A last-minute plan? Gert lush.

Bristol does it its own way

Bristol has always done things its own way: sound systems and record shops, street art on every other wall, old boats in the harbour that double as bars and venues, and hills steep enough to count as exercise. A night out can be a quiet cider by the water or a club night that runs into the small hours.

Bristolians are big on saying yes on the night and less keen on planning three weeks ahead, which suits YesTonite down to the ground. Switch on "out tonight", see who's around, say hello once and work out where to go together.

Friday and Saturday are the big nights, students keep midweek lively in term time, and club nights tend to start late and finish later.

Where Bristol goes out

• HarboursideBars and restaurants along the old docks, at their best on a summer evening.
• Stokes CroftStreet art, independent bars and late music nights just north of the centre.
• Gloucester RoadA long run of independent pubs, cafés and bars, busy every weekend.
• Clifton VillageElegant pubs and wine bars a short stroll from the suspension bridge.
• North StreetBedminster's main street south of the river, with relaxed bars and good food.
• Old MarketBars and clubs east of the centre, at the heart of Bristol's LGBTQ+ scene.