique and locally sourced ingredients, opposite Bath's Assembly Rooms.
Amarone Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine and elegant ambiance in the heart of historic Bath at Amarone Restaurant.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
0.3 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
Bonghy Bo
0.3 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Asian fusion scene with Bonghy Bo’s eclectic menu and intimate, stylish setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grace & Mabel Ltd
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Discover timeless British and European fashion with a sustainable focus at Grace & Mabel, Bath’s family-run boutique gem.
Vinegar Hill
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Discover quirky gifts and unique homewares in the heart of Bath’s historic Milsom Street at Vinegar Hill.
House of Fraser
0.1 km
Historic department store blending heritage and modern retail in the heart of Bath’s shopping district.
Fat Giraffe Gifts
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Discover unique, handcrafted wooden gifts with a sustainable heart at Bath’s welcoming Fat Giraffe Gifts on Milsom Street.
Milsom Place
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
BIBICO
0.2 km
Discover timeless, ethically made women’s fashion at BIBICO, Bath’s pioneering boutique for sustainable and artisan-crafted clothing.
Boho
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Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
Always Sunday
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A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Jigsaw
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Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.3 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Anthropologie
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Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
The Yellow Shop
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Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
The Silver Shop Of Bath
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s longest-established silver jewellery shop, offering unique gifts and expert craftsmanship in a charming historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
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Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
Circo - Cellar Bar
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Discover Bath’s elegant cellar bar with a circular centerpiece, Michelin-starred cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Bath Stag & Hen
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Tailored stag and hen party planning in Bath’s historic George Street, blending vibrant nightlife with expert local service for unforgettable celebrations.
Slug & Lettuce - Bath
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Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
The Botanist Bath
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A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
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Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Revolution Bath
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Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
Fidel Rum Bar
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Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
The Old Green Tree
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A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
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A lively sports bar and live music venue in Bath offering great food, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere near the city’s historic heart.
Mandalyns Bath
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Bath’s oldest gay bar, Mandalyns offers vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife with drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Fountain Buildings.
Vino Vino
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Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
Coeur De Lion
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Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Grapes
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A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
The Dark Horse
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Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sub 13
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Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Zero / Zero
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Komedia
0.3 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Lomah
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.7 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
The Tub
2.6 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.4 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
16.9 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
17.6 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.
Popworld - Bristol
17.9 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
17.9 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
17.9 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
17.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
