Are we in Stokes Croft? Are we on Stokes Croft? What even is it and where does it begin? Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or have lived here all your life, you’ve no doubt heard of it. Most Bristol stereotypes are found on this tiny stretch of road – from vegan cafes to colourful street art, independent shops to all-night raves.
Many see Stokes Croft as an area and an officially designated Stokes Croft Conservation Area firms up its community spirit – although from the council’s point of view, one side of it sits in St Paul’s and the other in Kingsdown. But whatever! If you’re ever stuck for things to do in Bristol, Stokes Croft is always where it’s happening in the city.
1. Tap into Stokes Croft’s independent spirit
Trying to explain everything the People’s Republic of Stokes Croft (PRSC) does could take a while. In short, however, it’s a community organisation that aims to encourage political engagement in the local area of Stokes Croft “with a particular focus on public space.” Founded in 2007, it’s at the heart of the area’s fierce independence running a variety of unique events, often free, from the People’s Art Fair to the School of Activism.
a. Stokes Croft China
There’s a lot to mention when it comes to the PRSC, so we wanted to handpick and highlight just a few of the better-known and most interesting projects. Stokes Croft China is now infamous throughout the city for its often scandalous, always kitsch, bone china designs. These radical designs could be anything from scathing attacks on the Royal family to charming floral patterns. Profits go towards financing PRSC’s community work, while it also runs creative workshops for people to make their own china designs.
b. Stokes Croft Museum
Want to know more about the history of the area? Check out the Stokes Croft Museum. Taking up an entire room, it is both a record of the area’s past, as well as a lightning rod for activism to carve out Bristol’s independent future. To understand how this tiny stretch of the A38 became what it is today, a visit to the museum-slash-art gallery is a must.
c. The Loovre Gallery
Speaking of art galleries, how about a visit to Bristol’s smallest art gallery? The Loovre Gallery is hidden inside PRSC’s toilet – offering working facilities and original artworks of local artists. It’s about “challenging the concepts of private and public space, and questioning the pomposity and elitism of the traditional art world”… apparently. To learn more about Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft and all the things it’s up to head here.
PRSC The Space, 17-25 Jamaica St, Bristol BS2 8JW
2-4. Go raving like it’s still the 90s
During its heyday, Lakota was one of the most famous clubs in the country. It was at the heart of Bristol’s race scene and, although it’s not the 90s anymore, it’s still one of the city’s best nightclubs. The sprawling space is incredible for huge parties and supporting Bristol’s underground music scene – with a mix of emerging, local artists and global superstar DJs.
After something a little smaller, but just as interesting? Check out the late-night bar, Crofters Rights for its chalkboard craft beer menu, sourdough pizzas and cutting-edge club nights. Or head to The Love Inn – the new nightclub from the team behind Love Saves The Day and Forwards. There’s always a guaranteed party going on in Stokes Croft.
Lakota, 6 Upper York St, St Paul’s, Bristol BS2 8QN
The Crofters Rights, 117-119 Stokes Croft, Cotham, Bristol BS1 3RW
The Love Inn, 84 Stokes Croft, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3QY
5. Head to afters at Bristol’s infamous landmark
Bristol’s most infamous landmark is a ‘community garden’ on Google. It’s not. It’s a strange, dumpster fire (sometimes literally) slice of land that’s been a notorious party hotspot in the city for decades – only made possible because Turbo Island belongs to the private company that owns the advertising board behind it. Many hate it, others love it, but all Bristolians have ended up here at least once on a night out. Head down after dark at your own risk!
Turbo Island, Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QP
6. Check out the incredible street art
The area is home to one of the best-known and earliest Banksy’s in the world. You know it, a teddy bear throwing a Molotov cocktail at riot police. The Mild Mild West was the mysterious artists’ response to violent police crackdowns on raves and parties during the 90s, but it’s not the only graffiti worth your time. Stinkfish’s Yellow Face Lady and MM13’s Tsunami (on Hillgrove Street) are equally as iconic to the area. But wander around yourself to see all the great artworks.
7-8. Tuck into a big hangover-saving brunch
What is brunch without eggs? And no one knows eggs like The Crafty Egg. Whether after a full English, Turkish eggs or eggy bread, this rustic brunch spot has you covered. Don’t worry, it’s not just egg dishes either – there are some vegan options – while The Crafty Egg now also offers an evening menu. Tuck into a selection of small plates, alongside local beers and craft cocktails.
Vegans (but we’re sure meat-eaters will also love it) should check out Cafe Kino too. The vegan cafe has a range of options, from bean burgers to all-day breakfasts, salads and sandwiches. You’ll also find various events happening here, be it jumble sales or live music, life drawing or discussions.
The Crafty Egg, 113 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3RW
Cafe Kino, 108 Stokes Croft, Cotham, Bristol BS1 3RU
9. Grab a pint at this stargazing pub
We could’ve featured The Full Moon elsewhere on this list. Its galaxy-inspired graffiti is mind-blowing if you’re a street art lover, while ravers need to go dancing at the Attic Bar – keep an eye out for when the parties take over the whole area. But it’s as a perfect pub that we love it most, with a large courtyard for sinking pints in the sunshine. It’s also a hostel if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the area!
1 North St, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3PR
10. Pick up an artsy magazine
How you can squeeze so much creativity into one tiny street we’ll never know. Stokes Croft’s Here should be your go-to for all “illustrated paper goods” – be it art prints, greeting cards, books, indie comics or magazines. Treat yourself (or someone else) to a unique gift from this quirky shop.
108b Stokes Croft, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3RU
11-13. Grab a bite to eat
Looking for an interesting and tasty evening meal? You’ve come to the right place. You can travel the world in this tiny patch of Bristol. Be it Italian (The Spaghetti Incident), Korean (Bokman) or Ski Lankan (Nadu) you’re after – you’ll find some of Bristol’s best restaurants in Stokes Croft.
The Spaghetti Incident, 36 Stokes Croft, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3QD
Bokman, 3 Nine Tree Hill, Cotham, Bristol BS1 3SB
Nadu, 77-79 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3RD
14. See free live music in Stokes Croft
Part restaurant, part bar, part music venue, The Canteen has free live music six nights a week. Proud supporters of Bristol’s grassroots music, you’ll find headlining local acts and open mic night newbies performing every sort of genre here. The Canteen ensues Stokes Croft always has something for everyone going on. Check out what’s happening here.
The Canteen, Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3QY
15. Catch a movie
Tucked just behind Stokes Croft (but still falling within Stokes Croft Conservation Area) you’ll find one of the smallest cinemas in Bristol – but not its smallest. Since opening in 1998, Cube Microplex has offered a rich film programme of thought-provoking and brain-engaging movies at its 108-seat auditorium. The volunteer-run event space also holds talks, music performances and more every month. But, whether you’re in the mood for a cult classic, foreign cinema or an art-house film, there’s a movie for you. See what’s on here.
Cube Cinema, Dove St S, Avon, Bristol BS2 8JD