About Clock Factory
The Clock Factory is a popular nightclub and live music venue in central Bristol, housed in a former industrial building on Union Gate (Broadmead) (sesh.sx ). It opened in 2022 as a successor to the city’s famed Lakota club, and quickly became a key part of Bristol’s music scene (sesh.sx ). The venue offers flexible capacity – about 150 seated or up to 350 standing (www.tagvenue.com ) – with an open-plan space. Notable features include its high ceilings and exposed brickwork (a reminder of its factory roots) (wanderlog.com ), state-of-the-art sound (a powerful VOID Acoustics system (ra.co )) and immersive 360° lighting (including a large video wall) (www.tagvenue.com ) (sesh.sx ). In short, Clock Factory stands out as a cutting-edge new club while continuing Bristol’s legacy of underground music and creative counterculture (sesh.sx ) (sesh.sx ).
Events and Programming
Since its launch, Clock Factory has hosted a wide range of club nights and electronic music events. The programming focuses on bass-heavy genres – drum & bass, jungle, UK garage and bassline are common – along with techno and house parties (sesh.sx ). Many well-known DJs and producers have played here: international names like Ben UFO, Sherelle, Objekt and Mall Grab share its decks with Bristol locals such as Addison Groove, Sam Binga and other scene legends (sesh.sx ). Recurring events include established bass music nights (for example the “Overview” series) and seasonal parties (Halloween raves, New Year’s Eve events, block party after-parties, etc.). Official listings often show weekly Friday/Saturday nights with lineups of DJs, MCs and live acts. Ticket prices are generally reasonable – most club nights fall in the low- to mid-£10–£20 range – and one recent techno event listed tickets “starting from £16” (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). (Some smaller or promotional nights have offered free or cut-price entry as special events.) All events are 18+ (the venue enforces a strict Challenge 25 ID policy) and tend to run late into the night. For example, many events run from about 10pm until 3–4am (with doors opening around 9:30–10pm and last entry around 1–2am) (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Clock Factory shows are sold through official channels and event promoters. There is no physical box office – most tickets are bought online via the venue’s website or trusted partners. It’s wise to get tickets in advance for popular acts, as events often sell out or advance tickets are strongly discounted (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). A typical strategy is to follow the venue’s own social pages or mailing list, or check listings on trusted event sites. Promotional pricing (e.g. early-bird discounts) frequently applies; for instance, one recent Drum&Bass night advertised “tickets starting from £16” for online buyers (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). If any tickets remain, a limited number may be available at the door on the night (often at a higher price). Because nights bring crowds, plan ahead – latecomers may find events already underway; note that after entering, Clock Factory does not allow re-entry if you leave (www.clockfactorybristol.com ).
Seating and Layout
The venue’s layout is straightforward: there are two main event spaces (sometimes referred to as the “360° Room” and the “Light Room”) spanning the first and second floors. Both rooms can be set up flexibly, but for music events the floor is typically open and general-admission. TagVenue hire listings describe each space as accommodating up to 150 seats or 350 standing (www.tagvenue.com ). In practice, most club nights are fully standing-room with no fixed seating. Importantly, the design ensures good sightlines and sound coverage: every position in the 360° Room “offers a clear, unobstructed perspective” of the stage or DJ area (www.tagvenue.com ). That means fans standing at the edges still get a decent view, and the VOID speakers and bar-speakers are arranged for even audio across the floor (ra.co ) (www.tagvenue.com ). (For those who want it, a few peripheries or rear areas can feel slightly calmer, but the main dance floor in front of the stage will have the best sound impact.) There is no formal VIP or seated area during club events – everyone mixes on the main floor. For a good experience, many visitors find it best to stand near the center of the dance area for full sound immersion, or along the sides to avoid the densest crowds. Note that reviews mention the sound can feel a bit thin when the room isn’t very full (wanderlog.com ), so events really sing at higher attendance.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Clock Factory is at 63 Union Gate (Silver Street) , Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2AG (sesh.sx ). This puts it just north of Bristol’s city center shopping districts, adjacent to Broadmead Mall and a few blocks from the Cabot Circus complex. Because of the name confusion (Union Gate / Silver St), you may see both names used on maps. The venue entrance is on Silver Street off Union Gate.
Public Transport: One of Clock Factory’s advantages is its central transport links. Bristol’s main Bus & Coach Station is only a 2–3 minute walk away – essentially next door south of Union Gate (wanderlog.com ). Virtually all city bus routes that pass through the center will have stops at or near Broadmead; for example, buses on Bond Street or Nelson Street. From the bus station you simply head up Union Gate/Silver Street to find the club. The big Moor Street bus stop is right by the entrance. If coming by train, Bristol Temple Meads is about 1–1.5 miles (roughly a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride). The free Zone bus (T1, T2, etc.) can connect Temple Meads to Castle Park, from which it’s a short walk north into Broadmead.
