About Black Swan
The Black Swan is a legendary Easton nightclub and former pub at 438 Stapleton Road, Bristol BS5 6NR (joynight.com ). Housed in a Grade II listed 17th-century building (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk ), it looks like a simple old pub by day but transforms into an all-night party hub. Locals nicknamed it “The Dirty Duck” for its gritty rave atmosphere (www.bristol247.com ). With two floors of dance space and a spacious outdoor “garden” courtyard, it’s known for raw, bass-heavy dance music and a festival-like vibe (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) (www.bristol247.com ). The venue seats about 700 in total (sesh.sx ), making it a mid-sized club by Bristol standards. Signature features include roaring sound systems, dark industrial decor, and in winter even a big bonfire in the yard (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) (joynight.com ). Over decades The Black Swan has been a cornerstone of Bristol’s underground scene, especially for reggae, jungle, dubstep and techno. This heritage and its age-old building give the club a unique character in the local music landscape.
Events and Programming
The Black Swan hosts events almost every weekend (and sometimes midweek) featuring drum’n’bass, jungle, dub, dubstep, grime, jungle and techno. Promoters like Bristol Dub Club, Mongrel Sound, Monster Bass and others regularly run parties here (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). The lineup typically features heavyweight DJs and MCs (both international and Bristol talent) playing bass-driven music. For example, past line-ups have included Channel One Sound System, Iration Steppas, Dubkasm, Pinch, Joker and Gardna. Large sound systems are a fixture – one review even calls the club’s bulk speakers and production “legendary” for delivering intense 8-hour Sankey-style sets (www.bristol247.com ). Events can start around 10pm (doors open late) and often go on until 4–6am. Smaller daytime “jungle matinées” have also been held. In spring 2020 Bristol24/7 reported that the club threw a “Closing Trilogy” of special nights (with top DJs on the bill) before a year-long refurbishment (www.bristol247.com ). Overall, live sound systems and high-energy dancefloors are the norm – this isn’t a casual pub gig but a gritty all-night rave venue.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Black Swan events are usually available through advance sale at local outlets and the event promoters, as well as on the door if not sold out. For example, one event page notes £7–8 advance tickets sold via Bristol’s indie outlets (Idle Hands record shop or Bristol Ticket Shop) and online, with door entry around £8–10 (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). Prices can vary by event (special guests or multi-room events may cost more). It’s common to buy tickets through social media links or event listings rather than a dedicated box office. If you plan to go to a big night, it’s wise to grab tickets early since popular shows may sell fast. Walk-up tickets are often sold at the door until capacity is reached – and lifelines like student/NUS discount (€8 before a cut-off time) have been offered in the past (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). There’s no formal theatre-style seating plan (see “Seating and Layout” below), so ticket tiers are simply front/early versus later entry. Advance sales usually open a few weeks or months in advance through the promoter’s channels; check local event listings or the venue’s social media for announcements. Note that The Black Swan does not allow ticket re-sales via third parties, and events are generally age-restricted (see FAQs).
Seating and Layout
The Black Swan is essentially a standing-room club with no fixed seating, reflecting its rave heritage. It has two main levels (ground floor and a raised upper room) each with a dancefloor and DJ booth (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). Most people stand or move freely between areas – there are a few benches/bar stools around the edges, but it’s not a seated theatre. The biggest crowds form in the main room where the sound system is loudest. The upper floor and outdoor yard give slightly different acoustic vibes (the yard often plays the second room’s sound, see below). For the best experience, many regulars head to where the music is strongest (near the bass bins in either room). Note that views of DJs can be obstructed if you stay by the bar, so if you want unencumbered sightlines you may want to stand on the dancefloor. There is no premium “VIP section” – everyone shares the floor (so early arrival is the only way to guarantee a front spot). Acoustically, the club is tuned for bass-heavy music, so expect lots of low-frequency rumble and raw sound. It’s a very boomy, nightclub feel rather than a polished concert hall, which is part of the appeal for sound-system aficionados (www.bristol247.com ) (www.bristol247.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Black Swan is at 438 Stapleton Road in Easton (postcode BS5 6NR) (joynight.com ). It sits at the junction with Felix Road, just off the M32 motorway (visible from the road). By bus, several routes stop nearby – Bristol Bus routes 24, 41, 46, 48 and 50 all serve Stapleton Road/Easton (moovitapp.com ), linking the venue to the city centre and Bristol Temple Meads station. For example, from Temple Meads you can catch the 48 or 50 straight to Stapleton Road. By train the nearest station is Stapleton Road (on the Great Western/CrossCountry lines) only a short walk away – it connects with Temple Meads in ~3–5 minutes by train. If driving, limited street parking is available on Stapleton Road and side streets, but note Easton is in a Residents’ Parking Zone Monday–Friday 9am–5pm (www.bristol.gov.uk ). This means paid/resident-only parking applies weekdays during business hours, but parking is generally free on evenings and weekends. Fill those spaces early on event nights. There are also public car parks a mile or two away (e.g. the multi-storey at Cabot Circus, or council-run lots near Lawrence Hill). Taxis and rideshares can drop off right on Stapleton Road outside the venue entrance. If you arrive early, the closest city-center route is to take the Stapleton Road exit from the M32 and follow signs to Stapleton Road; the club has a painted sign on the wall. For walking or cycling, Stapleton Road is connected to the city’s cycle network and is about a 20-minute walk from Temple Meads. In summary, transit access is good via local bus and rail, and street parking is usually manageable after 6pm.
