About Unit3
Unit3 is a new multi-purpose music and events venue in east Bristol, housed in a converted warehouse on Netham Road (postcode BS5 9PQ (fr.ra.co )). It opened in early 2022 and immediately began hosting live music and club nights. The promoters describe it as a “beautiful and relaxed” family-owned venue, intended for Friday “knock-offs”, birthdays and community gatherings (www.unitthreecollective.com ). In practical terms that means it functions as both a casual bar space and a proper concert hall. Inside is a large open hall with high ceilings (a nearby Unit1 listing describes “a large open-plan ground floor with high ceilings” (propertypiper.co.uk ), which is very similar to Unit3’s layout). A fully-stocked bar offers local cask ales, craft beers, wines and cocktails, and even hosts rotating food trucks (recent vendors have included Original Turkish Rolls, Rocc Up Pizza, Sugbahan BBQ and “Let’s Eat” wraps (www.unitthreecollective.com )). Though the building itself isn’t historic, it quickly became notable on Bristol’s cultural map. Its very first major event was an Easter 2022 drum-&-bass day-rave headlined by jungle legends Fabio & Grooverider (www.ticketfairy.com ). That set the tone: Unit3 blends a friendly, community vibe with top-quality sound and production. In summary, Unit3’s signature character is its unpretentious industrial atmosphere combined with professional concert gear – a relaxed local hangout that can transform into a full-on nightclub, making it a unique asset in Bristol’s live-music scene.
Events and Programming
Unit3’s calendar is filled with a broad range of events, but it’s best known for heavyweight electronic music nights. Its launch party was a jungle/Drum & Bass festival, and since then it regularly hosts top DJs. For example, the two-day “Alternate10” Easter 2022 events featured a stacked lineup: Fabio & Grooverider headlined b2b, with Addison Groove, Chloé Robinson, Om Unit, J:Kenzo, Riz La Teef, Amy Kisnorbo and Minty all on the bill (www.ticketfairy.com ). These parties spanned the full spectrum of tempos (“covering 130–174 sonics” as the flyer boasted (fr.ra.co )). On club nights, visitors can expect booming bass and high-quality sound (promoters specifically mention using a full VOID Acoustics sound system on site (fr.ra.co )). Typical ticket prices range from the low teens up to the mid-twenties of pounds (advance prices were advertised at £5–£25 (fr.ra.co )). Smaller events or midday shows can be cheaper; for example, one daytime rave charged just £5–£15 before fees (fr.ra.co ).
In addition to club nights, Unit3 hosts a variety of other acts and themed nights. The venue advertises everything “from blues bands and metal bands to drum & bass DJs” (www.unitthreecollective.com ), and indeed you might find a broad-genre charity gig, live band show or even a quiz night mixed in. In late 2025, the schedule was especially busy: they had musical bingo on Thursdays and weekend events almost every day (e.g. “Original Turkish Rolls and Musical Bingo on Nov 13; Rocc Up Pizza and DJs on Nov 15; a Christmas market with Sugbahan meal on Nov 16; plus more vendors and live acts on Nov 21–30” (www.unitthreecollective.com )). Some events are one-offs (special holiday parties, local festival tie-ins), while others recur weekly/monthly depending on demand. Unit3 also welcomes private hires – for instance, it can be rented for birthday parties, community gatherings or corporate events, with furniture arranged as needed. In short, the programming is eclectic. If it’s high-profile DJ night, expect a large dance crowd; if it’s a community or family event (Sunday market, quiz, etc.), the vibe will be more laid-back. New shows are announced frequently on local listings, and popular gigs often sell out – one event page even warned “FINAL RELEASE TICKETS SELLING FAST!” (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
All tickets for Unit3 events must be purchased in advance online – the venue itself has no box office or physical ticket outlet. Promoters typically sell tickets via their own websites or trusted ticketing platforms (e.g. Resident Advisor, Ticket Fairy, Skiddle or Facebook Event pages). Always buy from the official distributor listed by the event. As mentioned, cover charges tend to be in the £10–£25 range for big nights, with some cheaper entry for smaller gigs (fr.ra.co ). Check social media pages or mailing lists of the promoters for on-sale dates and details. For very popular nights, expect a sell-out; the “sold fast” warning (www.ticketfairy.com ) indicates that late tickets may not be available. If you see an event listed as sold out, do not rely on finding tickets at the door. Similarly, pre-sale or student discount tickets might be offered by some promoters. When an event is happening, you’ll need to show your e-ticket (or printed ticket) along with photo ID at the door. In summary: buy online early, watch for pre-sales, and absolutely bring your ID to the event.
