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The Clockwork Rose

Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.

4.7

Step into Bristol's steampunk wonderland at The Clockwork Rose, a cocktail bar where Victorian machinery meets fantastical airship lore. Intricate brass fittings, vintage suitcases, and flying goggles adorn the intimate space, immersing you in the mythical world of Captain Sebastian Commodore. Signature drinks like the Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster and Kraken’s Folly arrive with bespoke backstories, blending alchemy and adventure in every sip. Open evenings from 5pm, this hidden gem on St Stephen's Street crafts moderate-priced elixirs in a lively yet quirky atmosphere perfect for date nights or group escapades.

A brief summary to The Clockwork Rose

  • 16 St Stephen's St, Bristol, BS1 1JR, GB
  • +441179276869
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Tuesday 5 pm-11:30 pm
  • Wednesday 5 pm-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 5 pm-11:30 pm
  • Friday 5 pm-11:30 pm
  • Saturday 5 pm-11:30 pm

Local tips

  • Ask for the cocktail's backstory when ordering—bartenders share captivating tales that enhance the drink.
  • Opt for non-alcoholic versions if driving; they match the alcoholic elixirs in creativity and flavor.
  • Visit midweek for a quieter vibe, perfect for savoring the intricate decor without crowds.
  • Explore the rum or whisky selections for flights that highlight rare and impressive ranges.
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Discover more about The Clockwork Rose

Steampunk Realm Unveiled

Nestled on St Stephen's Street in Bristol's vibrant heart, The Clockwork Rose transports patrons to a bygone era of brass gears and steam-powered dreams. The interior bursts with steampunk ingenuity: polished copper pipes snake along walls, antique clocks tick mysteriously, and leather-bound tomes line shelves cluttered with curiosities. This is no ordinary bar—it's the fabled haunt of fictional airship captain Sebastian Commodore, whose global exploits infuse every corner with narrative magic. Dim Edison bulb lighting casts a warm, amber glow, inviting you to linger amid the whir of imagined engines.

Cocktails with Legendary Tales

The bar's menu elevates mixology to theatrical art. Each cocktail carries a unique backstory penned by the bartenders, transforming a simple drink into an immersive story. The Pharmacutical Stimulant evokes Victorian apothecaries with herbal infusions and effervescent sparks, while Kraken’s Folly rumbles with dark rum and spiced depths hinting at oceanic perils. Sci-fi fans revel in the Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster, a nod to Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, promising 'the best drink in existence' through layered flavors of citrus, gin, and cosmic fizz. Non-alcoholic versions ensure everyone joins the adventure.

Captain Commodore's Legacy

At the core of the experience lies the lore of Sebastian Commodore, the airship pioneer whose trinkets—lockets from distant ports, weathered suitcases, aviator goggles—dot the bar like relics from alternate histories. These props fuel the imagination, suggesting tales of skyward voyages and mechanical marvels. Bristol's first dedicated steampunk venue, it honors the genre's fusion of 19th-century aesthetics and futuristic whimsy, drawing from literary influences like Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. The result is a cohesive fantasy world where every element whispers of high-altitude escapades.

Evening Atmosphere and Rhythm

From 5pm onwards, the bar hums with subdued background music—perhaps a phonograph crackling with ragtime jazz or orchestral swells evoking airship anthems. Conversations flow easily in the cozy confines, ideal for intimate dates or lively gatherings. Bartenders, clad in period attire, perform their craft with precision, shaking and stirring amid gleaming shakers and absinthe fountains. The space accommodates small groups comfortably, fostering a sense of discovery rather than rowdy revelry.

Bristol's Cocktail Pioneer

As an Imbibe Awards finalist, The Clockwork Rose stands as a testament to Bristol's innovative bar scene. Its commitment to creative, story-driven drinks sets it apart in a city rich with harborside pubs and modern lounges. The moderate pricing makes this fantastical escape accessible, with cocktails typically ranging affordably for repeated visits. Whether savoring a rare rum flight or a Macallan whisky selection, the bar celebrates craftsmanship in spirits and storytelling alike.

Sensory Immersion in Detail

Engage your senses fully: the faint scent of aged wood and herbal bitters mingles with citrus zest from fresh garnishes. Textures abound—from the cool metal of gear-shaped stirrers to the soft leather of booth seating. Sounds layer subtly: ice clinking in shakers, liquid swirling in glass coupes, and muffled laughter blending with thematic tunes. This multisensory symphony cements The Clockwork Rose as Bristol's premier destination for those craving cocktails laced with wonder.

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