Inside the Venue
Entering the Black Swan on party night, you’ll find a gritty industrial setting. Expect a small foyer or queue, friendly doormen and security who may check ID and bags. The bar is open to both floors; drink prices are pub-standard (usually a range of ales, lagers, ciders and spirits). There is no restaurant or kitchen open during club events (the Westbury-on-Trym pub branch does food, but the Easton club primarily just serves drinks). The crowd tends to be casual – club or streetwear only, nothing fancy; coats can be left at the bar or carried (there’s no formal cloakroom, but staff usually hold sparse jackets on request). The decor is minimal: black-painted walls, exposed ceilings and rave banners/art. Lighting varies by night – often strobe lights or laser beams, and on multimedia nights wall projectors show visuals (www.bristol247.com ). You will hear booming bass from the main system (in one room) and a secondary PA in the other room. In winter months artwork and, famously, a large bonfire is often set up in the outdoor yard (joynight.com ), giving a warm gathering spot between dances. Facilities are basic: there are toilets on each floor (men’s and women’s, albeit sometimes in need of a bit of maintenance as one would expect in a busy club). Mobile reception can be patchy inside due to thick walls — Wi-Fi is generally not provided, so texting/calling may drop out (one patron quipped that calls only clear when standing near the doors, not near the speakers). On big event nights the venue often hosts a small merchandise table in the lobby or outdoor area where sound-system crews sell tees and CDs. The vibe is energetic and celebratory – expect friendly crowds, but also very loud music and a smoking/cigarette smell by the exits (smoking is allowed on the covered patio but not inside). Overall, this place feels more like an underground warehouse party than a commercial club.
Nearby Amenities
The Easton neighborhood around Black Swan offers plenty for a pre-show meal or late-night hangout. Within a 5–10 minute walk you’ll find Easton’s famous Church Road area – home to many ethnic eateries and independent cafes. For example, Eastern Taste (an Indian/Balti restaurant 0.1 miles away) is praised for its spicy lamb dishes (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Other well-known spots within a block or two include Mesogoi (Middle Eastern grill), The Greedy Italian (pizza), and Eastern delights like burrito bars. Coffee shops and kebab takeaways also dot the streets for quick bites. Several pubs and bars are nearby too: The Stapleton Tavern and Hop Poles (just across Church Road) are local pubs open early, while the Western (a retro rock bar) is a short walk down Felix Road. For accommodations, most overnight guests stay closer to the city centre (Premier Inn at Temple, Mercure Cabot Circus, etc.), about 2–3 miles away. The Ellerslie or even the ibis Styles on Station Road are nearer Easton (both under a mile). Taxis can usually be flagged on Stapleton Road itself to go to the centre or airport. As a tip, arrive at least 30–60 minutes before the listed start time: Easton’s eateries are very busy on event nights (reserve if you can), and traffic can clog up around the M32 exit just after doors open. After the show, the last buses usually run around midnight/1am on weekends, so plan your ride accordingly—many revelers opt for a quick Uber/bolt from Stapleton Road after closing time.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Black Swan’s charm lies in its raw authenticity and history. It is housed in a **Grade II listed** 17th-century pub building (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk ), a rare survivor in Bristol’s modern club scene. That historic architecture (tile roof, original gables and a vaulted cellar as noted in the official listing (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk )) contrasts starkly with the pounding sound system inside. Its nickname “Dirty Duck” and reputation for a “messy rave den” reflect a storied past – long before EDM there were reggae and dancehall sessions here, evolving into jungle and dubstep nights in the 90s and 2000s. Culturally, it’s cemented as a shrine of UK bass music; Bristol24/7 and fans alike call it a “perma-festival” spot (www.bristol247.com ). Regulars love it because DJs often comment on the venue’s great bass response and wild crowd, and promoters love it as one of the few places where you can keep an experimental, community-led vibe going through the early hours. Unique features like the winter bonfire (joynight.com ) and fully analogue sound setups (huge speaker stacks) give it a festival-outdoor feel even when you’re indoors. Finally, its location – snug under the M32 and in a working-class neighborhood – makes it feel like an insider discovery, not a polished corporate club. All these factors – historic building, unfiltered nightlife vibe, robust underground music legacy – combine to make The Black Swan beloved by artists and audiences as a truly special Bristol institution.