Seating and Layout
Unit3 is set up like a classic warehouse club. There are no fixed seats; the entire main floor is standing room only, save for a few scattered high-top tables or benches by the walls (if any). A recent property description of Unit1 at the same estate noted an open-plan ground floor with high ceilings (propertypiper.co.uk ), which is an excellent description of Unit3. In practice that means you can move freely in the space, but also that it fills up – front and center areas will be crowded once the headliner comes on. Sightlines can vary: if you want a clear view, arrive early to claim a spot near the stage or put yourself on a slight raised step if there is one at the edges. Otherwise, find a spot a little further back or near the speakers – you’ll get excellent sound from the Void PA. (Be careful not to stand directly next to the subwoofers if you’re sensitive to bass.) There is no designated VIP or seating section in the usual sense. Occasionally, for an outdoor feel, the back roller shutter might open and a covered yard area be used for smoking or extra standing space, but the core event space remains indoors. If an event organizers do set up a small mezzanine or curtained lounge for VIPs, it would be rare and specifically advertised. Overall, think “big open dancefloor” layout. The charm is in the communal vibe, not personal tables.
Getting There and Parking
Unit3’s address is Netham Road, Bristol BS5 9PQ (fr.ra.co ). By car, reach it via the Easton/Redfield area off Bath Road (A4). There is an on-site parking lot shared by the industrial estate’s units. Property listings explicitly mention “dedicated on-site parking spaces” for these units (propertypiper.co.uk ), so you should find parking right at the building (for free). That said, spaces are limited and can fill up for busy events. If the lot is full, look for any legal street parking on adjacent roads (though always check for no-parking signs). Drop-off is easy – there’s a large driveway – so many attendees use taxis or Uber to avoid parking hassle.
Public transport is convenient: several Bristol bus routes stop very close by. The main ones are #5 , #44 , SB7 , #41 and #42 , all of which run along Netham Road (moovitapp.com ). For example, bus 5 comes from Stoke Bishop through Clifton and the city centre and loops back via St. Paul’s and St. Anne’s (Barton Hill) to Redfield. After the venue event ends, you can catch these buses at the Redfield Roundabout stop. Note that service late-night is reduced: the core late-night route is the #24 (the Temple Meads-Stokes Croft bus) which passes Stapleton Road near Unit3 (moovitapp.com ). This can get you back into town after midnight when other routes have stopped.
If travelling by train, the nearest station is Stapleton Road (on local Great Western/CrossCountry lines). It’s about a 5–10 minute walk via China Lane. From Temple Meads station, either take a 10-minute cab or catch one of the buses above. Taxi and rideshare drivers know the industrial park by name. Finally, if flying in, Bristol Airport is just outside the city – the fastest route is to take a taxi onto the M32 and follow signs to Easton.
Inside the Venue
Expect a straightforward club atmosphere once inside. The hall is large, mostly concrete-floored with painted walls and industrial detailing. Lighting is usually low and dance-focused: colored spotlights, strobes or lasers shine from above on the stage/DJ area. Daytime events will have some natural light if windows are present in the high sections. Sound-wise, Unit3 is equipped to handle big production. In fact, promoters boast a full VOID sound system on site, which means the club bass hits hard and clear (fr.ra.co ). At events you’ll often see the DJ on an elevated booth or stage with big speakers arrayed around. There is usually a designated technician booth in the back for sound/mixing.
