About Motion
Motion is a landmark Bristol nightclub and events space housed in a converted Victorian warehouse on Avon Street (former gasworks) near the River Avon . It’s a multi-room venue (five indoor spaces) that evolved from a skate park in the 2000s to a full-time music venue by 2015 . Today it holds up to around 4,000 people , making it one of the city’s largest clubs. Its raw, industrial setting – bare brick walls, high ceilings and exposed beams – gives it an “austere warehouse” vibe tailor-made for underground dance music . The main room is famous for its Funktion-One sound system and massive video and lighting rig, bringing a world-class audio-visual experience to every show . Motion’s gritty, DIY heritage (when the DIY skate ramps doubled as the dancefloor in early events ) and its status as a music “spring-board” for Bristol artists has made it a cultural icon . In fact, DJ Mag has consistently ranked Motion among the world’s top venues – in 2024 it was voted the 11th-best club globally and the UK’s top large-format club . Over nearly two decades (2006–2025) it hosted every style from big-room DJs (Sasha, John Digweed, Todd Terry) to drum’n’bass, garage, techno and even live hip-hop or rock acts . (For example, Method Man & Redman famously played Motion in 2022, with local DJs Chimpo and Trigga warming up the crowd .)
As its history shows, Motion has always been about more than the space – it’s a community hub. Founders and staff lived onsite and worked the door and bar in those early years , nurturing local talent and helping launch music careers (one founder notes that many Bristol DJs “flourished” after time at Motion ). The club also innovated on behalf of the whole scene: in 2020 it helped secure a unique legal noise easement that protects it against complaints from new nearby developments, a first-of-its-kind move in the UK . All this lore – from secret boat-ride rave beginnings in 2006 to taking its final bow in 2025 – gives Motion a legendary status in Bristol nightlife. Visitors often remark on its family-like atmosphere as much as the music; staff have even hosted weddings there because “regulars become family” .
Events and Programming
Motion’s calendar is jam-packed with dance music events year-round. It hosts everything from weekly club nights to large-scale festival-style days, spanning genres like drum & bass, house, techno, trance, UK garage and even occasional non-dance shows (metal or acoustic) . The venue is best known for its signature “In:Motion” series – a marquee clubbing festival that originally ran every autumn/winter from 2009 to 2019, and was relaunched in autumn 2023. In:Motion spans several weekends with multiple stages; past editions have featured legends like Goldie (often B2B with Paul Woolford) and pioneers like Todd Terry and Marshall Jefferson . For example, In:Motion 2024 celebrated 30 years of drum’n’bass label Metalheadz with Goldie B2B Special Request and GenerationsOfRage (Doc Scott, Ant TC1) on select nights , while other packages brought house icons Graeme Park and Greg Wilson back to Bristol . Motion also hosts standalone one-off headline gigs and local nights – famous residency promoters like The World Famous Jungle Allstars, The Blast (D&B) and others program weekly or monthly events. Resident series like Valve Sound System regularly fill the club with top-tier drum’n’bass DJs, while bass-house and techno promoters (Just Jack, Drumcycle, etc.) hold their own nights. Notable recent bookings include Joseph Capriati, Hot Since 82, Dusky and Dennis Cruz (techno/house) as well as garage act Artful Dodger and old-school jungle. Almost every week there’s something on; in 2023–24 Motion even staged daytime garden parties using its outdoor courtyards (called the Container Yard and Lock Yard) when permits allowed .
Ticket prices and policies vary by event. Small or local nights might be as low as £10–£15 in advance (sometimes £20 on the door), while big named-headliner shows often go for £25–£40 or more. There are usually multiple pricing tiers: earlybird (cheapest), general sale, and a limited number of VIP upgrades or plush seating areas. For example, Motion’s 2025 relaunch at the new Victoria Terrace location offered an early-evening kickoff event for £21.55 . Homegrown and niche nights tend to stay on the lower end, whereas international DJ club shows climb higher. To get tickets, check Motion’s official announcements on social media for sale dates and approved sellers (avoid touts or unofficial resellers). Popular events can sell out fast, so the best strategy is to buy in pre-sale or first day of general sale. Occasionally a few tickets may appear on the door, but that’s not guaranteed on busy nights.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Motion shows are sold online only – there is no regular box office at the club. Book through the venue’s official outlets or recognised ticket agents (details are announced on Motion’s social channels each time). For big events, sign up for newsletters or social feeds to get access to presales and next-wave drops. Once a show is listed, tickets often sell out, so plan ahead. On sale dates, expect usual tiered pricing: earlybird / advance tickets (cheapest), followed by general sale (higher), then limited late-release or door tickets if any remain. Stay alert for any VIP/guestlist offers as well. Ticketmasters or fanclub mailing lists often post sale links exactly when they drop; use those or the club’s own website rather than scalpers. In most cases you’ll receive an e-ticket or QR code – keep your smartphone handy, or print it out. If you lose a digital ticket, contact the vendor immediately (there is no venue box office to reissue tickets). Remember that big nights often enforce strict ID checks on entry, so bring government-issued photo ID (passport, driving licence, proof-of-age card) even if you’re over 18.
