About Lost Horizon HQ
Lost Horizon HQ is a creative, inclusive music and arts venue in the heart of Bristol. It was launched by the team behind Glastonbury’s Shangri-La arts area and opened as a permanent space in July 2022 (www.bristol247.com ) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Housed in a converted warehouse at 1–3 Elton Street in St Jude’s (BS2 9EH) (www.losthorizonlive.com ) (www.bristol247.com ), it steers away from traditional club culture. Lost Horizon describes itself as a “creative playground” that showcases world-class digital and visual art alongside live music and performances (www.bristol247.com ) (www.bristol247.com ). The venue is intimate – only about 350 people can fit inside (www.bristol247.com ) – but it promises full festival vibes. It features a sunlit beer-garden courtyard and a full cocktail-and-craft-beer bar, extending Shangri-La’s spirit year-round. Inclusive and community-driven, Lost Horizon prides itself on being a safer space with top-quality production values for every show (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Its eclectic programming and immersive decor make it a standout addition to Bristol’s scene.
Events and Programming
Lost Horizon’s lineup is extremely diverse. The venue regularly bills everything from folk, acoustic and indie bands to West African jazz and high-energy UK bass music, jungle and punk (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Local promoters bring in acts across genres – for example Bristol’s Afrobeat collectives, jungle DJs and even punk rock bands – recent shows have included groups like Big Joanie, Dub Pistols and grime crews (www.bristol247.com ). Many club nights and gigs are very low-cost or free (for example, the “Found Horizon” rock series is free to attend (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk )), while headline or weekend events carry tickets. All week there might be afternoon vinyl fairs, family-friendly DJ sets (the venue often hosts “Junior Jungle” children’s dance parties) and community workshops (www.bristol247.com ). Comedy nights and discussion panels also appear regularly, maintaining a festival-like variety. The venue even notes a pattern of early-evening DJ sets followed by late live shows (secretbristol.com ). In short, Lost Horizon never sticks to one genre: its programme channels a genuine festival ethos all year long.
Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box office at the venue; all advance tickets are sold online via Headfirst Bristol (a local ticket agency) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Lost Horizon strongly advises booking early, because shows often sell out. For example, when Lost Horizon hosted Fatboy Slim, only about 300 tickets were released for a 350-cap event (www.bristol247.com ) (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ), and the promoters warned buyers that availability was “super-limited.” Many events (especially midweek or grassroots nights) are free or very cheap, but big concerts can cost £10–£30 or more. The venue recommends checking its official site or social media for on-sale dates and presales, since popular shows can sell out in minutes. Any remaining tickets may be sold at the door on show night, if not already gone. In summary, plan ahead and purchase through the trusted Headfirst outlet (www.losthorizonlive.com ) to ensure entry.
Seating and Layout
Lost Horizon is essentially a general-admission standing venue. The main space is flat and open, with the DJ or band on a stage at one end. There are no reserved seats – you stand near the stage, the bar or in the covered courtyard. Some shows might place stools or benches at the edges, but most nights are open-floor only. The bar and food counters are at the back of the room. Because the venue is small, your view of the stage is relatively good from anywhere. The sound system is professional; on its website Lost Horizon promises “top production and sound” at every event (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Sightlines are clear because the floor is single-level. If the crowd grows, guests can spill out into the courtyard. In short, Lost Horizon has a simple club layout—no balconies or boxes—so the best spot is usually as close to center stage as you feel comfortable with.
Getting There and Parking
Lost Horizon occupies 1–3 Elton Street in St Jude’s, about a mile (1.6 km) north of Bristol’s city centre (www.losthorizonlive.com ) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). The nearest train station is Bristol Temple Meads (roughly a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Public buses can also reach the area: services 8, 9, 24 and 39 run through the city centre toward the Old City, and buses 2, 3, 4, 48, 49 and 71 serve stops in Broadmead/The Haymarket (www.losthorizonlive.com ). From those eastside stops, it’s a short walk south on Baldwin Street. For drivers, note that Lost Horizon has no private parking. However, Colston Tower and Trenchard Street multi-storey car parks are about a 5-minute walk away (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Trenchard is large and often the cheapest (around £2–£3 for a few hours) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Street parking is possible nearby but has meters and permit zones (check signage carefully) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Taxis can drop you off directly on Elton Street in front of the venue (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Cyclists can use nearby bike racks or bring bikes inside to a secure area (at your own risk).
Inside the Venue
Entry is via the front door on Elton Street, where tickets are checked (phone or printouts are fine) and bags are briefly searched. Inside, the atmosphere is like a cool warehouse club. The venue has a full bar serving local craft beers, ales and cocktails – their menu highlights Arbor Ales and mezcal cocktails (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Rotating street-food vendors in the outdoor courtyard complement the bar; past offerings have included slow-cooked BBQ, poke-bowls and wood-fired pizza (www.bristol247.com ). Restrooms include wheelchair-accessible toilets and a baby-changing station on the main level (www.losthorizonlive.com ). There is no formal coat-check, so guests generally keep small items with them. Many shows use haze and strobe lighting (www.losthorizonlive.com ), so noise/photophobic visitors may want earplugs or to step outside occasionally. Cell phone signal is good inside (no public Wi-Fi is provided, so plan ahead for tickets/contacts). Venue staff and security are friendly and helpful. As a rule, the crowd is respectful of others; casual photography is common, but professional cameras usually require permission. Overall, it’s a relaxed but energized clubbing environment.