A key feature is the bar: typically a sizable counter along one wall. At least one recent flyer highlights “a large bar serving cocktails, local beers and ciders (plus all of the usuals) throughout the day” (www.ticketfairy.com ). In other words, they stock a full range of drinks. Beer, cider and cider on tap are common, along with wine and spirits. Plan to pay by card at the bar (cash is accepted, too). Note that outside alcohol is not allowed inside – security will confiscate it, so enjoy the venue’s offerings instead. The bar area often has a few bar stools or high tables, but don’t expect lounge couches – it’s mainly a service point.
Food-wise, there is no kitchen inside. Instead, the venue brings in street-food vendors outside. When you arrive, you might see a lineup of food trucks or stalls selling tacos, burgers, kebabs, etc. (Extras like those Gourmet Warriors tacos were at recent events (www.ticketfairy.com ).) So if you’re hungry, the food truck is your friend. Otherwise eat before you get there.
Other facilities: There are restrooms on the main floor (yes, they exist). At least one is wheelchair-accessible. They’re basic but generally clean. Also, an ATM machine is not guaranteed inside – have some cash on hand for tips or food. The venue provides free cloakroom for larger events (usually for a small fee); if not, you’ll see people hanging jackets near the bar or at the door. Airflow can be minimal when packed, but there are usually wall/floor vents or exhaust. As for décor and extras: you might see a few benches against the walls or posters of past events up on the pillars. Lighting rigs are often portable, and a giant projector screen is sometimes lowered behind the DJ booth for visuals. In essence, inside Unit3 you’ll find the essentials – a big friendly crowd, a decent bar, and space to party – with none of the trappings of a VIP club (no lounge rooms, fancy decor or bottle service). It’s raw, lively and functional.
Nearby Amenities
Unit3 is in an industrial area, so there aren’t many restaurants or pubs right next door. However, a few handy services are within walking distance:
Food Trucks: As mentioned, rotating vendors often park onsite. For example, “Original Turkish Rolls” and “Rocc Up Pizza” are regulars on event nights (www.unitthreecollective.com ), along with “Sugbahan” Filipino BBQ (seen at Sunday markets) and “Let’s Eat” kebab wraps (www.unitthreecollective.com ). These provide convenient meals before or during shows.Cafés and Takeaways: About 5–10 minutes’ walk away on Redfield/Church Road are several cafés, takeaways and a convenience store. You’ll find kebab shops, Chinese and pizza takeouts, and small bakeries there. These open earlier than unit events, so you can grab a bite pre-show if needed.Bars/Pubs: There are not many sit-down pubs right next to Unit3, but you could walk a few blocks to Redfield or Easton area for pubs and wine bars. (For a very short stroll, the Woodbine pub and Silverthorne Lane Kitchen Bar were popular local spots in Easton.) However, many attendees simply stay at Unit3’s bar or take a taxi afterwards for nightlife elsewhere.Hotels: No hotels are immediately adjacent to the venue. The nearest lodging options are in central Bristol or near Temple Meads station – roughly 1–2 miles away. Well-known nearby mid-range hotels include Premier Inn City Centre (Lewins Mead), Bristol Marriott City Centre, and ibis Styles Bristol (near Temple Meads). From Unit3 a taxi to any of those is only about a 5–10 minute ride, so they are convenient if you want to stay overnight.Other Transport: If you need a quick convenience stop, there’s a small petrol station approach or supermarket on Bath Road a short drive away. Also, the Stoke Bridge Park & Ride is nearby if you want to park outside and bus in from the south.
