Features / LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+ groups and spaces
House of Boussé
@house_of_bousse
Headed by a hallmark performer of the Bristol queer scene, Gender Criminal, this collective platforms trans, non-binary and other gender non-conforming performers. From their sell-out Valentine’s Day show to their monthly ‘What a Drag’ open mic nights, following them will ensure you are linked up to unforgettable drag performances and a community which feels like a warm hug.
View this post on Instagram
Independent journalism
is needed now More than everKeep our city's journalism independent. Become a supporter member today.
Community-led, they often run socials before their drag shows to provide an opportunity to other members of Bristol’s queer scene. Expect a dose of silliness from hosts Gender Criminal and Xanthe. They both do a great job of making sure everyone’s having fun while holding space for discussions about trans issues. With more of a focus on performance and community, this group will welcome you into a more relaxed environment to make friends and enjoy the talents of Bristol’s queer performers.
Old Castle Green
@oldcastlegreenbristol
Old Castle Green is an LGBTQ+-owned pub on Gloucester Lane. Owner Mike Coe and resident drag queens Spank and Cynthia Road ensure a plethora of fun queer events run at the pub. Think pub quizzes and nights with drag performances and DJs in the garden. However, the pub is also often just a warm, carefree environment to enjoy pre-drinks before heading out for the night.
View this post on Instagram
Throw a playlist of Kylie, Carly Rae Jepsen and Lady Gaga into the mix and you’ve got yourself a camp slice of gay Bristol with a healthy serving of family vibes. They’ve got a huge beer garden out the back, complete with fire pits to pull someone for a chat and tell them that they’re 100 per cent your type on paper. Old Castle Green also holds a lot of memories and is the regular stop-off point for the LGBTQ+ Bristol Bisons rugby team after games. It’s a home for all corners of Bristol’s queer scene. So, pull up a chair, order yourself a drink and soak up the fun at one of the city’s gayest drinking holes.
Bristol Ballroom Community
@bristolballroomcommunity
Ballroom culture gained prominence in 1980s New York as a way for queer people of colour, and specifically trans women, to perform and celebrate. Made famous by television shows like Pose and Madonna’s Vogue, Ballroom has a rich and respected history.
View this post on Instagram
Bristol’s Ballroom Community is a group which hosts regular workshops for participants to learn different Ballroom categories, including Runway, Vogue, Femme and Face. They also host regular social functions called FRUITEA, where performers compete in a relaxed and friendly environment. Expect high energy, jaw-dropping performances and stunts that will leave you screaming for more.
Queer Hiking Bristol
@queerhikingbristol
This group, created in 2023 by Hannah Atkinson, makes Bristol’s beautiful surrounding countryside more accessible to the city’s queer community. They run several monthly walks and residential trips and provide a much-needed sober space for LGBTQ+ people in Bristol.
View this post on Instagram
Their walks are as open to those who are new to Bristol as well as people who have lived here for years. Go outside and touch grass, you’ll thank yourself for it.
This article is taken from the Bristol24/7 Student Guide 2025
Main photo:@hey.mly
Read next:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
