Smoke & Mirrors: Bristol’s Intimate Magic Theatre Pub
Experience Bristol’s only boutique magic theatre pub, where intimate comedy and magic shows blend with a cozy bar and lively atmosphere.
Smoke & Mirrors is Bristol’s unique boutique magic theatre pub located at 8 Denmark Street. Known for its intimate setting with just 48 seats, it offers a captivating blend of comedy, magic shows, live music, and a cozy bar atmosphere. Visitors enjoy interactive performances, quality drinks, and light bites in a venue famed for its engaging entertainment and warm ambiance.
A brief summary to Smoke & Mirrors
- 8 Denmark St, Bristol, BS1 5DQ, GB
- +441179290362
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Friday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Saturday 5:30 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance to secure a seat in the intimate 48-seat theatre.
- Arrive early to enjoy the bar’s selection of classic ales and cocktails before the show.
- Participate in the interactive magic acts for a more memorable experience.
- Try the bar’s handmade sausage rolls or paninis as a tasty accompaniment to your drinks.
- Stay after the show for live music to extend your evening entertainment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Bristol Bus Service routes 1, 2, or 3 to the Broadmead stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from central Bristol. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to Denmark Street. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£3 per journey.
-
Train
Arrive at Bristol Temple Meads railway station, about 1.5 km from Smoke & Mirrors. A taxi from the station takes 5-10 minutes costing approximately £6-£10. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through the city center is possible.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
Taxis and rideshares are readily available throughout Bristol. A ride from the city center to 8 Denmark Street typically takes 5-10 minutes, with fares ranging from £5 to £10 depending on traffic.
-
Walking
If you are staying nearby in central Bristol, walking to Smoke & Mirrors is convenient and scenic, taking around 10-20 minutes over mostly flat terrain through pedestrian-friendly streets.
Smoke & Mirrors location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Smoke & Mirrors
A Unique Venue for Magic and Comedy Enthusiasts
Smoke & Mirrors stands out as Bristol’s only boutique magic theatre pub, offering a rare combination of a traditional pub atmosphere with the excitement of live magic and comedy performances. Situated on Denmark Street, this venue is renowned for its intimate theatre that seats just 48 guests, creating a close-up experience where audience participation is a key feature. The low lighting, classic jazz club decor, and lamps on each table contribute to a nostalgic and inviting ambiance that enhances the theatrical magic shows.Engaging Performances and Audience Interaction
The heart of Smoke & Mirrors is its comedy and magic shows, featuring talented magicians like Mark Bennett and Jaie Blunt who blend humor with astonishing illusions. The performances are highly interactive, often involving the audience directly, which adds a playful and personal touch to each show. Beyond the main acts, table magicians circulate during intervals, performing close-up tricks that leave guests amazed and entertained throughout the evening.Atmosphere and Amenities
The venue’s atmosphere is lively yet cozy, making it ideal for dates, group nights out, or special occasions. The bar area accommodates up to 120 people, offering a selection of classic ales, cocktails, and wines. Light bites such as handmade sausage rolls and brie, bacon, and cranberry paninis complement the drinks menu, providing a perfect accompaniment to the entertainment. Friendly and attentive staff contribute to the welcoming vibe, ensuring guests feel comfortable and engaged.Historical and Cultural Significance
Since its establishment, Smoke & Mirrors has carved a niche in Bristol’s cultural scene by offering a distinctive entertainment experience that combines the charm of a pub with the allure of live theatre. Its reputation as a top-rated venue on platforms like TripAdvisor and its consistent hosting of comedy, magic, burlesque, and live music events highlight its importance as a cultural hub in the city.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Guests typically spend between two to three hours enjoying the performances and socializing at the bar. The venue opens daily from noon until midnight, with shows usually starting in the evening. Booking in advance is recommended due to the limited seating in the theatre. The venue is accessible for most visitors, though the intimate space means it may not be suitable for those requiring extensive wheelchair access. Its central location in Bristol makes it easy to reach via public transport or taxi.Memorable Nights with a Touch of Magic
Smoke & Mirrors promises an unforgettable night filled with laughter, amazement, and a sense of community. Whether you’re a fan of magic, comedy, or simply looking for a unique night out in Bristol, this venue offers a captivating blend of entertainment and hospitality that keeps guests returning for more.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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 Edmund Burke
0.1 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.2 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.4 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
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
0.4 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
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.
Prince Street Bridge
0.5 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.
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 Mary Le Port Church
0.5 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.6 km
Experience the historic charm of Bristol Harbour Railway, a heritage railway offering scenic rides through Bristol's vibrant docks and maritime history.
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.
Brandon Hill
0.6 km
Explore Brandon Hill, Bristol's picturesque park featuring stunning views, vibrant gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Cabot Tower
0.6 km
Historic 105-foot tower atop Bristol’s oldest park, offering free panoramic city views and a peaceful nature escape.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
The Centre
0.1 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.2 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
Harbourside
0.2 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Watershed
0.2 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Bristol Beacon
0.2 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
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.
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.
Bristol Aquarium
0.2 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
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.
We The Curious
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
The Bristol Wheel
0.3 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant British dining in a stunning former banking hall at the heart of Bristol’s Old City.
Narrow Quay
0.3 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Essential places to dine
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.0 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
No.1 Harbourside
0.1 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Pieminister
0.1 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
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
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.
The Bristol Stable
0.2 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Bambalan
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.3 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Pasta Ripiena
0.3 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
The River Grille
0.3 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.3 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Rick's
0.3 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
my a2space
0.2 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.3 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Will's doss pit
0.3 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.3 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Ganesha
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.4 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Memories
0.4 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.4 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
This Feeling
0.4 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
uchi clothing co
0.4 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
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.
Urban Fox
0.5 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Blaze
0.5 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Zhyper
0.5 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
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.
Small Bar
0.3 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.3 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
The Milk Thistle
0.3 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Flight Club Bristol
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
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 - City Centre Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.4 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.
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.
The Architect
0.4 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
The Boardroom
0.4 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basement 45
0.1 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
0.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
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.
Antix
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
PRYZM
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.4 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Thekla
0.5 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
0.7 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
0.7 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.7 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.7 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Lakota
1.2 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
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