Seating and Layout
Motion is primarily a standing-room club with several interconnected dancefloors. The main warehouse floor is huge – there are no seats on the dancefloor itself, only room to move under the speakers and lights. Around the edges of the main room you’ll find raised platforms, pillar balconies and small lounges where you can perch or lean if you need a breather. During many events a mezzanine bar at the back offers drink service and a bit of seating space overlooking the floor. (In earlier years Motion had a “VIP room” adjacent to the main floor where people sometimes sat on couches – that space is gone in the new layout, but the bar balconies serve a similar purpose.) Voice was advised: the best views of the stage and dancers are from the front-centre of the floor or from high up in the balconies. The sound is tuned for the center of the room, so standing hard against the side walls (where the speakers are) can make the bass overwhelming. The outdoor areas – the Container Yard (courtyard near the entrance) and Lock Yard (fenced garden) – open up during summer or special events, giving a chance to step outside, grab a drink or sit at picnic tables. These yard areas are used for festivals and daytime party programming, and usually have additional bar stalls and food trucks when in use. If you prefer a quieter vantage, the yards and upper bars are where locals tend to lounge between dance sets. For those looser with mobility: note that the new venue’s floors are flat, but if you’re tall the mezzanine barriers can partially block your view from the very back – so people often travel closer to the DJ booth for a clear line of sight.
Getting There and Parking
The new Motion (nicknamed "Motion 2.0") is at Unit 2, Victoria Terrace, St Philip’s, Bristol, BS2 0TD . This is just a short walk from the old Avon Street site – about 600 yards southwest of Temple Meads station . By train, take any Great Western or CrossCountry service to Bristol Temple Meads; the club is roughly a 5–10 minute walk from the station. If you see Temple Meads or Wapping Wharf on your map, you’re in the right area. Major bus routes also serve this part of town: routes 1, 2, 16, 61 and 71 all run along Avon Street or nearby, with stops a few minutes’ walk from Motion . If coming from the city centre, buses 1 or 2 are common (they run from Broadmead/Parsons Street via Temple Meads) and drop off at “Avon St” or “Burchell Ave”.
Parking options are limited right next to the venue. There is no dedicated club car park, and on-street parking around Victoria Terrace/Avon Street is mostly pay-and-display or permit-only residential. A better bet is the Temple Meads station car park – the multi-storey at Mitchell Lane/Temple Gate (a 3–5 min walk) or long-stay lot (££) – or the First Bus HQ lot (though that can fill up on weekday nights). Several private “just park” lots on St Philip’s area may also be available for evening rates. For cyclists, Motion has bike racks outside. Rideshare and taxis are popular – ask the driver to drop you on Avon St or near Bathurst Basin (the Cumberland Basin floatplane stop just round the corner), then walk across Victoria Bridge to the venue. Note that this area can be busy on event nights, so allow extra time for traffic delays, or arrive earlier to avoid the main rush of crowds.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll queue at the main entrance (shows usually have one or two entry doors). Staff will scan your ticket QR code and check ID. In busy times the queue forms along the facade or into the yard, so dress for the chance of waiting outdoors. There is a strict security search (bags are checked and large backpacks are discouraged), so it’s best to bring only essentials. Once inside, you’ll step into the smashed-concrete vibe of Motion – moody lighting, pulsing music, and a friendly, subversive crowd. Expect fairly dark interiors with laser beams, strobes and LED screens – this is a fully lined club atmosphere. You will find multiple bars throughout: main bars in each room serving beers, ciders, spirits, mixers and alcopops. Drink prices are typical for clubs (beer/pint around £5–6, spirit double with mixer ~£7–£9). There is no on-site kitchen, but some events invite mobile food vans in the yard for snacks or street food (especially for daytime festivals or 24-hour raves). A coat/cupcheck is usually available for a small fee near the entrance, useful for stashing extra layers or large items. Restrooms are on every floor – avoid peak-line times by going between DJ sets or during quieter tracks. Motion sells official merchandise (tees, hoodies etc.) at a pop-up store or stall during major events; you can also find DJ-brand merch (like vinyl or CDs) in certain electronic music shows.
