Events and Programming
Clock Factory is primarily a late-night electronic music venue, with a programme led by drum and bass, jungle, UK garage, bassline, dubstep, grime, techno, house, breaks, hardstyle and related UK underground sounds. Most club nights run from 10pm until 3am, although doors, last entry and finishing times vary by promoter and event. Club nights are generally strictly over 18s.
The venue’s recent archive shows a high frequency of events rather than a small number of occasional concerts. Recurring formats include free or low-cost drum and bass raves, summer series events, 360-degree DJ sets, open-deck nights, sound-system showcases, label takeovers, after-parties, freshers events and seasonal Halloween and New Year’s Eve programmes. The venue also books specialist nights around UKG, house, techno, footwork, jungle, 140, grime and experimental bass.
Notable bookings and event partners from 2022 to 2026 include Kahn & Neek, Joker, Emperor, Particle, Original Sin, Sub Zero, Taxman, My Nu Leng, Congo Natty, Culture Shock, Ivy Lab, Sherelle, Goldie, Metalheadz, Flux Pavilion, Jody Wisternoff, DJ Q, Bryan Gee, DJ Hype, LSB & DRS, Nicky Blackmarket, Sam Binga, Yung Singh, Conducta, AC13, REAPER, Mandidextrous and Fabio & Grooverider. The breadth of those bookings shows that Clock Factory is not limited to one drum and bass style: it moves between liquid, jump-up, jungle, dubstep, bass, house, garage and more experimental club music.
The 2026 programme continues that pattern. Announced autumn and winter events include Teletech, Nu:Motive, Yung Singh, Cunning MC, UK garage and bass nights, K-pop events, TS7, Latino Fest, Capo Lee, Metalheadz, AC13, DJ ADHD, Addison Groove, Jack Marlow, Flux Pavilion, Culprate, Fabio & Grooverider and a Clock Factory New Year’s Eve event. There are also event concepts built around live football screenings followed by raves, free summer events and sound-system culture. No verified 2027 programme was identified in the published listings reviewed.
Programming is not exclusively club-based. Clock Factory promotes live music practice and performance, spoken-word and comedy hire, aerial and circus classes, dance, Pilates, martial-arts classes, tabletop gaming and DJ education. Its 2026 DJ academy programme is designed to help beginners and developing artists learn club-standard skills and gain performance opportunities.
Tickets and Booking
Ticket prices vary significantly by promoter, artist and release. The published examples reviewed range from free entry before a stated time, to guaranteed-entry tickets around £5, early releases around £3 to £7.50, and multi-tiered releases reaching approximately £10 to £12.50. Larger headline or specialist events may cost more, so the individual listing should always be treated as the final authority.
Clock Factory frequently uses early-arrival incentives. Typical offers include free entry before 11pm with a valid e-ticket, a low fixed price for guaranteed entry all night, or cheaper first-release tickets followed by higher tiers. Popular events can sell out, particularly free raves, established label nights and events with artists returning to the venue. Booking early is therefore the safest approach if the line-up matters to you.
Keep the ticket open on your phone before joining the queue. The venue scans e-tickets at entry and warns that cracked or damaged phone screens may not scan properly; printing the ticket is the safer alternative if your screen is unreliable. If one person buys tickets for a group, the group is expected to enter together and everyone must present valid identification.
Tickets are normally sold through the official outlet identified on the relevant Clock Factory or promoter listing. The venue states that it cannot guarantee tickets bought through unauthorised resale sources and that booking or delivery fees are non-refundable. Cancelled events are normally refunded through the original point of purchase, while tickets for events you simply decide not to attend are generally final sale.
About Clock Factory
Clock Factory is a two-floor nightclub, live music venue and flexible event space at 63 Union Street, with the public-facing entrance and venue information also referring to Silver Street, in Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2AG. The venue occupies the first and second floors and is designed for standing club events, live music, private hire, rehearsals and smaller cultural activities.
