50 things to do in Bristol in November 2023

November 1:Wild Forage with Grow, Cook and Eat Lawrence Weston, Kingsweston House
Learn about the food of the wild at Kingweston House in Lawrence Weston with experts, where you’ll have the opportunity to eat and cook what you’ve grown on this wild walk.

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Now: 170 Annual Open Exhibition, RWA
RWA, the place to buy art! Explore, discover and purchase amazing artwork from three different exhibitions at the RWA this November. With art for sale in the 170 Annual Open Exhibition, PRESS: Original Prints by RWA Academicians and Also Artists: A Staff Exhibition, novice and experienced collectors alike will be spoilt for choice! It’s the perfect opportunity to discover new artists or invest in well-known names, and you can browse – and buy – the artworks from your home online as well. Visit us today to expand, or begin, your own art collection!

RWA Art for sale – photo: RWA

November 2: Hilary Woods + support from Jabu, The Cube
Irish folk musician Hilary Woods is arriving in Bristol, bringing her unique experimental haunting future folk sound.

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November 2: Rachel Fairburn: Showgirl, Hen & Chicken
Rachel Fairburn (“Very much the rock’n’roll star of British comedy”- Rolling Stone) – (“Fairburn delivers…with sadistic glee” – Guardian) – (“Mouth Almighty” – Her Friends) is back with a brand-new tour for 2023. She’ll be casting her acerbic eye over everything from your children to her pretentious new alcohol-free life (accurate at time of writing). She’s worried though. Has she mellowed a bit? She carries a lucky crystal now. Catch her before she disappears to the countryside with only joss sticks and taxidermy for company.

Co-host of International smash hit podcast All Killa No Filla and as seen on Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled (Dave), Richard Osman’s House of Games (BBC) and Russell Howard Hour Life Lesson (Sky)

“Gag-heavy, opinionated and smart” Funny Women

“Huge presence in a pint-sized frame“ Chortle

“Bright, brave and bitterly enjoyable“ The Skinny

Rachel Fairburn – photo: The Comedy Box

November 3-5: Low Noise Fireworks, Old Down Estate
For a family friendly bonfire night, head down to Old Down Estate for a spectacular 12-minute fireworks display. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book early to secure your bonfire night plans.

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November 3-9: Bottoms, Watershed
After receiving incredible acclaim across the pond earlier this year and featuring a banging soundtrack from Charli XCX, Bottoms is proving to be the high school flick of the year.

Bottoms – photo: Watershed

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November 3: In:Motion x Percolate: Mella Dee, Moxie B2B Shanti Celeste, O’Flynn, Motion
With a love for wobbly, wonky sounds and an audio palette from warehouse parties worldwide, Mella Dee brings the sounds of hardcore, house, techno & everything in between to Motion this November. Joining him is the seasoned Ninja Tune artist O’Flynn, a staple in the British electronic dance scene since his 2015 debut. Plus, we’ve got a double treat from the iconic S.A.S.S supergroup – Bristol’s own legend and Peach Discs founder, Shanti Celeste, alongside beloved NTS radio host, Moxie for a special b2b session.

Motion x percolate – photo: Kolab Studios

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November 3-9: How to have sex, Watershed
Molly Manning Walker’s startlingly frank and stylish UK debut is about a wild teen holiday gone awry, and tackles thorny issues of coercion and consent head on. Join us after the screening for a special Q&A with Director Molly Manning Walker. How to Have Sex opens at Watershed on Fri 3 Nov.

How to have sex – photo: Watershed

November 4: Frome Valley Mindful Geology Walk, Snuff Mills
Guide Mathilde will provide an educational and reflective two-hour walk that facilitates a moment of introspection while also sharing insights into the long-standing history of the Valley.

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November 4: In:Motion: Solardo, Motion
After a sell-out event back in February 2022, Solardo return to Bristol for another headline show as part of Motion’s flagship event series, In:Motion. The prolific duo’s meteoric rise is testament to their hard work in the studio and their infectious energy in the club. They are set to be joined by tech house talents Mason Maynard, Murphy’s Law and GIA for what will be an unmissable night of house music.