The vibe inside Motion is famously inclusive and energetic. Don’t be surprised to see people of all ages (18+), styles (from club gear to casual), and backgrounds dancing together. The sound is LOUD – parts of the main floor can reach ear-popping decibels, so many regulars carry earplugs (available at some venues, or buy a pair beforehand). While you can use your phone (charge it beforehand – signal is okay but the low ceilings and thick walls can mean a patchy mobile connection), it’s wise to tuck it away and join the crowd; this isn’t a formal theatre, after all. Weed or other soft drugs are often present on site (it’s an outdoor-breathing-pocket friendly crowd), but illicit drugs of any kind are officially banned – festival-grade security sometimes uses dogs to patrol in the yard. Flash photography is discouraged (it can damage the light show), though snapping quick shots unofficially is common. The staff are known to be friendly and strict: if you’re sober and polite, they’ll help you enjoy the night. As one bartender quipped, Motion even hosted a couple’s wedding ceremony in the VIP area while the party raged next door – a testament to how seriously the venue takes its community-minded culture .
Nearby Amenities
While Motion occupies a somewhat industrial part of Bristol, there are decent options close by. Just around the corner on Avon Street you’ll find a couple of late-night shops and takeaways (pizza, burgers, kebabs) that stay open after 2am – handy if you need a quick snack. A two-minute walk away is Bathurst Basin and Wapping Wharf, where shipping-container eateries offer a variety of cuisines (Thai, tapas, gourmet burgers, etc.) and riverside pubs (like The Cider Workshop) for relaxed pre-show meals or post-club pints. Temple Meads itself has a small shopping arcade with a Wetherspoon pub (“The Russell”) and a Thai restaurant if you’re coming straight from the train. On non-club days you could dine at Bristol’s city centre (5–10 minute bus or ferry ride away) where many chain and indie restaurants await – Curry Palace, Burgerworks, Giggling Squid (Thai) or Koi Pizza are local favourites. For a unique pre-show drink, try the locally brewed ales at The New Oak Inn (Bathurst Basin) or grab a cocktail at Shinrin Yoku (Wapping Wharf).
Several hotels and hostels are also within easy reach, making overnight stays practical. The Ibis (1 km north on Temple Way) and Star Inn (at Temple Meads) are budget picks, while The Bristol Marriott (a 10-minute walk east on Redcliffe) offers an upscale option. The city centre is only 2 miles off, so if staying downtown (e.g. Moxy or Mercure Bristol) a short taxi or bus ride will get you back late at night. After leaving the club, buses operate late (the First Bus network 24-hour routes like the 70, 94 and N1 go via Temple Meads and city centre), and Uber or local cab companies can pick up on Avon Street. If you plan to catch an early train (first service is around 6am), you’re within walking distance of Temple Meads station – just leave a little extra time to get across the bridge and through the station concourse when leaving.
What Makes This Venue Special
Motion’s special sauce comes from its unique history and atmosphere. It’s not just a club but a cornerstone of Bristol’s creative scene. As a former skatepark-turned-music hall, it retained an authentic, beat-up charisma that few new venues can match. Industry pros note that Motion has directly launched many careers: “we’ve all used it as a spring-board and flourished professionally from there,” says longtime promoter Rag Satguru . In practical terms, that means local DJs, engineers and crew cut their teeth here, giving the club a familial vibe where old school and new school mix on the dancefloor. The crowd at Motion is famously tight-knit and respectful; it’s common to hear visiting DJs call it “one of the best raves in the world,” and compliment the Bristol audience’s energy . The club has hosted once-in-a-lifetime moments – births of grassroots events, legendary back-to-back DJ sets, even surprise live performances – that become part of local lore. Architecturally, its vast, pillar-free floor allows huge production (big lasers, pyros at NYE, all-night marathon raves) while still feeling intimate. This blend of raw industrial style + community heart is why many fans say that a night at Motion is unlike any other in the UK club circuit. Artists themselves often point out Bristol’s supportive crowd here; one act remembered that after a marathon 3-set day they warmed up for the audience and “Bristol crowd gave a huge welcome – you don’t get that kind of response in many other cities” .