Driving and Parking: Driving is less common for clubbers, but if you do bring a car there are several nearby car parks. The closest are the multi-storey parking at Cabot Circus and the gallery, as well as the NCP on Nelson Street (www.laserfusion.info ). From those garages it's just a short walk (around 2–5 minutes) to the venue. Street parking in Broadmead is very limited or permit-only, so using the big car parks is safest. Allow extra travel time on weekends. If using a rideshare or taxi, you can be dropped off at Silver Street/Union Gate by the entrance. The postcode BS1 2AG will get you to Broadmead; the venue is on the first-floor level above street shops.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll pass through a door security check. Key policies include: strict 18+ admission (they may refuse entry to anyone without valid ID, under the licence rules (www.clockfactorybristol.com )), challenge-25 age checks for alcohol, and routine bag searches. In fact, any bag larger than a small purse (including backpacks, helmets, suitcases) must go into the paid cloakroom – the venue charges about £2.50 per item checked (www.clockfactorybristol.com ) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Light coats or small bags can be carried in. Expect a reasonable queue at peak times, so allow some time for search and beam scan. On entry you’ll also see an amnesty box for drugs (zero tolerance policy) and friendly staff on hand for questions.
Once inside, the feel is dark and clubby. The bar is located on the main floor (the venue boasts “a full bar setup” (www.tagvenue.com )) – you can buy soft drinks, beers, spirits and simple mixers. (Visitors note that drink prices are moderate by city centre standards (wanderlog.com ).) One highlight is the impressive lighting rig: high-power lasers, strobes and a big wrap-around video/LED screen create an immersive show. In fact, the main room’s 360° video wall and red laser installation are signature visual features (www.tagvenue.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). The P.A. is loud and clear – reviews often praise “the best sound system” (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ) – so it feels truly like a proper rave. Because of the volume, keep in mind obstetricians and the club provides earplugs at the bar if you need hearing protection (www.clockfactorybristol.com ).
Facilities inside are basic. There are toilets on the first floor; some patrons have mentioned they aren’t very glamorous (guests should “be prepared” that restrooms are cramped or worn, as is common in older clubs). Otherwise, there’s not much glam – no restaurant or smoke room. Just the dance floor, DJ stage, bar, and small chill-out spots at the edges. Coat and cloakroom service (as noted) is available just inside the entrance. If an event has official merchandise or guest DJs, there may occasionally be a merch table, but it’s not a permanent store. Mobile phone reception is generally OK for texting/calling, but do note that cell signals can sometimes drop in club basements – so it’s wise to arrange a meeting point or note the exit route in advance if you’ll be coordinating with friends or taxis later.
Nearby Amenities
Clock Factory sits in a busy part of Bristol, so pre- or post-event amenities are plentiful. The Broadmead/Cabot Circus shopping area has many casual eateries (coffee shops, pizza, burgers, etc.) and chain restaurants where you can grab a meal. Just a few blocks away (down Broadmead/Merchant Street or up Nelson Street) are pubs and bars for drinks before the show. For example, the nearby Galleries shopping centre has a food court and a Wetherspoons pub. If you want something fancier, Bristol’s Old City is only a 5–10 minute walk: Corn Street and King Street offer taverns and eateries (gastropubs, curry houses, Italian trattorias, etc.). For hotels, the immediate Broadmead area has few lodgings, but within walking distance you’ll find several: the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel and Premier Inn (circuses) are about 5 minutes’ walk, and more options on Prince Street and around Queen Square. The area is well-lit and safe, but as with any city outing, stick with friends when walking at night. Late-night transport is available (see below) so you can plan on staying out or leaving quickly after the club closes.
What Makes This Venue Special
Clock Factory has quickly gained a reputation for bringing something unique to Bristol’s nightlife. Foremost is the cutting-edge production: the full 360-degree lighting rig, laser show and video wall create a sensory experience that few other local venues match (sesh.sx ) (www.tagvenue.com ). The sound system also sets new standards for the city’s clubs, delivering powerful bass and clarity tailored for bass music and techno (ra.co ) (sesh.sx ). Architecturally, it’s special too – an old factory made into a modern club, complete with brick walls and high rafters – combining industrial charm with party tech (wanderlog.com ) (sesh.sx ). Culturally, Clock Factory matters because it continues Bristol’s storied music legacy. Bristol has long been a hotspot for drum & bass, dubstep and underground music, and Clock Factory is the latest hub for that history. By hosting international headliners and supporting local talent alike (sesh.sx ), it acts as a new countercultural gathering place in the city (sesh.sx ). In essence, both fans and artists love Clock Factory because it feels authentically Bristol – edgy, bass-driven and made for the dancefloor – while offering top-tier facilities that make every show feel special.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring ID and minimal belongings. All events here are 18+ (www.clockfactorybristol.com ), so bring an accepted photo ID (passport, driving licence) if you look under 25. Avoid large bags: any bag bigger than a small handbag must be checked into the cloakroom (small lockup) for £2.50 (www.clockfactorybristol.com ) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Leave bulky items at home or in a hotel. The venue staff are strict about capacity rules, so pausing outside and repacking a bag could delay your entry.
