Bristol Bear Bar

Bear bar · Bristol Old Market

Pub-style bar for bears and their admirers where Old Market Street meets West Street. It is considered the UK’s first purpose-built bear bar.

• ★ 4.1 on Google (95)
• Theme nights

Address

2 West Street
BS2 0BH Bristol

Opening hours

Tue–Thu 7 pm–11.30 pm
Fri and Sat 7 pm–2 am
Sun 5 pm–11 pm
closed Mon

Crowd

Bears and admirers, everyone welcome

Facilities

Bar, live music, small dance floor, theme nights at the weekend

Location

Old Market, Bristol’s small gay village

What makes Bristol Bear Bar special

The BBB is a friendly pub, not a cruising bar. Owner Steve Keating has run it for many years. Guests praise the atmosphere, staff and music; there is criticism of limited seating and loud bass late at night. It’s busiest at the weekend.

Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Sources: GayOut (verified Aug 2026), VisitBristol LGBT nightlife, Bristol Pride venue list, Google reviews (4.1 stars, 95 reviews). Opening hours, prices and programme may change, please check before you go.