Written by:
Last Updated:
Looking for the perfect place to say I do in Bristol?
We just love how many modern, cool and industrial options are available to couples now.
With that though comes even more choice, how do you pick the right one with so many amazing wedding venues?
We know venue searching is one of the hardest things for most couples.
That’s why we have done the hard work for you! We love a stylish city wedding and for that to happen you need a stunning, unique city venue!
But, we get it looks aren’t everything! You also need one that works for your personal wedding plans.
Priorities and needs are so different for every couple. We have researched and spoken to all our favourite city venues to give you all the information you need to help make the choice easier.
BRISTOL CITY
Bristol is a city in southwest England that boasts a rich maritime history, creative culture, and a vibrant music scene.
In the past, Bristol was known for its trade in wool and wine and was the second-most important port in England after London.
Today, the city is known for its street art scene, with works by the artist Banksy located throughout the city.
Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark and was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
The bridge spans the River Avon and is featured in various films, books, and TV shows. The city is also known for its musical heritage, with notable artists such as Massive Attack, Portishead, and Roni Size hailing from Bristol.
Bristol is also known for its vibrant food scene, with local specialities including the Bristol Cream Sherry, the Bristol Blue Glass, and the Bristol Sweet Mart. The city also hosts various food festivals throughout the year, including the Bristol Food Connections Festival and the Bristol Craft Beer Festival.
Overall, Bristol’s unique character, cultural heritage, and interesting history make it a fascinating city to plan a wedding.
CLICK TO SEE HOW WE CHOSE THE TOP CITY VENUES
WE VET ALL THE VENUES ON OUR LIST.
We ask suppliers for local recommendations and hidden gems. We speak to past couples. Someone from the Urban team will have spoken to or visited the venue.
Why? We are sick of these big lists of recommendations that were auto-filled or pay-to-play.
UNIQUE AND MODERN VENUES
We focus on venues that are city-based or industrial. We also look for unique venues that offer something different and are breaking the rules.
Most of all though they offer exceptional service!
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR COUPLES AND SUPPLIERS?
It means you can fully trust this list! We will not just add anyone. It is the only venue list you need for planning a Bristol City wedding.
Our number one rule is: If we wouldn’t book them then we won’t recommend them!
Have a venue you think we have missed off the list? Send us their info and we will look them up!
A venue yourself and wondering why we have missed your amazing venue? Get in touch we are always looking for new awesome venues!
Why the price of a beer?
Maybe it’s an up north sort of thing? We’ve found over the years that couples care about what their guests will have to pay for a drink. A standard, no fancy IPAs, beer price is the best base to work with.
BEST WEDDING VENUES IN BRISTOL CITY
UNIQUE QUIRKY VENUES FOR AN ALTERNATIVE WEDDING
1. Clifton Obseverty and caves
Clifton Observatory is a unique and stunning wedding venue.
This historic observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, making it an ideal spot for a romantic and memorable wedding celebration.
The venue boasts a beautifully restored Victorian glasshouse, which provides an elegant and intimate setting for ceremonies and receptions. In addition, the observatory offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces for couples to choose from.
Clifton Observatory is a truly special and unforgettable wedding venue for couples looking for a unique and picturesque setting for their big day.
Things to consider
Clifton Observatory has some restrictions on vendors and requires all vendors to be approved in advance. Make sure to choose vendors who have worked at the venue before and are familiar with the regulations.
Clifton Observatory is located in an area with limited parking, so make sure to plan transportation for your guests in advance, such as providing a shuttle bus or hiring a taxi service.
Clifton Observatory
- Ceremony Capacity: 60 – Standing more
- Reception Capacity: 60 – tent for more
- Licensed for Marriage: Yes
- Catering: 3 Preferred suppliers
- Bar: Venue
- Accommodation: No
- Parking: Limited street parking
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: No
- Exclusivity: yes
2. The Mud Dock Cafe Bristol
This iconic bike shop and café has recently obtained a wedding license, making it an exciting new option for couples looking to tie the knot in style.
When you step inside The Mud Dock, you’ll be greeted by warm, rich orange walls and twinkling fairy lights strung up across the rafters. It’s the perfect blend of casual and elegant, with an industrial-style vibe that’s sure to impress.
One of the highlights of The Mud Dock is its stunning rare oculus window, which adds a touch of historic beauty to the space. And if you head out to the terrace, you’ll be treated to a picturesque view of the docks that is simply breathtaking.
Overall, The Mud Dock is a venue that perfectly encapsulates everything that makes Bristol such a beloved city. So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable place to say “I do,” The Mud Dock might just be the perfect fit for you.
Mud Dock Café
- Ceremony Capacity: –
- Reception Capacity: 100
- Licensed for Marriage: No
- Catering: In house
- Bar: In house
- Accommodation: No
- Parking: No
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: Yes
- Exclusivity: Yes
Contact Information
Address: Mud Dock, 40 The Grove, Bristol BS1 4RB
Email: anna@mud-dock.co.uk
Phone: 0117 934 9734
Socials: @muddock
INDUSTRIAL VENUES in Bristol
3. The forge bristol
This historic industrial space dates all the way back to the mid-1800s and was originally a coach house, then a blacksmith. Today, it’s been beautifully renovated to offer a unique and unforgettable setting for your big day.
Picture rustic meets industrial style, with peaked ceilings, factory-style windows, and gorgeous distressed wood flooring. It’s the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern appeal, and we think you’re going to love it.
While The Forge isn’t licensed for wedding ceremonies itself, it’s conveniently located just 10 minutes away from the Bristol registry office.
And once you’ve said your “I dos,” The Forge makes a stunning setting for an intimate, city-centre wedding reception.
