Watershed: Bristol’s Cultural Cinema and Creative Hub on the Harbourside
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Watershed is a vibrant cultural cinema and creative venue located on Bristol’s historic Harbourside. It combines film screenings, a café & bar, event spaces, and a creative technology studio, making it a dynamic hub for arts, culture, and community gatherings. Known for its diverse programming and sustainable ethos, Watershed offers an inviting atmosphere with local food, vegan options, and accessible facilities.
A brief summary to Watershed
- 1 Canon's Rd, Bristol, BS1 5TX, GB
- +441179275100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the Watershed website for the latest film screenings and special events, including Q&As and festivals.
- Enjoy the Café & Bar’s vegan and vegetarian options, and try the famous Watershed nachos while overlooking the Harbourside.
- Take advantage of accessible facilities and relaxed screenings designed for neurodivergent visitors.
- Consider booking private event spaces for special occasions with harbourside views and tailored catering.
- Use public transport or the ferry for easy access, and find cycle parking nearby if you prefer to bike.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent bus services run to 'The Centre' in Bristol city centre, just a 2-minute walk from Watershed. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost around £2.50 to £4.00. Note that bus frequency may reduce on Sundays.
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Ferry
Regular Bristol Ferry Boat services operate from Temple Meads, Hotwells, and around the city centre, stopping near Watershed. Journey times range from 10 to 20 minutes, with tickets priced about £4.50 for a single trip. Services run daily with additional weekend and holiday options.
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Car
Nearby car parks include Millennium Square and Trenchard Street NCP. Blue Badge parking is available on Canons Road behind Watershed. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £4 per hour. Be aware that city centre parking can be busy during peak times.
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Bicycle
Cycle parking is available at the front and rear of Watershed, as well as numerous locations across Bristol city centre. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach the venue, with safe routes along the Harbourside.
Watershed 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 Watershed
A Cultural Cinema at Bristol’s Harbourside
Watershed stands as a cornerstone of Bristol’s cultural landscape, situated prominently on the historic Harbourside. It is renowned for its diverse film programming, showcasing independent, international, and culturally significant films, often accompanied by Q&A sessions, talks, and special events. The cinema prides itself on inclusivity, offering relaxed screenings designed for neurodivergent audiences and accessible facilities for wheelchair users. Its location by the water provides a scenic backdrop that enhances the visitor experience.A Hub for Creativity and Community
Beyond its role as a cinema, Watershed is a multifaceted venue hosting a creative technology studio and event spaces suitable for conferences, weddings, and private parties. The venue supports local talent development and cultural initiatives, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Its event spaces offer stunning harbourside views and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, making it a sought-after location for both cultural and corporate events.Café & Bar with a Sustainable Ethos
The Watershed Café & Bar is a social focal point overlooking the bustling Harbourside. Open seven days a week, it serves a menu emphasizing fresh, local, and seasonal produce sourced from trusted South West suppliers. The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options, children’s meals, and popular dishes like the Watershed nachos. The venue embraces sustainability through its Plot to Plate policy, minimizing food miles and supporting ethical sourcing. The café offers free WiFi and a welcoming environment for all visitors.Accessibility and Inclusivity
Watershed is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, with level access, ramps, lifts, and gender-neutral toilets alongside gender-specific and accessible facilities. Staff are trained in basic British Sign Language and deaf awareness, and the venue runs an accessible program of screenings and events. The building is wheelchair friendly and provides facilities for disabled visitors, guide dogs, and families with children, including baby changing areas.Events, Festivals, and Seasonal Highlights
Watershed hosts a rich calendar of events, including film festivals such as the Bristol Palestine Film Festival and seasonal screenings like Christmas Crackers. It also offers private event packages with festive décor and harbourside views, ideal for corporate or family celebrations. The venue’s commitment to culture and community is reflected in its support for local causes and sustainable practices, making every visit meaningful.Getting There and Visitor Experience
Located in central Bristol, Watershed is easily accessible by bus, ferry, bicycle, and car, with nearby parking options including accessible Blue Badge spaces. The surrounding Harbourside area is lively and scenic, perfect for a full day of exploration. Visitors can enjoy the combination of cultural enrichment, social dining, and beautiful waterfront views, all within a venue dedicated to sustainability and community engagement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.1 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
0.1 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
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 Cary Grant
0.3 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.3 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Prince Street Bridge
0.3 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.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.4 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Old Post Office
0.4 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
0.5 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.5 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Palestine at the Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre in Bristol, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Medieval Vaults
0.5 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Bristol Bridge
0.5 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
St John's Church
0.6 km
Experience the architectural wonder and serene atmosphere of St John's Church in Bristol, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in history and beauty.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.6 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
0.6 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Unmissable attractions to see
Harbourside
0.1 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Bristol Aquarium
0.1 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.1 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.
Narrow Quay
0.1 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
The Bristol Wheel
0.1 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Pero's Bridge
0.1 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
We The Curious
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Bristol Cathedral
0.2 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
0.2 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
The Centre
0.2 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Millennium Square
0.2 km
A lively modern city park in Bristol’s harbourside, known for public art, water features, and festive events like the Vintage Winter Wonderland.
Queen Square
0.3 km
A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Bristol Ferry
0.3 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Essential places to dine
The Bristol Stable
0.0 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Under the Stars
0.1 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
No.1 Harbourside
0.1 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
The River Grille
0.1 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Rick's
0.2 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Hat Bistro
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.2 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Pieminister
0.2 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.
Bambalan
0.3 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Pasta Ripiena
0.4 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.4 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.4 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
my a2space
0.1 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.2 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Orendo
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
0.4 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.4 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Over Here
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Something Elsie
0.4 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
This Feeling
0.4 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.4 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.5 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
uchi clothing co
0.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.5 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.5 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Ganesha
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.0 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.1 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Architect
0.2 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Shakespeare Tavern
0.2 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
Small Bar
0.2 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Kongs of King Street
0.3 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.3 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
The Clockwork Rose
0.3 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.4 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Revolution Bristol
0.4 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Flight Club Bristol
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PRYZM
0.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
0.3 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
0.3 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Basement 45
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.3 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.3 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Thekla
0.4 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.
Antix
0.4 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.
Silk Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
La Rocca
0.8 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.8 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
0.8 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.9 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Loco Klub
1.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
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