In summary, plan to treat Unit3 events as the main dining experience: use the onsite food trucks or grab something beforehand. For a broader restaurant scene or late-night snacks, heading into Bristol’s city centre or St Philips/Easton area by bus or taxi is your best option after the show.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unit3 has carved out a niche by combining the best of a grassroots club with a warm local atmosphere. Architecturally it’s unglamorous – think bare concrete, steel beams and open space – but that rawness is part of its appeal. It’s literally an old industrial unit reimagined as a music loft. Promoters and patrons constantly praise the venue’s friendliness: the staff are “inviting” and “make you feel right at home” (www.unitthreecollective.com ). Many attendees say it has the camaraderie of a community center and the sound quality of a big nightclub. Bristol’s press has noted that Unit3 brings back the vibe of classic warehouse raves, but in a fully-legal, above-board way.
Culturally, Unit3 is significant for Bristol because it’s added capacity for live events. Bristol has dozens of famous venues, but few open a new city-end club each year. By 2023 it was outing veteran promoters, and local DJs now often list Unit3 as a preferred spot. It keeps Bristol’s electronic music scene fresh. For example, hosting Fabio & Grooverider was a nod to Bristol’s jungle heritage (the city produced Roni Size, Krust, etc.). At the same time, Unit3 embraces other music: a single weekend might go from drum & bass to reggae to disco, reflecting Bristol’s wide tastes (www.unitthreecollective.com ). In this way it unites different cultural corners of the city.
It’s also technologically up to date: having a VOID sound system and professional lighting rigs means touring acts can play it like a larger club (fr.ra.co ). DJs love that they don’t have to compromise on production. Meanwhile audience members appreciate that you’re dancing on a big floor with a top-notch subwoofer, but still among strangers who become friends by the night’s end. In short, Unit3 is special because it feels both inclusive and high-quality. For music fans, that’s a rare combination – a venue that can host nation-wide acts yet still feel like a friendly local gathering. The local community benefits too: Unit3 brings economic activity (staff jobs, bar sales) into a rundown area, and supports behind-the-scenes artists and crews. All these factors make both artists and audiences consider Unit3 a beloved new fixture in Bristol’s nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue entrance is at ground level, so wheelchair users can enter the main hall. Inside, the space is flat with no steps. An accessible toilet is normally provided. If you have specific needs, it’s wise to contact the event organizer beforehand to confirm any arrangements.
ID and Age: Unit3 events are strictly 18+ (fr.ra.co ). You will be asked for photo ID (passport or driver’s license) at the door. No ID means no entry.Tickets: Buy tickets in advance. As noted, shows often sell out (www.ticketfairy.com ). Print or screenshot your tickets on your phone. Re-entry policies (if you leave the building) depend on the event; check in at the door or with staff when you arrive.Transportation: Use buses 5, 44, SB7, 41 or 42 to reach Netham Road (moovitapp.com ). For late nights, the 24-hour route 24 (via Stapleton Road) is your best bet (moovitapp.com ). Taxis and rideshares are very common; feel free to drop off right by the entrance and use an app to book your ride home. If driving, note the on-site parking lot can get full – come early. Also, Bristol city centre is only ~10 minutes away by taxi for hotels or late-night plans.Food and Drink: The venue has a full bar that accepts cards and cash. It stocks beers, spirits and mixed drinks (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are often early-evening drink deals (for example, event flyers mentioned a cocktail happy hour). For food, visit the trucks outside – they take card too but it’s good to have some cash for quick snacks. Outside alcohol/food is not allowed.Clothing: Dress casually and comfortably. Sneakers or shoes you can dance in are recommended. The building can get cool before the crowd warms it up, so a light jacket is fine (though you won’t want to carry it once you’re dancing). Large backpacks are discouraged.Ear Protection: Music can be very loud, especially bass. If you prefer, bring earplugs. Most regulars do.Refreshments: Water fountains or jugs are sometimes available – regional estates often have water taps. Feel free to drink water between sets to stay hydrated.Behavior: Enjoy but be courteous. There’s a friendly crowd and staff. Aggressive or disruptive behavior can get you removed. Consent is key – if you dance near someone, respect their space. Keep an eye on your stuff; crowds can jostle. The venue’s security will enforce UK laws (no illegal drugs, etc.).Smoking: No smoking indoors. There is usually a designated outdoor smoking area right outside the entrance. Take short breaks there, especially between DJ sets.Bathrooms: Use the break in music or between acts. Lines can form quickly at peak times. Also, wash your hands regularly (gloveboxes or sanitizer may be available at the bar or restrooms).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets typically cost for Unit3 events?
