The Island

While Bristol promoters have been using the underground space on Bridewell street for a few years now, it's only since 2015 that The Old Police Cells became an official venue. Like the rest of The Island, the basement venue is keen to continue to support an eclectic variety of arts and new emerging artists. As the trading subsidiary that funds and supports vital activities of Artspace Lifespace, a Community Interest Company (CIC) that recycles and repurposes underused and vacant buildings, it's great to see an independent Bristol venue so dedicated to supporting the local arts scene in the threatening face of city developments.

The Island excels as a club venue, touting an industrial yet intimate feel found nowhere else. Having found favour with promoters like Room237 and TimeDance, the cell space has proven its worth amongst techno promoters - however, dance music represents just a fraction of the venue's programme. Experimental, noise and sound art musicians take advantage of The Island's unusual acoustics while performance artists have split the space into multiple micro venues.

Please note that The Island venue is not accessible to wheelchairs and it reserves its right to select its clientele - your ticket does not guarantee entry to the event. Ensure you wear appropriate attire and are familiar with the lineup as you might be asked for this information upon entry. Please note the venue operates a no-camera and zero-tolerance to harassment policy.

Photograph credits: Sidz Photography, Khris Cowley for Here & Now — Read more — Read less