Visitor Tips and Information
Access and queues: This is a popular spot, so arrive early on big nights to avoid a queue. The venue enforces age limits (most events are 18+) so bring valid ID (passport or driver’s licence). Security often does brief bag checks – large bags and professional cameras are discouraged (phones and small cameras are usually fine if unobtrusive). Dress casually and for dancing – stout shoes and layers are wise (the courtyard can be cold, even if there’s a fire). What to bring: Cash may be useful (some bars accept cards, but card readers can be slow under high traffic). Earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to bass. Don’t bring outside alcohol or drugs – those are strictly prohibited (the law and the club policy). Inside amenities: There is no food kitchen during club events, just a bar selling drinks (Wickwar ales are often on tap, plus standard spirits/cider). Toilets are available on each floor (expect club-style cleanliness). There is no official cloakroom service, but security will usually hold jackets if asked. Note: mobile service can drop in strong bass sections, and Wi-Fi is not provided, so set up meeting points if you arrive with friends. Accessibility: As an old pub building, The Black Swan has stairs to the upper level and no elevator. Wheelchair access is limited (ground floor entrance is level, but the main upstairs room is up a flight of stairs). Arrival time: Doors often open around 10–11pm, but if you aim to get in right at opening (or buy tickets last-minute) arrive early. Many patrons treat the courtyard as a smoking/chat area between sets. Other insider notes: Keep an eye (or ear) out for local names on the decks – part of the fun is spotting Bristol’s next star MC or DJ. The backyard bonfire setup is famous, so if you love fire-lit atmospheres plan to spend some time outside (especially on chilly evenings). Finally, remember this is a rave venue – don’t expect the frills of a mainstream nightclub. Instead, enjoy it for its raw authenticity, good music, and friendly local crowd. By keeping an open mind and going for the music, most visitors have a memorable experience at this iconic Bristol club. Safe match.comstyle-safe. (Note: policies and hours can change – if in doubt, check the event listing or social media before you set out.)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for a club night at The Black Swan?
Tickets are usually sold via the event promoters or local outlets. For example, advance tickets have been available at record shops like Idle Hands or Bristol Ticket Shop, or online through promoter pages (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). On many nights you can also buy at the door (space permitting) for a slightly higher price. If it’s a headliner show, we recommend buying in advance as the club caps at ~700 capacity (sesh.sx ). Keep an eye on the promoters’ social media/event listings for exact links or locations to buy.
How much are Black Swan tickets?
What is the venue’s capacity?
The Black Swan holds roughly 700 people in total (sesh.sx ). This mid-size capacity (spread over two indoor floors and the courtyard) means shows can sell out, so for busy nights arriving early or buying tickets beforehand is wise.
Where is The Black Swan located, and how can I get there?
It’s at 438 Stapleton Road, Eastville, Bristol BS5 6NR (joynight.com ) (near the M32). By bus, routes 24, 41, 46, 48 and 50 stop nearby (moovitapp.com ), connecting to Temple Meads station and the city center. The nearest train stop is Stapleton Road station (on the Great Western/CrossCountry lines) just up the road; it’s a short walk. If driving, note that Easton has a residents’ parking zone M–F 9am–5pm (www.bristol.gov.uk ) (paid or permit only during those hours). After 5pm there is usually free on-street parking around the area; otherwise consider Cabot Circus or other nearby car parks. Taxis/ride-shares can drop off at the door on Stapleton Road.