Motion also pushed the envelope culturally. It polyglot-programmed events that other clubs might shy away from: from underground breakbeat labels to local grime nights, it gave space to niche scenes. It created new traditions like the annual Bristol Pride after-party and pop-up basketball or skate competitions near the building. Even as a massive venue, events there carried a rebellious underdog spirit – as one insider quips, they once held a day rave where burners ran down the skate ramp in illicit style . That scrappy ethos – plus the venue’s longevity in a city that sees clubs come and go – has earned Motion a legendary status. When it announced closing its 20-year home in 2024, the fan reaction (coffins, vigils and pleas) proved how much the club matters. Fortunately, the story continues: Motion is set to reopen (as “Motion 2.0”) in a new building, aiming to keep that same restless, inclusive club spirit alive for Bristol’s future.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Motion’s ground level is step-free, making it wheelchair-accessible. The new venue was built with accessible entrances and lifts to upper bars. Accessible toilets are available. If you have any specific needs, contact the club ahead of time; staff are usually happy to assist. Service animals are allowed. (One note: the old Avon St entrance had a small step and narrow doors; at Victoria Terrace it has been improved.)
What to Bring: Always bring a valid photo ID – you’ll have it checked before buying drinks. A small bag or purse is fine; expect a quick search at the door. Waterproof clothing or a jacket is wise if it’s raining, since you’ll queue outside before entry and may step into the open-air yards during the night. Motion is very loud, so earplugs (available online or at some shops) can make late hours more bearable. Cash is useful in case card machines hiccup, although nearly all bars accept cards. A portable charger is handy for long nights (cell reception can be spotty inside). But don’t overpack – there’s no cloakroom for big luggage, just a cloakcheck for coats and small backpacks.
How Early to Arrive: For a big show with a headline DJ, doors often open around 10pm, and the main act may not start until midnight or later. Still, arriving by 10–10:30pm is recommended to avoid long entry queues – especially if an opening DJ is on early. The venue tends to be most crowded after 11pm. If it’s the first time at Motion or you want a good spot, budget extra time for queuing and security checks. Once inside, staff usually try to clear the line well before the headliner goes on. Note: check the lineup – some daytime or matinee events start in the afternoon, while special multi-room urban sports or video game events might kick off at odd hours. Always read the event schedule carefully to confirm start and end times.
House Rules: Motion enforces a 18+ age limit on club nights (as required for licensed late hours). Under-18s are only allowed at specifically advertised all-ages events or daytime community gatherings. Outside food/drink, professional cameras or recording equipment, and weapons are not allowed. Smoking is only permitted in the designated outdoor yard areas – it’s illegal inside. React responsibly with any substances; the club has a zero-tolerance stance on hard drugs, with staggered security. Re-entry is generally not allowed – once you leave, you can’t go back in, so use the restrooms wisely and keep your group together. On that note, Motion can get very steamy on the dancefloor. Wear whatever makes you bounce, but leave bulky items behind. Most people go for light, clubbing attire or casual streetwear. (Slippers or heavily contraband clothes aren’t suitable.) If in doubt, observe the crowd or ask staff – Bristol clubs are relaxed, but spiky or offensive emblems are frowned upon.
Avoid These Mistakes: First-timers sometimes underestimate Bristol crowds. If a club night says “doors at 10pm,” don’t show up at 11:30 expecting emptiness – it will likely be packed by then. Also, don’t linger on stairs or exits where people are dancing; Motion has a hard security line and will push people forward. Beginners also under-prepare for the noise – bring earplugs to protect your hearing. On transport, remember that most buses stop around midnight; late trains are more frequent via Temple Meads. Plan your ride home in advance: check the last train/bus times or have an Uber credit ready. Leave plenty of travel time if you’re catching a flight the next morning; Temple Meads runs night buses occasionally, but the schedule can be weird on Sunday nights.
Insider Tips: Certain nights have themes. Drum & Bass night-goers often drink energy drinks or carry bottled water. In contrast, fans of longer sets might arrive stickier (a couple people favour camelbaks). If you like a particular room’s vibe (the big warehouse vs the smaller “Marble Factory” side room), move between them early on, since it can become hard to get between after midnight. Use the outdoor courtyard to cool off and chat – Motion’s backyard events are very social. Locals usually take advantage of the free lockers (if offered) so they can dance unencumbered. If Motion is your first night at Bristol nightlife, try to strike up conversation: the crowd is known friendly and helpful to newbies. Lastly, check Motion’s social pages even on event nights; they occasionally post shuttle info or call-Ubers if something unusual happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Motion in Bristol?