Publicly available evidence places the venue’s launch in 2022. Contemporary event listings described it as a new Bristol city-centre space, with a Clock Factory opening rave in October 2022 featuring drum and bass and systems by VOID Acoustics and Danley Sound Labs. In 2023, the venue promoted its TIME:CODE season as a major reworking of the space around two immersive environments: the Lightroom Floor and the 360° Floor.
During 2023 and 2024, Clock Factory established itself as a regular stop for Bristol promoters, touring electronic artists and local collectives. Its archive records label showcases, album launches, after-parties, free raves, live audiovisual shows, comedy, cultural events and large seasonal programmes. By 2025 and 2026, the venue was presenting repeated summer free-rave series and sound-system events alongside established touring brands.
The name suggests an industrial or warehouse identity, and independent venue descriptions characterise the building as converted industrial space. However, publicly available sources do not establish the building’s original construction date, architect, former industrial use, heritage designation or a complete ownership history. It is more accurate to describe Clock Factory as a relatively new events venue in an older, adapted building than to claim a documented historic clock-making connection.
Seating and Layout
Most Clock Factory club nights are standing events rather than seated concerts. The most distinctive arrangement is the 360° Floor, where the DJ booth is positioned centrally so the crowd surrounds the performer. This gives a close, all-round view and changes the experience from watching a stage from the front to being inside the performance area.
The Lightroom Floor is the more conventional performance environment, with the DJ or stage facing the audience and a large immersive screen installation behind or above the performance area. Some events use both floors with different genres or separate line-ups, while others concentrate on one room. The exact room allocation depends on the promoter, expected crowd and production requirements.
No official whole-venue concert capacity, room-by-room capacity, floor plans or detailed dimensions are published in the sources reviewed. A third-party venue-hire listing gives indicative configurations of up to 350 standing and up to 150 seated, but those figures appear to relate to a hire configuration rather than a confirmed maximum for every club event. Do not use them as a guaranteed ticket capacity.
There is no standard tiered theatre seating or permanent VIP seating described in the venue’s public information. For a dance event, the best position depends on your preference: the centre of the 360° room offers the most enveloping view of the DJ, while the rear or sides of either room can provide more space and a less intense sound pressure level. Arrive early if you want to understand which floor is being used before the busiest period.
Architecture, Design and Production
The venue’s public-facing design is based on flexible industrial interiors rather than fixed theatre architecture. Clock Factory describes sound-proof insulated walls, adaptable staging, full-bar facilities, dual-floor ventilation and a high-coverage lighting system. The space can therefore be reconfigured for club nights, rehearsals, comedy, small theatre, dance classes, private functions and presentations.
The Lightroom Floor is promoted as a full-sensory lighting environment built around 28 high-powered screens flowing from the ceiling towards the stage. Event descriptions consistently associate that room with VOID Acoustics and describe the screen system as a central part of the venue’s visual identity. Some events also use lasers, smoke or other effects, and the venue warns that strobe lighting and smoke effects may be present.
The 360° Floor uses a central DJ booth and a three-point Danley Sound System. The venue’s event copy positions this room as the more intimate, crowd-surrounding environment, while the Lightroom Floor offers the stronger audiovisual backdrop. Ear protection is sensible in either room: Clock Factory warns that shows can involve continuous high sound levels and says earplugs are available from the bar.
Technical information such as speaker model numbers beyond the named systems, console inventories, stage dimensions, rigging loads, lighting fixture lists and room-by-room acoustic measurements has not been publicly verified. Promoters and private-hire clients should request a current technical specification before planning a production around equipment that may vary by event.
Getting There and Parking
Clock Factory is in central Broadmead at 63 Union Street, with venue directions also using Silver Street and the postcode BS1 2AG. The city-centre location is convenient for public transport and walking, but the venue does not advertise dedicated customer parking. The venue identifies metered street parking nearby and names the Nelson Street multi-storey car park as the closest public car park. Prices and restrictions can change, so allow time to read the signs rather than relying on an old tariff.