Is there parking at or near the venue?
There’s no dedicated lot for the club itself. On-street parking is available on Stapleton Road and nearby streets. Just remember Bristol’s Easton residents’ parking restrictions: M–F 9am–5pm is permit/paid only (www.bristol.gov.uk ), but evenings and weekends are generally unrestricted (stay aware of signs and yellow lines). When those fill up, you can try the nearby council car parks or pre-booked spots. Rideshare drop-offs in front of the club are also convenient and common.
Is there seating at The Black Swan?
No, the club is mostly standing-room. The emphasis is on dancing, so you’ll find open dancefloors on both levels rather than fixed seats. There are a few barstools or bench spaces around the edges of the rooms, but these can fill up fast. Plan on standing or moving with the crowd – that’s part of the rave vibe here. (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) (www.bristol247.com )
What are the age restrictions and ID requirements?
Most Black Swan events are 18+ or 19+ nights (sometimes advertised as “over 18 only”). Under-18s are rarely allowed unless it’s a specifically youth-oriented daytime event. Always bring a photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) – it will be checked at the door before you enter the main area. On occasion, earlier “junior rave” events have occurred, but check each event’s listing. If in doubt, contact the promoter. Note: The venue is not a pub open to the public after 9pm – it functions as a licensed club, so the operator enforces the age rule strictly. (www.bristol247.com )
Are cameras or recording devices allowed?
Small personal cameras and phones for photos/videos are usually tolerated, but professional camera gear (big lenses, tripods) is not permitted without prior arrangements. Keep in mind lighting is low and it’s very crowded, so photography can be difficult. No flash is recommended. The focus at Black Swan is on the music and atmosphere, so use discretion – you’ll want your ears more than a camera to capture the experience!
Is The Black Swan wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor entrance is level, but the venue is not fully wheelchair-accessible. There are stairs to the upper floor and limited space at doors. Accessibility is challenging due to the historic nature of the building. Intending visitors with mobility needs should contact the club in advance to arrange any assistance or to confirm if a particular event can accommodate them.
What food and drink options are inside?
During club nights, The Black Swan essentially operates as a bar. You’ll find locally-brewed ales (often Wickwar beers), lagers, ciders and standard spirits behind the bar, similar to pub offerings. There is no kitchen open for events, so expect drinks only (occasionally some snacks like crisps or canned drinks are available). Plan to eat beforehand or grab takeaway; the club or nearby shops do not serve meals during late hours.
What is the dress code at The Black Swan?
There is no strict dress code beyond being club-appropriate. People come in casual, dance-oriented outfits, streetwear or even costumes on theme nights. Most patrons wear comfortable shoes (bringing dance heels or trainers is common). Avoid formal attire – think more along the lines of festival clubwear. Note it can get hot on the dancefloor and cool in the courtyard, so layers or light clothing is advisable.
Is there a coat check at The Black Swan?
There isn’t a formal paid cloakroom service. If you have a coat, you can usually ask security to hold it for you, or keep it draped over a chair or barstool. However, space is tight when busy, so the best approach is to carry a small bag or jacket. Avoid bringing large coats or valuables that you can’t easily keep on your person.
What time should I arrive before a show?
Doors typically open around 10–11pm. For entry without a long wait and to secure a good spot on the dancefloor, arriving close to opening time is smart. Smaller events may not have long lines, but big nights (especially weekends) draw crowds early. Note that last entry is usually around midnight (depending on local licensing), though check the event details. Also, outside it can be chilly—some people use the courtyard bonfire (joynight.com ) to warm up while waiting or between sets.
Should I bring anything special to The Black Swan?
Bring ID and cash/cards for the bar. A small bag for your phone or wallet is handy, but avoid large bags due to security checks. Earplugs can be useful for very loud events. Wear comfortable clothes/shoes for dancing. Since part of the venue is outdoors, you might want a jacket for the courtyard. Apart from that, just bring your party mindset – The Black Swan fills most of what you need (cool music, lights, friendly crowd) on its own (www.bristol247.com ) (joynight.com ).
What is the “Dirty Duck” nickname?
“The Dirty Duck” is an affectionate local nickname for The Black Swan, mentioned in reviews of the club (www.bristol247.com ). It highlights the club’s raw, anything-goes atmosphere. Despite being an official pub name, many longtime patrons just call it “the duck” or “dirty duck” in conversation. The name reflects its identity as a gritty, unpretentious rave spot.