Ticket prices vary by event, but most Unit3 music nights range roughly from £5 up to £25 in advance (fr.ra.co ). Headliner or festival-style events tend to be at the higher end of that scale, while smaller local DJ or community shows are often cheaper. Always check the event page for exact pricing, including any booking fees. Sometimes flyers or online posts will list multiple price tiers (e.g. earlybird, standard).
Where can I buy tickets for a Unit3 show?
Tickets are sold exclusively online through the event’s promoters or official sellers. Unit3 itself doesn’t have a box office. Promoters often use websites like Resident Advisor, Facebook Events, Skiddle or Ticket Fairy. The venue or promoter’s social media pages will link to the official ticket site. Do not buy from scalpers or unknown sellers – always use the link from the organizer.
Is Unit3 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Unit3’s main entrance is at ground level with no steps, so wheelchair users can enter the hall. The floor inside is flat concrete. There is typically at least one accessible toilet available. If you have mobility requirements, you may wish to contact the event organizer in advance to confirm any details (for example, an event with large crowds might need to make space for a wheelchair). But in general it’s quite accessible.
What is the capacity of Unit3?
No official figure is published, but it’s a sizable warehouse. A nearby unit (Unit 1) is 3,164 sq ft (propertypiper.co.uk ), and Unit3 is of similar size. In practice, it comfortably holds a few hundred people (estimates range roughly 300–500) depending on layout. Promoters cap tickets for safety. For a sold-out big show, expect it to feel quite full, whereas smaller events might only partially fill the space.
How can I get to Unit3 by public transit?
The venue is on Netham Road (postcode BS5 9PQ (fr.ra.co )). Several bus routes pass right by: numbers 5, 44, SB7, 41 and 42 all stop near Netham Road (moovitapp.com ) (for example, Bus 5 connects Clifton Down with St Anne’s). For late-night shows, the 24-hour bus (No.24 via Stapleton Road) is useful (moovitapp.com ). If arriving by train, Stapleton Road station is a 5-10 minute walk (or a short bus ride). Many people simply taxi to the venue, since taxis and Ubers can drop you right at the entrance. Once at Netham Road, the venue is easily identifiable by the club signage and crowd.
Is there parking at Unit3?
Yes. There is a parking lot serving the industrial estate units including Unit3. Real estate documents note “dedicated on-site parking spaces” (propertypiper.co.uk ). In practice, attendees can usually park on the forecourt or yard area at the venue for free. Arrive early if you are driving, because spaces are first-come first-served. If the lot is full, you may find limited street parking on nearby roads (always check for no-parking signs). Overall, plan for on-site parking if possible.
Are there reserved seats or VIP areas?
No, not in the usual sense. The entire main floor is general admission. There are no fixed seats or ropes cordoning off special areas. Attendees stand wherever there’s space. Sometimes, for a bit of elevation, people will stand on vantage points near the back, but there is no formal “VIP section” or table service as you might find in a club. In short, the layout is egalitarian: first-come gets front, otherwise you’re standing in the crowd.
What items are not allowed inside Unit3?
Basic club rules apply. In general, weapons or sharp objects, any illegal drugs, and large outside drinks are banned. Security will perform simple bag checks at the door. You may keep small personal items like a phone or wallet. Large backpacks or coolers are discouraged. There is no strict list published, but the idea is: if you wouldn’t take it into a normal nightclub, leave it behind. Photography is fine on phones, but professional video cameras usually require prior approval.