Nearby Amenities
Bristol’s city centre is very close, so there are many restaurants and hotels within walking distance. Immediately next door is Wogan Coffee Roasters (a specialty cafe) (www.bristol247.com ), and a few pubs line Baldwin Street around the venue. A short stroll south leads into the Old Market and Broadmead districts, where dozens of cafes, bars, take-aways (Thai, Indian, pizza, etc.) and shops await. Broadmead Shopping Centre (with a food court) is about 800m away. Landmark venues such as Colston Hall and the Hippodrome are within a 15-minute walk. A variety of hotels and guesthouses are nearby – for example, budget chains and boutique inns cluster around Temple Meads and Redcliffe, usually a 5–10 minute taxi from Lost Horizon. For early arrivers, attractions like Hamilton Court (a food hall/arts space) or the Bristol Museum are not far. After-dark, the nearest major taxi rank is at Temple Meads, or you can grab a late bus from Broadmead back toward the venue.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Lost Horizon apart. It is essentially the year-round hometown base of the Shangri-La festival crew, fulfilling their long-held vision of a permanent cultural hub (www.bristol247.com ). Uniquely, Lost Horizon began life as a virtual reality festival when Glastonbury was cancelled – the online Lost Horizon Festival in 2020 drew 4.3 million visitors (www.bristol247.com ) – before becoming real concrete and steel. The club doubles as an art gallery, featuring rotating street-art installations and immersive digital exhibits. Musicians appreciate the intimacy: for example, a Fatboy Slim performance here was described as a chance to see a global legend in a 350-cap city club (www.bristol247.com ). The organisers emphasise that indie venues are “the lifeblood of new music” in Bristol (www.bristol247.com ), and Lost Horizon definitely champions underground and experimental sounds that larger venues often ignore. In practice it’s become known for surprise line-ups (punk bands on bill with jungle DJs, for instance) and a genuinely welcoming crowd. It brings a bit of Glastonbury’s spirit to the city streets, combining art, politics and fun in a way no other local venue does. In short, to artists and fans alike it feels like Bristol’s most creative community space.
Visitor Tips and Information
Lost Horizon is very welcoming, but here are some practical tips. Check the event’s age limit – many evening shows are 18+ (photo ID is required for entry and alcohol purchase). Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the listed start to queue and get settled. Bring only essentials – large backpacks may be searched or refused, and there is no coat check. Dress comfortably; clubwear or festival attire is common. Earplugs can help if you’re sensitive to loud music or strobes. The venue encourages a respectful atmosphere, so please queue politely for the bar and toilets. Card payments are widely accepted at bars and stalls, but small cash can be handy for some food vendors. Support workers enter free with prior notice (www.losthorizonlive.com ), and registered assistance dogs are welcome (notify the venue in advance) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Smoking is only allowed in outdoor areas. One final tip: there’s no dedicated Lost Horizon coatcheck, so layer your clothing instead of carrying heavy outerwear. Overall, relax and enjoy the art, music and energy – just as you would at a friendly festival, and you’ll have a great night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for events at Lost Horizon HQ?
All event tickets are sold online. Lost Horizon directs patrons to buy in advance via Headfirst Bristol, its official ticket partner (www.losthorizonlive.com ). There is no ticket booth at the venue, and tickets often sell out, so booking early is recommended. For special events, Lost Horizon may post presale details on its website and social media. Subscribers to the venue’s mailing list can also get advance notice of new ticket drops.
What is the typical price range for tickets or entry?
Ticket prices vary widely. Many weekday or community nights are very cheap or even free (www.headfirstbristol.co.uk ). Standard club nights and concerts at Lost Horizon typically charge around £5–£15. More popular or headline shows may cost £20–£30. Actual prices are set per event and will be listed on the ticket site. Lost Horizon aims to keep shows affordable, with free and low-cost options as often as possible.
Does Lost Horizon have a box office or door sales?
There is no on-site box office. Tickets are meant to be purchased online ahead of time (www.losthorizonlive.com ). If a show is not sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door when doors open. However, for popular events it’s safest to buy in advance online, as remaining door tickets can sell out quickly.
What is the capacity of Lost Horizon HQ?
The venue’s capacity is around 350 people (www.bristol247.com ). This includes the flat dance floor and bar area inside. (The outdoor Courtyard holds about 225, but indoor events are capped at roughly 300–350.) The space is general-admission, so this means around 300–350 tickets per event maximum.
What is the exact address of Lost Horizon HQ?
Lost Horizon is located at 1–3 Elton Street, St Jude’s, Bristol BS2 9EH (www.losthorizonlive.com ). This is just off Baldwin Street in St Jude’s. You can use the postcode or venue name in your GPS or maps app. It’s easy to find – look for the old warehouse building next to Wogan Coffee Roasters (www.bristol247.com ).
