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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.

Buy tickets for poetry events in Bristol

Our recent poetry recommendations

Sell out warning! Ever wondered if your noble mission to save the world has wandered into the swamp of sanctimony? Author Anthea Lawson and organiser Liam Barrington-Bush discuss how to make positive change without getting lost in self-certainty, exploring how campaigners can stay open, humane and connected in the messy work of collective change. How Not to Save the World: Doing Good Without Annoying Everyone at Bookhaus.

Before the Zardoz tasche-n-loincloth combo rendered Sean Connery camp incarnate, long before Excalibur’s floridly lit romps through Arthurian legend… Boorman was one of our own! South West Silents celebrates his West Country connection with rare screenings of short docu-dramas made during his time at BBC Bristol – come relive these vital slices of 60s history and the birth of a directing giant! John Boorman and Bristol: Part II at Bristol Megascreen.

Sell out warning! Bedmo would be a much greyer place indeed without the pastoral oasis of Windmill Hill City Farm. Come celebrate half a century of community nature & nurture with family-friendly frollicking (puppet shows, face painting, pottery) + live music from local folk legends, acappella choirs + more TBA. Windmill Hill City Farm 50th Anniversary Fayre at Windmill Hill City Farm.

Sell out warning! Bristol’s BYO conspiracy theory gathering returns! We’re assured no government actors are involved, but eyes and ears are everywhere. Scramble together your wildest conspiratorial jabberings – now’s your chance to be heard – or just pull up a chair for the unfolding post-post-truth wormhole... Truth Seekers 2026 at St Werburghs Community Centre.

What our editors say

“If you have written something come and share it otherwise your stories, Flash/Micro fiction/ poetry won't live. You will find a warm and welcoming environment with a very supportive and friendly audience al willing to listen. FREE ENTRY.”
From: Spoken Word Open Mic

“Spoken Word Open Mic all styles welcomed if you have written it you can read it be it a short story, Flash / Micro - Fiction, poetry extracts from your book it will be welcomed. (Unfortunately we cannot accept comedians). The event is warm, friendly and supportive so come and join us. ENTRY IS FREE”
From: Spoken Word Open Mic

“* Selected films from the International Poetry Film Competition and the Audience Award. * Workshop. * Talk - taking poetry film beyond the screen. * Exclusive interview with BAFTA award screenwriter and poet Dean Atta, plus screening of Two Black Boys in Paradise. * Plenty of time for discussions and chat and to enjoy the harbour. Full programme and times will be available soon.”
From: Poetry Film Festival

“Whether you’re a seasoned performer, a first-timer testing out new material, or just along for the ride, our open mic is all about great performances, good company and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Expect an ever-changing mix of live music, poetry, spoken word, comedy and the unexpected. Anything can happen once the mic is live!”
From: Ill Repute Open Mic Night

“Left Cultures will delve deep into the left’s cultural past to discuss gems of storytelling within film, literature, music, art and poetry. Culture which has influenced and inspired an eclectic bunch of comrades to continue in this tradition by creating new cultural endeavours on the left today. Colliding together the past and present to celebrate the power and rich diversity of storytelling on the left with personal accounts, beautifully illustrated throughout. Launch tickets include one drink, and there will be a paid bar available. Presented by bookhaus.”
From: Left Cultures 5th Edition Launch Party