Plus, with complete customization options, you can create the wedding of your dreams without compromise. So if you’re ready to say “I do” in style, The Forge might just be the perfect venue for you.
The Forge
- Ceremony Capacity: 40
- Reception Capacity: 70
- Licensed for Marriage: No, hoping by spring 2022
- Catering: Recommended suppliers
- Bar: In house
- Accommodation: No
- Parking: No
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: Yes
- Exclusivity: Yes
Contact Information
Address: The Forge, Colston Yard, off Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5BD
Email: hello@theforgebristol.com
Phone:
Socials: @theforgebristol
4. The paintworks bristol
If you’re looking for a cool and creative wedding venue in Bristol, look no further than The Paintworks.
Situated right in the heart of the city’s Creative Corner, this venue offers a ton of versatility for couples who want to make their big day truly unique.
With its industrial features and bold colours, The Paintworks is a dream come true for any artistic soul.
One of the things we love about The Paintworks is that no two weddings here are ever the same. You have the freedom to make the space your own and let your creativity shine.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony, a fancy dinner, or a wild party, this venue can accommodate your every need.
And with the ability to transform the atmosphere as the night progresses, your wedding at The Paintworks is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Paintworks Wedding venue
- Ceremony Capacity: 140
- Reception Capacity: 250
- Licensed for Marriage: Yes
- Catering: In house
- Bar: In house
- Accommodation: No
- Parking: Yes – Paid
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: Yes
- Exclusivity: Yes
Contact Information
Address: The Airstream, Paintworks, Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3EH
Email: events@paintworksbristol.co.uk
Phone: 0117 9714320
Socials: @paintworksevents @paintworks_bristol
5. the watershed
This former warehouse is situated right on the historic harbour side of the city, providing an absolutely stunning backdrop for your big day.
While The Watershed is already quite popular among creative types, especially film lovers, it’s still not widely recognized as a top spot for weddings and receptions. But we think it’s a hidden gem that’s just waiting to be discovered!
One of the coolest things about The Watershed is that you can actually tie the knot in one of the industrial-style cinemas, with your favourite movie or memories playing on the big screen during the ceremony. How cool is that?
And let’s not forget about the incredible views across the river that you’ll get from The Watershed. They’re truly breathtaking and are worth a visit just for that alone. So, if you’re looking for a modern and memorable wedding venue in Bristol, The Watershed might just be the perfect fit for you.
Bristol Watershed
- Ceremony Capacity: 200
- Reception Capacity: 250
- Licensed for Marriage: Yes
- Catering: In house
- Bar: In house
- Accommodation: No
- Parking: No
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: Yes
- Exclusivity: No
Contact Information
Address: Watershed, 1 Canons Road, Harbourside. Bristol BS1 5TX
Email: events@watershed.co.uk
Phone: 0117 927 2082
Socials: @wshed
THE BEST BRISTOL CITY-CENTER VENUES
6. The Square Club
Don’t be fooled by the decadent Georgian townhouse exterior – inside, you’ll find a perfect blend of modern décor, stunning contemporary artwork, and stylish exposed brickwork.
Picture yourself exchanging vows at our beautiful marble altar before indulging in a delicious meal prepared by our in-house chefs. Afterwards, you and your guests can mingle at our award-winning cocktail bar, making memories that will last a lifetime.
And speaking of memories, our unique artwork makes for a variety of stunning backdrop options for your photos! Whether you’re looking for a chic and modern atmosphere or a touch of classic elegance, The Square Club has it all.
Trust us to make your special day unforgettable. Contact us to learn more about our wedding packages and availability.
Bristol Square Club Wedding venue
Venue information
- Ceremony Capacity: 70
- Reception Capacity: 140
- Licensed for Marriage: Yes
- Catering: In house
- Bar: In house
- Accommodation: Yes
- Parking: Yes – Paid, hotel guests free and paid available
- Child Friendly: Yes
- Pets Welcome: No
- Late License: 1am
- Exclusivity: Yes
Contact Information
Address: 15 Berkeley Square, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1HB
Email: info@thesquareclub.com
Phone: 0117 9210455
Socials: @thesquareclub
HOTEL WEDDING VENUES IN BRISTOL
7. Hotel Du Vin Bristol
Located in the vibrant city centre, this boutique hotel boasts 40 stylish bedrooms, a delightful bistro, and an elegant bar that is perfect for pre and post-wedding celebrations.
The hotel’s interior is a mix of classic elegance and contemporary chic. The bedrooms are uniquely decorated with luxurious touches, including Egyptian cotton bedding and monsoon showers. The hotel also has a range of event spaces that can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger parties of up to 120 guests.
What makes Hotel du Vin a particularly attractive venue for weddings is their attention to detail and exceptional service. Their dedicated wedding planner will work with you to create a bespoke package tailored to your specific requirements. The hotel’s experienced staff will ensure that your big day runs smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy the celebrations with your guests.
Food is a big part of any wedding, and Hotel du Vin excels in this area. Their chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, seasonal menus that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a formal sit-down dinner or a more relaxed buffet-style feast, the hotel can cater to your needs.
WEDDING VENUE FINDING FAQS
The average cost of a wedding venue in Bristol can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the location, the size of the venue, and the time of year. Generally speaking, the cost of a wedding venue in Bristol can range from £1,500 to £10,000 or more
Yes, we recommend booking your venue as soon as possible once you have set a date. The best venues get booked up quickly, sometimes up to two years in advance!
Yes! Bristol has some incredible outdoor locations that would make the perfect backdrop to your special day. From parks to botanical gardens, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just remember to take into account the time of year and if the weather is likely to be good!