Plan your arrival. Doors typically open around 9–10pm, depending on the night (most parties run till 3–4am) (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). If you want the best spot near the front, aim to arrive shortly after opening to avoid the biggest queues. That said, in Bristol, queuing is normal – don’t be surprised if you wait a bit at peak times. The venue often advertises “last entry around 1–2am” – after that entry is rarely allowed, even if the party continues. Once inside, you cannot re-enter if you leave (no pass-outs) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ), so behave accordingly.
Safety and policies. Remember that taking photos or videos of performers or the crowd is discouraged at most shows (and large cameras are usually not allowed). The club enforces a zero-tolerance drugs policy (an amnesty box is near the entrance) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). There’s a cloakroom for bags/coats (£2.50 each) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). You can buy drinks at the bar (reasonable prices (wanderlog.com )) but no outside alcohol. The club may use strobe lights and smoke machines – if you are sensitive to flashing lights or smoke, take it easy near the back or ask staff if a show has heavy effects (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Earplugs are provided if needed. Finally, respect local residents when leaving: please keep noise down immediately outside (the venue has “neighbourly” policies at closing time). Wearing comfortable shoes is wise (you’ll be dancing on a concrete floor), and it never hurts to bring a light jacket or hoodie for waiting outside or going home in the cool air.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Clock Factory and how is it laid out?
Clock Factory can hold roughly 350 people standing (or up to about 150 seated, depending on setup) (www.tagvenue.com ). It consists of two linked rooms (sometimes called the “360° Room” and “Light Room”). For club events, it’s mostly an open dance floor (general admission) with a DJ stage at one side. TagVenue notes that in a seated setup, “every seat offers a clear, unobstructed perspective” (www.tagvenue.com ). In practice the best view for sound and lasers is standing near the center of the main dancefloor, though even edge positions have a decent view due to the 360° lighting design.
How can I buy tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets are sold online through the venue’s official site or partner event promoters. There’s no street-level box-office – so you should purchase ahead via the advertised links on Clock Factory’s events page. Prices vary by show but tend to be in the typical club range. For example, recent promo material showed tickets “starting from £16” for a night out (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). Generally, smaller local nights might be £10–£15 and big DJs or holiday events £15–£25. Early-bird discounts are common. If a show isn’t sold out, you may also get tickets at the door (though it’s safer to buy in advance). Visitors often note the prices are quite affordable for city-center clubbing (wanderlog.com ).
Do I need to buy tickets in advance, or can I get them at the door?
For popular events, advance purchase is recommended. Many shows at Clock Factory sell out or have limited door capacity. Promoters often offer cheaper prices for advance online buyers (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). You might be able to buy a ticket at the door if the event hasn’t sold out, but availability is not guaranteed. If buying at the door, it could cost a bit more than online. To ensure entry, it’s best to plan ahead and reserve a spot.
What is the exact address of Clock Factory?
Clock Factory is located at 63 Union Gate (Silver Street), Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2AG (sesh.sx ). The club spans the 1st and 2nd floors above street level. On entering the Broadmead shopping area from Union Street, look for signage or the entrance on Silver Street. Plugging “63 Union Gate” or “Clock Factory, Bristol” into Google Maps will guide you to the right spot.
How do I get to Clock Factory by public transport?
Clock Factory is very well connected by bus. In fact, Bristol’s main Bus & Coach Station is just a short walk away – only about 100 metres south on Union Street (wanderlog.com ). Almost any central Bristol bus route will stop at or near Broadmead (for example, buses on Bond St or Nelson St). From the bus station, simply walk up Union Gate/Silver Street to reach the venue. By train, Bristol Temple Meads is roughly 1–1.5 miles away; you can take a local bus or a quick taxi from there into the city centre. (Note: Bristol has no underground or metro.)
Where can I park if I drive?
There are several large car parks within easy walking distance. The closest are the Cabot Circus multi-storey or “The Galleries” shopping centre car park, as well as the NCP on Nelson Street (www.laserfusion.info ). These are only a block or two from Union Gate. Avoid street parking on Union Gate, which is congested or permit-only. Plan extra time for weekend traffic, and note Bristol’s clean-air zone charges may apply. If using rideshare/taxis, let them drop you on Union Gate by Silver Street (right at the venue entrance).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Official information on accessibility is limited. The Clock Factory is on the 1st and 2nd floors of an older building, so it’s possible it may not have full lift access. If you need disabled access or have mobility concerns, it’s safest to contact the venue in advance. The organizers are generally helpful about access issues, but keep in mind the historic structure may impose some limitations. (Since we have no specific source, checking ahead is recommended.)
