Reviews of Arnolfini Arts. (Other) in Bristol (Gloucestershire).

Arnolfini Arts

0 Reviews

369 Comments

Other

Art center

16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA, United Kingdom

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Information of Arnolfini Arts, Other in Bristol (Gloucestershire)

On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.

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Open hours of Arnolfini Arts

Popular times

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Reviews of Arnolfini Arts

j. r.

They are a free Art Gallery accepting donations, and they have a lovely cafe attached. There is also a huge patio they have built where are you can get drinks next to the water. On a popular day When the weather is nice, you should expect a queue.

s. s.

Good show sandwiched between two not so much. Paula Rego is a respected ( rightly so) artist and produces well drawn poignant images. So great etchings on show would have liked a paining or two. Her sketchbooks were also lovely .catch it while you can.

C. C.

Enjoyable and interesting, the gallery is easy to navigate and curated well so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. A good balance between different art styles including films, and topical themes explored from a range of international artists.

A. T.

Well spaced modern art, not overwhelming. Tasteful and easy to walk through. Free! Great cafe and brewery attached to sit outside near the river

R. R.

An ever inspiring space! Art, bookshop, cafe and a beautiful view. Recommended for inspiration or contemplation!

C. W.

Arnolfini Art Gallery is currently showing Forest: Wake This Ground interesting exhibition on to 2nd October.

C. W.

Half term events were awesome, courtesy of Let’s Make Art. You could come in to make mandalas, no booking required and it wasn’t too busy. Facilitators were friendly, welcoming and encouraging, but not too in your face! Lots of resources and when there was a lunch break we hadn’t finished so we popped into the library in the gallery (this is all on the second floor) and used the art cart with a whole load of kids quietly working away on their creations. Magazines to cut up, millions of pens and crayons and loads of art books to be inspired by for the older ones. About two hours of entertainment, all for free/donation only. We also had a look at the video installation next door which had giant bean bags and a hyperactive four year old was fascinated and watching for five minutes which was great. A quick spin round the downstairs galleries and the book shop ended our tour of the Arnolfini gallery, and we’ll be back again next school holidays if they have more events, well worth the trip and the donation.

S. H.

Wonderful place to visit if you have some free time in Bristol. The gallery offers a wonderful exhibition which changes every now and again. They have a wonderful book store and a brilliant cafe, serving food and drinks. I feel Arnolfini is very community driven, giving it a very warm and welcoming atmosphere.

C. M.

Really nice place with i interesting expositions. My children loved it....they can draw with lots of materials :)....Nice videos with couches and puffs to relax. Personally, I loved the atmosphere, calm, creative and really inspirational.

L. J.

Great place for a drink and something to eat by the side of the water. Family of four with various dietary requirements and we all had great food. Outside music choices were very cool! Highly recommended.

A. G.

It's entirely fine. Been the a comedy night here and have nothing to really complain of. The beer and wine selection is rather poor but it's more of an intermission concession stand than anything else. It can also be rather pricey as well.

K. M.

A lovely space that is well used. You’re able to enjoy the presenting exhibit without much strain!

C. B.

On a chilled out day in Bristol, relaxing strolling along the banks of the river we were looking for a warming soup to quell our hunger. Bizarrely, almost right away, we found this lovely little cafe and they were serving a vegetable soup. And delicious it was too. Very popular cafe with people waiting for tables. Staff very busy, friendly and helpful and a good ambience. Lovely food coming out and all a bit different from the run of the mill meals you usually see. It is attached to a book shop/club/ art centre and there were talented girls doing dance numbers for the public.

A. J.

A brilliant app to order food which is delivered quickly and with a smile. All the tables are evenly and safely spaced with some under cover. A beautiful view of the harbour and indoor toilets available (you need a ticket from your food/drink order to use them.)

Z. A.

Have been an Arnolfini visitor for decades. Usually some good exhibitions on, and great for a free wander before dinner.

D. W.

A very interesting art gallery with several exhibitions. When I visited, there was an exhibition on Assembly which illustrates the challenges of modern-day politics including democracy and the protest in Paris. There was also an exhibition of photographs taken across Iran on the ground floor. The entry is free. Probably 2 hours would be more than enough to see the entire place, unless you plan to patronise the cafe and the bookstore.

