The Milk Thistle
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
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.
A brief summary to The Milk Thistle
- Quay Head House, Colston Ave, Bristol, BS1 1EB, GB
- +441179294429
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-1 am
- Thursday 5 pm-1 am
- Friday 5 pm-2 am
- Saturday 5 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Opt for the tasting notes on the menu to navigate bold flavors; start light and build to signatures like those with house tinctures.
- Reserve private rooms ahead for groups; they're perfect for celebrations with custom menus.
- Dress smart casual to match the upscale vibe—elevated but not stuffy.
- Explore no- and low-alcohol options if seeking lighter alternatives amid the potent classics.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Milk Thistle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Milk Thistle
Speakeasy Splendor in a Historic Shell
Tucked inside Quay Head House on Colston Avenue, The Milk Thistle transforms a grand Georgian-era building into a clandestine cocktail haven. Spanning four floors, each level unfolds with distinct personality: the ground floor buzzes as the main cocktail bar, while upstairs lounges and private rooms offer secluded nooks. Exposed brick walls, plush red banquettes, and an array of taxidermy create a quirky, dimly lit ambiance that feels both intimate and indulgent. Soft lighting casts a warm glow over velvet seating and ornate details, evoking a bygone era of Prohibition-era glamour right in the heart of Bristol.Cocktail Mastery and Menu Magic
The bar's reputation rests on its meticulously crafted cocktails, small in size but mighty in impact. The illustrated menu, themed around whimsical narratives like a 'dreadful tea party,' guides guests through signatures that progress from lighter sips to bolder pours. Expect layered flavors—woody herbs, fruity brightness, or smoky depths—in drinks featuring house-made tinctures, syrups, and garnishes chosen for perfect harmony. Classics can be customized, alongside no- and low-alcohol options, beers, wines, and ciders. Bartenders flex their skills to conjure almost any request, backed by a glossary explaining glassware and tasting notes.Multi-Level Layout for Every Occasion
Ascend beyond the bar to discover versatile spaces suited to varied evenings. The first-floor lounge serves as a private members' area with comfy seating for lingering conversations. Upper levels house function rooms ideal for parties, private dining, or events, complete with tailored menus. Whether settling into a banquette for cosmic chats or hosting a group feast, the layout fosters connection amid the venue's cheeky charm. Taxidermied accents and cosmic motifs add whimsy, making every visit feel like stepping into a secret world.Evening Rhythm and Sensory Allure
From 5pm Monday to Thursday, and earlier on Fridays and Saturdays, the doors swing open till 1am or 2am, inviting guests into a realm of sensory delight. The air hums with clinking glasses, murmured laughter, and subtle music that enhances rather than overwhelms. Scents of fresh herbs, citrus peels, and spirits mingle, while textures range from smooth glassware to cushioned seats. This rhythm suits after-work unwinds or late-night indulgences, with the venue's smart casual dress code ensuring an elevated yet approachable tone.Bristol's Cocktail Cornerstone
As a cornerstone of Bristol's nightlife, The Milk Thistle blends heritage architecture with modern mixology innovation. Its location in the bustling city center amplifies its draw, yet the multi-floor design provides escapes from the outside hustle. Private dining options extend to buffets and catered events, from business meetings to weddings, all infused with the same attention to detail. This enduring spot continues to evolve its specials menu, keeping flavors fresh and experiences memorable for discerning drinkers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Post Office
0.1 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
0.2 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.2 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Medieval Vaults
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.3 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
0.3 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Cascade Steps
0.3 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Bristol Bridge
0.3 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.4 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.4 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Fermentation Buildings
0.4 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.5 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Bristol Castle
0.5 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.6 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Pero's Bridge
0.6 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
Unmissable attractions to see
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.1 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
St John's Church
0.1 km
A medieval church built into Bristol’s city walls, St John on the Wall is the last of five gate churches, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fortified past and spiritual life.
The Christmas Steps
0.1 km
Step back in time on Bristol’s historic Christmas Steps, a charming medieval street rich in culture, history, and cozy local character.
Christmas Steps
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s enchanting Christmas Steps, a historic cobbled lane blending medieval charm with vibrant arts and rich local stories.
Bristol Beacon
0.2 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
St Nicholas Market
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan crafts, and global street food in a charming Georgian arcade.
The Lanes
0.2 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
The Centre
0.2 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.2 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
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.
Bristol city centre
0.3 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.3 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Bristol Old Vic
0.3 km
Experience the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, where history and innovation meet on Bristol’s King Street.
TimeTrail
0.4 km
Step into history with TimeTrail, an immersive live-action adventure on Bristol’s historic King Street that challenges your wits and teamwork.
Floating Harbour
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
Essential places to dine
The Ox
0.1 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.1 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
Bambalan
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Pasta Ripiena
0.2 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.2 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
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.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Hat Bistro
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Aqua Welshback
0.3 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
No.1 Harbourside
0.4 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Under the Stars
0.4 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Memories
0.2 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.2 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Urban Fox
0.2 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
uchi clothing co
0.2 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.2 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Blaze
0.2 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
This Feeling
0.2 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Over Here
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
my a2space
0.4 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.4 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
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.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.5 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
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
The Milk Thistle
0.0 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.1 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Flight Club Bristol
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.1 km
Bristol's dazzling cocktail bar on Corn Street, blending royal elegance, masterful martinis, bottomless brunches, and electric nights in the heart of Old City.
The Gold Bar
0.1 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
The Clockwork Rose
0.2 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.2 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 Boardroom
0.2 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
The Rummer
0.2 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
Revolution Bristol
0.2 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.2 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Library Bristol
0.2 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Bristol
0.2 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
0.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Basement 45
0.4 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
0.4 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.5 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
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.
Antix
0.5 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.
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.
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
0.7 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.
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.
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.
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
0.8 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Lakota
0.9 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
- Romantic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adults Only