How can I get to Lost Horizon by public transport?
Several buses serve the nearby city centre. Services 8, 9, 24 and 39 stop near the Old City exit, and routes 2, 3, 4, 48, 49, 71 stop at Broadmead/The Haymarket (www.losthorizonlive.com ). From those points it’s a short walk south on Baldwin Street. Temple Meads train station is about a mile away (20 min walk), and many seek a quick taxi from there. Out-of-town buses can drop at the city centre or at Cribbs Causeway with quick transfers; overall, all major Bristol bus routes can connect you within 20 min of Lost Horizon.
Is there parking available near the venue?
Lost Horizon doesn’t have its own car park, but two public car parks are within a 5-minute walk: Colston Tower and Trenchard Street (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Trenchard Street is cheaper (often £2–£3 for a few hours) (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Some free and metered street parking exists on nearby roads, but check restrictions. Motorcycles can park on the street or in the alleyway. There is no official parking but drop-off by taxi is easy right outside on Elton Street (www.losthorizonlive.com ). When we rely heavily on public transit in this area, nearby paid parking is quite limited after 8pm.
Is Lost Horizon HQ wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Lost Horizon is fully wheelchair-accessible. The entire venue (main room, bar and toilets) is on one level with ramped entry (www.losthorizonlive.com ). There are accessible toilet facilities available. Staff can also arrange an extra entry pass for a support worker if needed. The entrance on Elton Street has a dropped kerb, and the layout is ramp-free inside.
Can I bring a support or assistance dog?
Yes, registered assistance dogs are allowed inside with prior notice (www.losthorizonlive.com ). The venue asks that you contact them ahead of your visit to let them know. Support workers/carers enter free when booked in advance (www.losthorizonlive.com ). Guide dogs or hearing dogs (with official ID) are normally welcomed by law. Service dog handlers should still keep their dog with them inside the venue.
Are children or families allowed at Lost Horizon events?
It depends on the event. Many evening concerts and club nights are 18+. However, Lost Horizon also hosts family-friendly daytime events (like markets and children’s DJ workshops) where younger people are welcome (www.bristol247.com ). If an event is open to families or labeled all-ages, arm children with ear protection and consider bringing snacks (there are food stalls on site). Always check the specific event listing: if it’s 18+ only, children will not be admitted.
What is Lost Horizon’s dress code?
There is no official dress code. People typically wear casual or club attire – whatever you’d wear to a music festival or club night. Comfortable shoes and layered clothes for dancing are a good idea, especially since the courtyard can be cooler outside. Avoid very formal or offensive outfits; aside from that, just come as you are. If you’re visiting the bar or courtyard during the day, smart-casual is fine. At night, the vibe is relaxed and creative.
Can I take photos or videos at Lost Horizon?
Casual photography with phones or small cameras is generally allowed and common. Many fans snap artists and artwork. Flash photography may be restricted, and using big professional cameras might require permission from staff or artists. Video recording of performances is usually discouraged (it can annoy others), so use discretion and follow any specific instructions the venue or performers give. In short, don’t expect a photo ban like at a museum – just be respectful to the performers and fellow guests.
What food and drink is available at Lost Horizon?
Lost Horizon has a fully licensed bar serving local craft beers, ciders, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks all night. The cocktail menu is creative (they often highlight regional gins, rums and mezcals). Outside, rotating street-food vendors offer tasty eats during events. In past weeks you’d find BBQ, fish-and-chips, poke bowls, pizza and vegan tacos (www.bristol247.com ). Vegetarian and vegan options are usually available. Food service typically runs for several hours of the show. There are tables in the courtyard if you want to sit and eat. (You can enjoy food before or after the main performance.)
Is there an outdoor Courtyard area?
Yes. Lost Horizon includes an outdoor Courtyard (sometimes called “The Creative Den”). It’s a covered patio/bar area at the back of the main hall. The Courtyard can hold about 225 people (www.bristol247.com ) and operates on Wednesday–Friday evenings and all day Saturday–Sunday (www.bristol247.com ). It features picnic tables, street-food stalls and DJ sets, often with a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe. You can access the Courtyard during events for drinks and food. Even outside concert times it often hosts workshops or markets.
Which bars or restaurants are near Lost Horizon?
The venue is in a lively part of town. Next door is Wogan Coffee (for breakfast and lunchtime coffee) (www.bristol247.com ). Nearby on Baldwin Street are places like Riddle & Finns (seafood) and The Rummer Tavern (gastropub). In Old Market you’ll find eateries including Gossip on Broad Street (diner/American grill) and several Indian and Chinese restaurants. A popular food hall, The Canteen, is five minutes’ walk. Many more cafes and bars on Park Street and Broadmead (15 min walk) offer diners. The closest supermarkets and takeaways are 10–15 minutes away on city center shopping streets. For hotels, the Temple Way and Redcliffe areas (5–10 min away by cab) have many chains and inns.