How are the restrooms at Unit3?
There are restrooms onsite. At least one will be unisex/accessible, and typically there are separate men’s and women’s toilets. They are standard club-type facilities (toilets, sinks). They’re kept reasonably clean. You may need to queue during a busy gig, so it’s best to go between acts or before the headline. Hand sanitizer is usually available in the building or at the bar.
Can I bring my own food or drink?
No, outside alcohol and food are not allowed. All alcoholic drinks must be purchased at Unit3’s bar. Food trucks on site sell a variety of snacks and meals for events (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.unitthreecollective.com ). You may bring a sealed bottle of water if needed, but otherwise plan to rely on the venue’s provisions. The rule is typical of clubs: no loose cans or bottles from outside.
When do doors open and sets start?
Door times vary by event. Generally, the venue opens about 1 hour before the first act. For example, a daytime party was listed 13:00–22:30 (fr.ra.co ). An evening show might list doors at 20:00 for a 21:00 headliner. Always check your ticket or the event listing for the exact schedule. It’s smart to arrive early rather than risk missing an opening act.
Is smoking allowed inside Unit3?
No. Smoking is prohibited indoors by law. You can step outside to smoke, and there is usually a small covered area or the entranceway that serves as a smoking zone. Staff will guide smokers to the appropriate outside spot. As a reminder, e-cigarettes/vapes are also treated as smoking material under venue rules.
Is there a coat check or lockers?
For big events, Unit3 often provides a staffed coat check (usually a nominal fee, e.g. £1-£2). However, it’s not guaranteed on every single event. If no coat check is available, people normally hang jackets on hooks or columns near the bar, or simply keep them with friends. If you expect to have bags or coats, check the specific event information to see if a cloakroom is provided.
Are tickets sold at the door on the night of the event?
Usually not for major shows. On the night of a sold-out event, you generally cannot buy tickets at the door. Some smaller shows or free events might allow walk-ups, but it’s risky. The “alternate10” event, for example, sold out in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always assume you need to book ahead, unless the promoter explicitly says “door tickets available”.
What payment methods does the bar accept?
The bar accepts both cash and card (chip-and-PIN and contactless). In recent events, card payments have worked smoothly. It’s still wise to bring a small amount of cash (for example, in case food trucks or merch booths prefer it, or if you want to tip the DJ crew). But you won’t need large cash sums because cards are widely accepted.
How can I find out about upcoming Unit3 events?
The best way is to follow Unit3’s official channels. They usually post upcoming gigs on their website or social media. You can search Facebook or Instagram for “Unit3 Bristol” or “Unit Three Collective”. Promoters of popular nights (like Alternate_UK on Instagram) also announce shows at Unit3. Additionally, local events listings websites and apps (such as Resident Advisor) list the venue’s concerts well in advance.
What sound and lighting system does Unit3 use?
Unit3 has been reported to use professional-grade equipment. In fact, one promoter noted they set up a full VOID Acoustics sound system on site (fr.ra.co ) – that’s the same high-end system used in many frank clubs. Lighting rigs (moving LED spots, strobes, etc.) are typically provided by each show’s production crew. So you can expect the sound and light quality to rival many larger nightclubs.
What’s the atmosphere like at Unit3 events?
The vibe is generally very friendly and inclusive. The venue’s owners emphasize a “warm and inviting” feel with friendly staff (www.unitthreecollective.com ), and audiences typically reflect that ethos. It’s loud and energetic when music is playing, but not pretentious; many say it feels like a house party in a warehouse. You’ll find a mix of local music fans (often in casual attire) rather than a glitzy or VIP dress code. In short, expect a welcoming crowd enjoying serious music – a fun-loving rave atmosphere.