Motion is quite large – it holds around 4,000 people at maximum capacity. This estimate comes from DJ Magazine, which lists Motion at capacity 4,000 . Keep in mind that on busy nights the club feels full well before capacity, so arrive early to secure space on peak events.
Where is Motion located and how do I get there?
Motion’s current address is Unit 2, Victoria Terrace, St Philip’s, Bristol, BS2 0TD . This location is just a short walk from Bristol Temple Meads station. By train, arrive at Temple Meads (served by Great Western and CrossCountry) and walk 5–10 minutes east over the River Avon. Several bus lines stop nearby – notably the 1, 2, 16, 61 and 71 routes , which have stops on or near Avon Street. If driving, note there’s no dedicated Motion parking, so nearby options include the Temple Meads car park (Mitchell Lane) or pay parking on surrounding streets.
How do I purchase tickets for Motion events?
All Motion tickets are sold in advance – there’s no physical box office at the club. Check Motion’s official website and social media for announcements of ticket on-sales and approved sellers. Tickets typically sell out, so it’s best to buy as soon as public sale opens. Some shows have limited door sales on the night, but you shouldn’t rely on that. Use only trusted links (posted by the venue or artist) to avoid fraud. After purchase, you’ll get an e-ticket or barcode: save it on your phone or print it out to present at entry.
What is the typical price range for Motion tickets?
Prices vary widely by event. Smaller, community nights might be just £10–£15 in advance, while major headline DJs or festival-style packages often range from £25 up to £40 or more (especially with fees). As an example, Motion’s 2025 re-opening early show was £21.55 . Headliner events (like In:Motion weekends) can approach £40+ at peak. Always check the event listing for the exact ticket price and booking fees.
Is Motion wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair-accessible. The new location at Victoria Terrace has step-free access to the main floor and an elevator to upper bars. Accessible toilets are provided and staff will assist with any accessibility need. If you have specific requirements, it’s a good idea to email the venue in advance to make arrangements. Generally Motion tries to accommodate all guests.
Does Motion have seating, or is it standing only?
Motion is primarily general admission standing on its dancefloors – there are no fixed seats on the main floor. However, there are raised platforms and balcony areas around the edges and bars where you can lean or sit. During club nights some events will set up stools or small lounge spaces at the rear bar balconies, but these fill fast. In short: most dancing is done on your feet, so wear comfortable shoes, and use the raised ledges or outdoor seating when you need a break.
What are the age restrictions at Motion?
For normal club nights (evenings and weekends), Motion enforces an 18+ age limit. Everyone must show valid photo ID to get wristbands or stamps if they plan to buy alcohol. Exceptions only occur for special all-ages events (typically daytime or family-friendly shows), and these will be specifically advertised as under-18 permitted. If you’re under 18 and attending a regular club night, expect to be turned away.
Can I bring my backpack or camera into Motion?
Small bags and purses are usually allowed, but larger backpacks or suitcases will be searched and may be refused entry. Best to carry only essentials. Personal photography (i.e. phone or small digital camera) is generally OK as long as you don’t use tripod or flash. Professional camera equipment is prohibited unless you have prior approval. Security does pat-downs, so keep valuables on you or use the cloak/check for safe-keeping. Note: club staff do remove objects they deem unsafe (pointy jewelry, etc.).
Is smoking allowed inside Motion?
No. Smoking is only permitted in the outdoor communal areas. Motion’s floors and indoor spaces are smoke-free by law. If you need a cigarette or vape, step outside into the courtyard or yard spaces (usually through marked side doors). Remember to bring a warm layer for outside breaks; you’ll queue outdoors to get back in if you leave. Electronic cigarettes are also not allowed indoors. In winter weather the outside areas can be chilly, so plan accordingly.
Does Motion have a cloakroom?
Yes – most events offer a staffed coat and small-item check. You can check coats, backpacks or parcels for a small fee (usually £1–£2 per item). This is handy if you have extra layers or larger belongings. Only use the official cloakroom desk for this; leaving bags unattended is not permitted. Label your cloak ticket and keep it safe (you’ll need it to retrieve your items). If no cloakroom is visible on entry, ask security – they will direct you.
What is Motion’s dress code?