The nearest city-centre bus and coach station is described by Clock Factory as approximately a three-minute walk away. From the bus station, walk towards Broadmead and Union Street, then follow local venue signage for the Silver Street entrance. Bristol Temple Meads railway station is listed as approximately 0.9 miles away, or around a 20-minute walk. A taxi from the station is a practical alternative when carrying luggage or arriving late.
Ride-hailing and taxis are widely available in central Bristol, but the best drop-off point can depend on road closures, crowd-control arrangements and the event. Ask to be dropped near Union Street or Silver Street without blocking the queue. Because the venue asks guests not to congregate outside after the event, arrange a meeting point away from the entrance before leaving.
Inside the Venue
Expect a security search, ticket scanning and an identification check at many events. Clock Factory operates a “no search, no entry” policy, and refusing a search can result in refusal. All club nights are over 18s unless the individual event states otherwise. Original, in-date photographic driving licences and passports are accepted for over-18 events; photographs of identification and CitizenCards are not accepted.
The venue operates a cashless bar and does not have an internal cash machine. A cloakroom is available for larger bags, backpacks, motorcycle helmets and similar items. The venue’s published information gives a cloakroom charge of £2 per item in its terms and £2.50 per item in its general FAQ, so check the charge displayed on the night. Keep the matching cloakroom ticket until collection.
Food service, merchandise and public Wi-Fi are not consistently described in the venue’s published information, so they should not be assumed for every event. Bars are available, and some events include special drinks offers or early-entry incentives. Certain events may restrict drinks from leaving the premises. A smoking area is provided for events, but smoking and vaping are not permitted inside.
There is no readmission after leaving, so take medication, tickets, keys and other essentials with you before entering. The venue also prohibits crowd surfing, throwing drinks and disruptive behaviour. Large professional cameras, video cameras, tape recorders and filming with tablets are restricted, while small compact cameras may be allowed unless the event says otherwise.
Accessibility and Inclusive Facilities
Accessibility requires advance planning. Clock Factory states that, because of the age and layout of the building, access to both floors is via steep stairs and is very limited for customers with mobility impairments. The published information does not confirm a step-free entrance, lift access or a guaranteed accessible toilet, so visitors who need step-free access should not assume that either floor will be reachable.
The venue says disabled customers can ask about available access or seating and may request a free carer ticket where availability is confirmed. Because room layouts and event capacities can change, accessibility arrangements should be checked before purchasing rather than on arrival. The venue also publishes a zero-tolerance policy covering harassment, discrimination, racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, religious bigotry and ageism, with staff instructed to respond to concerns during events.
Nearby Amenities
Clock Factory’s Broadmead setting places it close to Bristol’s main shopping and city-centre hospitality area. The surrounding shopping quarter includes cafés, fast food, restaurants and casual dining, while Cabot Circus and the Old City are practical options for a meal before a late event. Hotel accommodation is available across Broadmead and around Temple Meads, making the venue suitable for visitors staying overnight.
For a 10pm start, arriving around 9.30pm gives time to locate the entrance, use the cloakroom and deal with queues. If you want to take advantage of free-before-11pm entry, arrive earlier because the offer may require an advance e-ticket and may end at a stated time. After a 3am finish, pre-booking a taxi or agreeing a meeting point is more reliable than trying to make an unfamiliar connection at the last minute.
What Makes This Venue Special
Clock Factory’s main distinction is the combination of a central Bristol location, low-cost underground programming and unusually immersive room formats. The venue can put a large touring artist, local promoter, free community rave or emerging DJ on the same programme, while the two-floor design allows promoters to present contrasting styles in one night.
Its strongest cultural contribution is practical rather than monumental. The venue provides room for local collectives, independent sound systems, emerging artists, open-deck performers, DJ students and promoters who might not have access to a large touring venue. Events such as Stack Culture explicitly frame the space as a place for Bristol and South West sound-system crews to meet audiences, while free summer series events reduce the price barrier to participating in nightlife.
