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Poetry & Spoken Word Events in Bristol

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Bristol's Poetry Scene

At the time of writing there are very few regular poetry events in Bristol. Milk hosts regular nights at Halo on Gloucester Road and The Wardrobe Theatre in Old Market. Hammer & Tongue occasionally bring their poetry slams to town and have used The Grain Barge for past events. Stand Up For Lyricism promotes poetry events in south Bristol at The Rope Walk and Tobacco Factory Theatre.

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What our editors say

“Coleridge wants to smoke his pipe, write poetry, and be happy. Wordsworth hates smoking, tires of poetry, and enjoys wallowing in his misery. The two spend their voyage locked in combat, a battle of hopeless optimism versus constant pessimism. The StageHand, a glorified backstage assistant, desperate for her time in the spotlight, makes it harder and harder for the two poets to tell their story, and she tests both their patience with her bumbling speeches and poor comprehension.”
From: Sardines

“Have a favorite fan fic to share? An old diary entry to release into the ether? What about a steamy love poem? Plot and Bothered is a new poetry and literature night all about confessions! Bring your favorite tales of romance, childhood crushes, silly sex stories, and fan fantasies.”
From: Plot and Bothered

“Elizabeth was a secondary school English teacher for eight years and is writing two novels based on her experiences teaching Shakespeare to teenagers. Elizabeth’s poetry has been published in various journals and has won and been shortlisted for a range of prizes. Following her 2016 pamphlet, Antinopolis (published by Eyewear), Elizabeth’s first full collection, In Her Shambles, was published by Seren Books in April 2018 and her second collection, Cormorant, was published by Seren this February.”
From: Cormorant launch with Elizabeth Parker

“What’s the role of poetry and writers in the ongoing struggle for freedom? Mira Mattar and Sabrin Hasbun will engage in a discussion, exploring the power of literature in advocating for justice and self-determination and the responsibility of artists in front of unspeakable moments of tragedy. They will share excerpts from their own works, offering a poignant glimpse into the Palestinian narrative. The event will end with a Q&A session where the audience can engage with and discuss the same topics.”
From: The Role of Palestinian Poetry

“From the voices of ramblers and campaigners to the songs and poetry inspired by past and current struggles, “Behold Ye Ramblers” is a new play about The Clarion newspaper and the organisations formed by its readership, including the famous rambling club, The Sheffield Clarion Ramblers. Along with the Clarion Cyclists, these early Edwardian pioneers promoted healthy outdoor pursuits, organising expeditions across open moors and mountains whilst campaigning for the right to roam, bringing them into conflict with landowners’ hunting and shooting activities and laws that prioritised private property over the wellbeing of others.”
From: Behold Ye Ramblers