Away from the city centre in run-of-the-mill Southville, the Tobacco Factory Theatre is unlikely to be found out straight away by a visitor to the city. The building, in red brick, is understated, and this isn't a fancy place like the Hippodrome or the Old Vic. It's theatre in the round, with seating on all sides of the stage. Apparently the theatre started life the result of ripping out the Imperial Tobacco offices that were here and they've managed to keep a clean, sparse feel that actors and directors love. I won't venture too many opinions on what sort of performances this makes for. I will say, though, that when I went to see Richard III, things felt very intense. They put on a range of performances here, a highlight being the dedicated Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory theatre company. Don't let the culture on offer scare you off. With tickets often less than a tenner, there doesn't have to a big to-do about going out here though. It's got a fairly relaxed and informal feel to it too. The Tobacco Factory is a smart addition to Bristol's arts scene. read more

Tobacco Factory - Taken from their website - Music Venues Near Me - Bristol, BST

Named after the original use of the building, (I have actually met people drinking in here that used to work for the cigarette company), The Tobacco Factory has got that kind of industrial kudos thing going on. The steel front doors are as easy to access as the vault doors at Fort Knox, but everything gets a whole lot easier once you've grappled your way in. The lay out is simple in this cavernous space, and the bar, with its dedicated food severing area, practically stretches the full length of the room. Amply staffed to cope with the numbers that often descend on the place, the team work well together, and so there's never too long to wait at the bar. I like to call in to make use of the free wi-fi and to plug in whenever I'm in South Bristol. I always order myself some tapas, usually manchego (which comes with a selection of delicious bread) along with some olives - the servings are incredibly generous, and so this is more than enough for one person. Up Fest will take place at the Tobacco Factory on 5 and 6 June, and promises to be a blast. with live music, dj's and 250 artists exhibiting their work. Tobacco Factory has a huge beer garden with a covered section for smokers if the weather turns nasty. read more

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There is nothing better than a multifunctional venue that caters for all things cultural and Southville's Tobacco Factory is just that. Although primarily a bar downstairs and a theatre upstairs, they also sell food, have Sunday craft markets, farmer's markets, graffiti festivals and gigs too. Although I have come here for lunch or a quick drink before, it is quite away to come from the north of the river so I prefer to come for particular events such as the Sunday markets and the annual UpFest, the Urban Paint Festival that celebrates graffiti by inviting artists into the Factory to paint over a weekend. Although not the brainchild of the Tobacco Factory it is a great space to hold the event as there is a large car park and outside seating area perfect for some decks and watching the action happen. The theatre upstairs is also fantastic, although small there are annual Shakespeare productions that take place here and there are plenty of concessions for students and young people. Comedians often come here too and the small stage downstairs is perfect for spontaneous gigs in the evenings. read more

Such is the influence of this hulking bar/restaurant/theatre/comedy venue/etc complex that it pretty much picked up Bedminster by the scruff of the neck and propelled it into the 21st century when it first emerged. Where to start? The theatre is a tad pricy but puts on a wide range of often nationally acclaimed productions; the comedy nights features regular appearances from well-known TV comics who have risen above the grind of the circuit (the likes of Ed Byrne, Marcus Brigstocke and Rich Hall); and the massive bar downstairs is a bustling, vibrant affair with reasonably priced tapas dishes on offer. There's also a quaint little market out the back on Sundays and a Theos asian restaurant next door. What more do you want?! read more

A complex that was (reputedly) responsible for the house-price peak in Southville & Bemmie a few years ago. This is the brainchild of red-trousered architect George Ferguson (who lives in a huge studio above), good use of space was made when an old cigarette-filling business was magicked into an 'art space' extraordinaire. Theatre, gallery, bar, dance studio and Sunday market. Artsy, but far more unpretentious than, for example, Arnolfini. Scoff sumptuous tapas platters and scrummy beers, while you sit on an ancient school chair and people watch. There's much good Shakespeare to be perused on yonder stage, mixed in with frantic comedy and modern jazz. Damn! It's a helluva trip south 'o' the river! read more