That role matters in a city with a long-running electronic and sound-system culture and continuing pressure on grassroots venues. Clock Factory’s programme supports employment for bar, security, technical and event staff and brings audiences into Broadmead at night, although no independent economic-impact assessment specific to the venue was identified. Its local value is therefore best understood through its programming, promoter partnerships, training activity and repeated use by Bristol collectives rather than through a published financial impact figure.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring the original photographic ID required by the event, a charged phone with the ticket already open, and earplugs if you are sensitive to loud sound. Wear secure footwear with good grip; the venue specifically recommends solid footing, especially in wet or icy weather. There is no general dress code unless an event states one.
Do not bring large bags unless you are prepared to use the cloakroom, and do not bring professional recording equipment without checking the event rules. Do not drink alcohol in the queue, arrive visibly intoxicated or assume that leaving the venue will allow re-entry. If you have prescribed medication or medical sharps, keep medication in its labelled original packaging and allow time to discuss any special requirements with the duty manager or medical team.
Reviews are mixed but broadly recognise the central location, immersive lighting, strong sound systems, affordable event pricing and lively atmosphere. Aggregated visitor feedback also mentions variable sound quality between events, crowded or hot conditions, toilet concerns and occasional dissatisfaction with security. These comments are anecdotal and may reflect a particular promoter, room configuration or night rather than a permanent venue condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Clock Factory Bristol?
Clock Factory is in central Bristol at 63 Union Street, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2AG. Venue directions also refer to Silver Street because the entrance is within the same city-centre area. It is close to the Bristol bus and coach station, shopping areas and the main Broadmead nightlife district, making it easier to reach without a car than many out-of-centre venues.
What type of events does Clock Factory host?
The programme is dominated by drum and bass, jungle, UK garage, bassline, grime, dubstep, house, techno, breaks and related electronic music. It also hosts live audiovisual shows, football screenings followed by raves, comedy, spoken word, DJ education, sound-system showcases, private functions and occasional dance or circus activity. The exact mix changes substantially from month to month.
Is Clock Factory mainly a standing venue?
Yes. Most club nights are standing events with dancing rather than fixed theatre seating. Some special events may provide limited seating, and private-hire configurations can be arranged differently. A published third-party hire listing gives an indicative seated capacity of up to 150, but this should not be treated as a guarantee for a ticketed club event or as evidence of permanent seating.
How many people can Clock Factory hold?
The venue does not publish a confirmed whole-building maximum capacity or a room-by-room capacity in the sources reviewed. A third-party hire listing advertises configurations of up to 350 standing and 150 seated, but capacities vary according to which rooms are open, the event layout and licensing conditions. For a sold-out event, rely on the ticket listing rather than an online venue-hire figure.
Does Clock Factory have two rooms?
Its public event descriptions refer to two principal environments: the Lightroom Floor and the 360° Floor. The Lightroom has the large screen installation and a more conventional stage-facing arrangement. The 360° Floor places the DJ booth in the centre, allowing the audience to surround the performer. Some nights use both rooms, while others use only one.
What is the best place to stand for the sound?
There is no universal best position because the sound changes with the room, crowd and promoter’s system setup. The 360° room is designed for close, immersive listening around the central booth. If the sound feels too intense, move towards the edge or rear of the room. Earplugs are recommended, particularly for long events using the Danley or VOID systems.
Are Clock Factory events suitable for under-18s?
Most club nights are strictly over 18s, and some events may be over 21s. Other events can have different age restrictions, so check the individual listing before booking. Where an event is advertised as over 14s, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over, with one adult allowed to accompany no more than two under-16s.
What identification does Clock Factory accept?
For over-18 events, the published policy accepts an original, valid photographic driving licence, including a provisional licence, or an original valid passport. Photographs or scans of identification are not accepted, and CitizenCards are specifically excluded. If you look under 25, you may also be asked for identification when buying alcohol under the venue’s Challenge 25 policy.