Solardo – photo: Kolab Studios

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November 4: Stand up for the weekend with Jimmy McGhie and guests, Hen & Chicken
Highly acclaimed stand-up Jimmy McGhie performs all over the world when the world is behaving normally!

He is “a brilliant talent” (The Scotsman) and with “an easy charm and appealing relaxed manner” (Chortle), he has performed 10 solo shows at festivals globally including the Edinburgh Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Adelaide Fringe, Sydney Comedy Festival, Perth Comedy Festival and New Zealand International Comedy festival.

He is now a top circuit act in the UK, as well as a highly sought after corporate awards host and TV warm up artist. He regularly provides the studio warm up for BBC1’s Graham Norton Show and ITV’s Loose Women.

“Exquisitely done, with a compelling, simmering fury… impressive” Chortle

Jimmy McGhie and guests – photo: The Comedy Box

November 5: Tara Clerkin Trio EP Launch, Strange Brew
Tara Clerkin trio is a group that have redefined the trip-hop genre of music, allowing new ideas to come through in a genre synonymous with the city.

November 6: Milk Poetry Presents… House of Figs – The Awkward Guide to Friendship, The Wardrobe Theatre
Poet Beth Calverley and musician Beth Roberts focus on the meaning of friendship through spoken words.

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Now-January 14: 170 Annual Open Exhibtion, RWA
Come and enjoy the 170 Annual Open Exhibition here at the RWA. This dynamic and varied exhibition showcases work in all mediums from some of today’s most exciting artists, amateur and professional alike. The Annual Open reflects the ongoing commitment of the RWA to champion world-class art in the region and create opportunities for new and emerging talent. All work will be for sale, making this a great opportunity to discover new artists or invest in well-known names.

RWA 170 annual open – photo: RWA

November 7: Elias Sime: Eregata እርጋታ, Arnolfini
One of Ethiopia’s leading artists, Eregata will focus on all his work from the last 6 years, majorly focusing on his personal relationship with his own environment.

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November 7: Matthew and the Atlas, The Mount Without
Matthew Hegarty (Matthew and the Atlas) has traversed a range of musical territories from classic acoustic folk, to dramatic synth-laden electronica, and urgent guitar led alt-rock. The common thread has been a songwriting style that marries a subtle melodic sensibility with lyrics full of natural imagery and dark emotional heft – all delivered in his striking and distinctive vocal. In the process Hegarty has quietly built a major cult following in Europe and the US. His new album This Place We Live is out in Autumn 2023 on Communion Records.

Matthew and The Atlas – photo: The Mount Without

November 8: Bristol Know Show, The Wardrobe Theatre
Comedy and fun facts wrapped up in one. This two-hour show promises learning and laughter, driven by the aim of making science cultural and accessible.

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November 8: Viva Vivaldi by candlelight, St George’s
St George’s is transformed into a candlelight auditorium taking us back to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Pieta in Venice where Antonio Vivaldi worked and performed many of his compositions.

200 candles will adorn the stage and the Bristol Ensemble along with the Fitzhardinge Consort will perform some of Vivaldi’s greatest works including the stunning Dixit Dominus and concertos for Sopranino Recorder, Two Cellos, Two Trumpets and of course Autumn from the Four Seasons.

Viva Vivaldi by candlelight – photo: Bristol Ensemble

November 9: GOAT, Hieroglyphic Being & more, Strange Brew
An event which combines electronic and organic sounds for an out of this world, truly unique sonic experience.

November 10 & 11: Blasé, The Bristol Loaf
A true showcase of the finest possible ways to prepare fish. With all the seafood on display caught on the Cornish coastline, you’ll be treated to an eight course feast freshly prepared by Hugo Harvey, ex head chef of The Pony.

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November 10-12: Asian Arts Agency presents New Soundz Festival, Arnolfini
This event will be the first chance for audiences to experience contemporary music from the South Asian diaspora featuring beatboxer, Jason Singh, sitar virtuoso Roopa Panesar and sarod player and composer, Soumik Datta alongside immersive experiences, talks and workshops in the lead up to Diwali 2023.

New Soundz Festival – photo: Asian Arts Agency

November 11: A Festival of Physics, HH Wills Physics Laboratory
UoB are hosting an event for physics lovers – whether you’re an expert or simply intrigued. Expect grand presentations, exhibitions, and activities you can try yourself.