Tobacco Factory - Music Venues Near Me - Bristol, BST

In its previous life the Tobacco Factory purveyed the wicked weed, nowadays its business is far more salubrious. Okay, its satanic-mills frontage may look like it's arrived Tardis-like from the Industrial Revolution, but this belies its interior mojo, which is firm-footed in the 21st century offering a compendium-choice of restaurant, theatre, bar, workshops, Sunday market and adjacent micro-brewery. Weekends it comes into its own and you'll find awfully nice Bristol City fans having a pre-match pint, bag-leaden shoppers, and of course those ubiquitous, well-groomed Apple Mackers hard at the digital workface - stop it now, we know you're just Facebooking. Food is essentially Med-fusion - my spiced lamb matzalan arrived with a big-gulps glass of Tempranillo and came in at around 15 sovs - but you could easily take a cheaper option from the 'lighter' menu. The Tobacco Factory is a great open-plan people-watching place. When it's busy I like to loll around in its 'beanbag corner' coddling a herbal infusion, while staring up at the high ceiling and tune in to the Tower-of-Babel melee of punters having a good time. My only complaint is the teabag-still-in-the-mug syndrome. Can we please have a national campaign for the abolition of finicky teabags littering our tabletops? read more

Theatre, bar, tapas, Sunday market, comedy, arts and crafts. What else do you need? Situated at the far end of the vibrant and ever up and coming North Street in Southville. The Tobacco factory is a shining beacon of light for people on the south side of the city. As the name suggests, it was formerly owned by "Imperial Tobacco" and was renovated as an urban multi purpose arts venue by George Ferguson and has been an enormous success ever since. The bar and seating area is nice and spacious with a decent selection of reasonably priced draft and bottle bears, as well as ciders and the usual soft drinks. The tapa's menu isn't extensive, but the food is delicious and the perfect place to grab a light lunch should you be in that area on a Saturday or during the week. I particularly like the Panini's and recommend the chorizo and mozzarella every time. The market is very popular with plenty of stalls and something for everyone. The theatre isn't particularly large, but that gives you something of an intimate engaging atmosphere. read more

Tobacco Factory - taken from website - Music Venues Near Me - Bristol, BST

Whether it's shopping at the Sunday market, catching a play, dining on tapas, investigating an exhibition, wifi and a coffee or a drink or two of an evening...The Tobacco Factory is an innovative space which does more than most, better than most. Offering some of the most innovative theatre and comedy to be found in Bristol, whether its the well reputed Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory season or an experimental Fringe theatre sketch, the Tobacco Factory all but guarantees quality. For pre-theatre food and drink (or any excuse, really) the tastefully modern bar serves up some of the best tapas platters I've tasted in the city, with an excellent drinks selection and a range of seating (beanbags anyone?). Once a - yes - tobacco factory, the space was spared demolition thanks to eccentric, famously red-trousered architect George Ferguson. Now a hothouse of creativity, the aim is to provide a space in which to foster the independent businesses for which this part of Southville is acclaimed. read more

i spent the whole of my first year being told to go and see things at the Tobacco Factory, and i have spent most of my second year going to them. I am glad that i have made it to this clash between culture and capitalism! The enormous building houses everything i enjoy, food, theatre, booze and music, and it does all of them so well. The theatre is so good that i will now go to see almost anything put on there. That might not be because everything they put on is good, it is probably, just that i love going to the factory. Whether it is Shakespeare or Mark Watson, get yourself down the the factory. read more

This review is limited to the cafe, which is very overpriced for what it is. Either the quality and creativity needs to come up or the prices need to come down. The space is fine and the beers and ciders are good. read more

Awesome venue, sat on the stage eating lunch. Nice new age food, great local beers, dedo recommend it

The Tobacco Factory is a great place for meeting friends in Southville. I haven't yet been to anything in the evening, but it is easy to see that the space that they have in the bar area would be well used for performances, etc. The prices of drinks seem to be quite average for this type of outlet. There is also free wi-fi available read more

This is a tricky review to write, as there are many different elements that make up this venue. The Theatre - which I would give 5 stars. The Bar - 2 stars The Sunday Market - 4 stars So, let's talk about them in that order then: The Theatre - a great space upstairs, with some award winning independent shows - Comedy, Theatre, Ballet, Pantomines, Fashion Shows - Ticket prices are generally reasonable too. If you love Shakespeare, this is your venue for a performance, and the chairs are much more comfy now that they've been replaced. The Bar - a large space, it's friendly, but lacks atmosphere. Pretty echoey, and not at all cosy. Still it is a bar, and they do have an outdoor area, which is much nicer. The Sunday Market 10am - 2.30pm - local produce, vintage stalls, craft stalls and a lovely place for a stroll on a Sunday morning - pick up a cake, purchase a battered leather jacket, or vintage dress, a spot of meat, and some veg. Most things are reasonably priced for the quality you get, although meat is tad pricer than other places. So there you go, a mixed bag - but do pop the Theatre and The Market on you to do list - you won't be disappointed. read more