Motion has no formal dress code – casual clubwear is fine. Most patrons just wear comfortable street clothes or club attire. Trainers, jeans, hoodies, tees or even sports jackets are all common. Avoid overly formal wear (suits, dresses) unless it’s a special themed event. Do NOT wear anything too thick or bulky (like winter parkas) – you may be asked to check heavy coats. Also, leave valuables at home if possible. Essentials(wallet, phone, ID) should go in a secure pocket or small bag you keep on you.
Are there food and drink options at Motion?
Motion has full bar service on every floor. You can buy beer, cider, wine, spirits and soft drinks at the bars. Prices are similar to other city clubs (£5–£6 for a pint, £7–£9 for a cocktail or spirit drink). There’s no fixed on-site kitchen, but at some events (especially weekend or festival days) you’ll find street-food stalls or pizza vans in the courtyard. Otherwise plan to eat beforehand or grab takeout from a nearby shop. Outside snacks (bar food like crisps, nuts) might be sold at kiosks on party days, but there’s no all-night kitchen or cafe inside.
Are there restrooms and other facilities inside?
Yes, there are multiple restroom blocks. Typically one set of toilets is near the main bar on each floor. They are clean but queue-prone on busy nights. Women’s loos generally have shorter lines than men’s after 11pm, but plan for some wait time. Hand sanitiser and soap are provided. There is no public ATM on site, so withdraw cash beforehand if you need it. Also, there may be water fountains or free tap-water stations (ask bar staff) because the music is so loud you can lose track of your own hydration. Wi-Fi isn’t provided, so use mobile data or call a friend outside if needed.
What happened to Motion in July 2025? Is it reopening?
In July 2025 Motion closed its Avon Street venue when the lease expired . This marked the end of a 19-year run at that location. However, the club is NOT going away – it is moving. The owners announced a “Motion 2.0” at a new building (Victoria Terrace, St Philip’s) just a few blocks from the old site . The new venue opened in October 2025 with a relaunched series of events. So yes, Motion is reopening under the same name in the city, just in a new warehouse setting.
What is Motion 2.0?
“Motion 2.0” is simply the nickname for the new venue location. After the original Motion on Avon Street closed in mid-2025, the team set up the new club at Unit 2, Victoria Terrace, St Philip’s (about 500 yards away) . It keeps the same raw industrial vibe but in a fresh building. The opening night was on Friday 10 October 2025, featuring local DJs and a mix of international talent (e.g. Y U QT, Skeptic, Chloé Robinson) . In short: if someone says “Motion 2.0,” they mean the newly opened club space continuing Motion’s legacy.
What is the In:Motion series?
In:Motion is Motion’s annual multi-week club festival series. It originally ran each autumn/winter (roughly Sept-Dec) from 2009 to 2019, featuring back-to-back weekends of electronic music across several rooms. After a pause due to the pandemic, it returned in late 2023. The series brings in big-name DJs and themed parties – for example, In:Motion 2024 included nights with UK garage legends, house royalty and major D&B showcases . Tickets are sold as single nights and multi-date passes. If you’re planning a visit in autumn, look for the In:Motion lineup announcement – it’s Motion’s biggest itinerary of the year.
Are outside drinks allowed at Motion?
No. By law, you cannot bring your own alcohol or beverages into Motion. All drinking must be done from purchased bar items inside the club. If you bring a bottle or can, security will confiscate it at the door. The only exception is that staff will fill your empty water bottle with tap water for free if you ask – they do this to help prevent dehydration. Otherwise, just buy drinks at the bar or step outside and purchase from food/drinks vendors if they’re present during special events.
Can I watch sports or other non-music events at Motion?
Motion is primarily a dance music venue. While it sometimes hosts special events (the history mentions basketball or skateboard demos when it was also an action sports space), it is not a sports stadium or cinema. Occasionally the club has held live-streams or hybrid events (like gaming competitions or DJ battles), but these are normally dance-focused. For mainstream sports viewing (World Cup games, rugby matches, etc.) Motion isn’t the place. Check the event guide – if there’s a sports-themed party (like an electronic DJ set for a World Cup night), it will be advertised. Otherwise, evenings at Motion mean music and dancing, not broadcasts.
Is Motion open-air or indoors?
Motion’s main dancefloors are all indoors (enclosed warehouses). The sound system and lighting are set up for an interior club experience. However, there are outdoor sections – namely the Container Yard and Lock Yard – which are open-air courtyards attached to the venue. During warm weather events or special day parties, these outdoor areas stay open with extra bars, couches and food vendors, giving an “outdoor festival” feel. If it’s raining or late at night, the club does not sound outside bands, so assume indoor for the core music.