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Until November 11: Choir Boy, Bristol Old Vic
“Everyone gets their chance to shine” (★★★★ The Guardian), in Choir Boy, which “excels in moments of intimacy” (★★★★ The Stage) and “hits all the right notes” (★★★★ The Observer). By the Academy Award-winning writer of Moonlight, it plays for just two more weeks. Don’t miss it.

Choir Boy – photo: Bristol Old Vic

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November 12: Miracles – James Phelan, Redgrave Theatre
A completely brand new, five star rated magic show – presented by the star of The Greatest Magician, James Phelan. Following 5 completely sold out nights of his show The Greatest Magician, James Phelan returns with an all new magic show that will leave you spellbound.

Miracles – photo: Redgrave Theatre

November 13: A Night of Comedy with Grief Encounter, The Redgrave Theatre
A comedy night which focuses on the theme of death. The show advocates for positive grieving and having fun despite the hard topic. All ticket sales go towards supporting bereaved children and their families.

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November 13: A night of comedy with Grief Encounter, Redgrave Theatre
Get ready for a night of fun and laughter to raise funds for bereaved children and their families.Grief Encounter is hosting its first ever comedy night in Bristol, at The Redgrave Theatre, Bristol. Join us on Monday, 13th November, in aid of bereaved children and young people, to laugh, remember and raise vital funds.

A night of comedy with a grief encounter – photo: Redgrave Theatre

November 14-22: Afrika Eye Festival, The Cube
The 17th annual festival is back. The festival opens by showcasing the award-winning documentary, WHO AM I NOT.

November 15: Syrian Cookery Class, Coexist Community Kitchen
During this three-hour class, Chef Sultana will teach you about the authentic flavours and traditions of Syria, followed by a group meal.

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November 15: Festival of Economics: The Social Cost of a Failing Childcare System, Watershed
As the nation’s childcare needs evolve, so too do the pressures facing nurseries, playgroups, childminders and other childcare settings – with long-term consequences for families and the labour force. This panel discussion brings together those at the frontline of policy study and development.

The social cost of a failing childcare system – photo: Bristol Ideas

November 16: Blazin’ Fiddles, Redgrave Theatre
From the Scottish highlands of Inverness, fiddle group Blazin’ Fiddles will tug on your heart strings.

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November 16: Festival of Economics: How Do We Build a Future Where Everyone Has a Home?, Watershed
With the ever-increasing demand for housing, how do we build enough homes sustainably and quickly? Carol Lewis, property editor of The Times and The Sunday Times, chairs this Festival of Economics panel discussion on the future of housing, with economist Kate Barker and academics Ed Atkins and Henry Overman.

How do we build a future where everyone has a home – photo: Bristol Ideas

November 17-19: Stick Man, Redgrave Theatre
The award winning theatrical adaptation of the hit book stick man is coming to Bristol, promising fun for all the family.

November 18: Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour, Redgrave Theatre
Follow others around the world. This compilation of short films from film-makers globally gives you the opportunity to see corners of the world you wouldn’t have expected to see.

November 19: Bristol Comic Con and Gaming Festival, Ashton Gate Stadium
A time to con-nect with others, comic con comes to Bristol this november. A time to dress up, buy merchandise, and have fun with others.

November 20: Atreyu, SWX
A band which unites 5 contrasting personalities, the American Metalcore band take a trip across the pond to SWX as part of their UK/EU tour.

November 21: TREAD: Frazer Ray (Hosted by A For Alpha), The Cube
The final event in a new series from Noods Levels, offering production advice from those currently at the top of their game.

November 22: Royal Television Society Futures Festival, M Shed
A free evening, aimed at those wishing to get into the television industry, with talks, discussions and networking.

November 23: Generator presents HAAL, The Louisiana
HAAL is a project that combines triphop/industrial/electronica music. The variety of genres in one helps to create an atmosphere like no other.

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November 23-January 6: Arabian Nights, Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Old Vic presents an Arabian Nights for modern times. With enchanting songs, captivating puppetry and a story of two heroic sisters at its core, this joyful, heartfelt production is the perfect treat for all the family this festive season. Tickets from just £10 (plus no-questions-asked concessions).