L. S.

Free gallery with amazing exhibitions accessible to all. The café is also lovely!

I. B. (.

This place is fantastic, a great art gallery and worth a visit. The city of Bristol is a really interesting place to visit and there is so much to see and do. The Arnolfini is located next to Bristol's Floating harbour and is surrounded by lots of other interesting, visitor attractions.

S. B.

Great gallery nothing much happening but some wonderful events planned for February, really nice shop.

E. D.

Fantastic local art gallery with a nice book shop, helpful staff, and a good range of exhibitions. You only pay what you wish. There’s always a good range of abstract art, political, photography, and sometimes a combination of all three. The café is also a nice open resting spot that doesn’t mind you sitting with a book for a while.

B. M.

I went here with the school, it was very interesting. It's a place with wide spaces, very clean. It's usually very popular, depending on what they exhibit. You can go both alone and with the family, as you prefer. Friendly and polite staff.

B. R.

Excellent venue, especially enjoyable if you are going to see your favourite band or artist. The place is not too big, but they did a good job at using the space. The prices for drinks are a bit higher than your average pub.

A. C.

Arnolfini arts was opened 60 years ago and has since hosted many exhibitions, many of which have been impressive. The interior is well-kept and staff is present at every level. There is a cafe and a store.

L. B.

Amazing Art work, Frank Bowling - Land of many waters. Stunning!!! A mindful way of looking at the Art work as well. Staff very helpful, informative and friendly.

C.

Interesting, inspiring photography exhibition, cool cafe /bar. Excellent coffee and cinnamon bun and cider. Fantastic book shop bought some cute mini penguin books

G. L.

Fabulous location, right on the Quayside for an interesting walk too with various food options nearby. Enjoyed the current Stephen Gill exhibition.

E. C.

Went to see the Jo Spence exhibition and loved it. Only 3 rooms open currently but easily spent an hour in there. Plus a lovely book/gift shop!

L. G.

Saw an excellent exhibition and the boy had fun with the girls

A. W.

Wonderful art space, lovely cafe and really friendly staff

s. s.

Warm friendly place .Welcomed in to participate in an activity with the kids .Nice coffee.

A. D.

Great exhibitions. The Polly Barden exhibition was amazing - very emotional. Cafe is decent too. Visited the new exhibition linked with forests around the world was fantastic

O. C.

Bristol’s best city centre spot for waterside views at sunset - you know it’s summer when these walls are covered with people sat about relaxing after a day at work. It is also has a brilliant bar and cafe supporting the gallery venue. Art is not my thing, but their outside space is ace.

K. S.

Lovely cafe, great coffee and cakes. Didn't visit the art gallery as here for the harbour festival.

W. M.

Great views. Buzzing atnosohere. Possibly one of the best places to drink on a hot sunny day and watch sun go down. You can go to the off license and sit on the wall of your looking for a cheaper option.

J. S. G.

Popular cultural venue right in the heart of Bristol. A good taste of everything: nice (and busy!) Cafeteria, interesting bookshop and a shared study area! Very good atmosphere! Well done!

E. C.

An interesting space for art. The is not always an exhibition to see, staff are a little indifferent. Free to use study space is a good addition

J. A.

Great space and the art was really engaging for our daughter and us. Also really great little bookshop

J. A.

Create a free and beautiful air conditioned children's art exploration sessions running every day. During the summer holidays.

S. L.

Lovely afternoon making clay figures with my granddaughter. The staff were great very friendly and helpful.

M. T.

3/5 for the cafe. Very overpriced food for the quality (for example: £6 for an egg in a roll...). Friendly-enough staff.

S. K.

Great galley space for an art exhibition. Love my time there.

桜.

Always worth the journey to visit! Great exhibitions and always changing things up!

B. F.

Extremely interesting display of Stephen Gill's photography going on right now. Well worth the visit before it ends. I spent over an hour there, far longer than I'd planned. You can book in advance but my tickets weren't checked on entry. The coffee shop downstairs is very good, and the gift shop has reasonable prices and a nice selection of related products. Masks aren't required.