Everyone who lives in Bedmo has to go here at some point. More of an institution than a night out! So why the 3 stars? The good: they have a good selection of drinks, again, it is a pillar of the local community with tons of events going on and generally a good atmosphere with great outdoor seating. The notso good: would love to see a better menu in this place. The nibbles are fine, but haven't been terrifically impressed with the mains. It's a little pricey, not quite London prices, but very close. Well, pricey in contrast to the other local cafés, bars and restaraunts! To summarise; A little pricey, but still a great place to start or finish a tour of North Street. read more

Theatre, bar, tapas, Sunday market, comedy, arts and crafts. What else do you need? Situated at the far end of the vibrant and ever up and coming North Street in Southville. The Tobacco factory is a shining beacon of light for people on the south side of the city. As the name suggests, it was formerly owned by "Imperial Tobacco" and was renovated as an urban multi purpose arts venue by George Ferguson and has been an enormous success ever since. The bar and seating area is nice and spacious with a decent selection of reasonably priced draft and bottle bears, as well as ciders and the usual soft drinks. The tapa's menu isn't extensive, but the food is delicious and the perfect place to grab a light lunch should you be in that area on a Saturday or during the week. I particularly like the Panini's and recommend the chorizo and mozzarella every time. The market is very popular with plenty of stalls and something for everyone. The theatre isn't particularly large, but that gives you something of an intimate engaging atmosphere. read more

Having worked in the tobacco factory for some years I occasionally visit the bar and cafe downstairs to recharge and enjoy the unique (sometimes terrible) artwork they have hanging on the walls inside the bar. George Ferguson (the owner) has gone against the grain here, supplying locally brewed ales to the bar keeping in tune with the spirit of the independent art he showcases. This converted factory space has been put to good use in the regenerated Southville area of south Bristol. The food is good, if not a little expensive. The staff are friendly but the layout of the bar can sometimes be a little claustrophobic; especially if the bar is busy, as is often the case. A great place to meet up with friends and enjoy a pannini. read more

Deriving its name from the old Will's Tobacco Factory, of which this building was once part of, this independently owned Café Bar and Theatre has triggered a resurgence of vitality in this part of Southville. The large industrial themed bar is funky and dynamic with the Green Room offering a more intimate space for dining. Food is modern and Mediterranean catering to both vegetarians and vegans with a selection of tapas and main courses. They were also welcoming and accommodating when we had a large group in for a birthday meal recently. Upstairs the unconventional style theatre offers an up close and personal location for an assorted programme of events. Shakespeare productions feature regularly and there is always a Christmas show, this years being "Alice Through the Looking Glass". I've also seen read through productions here of scripts in development which were of an excellent standard. Many other groups involving the community, dance and children's theatre as well as visiting companies also use the theatre creating a rich and diverse programme throughout the year. read more

This cultural epicentre provides the heart to an up-and-coming area of Bristol. Combining a theatre, a restaurant and a popular bar under the same roof as an establishment that provides a multitude of classes such as dance, acting and singing was a stroke of genius! Southville has a variety of cultural backgrounds and the Tobacco factory is a fitting arena that combines and unites all walks of life. read more

Unique theatre space in the now restored old tobacco factory once belonging to the infamous Bristol Wills family. The theatre splits its annual programme between a varied season offering plays, muisc and comedy and then a highly praised Shakespeare season. Seating changes dependant on show and at times is all around the performance offering the audience an interactive experience. In house bar offers drinks and snacks and staff are cheerful and friendly. read more

Nice atmosphere and a good selection of beers, friendly staff and good service. Can be busy at times but that adds to the vibe

As the name suggests, this venue used to be a tobacco factory. Bristol was very big in the tobacco trade and you can still see remnants of this era evident across the city (the Tobacco Family being just one of them). As a venue this is great for both theatre and comedy. It is quite small and dark and you might want to be careful not to sit behind one of the pillars holding the building up, but it certainly has character. I recently saw Chris Addison there (from In The Loop and The Thick Of It). In coming months they've got the wonderful one-liner stand up comedian Stewart Francis and a rare funny female comedian Lucy Porter. Some people head to the Tobacco Factory, not to go see a play or a comedian, but simply to have a civilised drink and a catch up with friends. The cafe bar is fully licenced, but serves good tea and coffee as well. read more

I like the Tobacco Factory, its a fun modern venue. The building is really big and is always busy and the atmosphere is buzzing. Its popular amongst young people from the area for after-work drinks or as a part of a night out. read more

Some of the best food in Bedminster and plenty of tables, so you'll always find a seat. Try out the lamb and chorizo chickpea stew. You won't regret it at all! read more

