Located on the old main drag of its namesake, Stokes Croft, changes are afoot in one of Bristol’s better-known live music bars.

The Venue
Undergoing a bit of an identity crisis if the recently added, ill-conceived mural of a mermaid on the outside and their insistence that they are now a record shop is anything to go by.

There's plenty of room inside but no garden, so on a busy night a glut of people gathers outside, completely blocking the pavement. This, coupled with the garish exterior, makes The Croft a pretty conspicuous place.

There’s a large central bar and pretty plain interior. Due to their renaissance as a record store, some of The Croft’s original character has been lost in the process. At the back is the band room, a small dark, windowless affair with terrible acoustics, a small stage and little to no seating.

The People
With perhaps the nicest bouncers in Bristol on the door - at once good at their job, but not intimidating - and friendly bar staff inside, there is little bad to say about the atmosphere.

The clientele tends to be a little wet round the ears, but they're an enthusiastic, young, fun crowd.

The Music
The Croft hosts gigs from a diverse selection of Bristol bands as well as those from further afield. They sometimes squeeze three or four into one night, and there is a real diversity of style and talent showcased here.

It can cost about a fiver to see three bands, but it all depends on who is playing and sometimes gigs are free, while on other nights it's £12 a ticket.

The Drink
No complaints with the drinks - they're reasonably priced and there's plenty of choice. Choose from a decent selection of draughts - Bath Ales £1.90, Fosters £2.80, Red Stripe £2.90, San Miguel £3.20, plus Stowford Press cider for £2.60 a pint and Kingstone Press for £1.90.

The house spirits represent a bargain, they use brand names and they cost only £1.90 including a mixer or £2.90 for a double.

The top shelf spirits are £1.90 a shot or £2.30 with a mixer, and a cocktail menu is currently under construction. The Croft don't do food but they are looking to introduce a menu soon.

The Last Word
In spite of its many stabs at relaunching and refurbishing, The Croft always manages to somehow miss the mark in its exhaustive attempts to become a really cool bar. Still one to watch for music though.

venue information venue map view bristol review user reviews (1) what's on