Arabian Nights – photo: Bristol Old Vic

November 24-26: Love Bites: Photography Exhibition, The Island
Launching on Friday, Oscar Wenman-Hyde explores the complexities of relationships and facets of love in his six-chapter exhibition.

SPONSORED
November 25: Henleaze Concert Society: Romantic Nights, Trinity Henleaze URC
For this second concert of our season, come and enjoy two of Rachmaninov’s cherished works performed by the Bristol Ensemble and soloist Paul Israel:

• Rachmaninov- Piano Concerto No.2 (arr. Iain Farrington)
• Rachmaninov- Symphonic Dances (arr. Iain Farrington)

November 25: Black Gold vinyl fair, Lost Horizon
This is the fourth instalment of the popular record fair at the colourful venue – expect tunes all day and digs galore.

November 26: Park Street Northern Soul, Four Quarters
The original ‘dance music’, the energetic and incredibly culturally significant genre gets a night all to itself at the Park Street arcade cum music venue.

November 27: Yazmin Lacey, Strange Brew
An incredibly special opportunity to see one of the leading figures in the new jazz/soul revival – a soothing Monday evening.

November 28: Red Planet: Revolution, The Wardrobe Theatre
The futuristic award nominated game theatre show Red planet is landing in Bristol. Allowing you to choose your path for the future of our planet and pick your fate, it looks to be an ‘out of this world’ experience.

November 29: The Charlatans Tickets, O2 Academy Bristol
Having been around for almost 30 years, and producing 13 top 40 albums in this time, The Charlatans come to the O2 Academy.

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November 30: Trip The Light Fantastic, Bristol Beacon
Witness a space reborn as sound and light collide in spectacular fashion in Trip the Light Fantastic. Produced by Paraorchestra in collaboration with Surgeons Girl, Charles Hazlewood, and Limbic Cinema, this extraordinary experience has been specially commissioned by Bristol Beacon to reconnect us to this newly-transformed space. Two of Bristol’s own – the pioneering Paraorchestra and celebrated electronic composer Surgeons Girl – create electro-orchestral alchemy with a dynamic visual response from AV experts at Limbic Cinema for this landmark opening night. This concert experience will be opened by a new commission from Paraorchestra composer Xia Leon Sloane, Prelude to a Beginning, a sensual and spatial work which will showcase the full extent of Bristol Beacon’s new astonishing natural acoustic. Join us and celebrate this radiant new beginning together – limited availability remains.

Trip The Light Fantastic – photo: Bristol Beacon

November 30: Paint & Unwind – Arctic sunset theme, Tobacco Factory Theatres
An opportunity to get creative. No need to be an expert, Lovely Brush provides a warm welcoming environment in their step-by-step workshop.

And coming soon…

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December 21: Shaun The Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas, St George’s
In this 30-minute festive special from Aardman, Shaun – the world’s favourite sheep – stars in his very own winter’s tale, accompanied by Bristol Ensemble.

Shaun’s Christmas excitement turns to dismay when a plan to get bigger stockings for the Flock leads to Timmy going missing. Can Shaun get Timmy back before he becomes someone else’s present?

Prepare for an explosive, high-wire ending as everyone learns the true value of Christmas!

The performance also includes a montage looking back at Shaun the Sheep’s origins in ‘Wallace & Gromit: A Close Shave’ up to his present day antics.

Kat Kleve joins the Bristol Ensemble to present this Christmas special which will include Christmas favourites such as Jingle Bells, Sleigh Ride and Dreaming of a White Christmas.

The Flight Before Christmas – photo: Bristol Ensemble

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January 20: Henleaze Concert Society: Mozart and Mendelssohn, Trinity Henleaze URC
Come and enjoy with us two great works performed by the Bristol Ensemble:

• Mozart Clarinet Quintet in A K.581
• Mendelssohn Octet in E flat major Op.20

Mendelssohn’s piece is beautifully uplifting, and Mozart’s is one of the most sublime and well-loved works in the chamber music repertoire for its exquisitely crafted melodic lines.

Mozart and Mendelssohn – photo: Henleaze Concert Society

Main photo: Bristol Ideas

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