The Lanes: Bristol’s Premier Bowling and Entertainment Venue

Bristol’s vibrant hub for stringless bowling, live music, karaoke, and pizza in a lively city-center setting.

4.2

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Located at 22 Nelson Street in Bristol, The Lanes is a vibrant entertainment hotspot combining boutique stringless bowling lanes, karaoke rooms, live music, and a popular pizza diner. Open from midday on weekends and evenings on weekdays, it offers a unique night out with bowling, dining, and club nights under one roof in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to The Lanes

22 Nelson St, Bristol, BS1 2LE, GB
+441173251979
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 5 pm-12 am
Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
Thursday 2 pm-12 am
Friday 2 pm-3 am
Saturday 12 pm-3 am
Sunday 12 pm-12 am

Local tips

Book your bowling lane in advance, especially on weekends, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Arrive early if you want to enjoy Ray’s Pizza before the live music or club nights begin.
Note that under-18s are not allowed after 8 PM, so plan accordingly if visiting with younger guests.
Take advantage of student walk-in rates for bowling games by presenting valid student ID.

Getting There

Bus

Several city bus routes serve the Bristol city centre near Nelson Street, with frequent services running every 10-20 minutes. Travel times from Bristol Temple Meads station to The Lanes typically range from 10 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50-£3.50 one way.
Train

Bristol Temple Meads station is the nearest major train station, approximately 1.5 km from The Lanes. A taxi or bus ride from the station takes about 5-10 minutes. Train services connect Bristol to major UK cities, offering convenient access.
Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services are readily available throughout Bristol. A typical trip from central locations to The Lanes costs between £5 and £10 depending on traffic and time of day.
Walking

If you are staying nearby in Bristol city centre, The Lanes is accessible on foot within 10-20 minutes via mostly flat, paved streets. The area is well-lit and pedestrian-friendly in the evenings.

The Lanes location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Lanes

A Dynamic Hub for Bowling and Nightlife

The Lanes stands out as Bristol’s only stringless bowling alley, offering five lanes where groups can enjoy a modern twist on a classic game. The venue is designed for socializing and fun, with hourly lane bookings accommodating up to six players per lane to ensure a seamless experience. Beyond bowling, The Lanes hosts live music performances featuring local and touring artists, alongside up to four club nights weekly, creating a lively atmosphere that caters to a diverse crowd.

More Than Just Bowling: Entertainment and Dining

In addition to bowling, The Lanes features three boutique karaoke rooms, pool tables, and table football, providing multiple entertainment options. The covered and heated outdoor courtyard allows for year-round enjoyment. Food lovers can indulge in Ray’s Pizza, a signature offering that complements the venue’s energetic vibe. The combination of games, music, and dining makes The Lanes a comprehensive entertainment destination.

Location and Accessibility

Situated centrally at 22 Nelson Street, The Lanes benefits from its prime urban location in Bristol’s city center. The venue’s setting makes it easily accessible by various transport modes, and it fits seamlessly into a night out in the city. Its address places it close to other dining and nightlife options, enhancing its appeal as a social hub.

Operating Hours and Booking Details

The Lanes operates on a schedule that varies by day: opening from 12 PM to 1 AM on Saturdays, 12 PM to 11 PM on Sundays, and from 5 PM to midnight on weekdays. Booking lanes is done by the hour, with walk-in games available subject to availability. Prices for lane hire start at £50 per hour or £25 per half-hour, with discounted walk-in rates for students. The venue maintains a 48-hour amendment policy for bookings and restricts under-18s after 8 PM, ensuring a mature and vibrant atmosphere.

Atmosphere and Crowd

The Lanes combines a boutique, trendy aesthetic with a lively, fun-filled ambience. Its blend of modern entertainment and social spaces attracts a broad audience, from groups of friends seeking casual fun to music fans enjoying live performances and club nights. The venue’s design and programming foster an energetic yet welcoming environment.

Community and Cultural Role

As a unique entertainment venue in Bristol, The Lanes contributes to the city’s nightlife and cultural scene by supporting local artists and DJs and providing a space for social gatherings. Its multi-faceted approach to entertainment reflects Bristol’s vibrant, creative spirit and offers visitors a memorable experience beyond traditional bowling alleys.