Very good value drinks, we discovered The Snug area, hidden away with sofas and armchairs where you can chill out and still listen to the live music! Check out the Snug! read more

I have to say- I think the Tobacco Factory is excellent. It has such a wide ranging programme available- from Shakespere plays (performed in traditional and modern ways) to contemporay dramatic arts. My first trip was to see an excellent production of Othello and we were greated in a very friendly manner by all the staff and offered free drinks and nibbles. The theatre is quite small os you get a really intimate performance. There is also a great restuarant downstairs serving very tasty food. All of this in the very 'trendy' Southville neighbourhood and not far from the centre read more

Arguably the best bar on North Street, the Tobacco Factory offers dance studio's, a market, a gallery bar and holds various events. A great place to bring the kids, it has a large courtyard garden area and comfy beanbags. Try a local ale or come to look at the artwork exhibited on the walls. The Tobacco Factory offers it all. Video link: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=I4EiRkDNA_E read more

Excellent place to watch theatre (if thats your thing) of even better for comedy. I've seen some great comedy at the Tobacco Factory. My only gripe is they serve drinks in plastic cups, and that you have to go all the way outside (down stairs too) to go for a ciggy. read more

The Tobacco Factory, located in North Street, South Bristol is an excellent place for all ages to go and chill out. The food is generally excellent, and the Tapas menu is to be recommended. Although the drinks aren't particularly cheap they often have promotions on beers and lots of different beers/lagers. They have a stage area with bean bags which is generally busy and a large patio / beer garden with heaters so is fine to use during the colder weather too. Particularly popular with mums and children during the afternoons. They also have a theatre which regularly shows excellent, quality plays. The Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory is excellent! Highly recommended! read more

Been there twice now; twice disappointed. The issue is the service, or lack thereof. Both times the staff have been ambivalent at best. I get the impression they are certainly not trying to develop a career in hospitality. Fair to say that both times the place was quite busy but they don't cope with that very well. The queuing system isn't entirely obvious which again doesn't help. One place for food, another for drinks. And you can't be sure if someone will show up to serve you. And when they do, it certainly isn't with a smile. Others tell me the food is good. And it does seem to be popular. However I don't think I'll try third time unlucky. read more

Love the friendly relaxed atmosphere in the Tobacco Factory - it's the kind of place that every area should have. The food is good - the tapas dishes in particular are very good value as they come a generous portion of bread. The theatre upstairs is lovely and has some great stuff on. And the Sunday market is well worth a look for fresh local produce. read more

Great Bar and staff. I've seen some really interesting and good acts on the sunday music nights. Great open space - not closed in at all and one of the best places to get a good latte or mocha on north street. read more

Tobacco Factory - Music Venues Near Me - Bristol, BST

Excellent place to eat drink and catch up with friends, really good choice of food from snacks to main meals and a great selection of drinks. I chose a steak ciabatta with rocket and horseradish with a side of potato bravas and alioli dips. read more

Not a bad little place, avoid on a Monday night live music to loud.

My wife's food arrived after 45 minutes, mine didn't (refunded) and then we had to leave after 15 minutes later to go to the theatre. We had some starters, homous which was course and bland, olive oil based bread just got out of the fridge with olive oil drizzled over it. My wife's goat cheese patti she said was good, but the salad was wet, soggy but not through the salad dressing Will not be going back for the food theatre madhampton very good thoughshame really read more

The theatre, The Brewery, The Market, all 10/10...the Restaurant - 3/10. Food late for my wife, mine did not arrive at all, wife's salad wet, olive oil bread drizzled in more olive oil, homous course and bland..olives and ambience good, read more

Good bar for a few pints

I love this place! Used to be a regular til I left Bristol, but always make a trip back there when I return. Love the random beers, the spacious yard in the summer and the food is really good quality and tastes amazing and is not too expensive either. Highly recommended! read more

This is a great place for meeting up with a friend after work for drinks. It is a relaxed environment with a great range of food choices to suit all occasions and budgets. The meze platter is a must. read more

great bar and top performances. Cool staff, good food. Clientele's a healthy mix of uber-trendies and local scallies: Oi did you nick my beanbag? Theatre does great family & kids' shows as well as Shakespeare. And they serve Marshfield Farm ice cream - mmmmmm. Don't risk parking in the Lidl (or is it Aldi?) car park tho' - you'll get clamped read more

I love this place. There's so much to see: Comedy, plays, storytelling - and value for money is amazing. The bar downstairs is large with a great atmosphere and serves good healthy food with good drinks selection. Bar upstairs next to theatre doesn't seem to be able to serve chilled draught but that's my only complaint about this amazing place. read more