Can I leave and re-enter Clock Factory?
No. The venue states that there is no pass-out or readmission once you have entered. Leaving for any reason normally means you cannot return and no refund is provided. Take your ticket, identification, medication, keys and other essentials with you before going through security, and arrange smoking or meeting plans around the no-readmission rule.
Does Clock Factory have a cloakroom?
Yes. The venue provides a cloakroom for large bags, backpacks, bike or motorcycle helmets and similar items. Published information gives two different prices, £2 and £2.50 per item, so the charge may have changed or vary by event. Keep the matching collection ticket, because belongings may not be released without it and the venue limits its liability for stored items.
Is Clock Factory cashless?
Yes. The venue states that its bars are cashless and that there is no ATM inside. Contactless payment is therefore the practical way to buy drinks. The nearest cash machines are identified as being on Union Street, but carrying cash is not necessary for the venue bar. Some event-specific promotions may have their own conditions.
Is Clock Factory accessible for wheelchair users?
Accessibility is limited. Clock Factory states that both floors are reached by steep stairs because of the age and layout of the building. The published information does not confirm step-free access, lift access or guaranteed accessible toilet provision. Anyone requiring step-free entry or accessible viewing should check arrangements before buying a ticket, as availability may depend on the event and room in use.
Can I bring a carer to Clock Factory?
The venue says that disabled customers can ask about a free carer ticket after access or seating availability has been confirmed. This is not presented as an automatic ticket entitlement for every event, particularly where an external promoter controls the show. Arrange it before arrival, because the steep stairs and changing room layouts may affect what support can realistically be provided.
Does Clock Factory have a dress code?
There is no general dress code unless a particular event states one. The venue recommends shoes with firm footing and good grip, especially during wet or icy weather. Entry also requires a clear, uncovered face for initial CCTV checks, so hats, novelty glasses or parts of fancy dress may need to be removed at the door.
Can I take photos or record performances?
Small compact cameras may be allowed unless the event says otherwise. Professional cameras with large or detachable lenses, video cameras and tape recorders are not permitted. Filming with an iPad or tablet during performances is also prohibited, and persistent filming can lead to removal. Check the event instructions if photography is important to you.
Does Clock Factory use strobe lighting?
Some events use strobe lighting, smoke effects or other production effects. The venue says signage will be displayed where relevant and advises guests with concerns to speak with staff. The Lightroom’s large screen installation can make visual effects particularly prominent, so visitors sensitive to flashing lights should check the event details and prepare accordingly.
What time should I arrive for a Clock Factory event?
For a normal 10pm to 3am club night, arriving between 9.30pm and 10.30pm gives time for the queue, identification checks, searching, ticket scanning and cloakroom. Arrive earlier when an event offers free entry before 11pm, when you want to see support acts, or when the promoter warns of a sell-out. Last entry is event-specific and may be midnight or later.
Is parking available at Clock Factory?
The venue does not advertise dedicated parking. Its directions mention metered street parking around the building and identify the Nelson Street multi-storey car park as the closest public option. Tariffs, operating hours and restrictions can change, and city-centre event nights may be busy, so public transport or a pre-arranged taxi is often less stressful than relying on a space nearby.
What makes the 360° room different?
The 360° room places the DJ booth in the middle of the audience rather than against a conventional front wall. This produces a close, all-round view and makes the crowd part of the visual scene. It is especially suited to extended DJ sets, bass-heavy programming and events promoted around the idea of being physically inside the performance rather than watching it from a distance.
Can Clock Factory be hired for private events?
Yes. The venue advertises private and corporate hire, rehearsals, small theatre, comedy, dance classes, photo shoots, presentations and other flexible uses. Hire can cover a single occasion or a regular booking, with staging, lighting, sound, ventilation, a video wall and bar facilities available according to the agreed arrangement. Technical specifications and capacity should be confirmed for each proposed format.
