Gay Bars & Clubs Verified by GayOut

BBB - Bristol Bear Bar

Google (95) 4.1
Tripadvisor (39) 4.5
What reviewers say

Visitors consistently praise the Bristol Bear Bar for its great atmosphere, friendly and welcoming staff, and reasonably priced drinks, with many highlighting the good music selection. However, some reviewers mention issues with limited seating, a hostile vibe from certain staff members, and one instance of an expensive drink and rude service.

86
/ 100
GayOut Score
G4.1 🦉4.5
✅ Link copied!
Address
2 West Street, Bristol
🌐
Website
bristolbearbar.com
🟢
Be the first to check in
Real-time community presence
No live tips yet — share what's happening here right now.

Hotels near BBB - Bristol Bear Bar

via Stay22
Hotels near BBB - Bristol Bear Bar
Loading map…

About this place BBB - Bristol Bear Bar

Bristol Bear Bar holds the distinction of being the first and only purpose-built bear bar in the United Kingdom. Located at the heart of Bristol's Gay Village at the crossroads where Old Market Street becomes West Street, this venue offers a friendly, inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The bar is run by Steve and his team, who pride themselves on creating a space free from attitude and judgment. The venue is open Tuesday to Sunday, making it a reliable destination throughout the week. During weekends, the bar tends to be lively and busy, with various themed nights bringing in crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, weekday visits offer a quieter, more laid-back experience that's still welcoming and social. The central location in Old Market makes it easily accessible and puts you right in the heart of Bristol's established queer scene. Whether you're a local or visiting Bristol, Bristol Bear Bar provides a community-focused space designed specifically with bear culture and community in mind. The purpose-built venue means you'll find a space thoughtfully created for its visitors, rather than a converted traditional pub. For current information about specific events, opening times, and themed nights, check their website at bristolbearbar.com.

Opening Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 19:00-23:30
Wednesday 19:00-23:30
Thursday 19:00-23:30
Friday 19:00-02:00
Saturday 19:00-02:00
Sunday 17:00-23:00

Features

Gay LGBTQ+ Bears Live music Dancing Area Pub/Tavern LGBTQ+ owned Safe space Community oriented Walk-ins welcome

Insider Tips

No tips yet — be the first to share a local secret!

Community Reviews

Write a Review

Google Reviews

Verified by Google
4.1
95 reviews

Based on 95 Google reviews.

Douglas Irvine
Douglas Irvine May 2026
Harry Simmonds
Harry Simmonds May 2026

Friendly welcoming bar, with great music and atmosphere

David Middleton
David Middleton Apr 2026

Great little spot in Old Market. The staff are very welcoming. I have been a few times, the locals are very friendly and the prices are very reasonable. If you want to visit a bar and be yourself then this is the place to go

Sumerian
Sumerian Apr 2026

A fun, cute, small but interesting LGBTQ venue in the diverse, popular and edgy Old Market Bristol. The staff are brilliant, friendly, give everyone the time of day and brighten the place up. Fun music on Saturdays and amazing entertainment on Sundays. One of the last standing gay bars in Bristol along with the also fabulous queen shilling. I highly recommend if you want a friendly fun night out where everyone is accepted.

Henrique Rocha
Henrique Rocha Apr 2026

came here a couple weeks ago and had the best time ever. staff were super friendly, especially the barmen. will be back soon!

Luke Pring (LukeMovement)
Luke Pring (LukeMovement) Feb 2026
Julian James
Julian James Feb 2026

Always a good night out, am sure if it was treble the space they could fill it. Relaxed atmosphere and friendly clientele.

TripAdvisor

Powered by TripAdvisor

Write a Review

Share your experience to help other LGBTQ+ travelers

Log in to write a review

Your experiences help the community find great LGBTQ+ spaces.

Log in to review

Last updated on 3 August 2026

Stay in the Loop

Get the latest LGBTQ+ events and venue openings in your inbox.

Enter your email to receive Pride event updates and new-venue alerts.

Already a subscriber? Unsubscribe

Your privacy choices. We use cookies to run GayOut and, with your consent, measure usage. Learn more