Something A Little Different In Bristol

Whether you're after a quirky date idea or a group night out to remember, check out Alcotraz in the city centre. This is more than just a cocktail bar, it's a theatrical experience, complete with live actors playing guards, inmates and wardens.

There are several bootleggers and moonshiners that have been locked up with you, and if you smuggle in a bottle of liquor they'll create four bespoke cocktails for you. Don your orange jumpsuit and head to your cell, but be sure to look out for the warden along the way.

If you want to ditch the usual bar scene and try something a little different, Sixes Cricket is the place to be. This innovative venue combines social sport with delicious dining and drinking, offering a truly immersive experience.

Take on the ultimate batting challenge in one of the four nets, no matter your skill level, and then settle down to enjoy a menu bursting with flavour alongside expertly mixed cocktails. With massive screens showing the latest sporting events and picturesque views of Bristol Harbour, Sixes brings a fresh, energetic vibe to your night out that you won't find anywhere else.

If you're after quirky activities in Bristol then YO!'s classes are just the thing. Taking place on Wednesdays, the event sees you tuck into gyozas on arrival, practise your knife skills and whip up four delicious sushi items.

Situated within the buzzing Clifton Triangle, Daisy's is the place to be for a quirky night out. This retro venue is filled with bold, colourful decor, from the checkered floor to the pop art murals lining the walls.

Expect non-stop throwback tunes throughout the week, with a 4am closing time Monday to Saturday. There's an extensive drinks menu to choose from as well, with a daily happy from 8 to 10pm.

Jaded Dragon is Bristol's go-to destination for anyone looking to step off the beaten path. The bar's exotic drinks menu revolves around Baijiu, creatively combined with tropical ingredients and bold flavours into one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Whether you're exploring Lucky Wednesday all-night happy hours, or just looking to shake up your usual night out, Jaded Dragon guarantees something unexpected and delicious every time.

Want more? Use our new search engine so you can choose between 1000s of venues all across the UK from quirky cocktail dens to gorgeous restaurants. To top it off, you'll earn rewards every time you book through DesignMyNight, which can be spent on cool events and experiences.

There's no need to hop on a flight to experience all the fun of ski season. Barbara's Bier Haus brings a taste of the après to the Bristol Harbourside.

With live music, beer towers, steins, hot dogs and schnapps, you'll soon feel like you're celebrating another successful day on the slopes. Need a little more entertainment? Head down on Thursdays for bands, Mondays for karaoke or Sundays for Barbara's Boozy Quiz.

Looking for an alternative event? Forget the usual day out and have a go at this quirky escape room, where you'll be able to choose from a variety of games. You'll need your best crew for this one, so prepare for an adrenaline-pumping 60 minutes.

Bristol isn't short of fun, quirky bars, but Flight Club in Old City is one of the best. Not only does it feature some of the wackiest decor around, it also boasts late-night social darts, a huge selection of tasty tipples, paddles of pizza and fun events.

Replay on Cheltenham Road is a standout spot where you can enjoy cheap drinks without sacrificing quality or vibe. This quirky bar and café offers something for everyone, from daytime coffee and casual games to lively craft beer nights. Perfect for anyone seeking a relaxed but fun space in Bristol, with plenty of events and private hire for all your social needs.

Looking for quirky things to do in Bristol? Head over to Corn Street where Flight Club is kicking every weekend with an epic bottomless brunch - think free-flowing fizz, pizza paddles and an hour of Social Darts in their high-tech oches.

Ideal for couples and groups of friends, Bake It! is Bristol's first ever baking experience. This is done in pairs across 12 fully equipped baking stations, where you'll compete against the other teams to create the very best cake.

You'll get 90 minutes to mix, bake and decorate your cake, aiming to be crowned the winner. Tickets start from £44, including all the ingredients and equipment you need, and you'll leave with a tasty cake to take home.

After something a little different? Then be sure to check out The Bootlegger located on Gloucester Road for a fabulous evening of bevvies in the stunning 1920s-inspired venue. Think vintage light shades, exposed brickwork and a crackin' selection of cocktails that are bound to impress. 

For epic explorations in the city, we've got the outdoor adventure for you. At CityDays, you'll get to explore various landmarks throughout the city including charming cafes, classic pubs and statues while solving clues and riddles along the way.

If you're looking for a fun night out in Bristol, OMG is here to provide you with something a little different. Welcoming some of the world's most famous drag artists to its stage, this inclusive venue and adjoining nightclub are on-hand with affordable sips and non-stop party vibes. 

Raising money for charity and heaps of fun, The Big Fat RAG Pub Quiz is a top way to cheer up a Monday night. The event takes place in Bristol Uni's Balloon Bar and deviates from your bog-standard quiz; expect cheap beer, silliness and tricky tasks.

Ditch the same old routine and leap into the future. Active Reality Bristol West at Parish Wharf in Portishead offers a mind-blowing virtual reality adventure with a breathtaking waterfront view. Just a hop away from Bristol, this spot blends the excitement of immersive VR with the chill vibes of Portishead's scenic marina.

Fancy joining the World-Famous Coyotes for a night of wild fun? Then head down to Coyote Ugly Bristol in College Green, where the party never stops. You can enjoy an hour-long dance lesson every Saturday, costing just £15 - including a mimosa reception.

That's not all though, as they host Nashville-themed bottomless brunches every single day of the week. Starting from just £25 per person, you can enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited pizza, prosecco or beer.

If you're on the hunt for something totally unexpected in Bristol, Treetop Golf is the ultimate escape from the ordinary. Set within a lush, immersive jungle world, this indoor mini-golf experience turns any gathering into an adventure.

Whether you're conquering the Tropical Trail or exploring the Ancient Explorer course, you'll find plenty of surprises along the way. Pair your round with drinks and bites from Pizza Cabana for a night out. Perfect for quirky dates, offbeat nights with mates, or group outings that break the mould.

Bristol's bar scene is full of interesting and fun bars, but none are quite as different as The Apple. An old dutch barge has been converted into one of the city's most popular watering holes which serves a massive selection of cider.

Smoke and Mirrors is not what it first appears; find the alternative pub in Bristol for a night of surprises. Grab a front row seat as the bar puts on regular entertainment, from magic shows through to comedy and burlesque.

An oldie on the alternative night out scene in Bristol, Thekla is a rowdy club on a converted cargo ship. Head to the Mud Dock Area for pop club nights out and clothes markets over weekends.

Get ready to be immersed into a whole new world at this quirky and cool bar in Bristol. The Clockwork Rose is run by the illusive Captain, hear his story every time you order a cocktail or rummage through his trinkets that decorate the bar.

With views over Clifton Lido, Lido is a unique Bristol restaurant. The venue has floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the spot with light and food comes in the form of delicious tapas.

Steak of the Art is not your average night out in Bristol as it combines amazing art work with world-class steaks. Located on Cathedral Walk, the spot has amazing interiors, including suspended paintpots pouring paint and an illuminated bar.

If you're looking for something a little different to do in Bristol, Mad Swans is well worth hopping in the car for. Just 30 minutes from the city, this Mendips hideaway feels like a mini adventure. Set the tone in The Hangout, where thin, crisp pizzas are the main event. Dough and tomato sauce are made in-house, the toppings are playful, and everything is designed for sharing.

Once you've eaten, the options open right up. There's mini golf, darts and shuffleboard for low-effort fun, a driving range in the Swing Barn if you fancy testing your swing, or even a late-night padel session if you want to do something truly unexpected. Want to take it further? Book one of the eco cabins and turn it into an easy overnight escape, complete with a drop-down projector for cosy movie nights and a peaceful Mendips wake-up call.