Old Market Assembly, Bristol (Wardrobe Theatre)

When opened in 2015, by the same team which also runs the Canteen and No.1 Harbourside, this bar/café was conceived as a venue where food, drink, music, culture and events could connect people from all walks of life. It is also the first venue in Bristol to sign up for the ‘Zero Tolerance’ campaign, committing to provide a safe respectful space for anyone and everyone. The building, originally an old bank, keeps the high ceiling, pillars, cornices and a mezzanine floor, decorated in the Ionic style. An outdoor roof terrace is a well-used feature. One regular and up to four changing real ales are served, generally sourced from local breweries. The sustainable restaurant has an onsite organic sourdough bakery, and vegetarian, vegan and gluten free dishes are always available. Varied entertainment takes place in the bar at weekends, and events for families and children are also held. Through the bar is a quiet room, with a corridor leading to a small theatre where the Wardrobe Theatre company is based, providing an action-packed programme of live theatre almost every night of the year. Disabled access is via an alleyway to the side of the building (left of the entrance) which has a doorbell for entry.