Latest News (Bristol) - Visit West

Final events announced ahead of farewell celebration on 4 May, closing eight years of cultural programming

An exhibition celebrating the legacy and heritage of Bristol’s music culture will feature at the historic Royal West of England Academy (RWA).

Presented by Screen International, the industry awards take place annually to celebrate outstanding and sustainable work in the international world of film/TV production, locations and studios.

Bristol Beacon will host the BBC Proms for a third residency this August, with six concerts taking place across the weekend. Five performances will be held at Bristol Beacon, with one at St George’s Bristol.

One of Bristol’s most anticipated cultural weekends is back. From Friday 1 to Sunday 3 May 2026, Spike Island opens its doors for Open Studios 2026: a free, city-wide highlight set to draw thousands across the May bank holiday.

Set and filmed in Bristol, Surviving Earth, the debut feature from writer/director Thea Gajic, will be released in UK cinemas on 24 April 2026.

Dot To Dot Festival has just finalised its 2026 edition with a new wave of artists. 

UPFEST has unveiled its lineup of artists for its highly anticipated 2026 festival, offering an early glimpse of the global and local talent set to transform Bristol into a live canvas this May.

Early Bird passes are now on sale for the 10^th birthday edition of Cinema Rediscovered - the UK’s leading celebration of newly-restored films, forgotten gems and classic revivals. 

Hidden spaces across Bristol and Bath will open to residents and visitors this spring as part of City Uncovered, a new programme of behind-the-scenes experiences across the two cities. 

Taking place from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 July, this year’s Bristol Harbour Festival expands its footprint along the harbourside, with the family programme making a return to Queen Square. 

Cosy Club has launched its new spring–summer menu, featuring new dishes, an expanded Margarita Menu and a dedicated Martini section.