Home to stylish hotels, famous street art, lively bars and one of Britain’s largest Pride festivals, Bristol is a dream destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers. The city’s vibrant scene focuses on two main areas, the Old Market – one of the oldest parts of the city – and the buzzing West End gay village. Explore our guide to this welcoming south-western city for the lowdown of the best neighbourhoods, hotels and events.
Bristol Pride is one of Britain’s largest Pride festivals — and it’s also one of the liveliest (with the awards to prove it). Each year brings a fantastic host of activities designed to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, including a line-up of musical artists, family activities, food concessions, bars and more.
In addition to its lively nightlife and LGBTQIA+ friendly pubs like the Phoenix, Bristol is home to a significant piece of queer history, as physician Laurence Michael Dillon, born Laura Maud Dillon, made the city his home in 1939. Thought to be one of the world’s first trans men to receive testosterone hormone therapy and the very first to receive a phalloplasty, Dillon also wrote a pioneering document regarding the medical treatment of trans patients, bravely paving the way for the community.
A stone’s throw from the Old Market district and directly opposite Bristol’s main shopping hub, the four-star Future Inn offers sleek decor, room service and a moreish breakfast. With 149 rooms it’s a relaxing spot to unwind in the centre of the city, complete with fluffy robe and slippers!
A short stroll from the Old Market district, SACO West India House is an Edwardian building that has been converted into private, serviced studios and apartments, offering guests a cosy homestay experience. Live like a local as you emerge from your historic building straight onto the cobbled streets of the Old City, before exploring Bristol’s romantic harbourside.
The train from London to Bristol takes one hour and forty-five minutes. The city is also accessible via Bristol Airport, which is served by flights from a wide variety of international and domestic destinations.