Are there seated areas or is it all standing-room?
For most events, Clock Factory is a standing-room club. The main dance floor is open, and any seating (e.g. benches or fold-out seats) is limited and usually only along the edges. TagVenue notes that up to 150 seats can be arranged for private hires, but during concerts or raves it’s essentially general admission standing (www.tagvenue.com ). In other words, you won’t find reserved rows or a fixed seating plan – everyone stands and moves as space allows. If a specific show does offer seating, the room is designed so that every seat would still have a clear view (www.tagvenue.com ).
What is the best place to stand or sit for a good view and sound?
Because Clock Factory’s sound and lights are distributed, many spots can work well. For the fullest bass impact, standing near the center-front of the dancefloor (close to the speakers and DJ booth) is ideal. However, thanks to the 360° lighting and speaker setup, even the sides have good audio and views. If you prefer a less-crowded spot, you could stand towards the back or sides of the floor – the system covers those areas too. (Official descriptions note that “every seat offers a clear, unobstructed perspective,” implying little is hidden from view (www.tagvenue.com ).) In general, moving around a bit to find the mix and sightlines that suit you is easy in this open layout.
What items are prohibited or restricted inside?
Clock Factory maintains strict entry rules. Large bags, backpacks, helmets, suitcases, etc. are not allowed on the floor and must be checked in the cloakroom (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Don’t bring outside alcohol, and no drinks in glass bottles. Expect a security search at the door. Other rules include no crowd surfing or dangerous behavior (violators are ejected (www.clockfactorybristol.com )). Pro camera/video gear is generally refused (personal smartphone photos are usually tolerated, but check staff policy if in doubt). In short: travel light (just keys, wallet, small bag) and you’ll breeze through.
Is there a cloakroom or coat check?
Yes. The venue provides a staffed cloakroom by the entrance. You can check coats and large bags for a small fee (about £2.50 per item) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). This is mandatory for anything bigger than a hand purse, so use it if needed. Small items or wallets, etc. should be kept on you or in small pockets. Remember: you will need your claim ticket to retrieve items afterwards.
What are the age and ID requirements?
All Clock Factory events are strictly 18+ only . Expect a photo ID check at the door if you look under 25 (the club follows the UK “Challenge 25” policy) (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Acceptable IDs include a valid passport, UK driver’s licence or a PASS-card photo ID. If you cannot prove your age, you will be refused admission. Under-18s are not allowed in. In short: bring ID, and plan on the night being adults-only.
Can I buy food or drinks inside the venue?
The club has a fully-stocked bar, but it does not serve food or snacks. You can buy alcoholic and soft drinks (beers, cocktails, mixers, etc.) at the bar, and reviewers note the drink prices are fairly budget-friendly (wanderlog.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). Outside food and drink of any kind are not allowed on the dance floor. If you need a bite, eat beforehand: there are many places to grab dinner or late-night food in Broadmead and the city centre (see Nearby Amenities). After you enter, you won't be able to leave for food and come back, due to the no re-entry rule (www.clockfactorybristol.com ).
What time do events start and end?
Most events at Clock Factory start late – typically around 10:00pm (or slightly later) – and run until the early morning. For example, a sample schedule showed “10PM–3AM” for a club night (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). Doors often open 30–60 minutes before showtime. Last admission is usually no later than 1–2am, even if music continues beyond that. Always check your specific event listing (times are posted in advance). Be aware that after the listed end-time, the space usually closes, so plan on staying at least to the advertised closing or making alternate plans.
Is Clock Factory related to the old Lakota club?
Yes. Clock Factory is effectively the new home for the team behind Lakota. In 2022, Lakota (a longtime Stokes Croft club) closed and the owners launched Clock Factory in Broadmead. The official venue info even describes it as “situated on the site of the former Lakota Gardens” (sesh.sx ) (symbolically speaking). Many days, Clock Factory hosts similar kinds of drum-&bass and bass music nights that Lakota was known for. So patrons often say Clock Factory is Lakota’s spiritual successor – a fresh, larger venue but with the same spirit of Bristol underground music (sesh.sx ).
Does the club provide earplugs for loud music?
Yes – ear protection is actually recommended here. Clock Factory’s sound levels can be high (as noted in their rules, continuous loud music is normal) and they thoughtfully make earplugs available at the bar for free (www.clockfactorybristol.com ). Feel free to take a pair if you’re sensitive to volume. It’s better to use plugs than to miss a night’s hearing!
