Bristol's Vibrant Music Scene

The list of notable bands and singers from Bristol is long; it's no wonder that the city has such an amazing choice of concert venues and musical events.

Bristol is rich in sights and attractions. You find some of England's most recognisable landmarks, historical buildings, science, nature, shopping and exhibitions here. The list goes on. But, if you really want to get into Bristol's soul, make sure you go to one of the city's many live music venues. Known for its vibrant, diverse live music and club scene, this is the place for musical exploration. Bristol does have everything on the menu, from folk and roots, to classical, experimental, DJs and rock.

Take your pick in live music and nightlife venues:

On the outside, this unique music venue is covered in black paint and colourful graffiti. Inside this almost mean-looking building, you'll find one of the vital organs of Bristol's clubbing scenes. Lakota presents genres like house, hard core and techno, with DJs filling the floors and galleries two or three nights a week.

With a name like Cosiesyou would immediately make the association to a cosy place. It really lives up to its name with low ceilings and a wooden interior that almost gives you a cottage-like welcome. A sophisticated wine bar by day, it transforms at night when the underground nightclub fills with dreadlocks, rum, cider and the firm rhythms of reggae, dubstep and basement beats.

The beautiful Victoria Rooms Concert Hall gives you the historic and musical experience in one. In addition to being a Bristol landmark, it is now a part of the university's Department of Music, housing lots of concert and events. Mostly in the classical area with chamber, soloist and symphony orchestra, but also with jazz events.

There is always something going on at Arnolfini gallery, café and bar. This converted warehouse in the heart of Bristol's Harbourside area is one of Europe's leading centres for contemporary arts. There is always something happening here, including cinema, performance, talks, dance and events. Although Arnolfini hosts many art events, it also puts on an eclectic and diverse range of music events.

For musicals and shows, Bristol Hippodrome is the place to go. Here you find all the major West End and Broadway productions, as well as ballet, opera, concerts, stand up or entertainment for children.

Looking for an extraordinary event? Look no further than Thekla, which will surely meet your expectations. As a German vessel, Thekla sailed to Bristol in the 1980's. It was then taken over and used as a cabaret theatre by a couple of eccentric founders. It is maybe not that bizarre today, but it will still rock your boat, literally. As one of Bristol's biggest and best floating venues, you are sure to get the musical event of a lifetime in this acoustically intriguing venue.

There are concerts and gigs on in Bristol every day of the week. If you don't want to plan your evening in advance, but instead just take it as it comes, you may be lucky and end up in a cool underground joint listening to music you never imagined.

When exploring the diverse Bristol music scene, the city centre Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol is the ideal choice, providing you with comfortable and convenient accommodation close to the many great venues on offer.

Which Bristol music venue do you recommend?