Bristol Beacon Heritage Open Day Tour

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Discover the fascinating social and architectural history of Bristol Beacon on this guided tour of the venue following our reopening in 2023.

We first opened our doors on 20 September 1867. For over 150 years our walls have reverberated with the magical sights and sounds of orchestras, activists, acrobats, wrestlers, filmmakers and entertainers of every description. Following a once-in-a-generation transformation, we reopened in 2023 to huge acclaim for the acoustic and architectural renovations. The project revealed all sorts of fascinating stories and artefacts that enrich our understanding of this much loved cultural space.

Join us for our first set of guided tours as we reveal the social and architectural heritage of the venue, and give you a sneak peek at life behind the scenes.

Presented by Bristol Beacon

Part of Heritage Open Days

Places are limited to 10 people per tour

If you can no longer attend, please return your ticket by contacting the box office

The tour is wheelchair accessible

Tour times

Start: 11.00
Finish: 12.00

All timings are approximate and subject to change.

Architectural photos by ©Tim Crocker

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Our History

Black and white illustration of people in smart clothing. Text

Our History

For over 150 years our walls have reverberated with magical sights and sounds of orchestras, activists and entertainers of every descriptions. Discover our history.

Find out more

Art at the Beacon

An abstract wall mural with shapes and lines in red, purple, blue and black

Art at the Beacon

Discover our collection, find out about the artists, and experience the artworks yourself on your next visit.

Find out more

The venue

Bristol Beacon

Getting to the venue

Location: Bristol Beacon is located in the city centre with entrances on Colston Street and Trenchard Street.

Address: Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR

Bicycle

Bicycle racks can be found in front of the main entrance on Trenchard Street, Colston Street, and on the city centre promenade. Find your nearest cycle routes using Cycle Planner.

Car parking

Trenchard Street multi-storey car park is 50m away directly behind Bristol Beacon.

Bristol Clean Air Zone

Bristol Beacon is inside the Bristol Clean Air Zone. Check if your vehicle will be charged and how much you’ll have to pay.

Bus

The city centre bus stop is 250m from Bristol Beacon where most bus services stop.

View detailed travel information

Access

Mobility

Bristol Beacon foyer has level access from street level with lifts to all levels and areas.

Assistance Dogs

Registered assistance dogs and emotional support animals are allowed in the venue.

Hearing Facility

There is an induction loop at the box office. You can use this by adjusting your hearing aid to the ‘T’ setting. There is no hearing loop facility for the foyer stage.

View detailed access information