The Captain’s guide to… The holliest, jolliest Christmas nights out in Bristol

Bristolians know that the vast rooftop terrace at this Colston Street venue is the lookout spot on a summer day. And in winter, the sharing pitchers of exotic cocktails along with the vibrantly spiced food are enough to ease you into a sunnier state of mind. Which, incidentally, is the perfect state to ensure an awesome night out.

Colston Tower, Colston St, BS1 4XE

How could it not be in this list? The clue’s in the name at this famous Bristol venue, which takes its name from the ancient street it’s tucked into. If the festive season is all about fun, laughter and generosity then it really is Christmas every day here, but come actual Christmas things get even merrier. Weigh anchor here at the weekend when DJs take things up a few notches.

2 Christmas Steps, BS1 5BS

‘Bristol’s busiest bar’, it claims, and that might just be right, because every night it’s full of folk in search of those elusive legendary nights out. Students, locals, bar industry workers and adventurous merrymakers alike – all head here for the big-hearted drinks deals and even bigger party tunes. One of the few places in the city you can rock up dressed as an elf and feel right at home. Just at Christmastime, mind.

38-40 Triangle West, BS8 1ER

Feelgood tunes, tropical cocktails and a year-round South Seas vibe mean this Clifton bar and club is always packed with revellers. Join them this Christmas, when the many themed festive nights – Christmas jumper Friday, Secret Santa Saturday – will transport you and your crew to an island paradise of dancing, drinking and carousing. Which is a lot more fun than carolling, let us tell you.

67 Queens Rd, BS8 1QL

For once, a nightspot with a name that tells you all you need to know. No cutting-edge dance music, no hipster indie, certainly no death metal – Popworld brings the fun-seeking masses just what they want come Christmas, which is pure, unadulterated pop joy. The Captain knows it will get the party started. See you on the dancefloor.

16-24 Baldwin St, BS1 1SE