J. R.

I make a point of visiting the gallery every time I visit Bristol, as I love art. The various exhibitions I have seen over the years have been really interesting, with some being thought provoking and even challenging. In August 2021 There was an exhibition of art that was produced by a collective of homeless artists that was thought provoking. The staff are welcoming and are really approachable. I always enjoy the exhibitions. The staff are always really helpful and are happy to answer your questions. The food in the cafe is always really good. The loos are always really clean. It is not worth going to Bristol, without visiting the Arnolfini, while you are there.

S.

Don't know much (anything) about art centres. As a complete novice it seemed welcoming and accessible.

R. R.

Cool build with a cafe, study area, bookshop all on the ground floor. Upstairs are the galleries. Not a bad area for study with free WiFi, but no windows so would not recommend for long periods.

S. B.

Three floors of gallery space right on the harbour. Free to enter, toilets upstairs.

R. C.

Great space for individuals, groups and families, easy to locate big open spaces bright rooms, great and varied arts, a shop and an eatery and a creative room, has it all really

J. H.

Great art space for contemporary and often challenging art. Large gallery spaces over three floors. Generally exhibitions are free - donations welcomed but not asked for, {which is great if you, like me, are on a limited budget} Superb bookshop. Great cafe. At time of writing {June 2021} covid rules on distancing /booking advance tickets/cleanliness are managed brilliantly. Staff are friendly and welcoming.

S. (.

Lovely place to chill and have a few drinks! Great scenery and surroundings.

J. H.

Really enjoyed recent impromptu visit to Arnolfini Arts. Lovely book/gift shop with inspirational items to purchase. Viewed the Paula Rego exhibition. Very very thought provoking due to the breadth of work included. Emotional response to the exhibition which stays with you after leaving the gallery...

C. C.

Surprised by the good quality of exhibitions put on here, you can feel the thoughts and efforts behind them. For those who love contemporary art, don't miss this spot.

N. H.

Great, free (asked for a donation), Art gallery, showing the work of Contemporary Artists from all over the world. Lovely bar attached on the ground floor.

F. T.

Simple and elegant art gallery with really nice cafe, exhibition area, theatre and library. I recommend check out periodically since they have plenty of events :)

D. M.

Fantastic spot for coffee in the day time with indoor and outdoor seating. Outdoor seating has beautiful views of the harbourside. Great venue to grab an alcoholic drink into the evening too, good access to town!

E. B.

Super place beside the docks in Bristol. Loved the Grayson Perry exhibition and excellent café. Easy to park.

S. D.

I have just seen the Paula Rego show. I couldnt make it to The Tate show, so was over joyed to come across it in Bristol. She is an amazing artist, I absolutely loved it. Thanks Arnolfini :)))))

C. B.

Excellent Stephen Gill exhibition and gorgeous book shop.

A. H.

Visited the excellent Frank Bowling exhibition, which was a treat. Covid app and hand gel on the way in and a nice friendly greeting at the door. The exhibition of large abstract expressionist paintings was over two floors and four rooms and encompassed many recent works. The galleries weren't crowded and whilst I was there everyone worn masks. The only reason I have given 4 rather than 5 stars is because of the poor lightning, especially in the smaller upstairs galleries. Conservation is always sited as the reason but I'm afraid with the lighting advance we have now and the vastly improve light fastness of modern acrylics I think it a poor excuse. Just returned from the Arnolfini's excellent Paula Rego exhibition having taken a small group of artists with a learning disability there. We had a lovely greeting from the front of house staff and this was matched by the young invigilators of the exhibition. A great show well worth a visit, it's really nice to see the Arnolfini in full swing again, hence my upgraded rating.

E. W.

A place to go and wander for a while, the reading room is great for reading and hiding from the rain.

L. G.

Recently attended the Grayson Perry exhibition there - thoroughly enjoyed it

P. B.

Great atmosphere, but, difficult to find a seat due to small groups occupying larger tables. Due to social distancing this made sitting tricky. Pre 2020 this would have been fine. A shame for customers and for takings, I would imagine.

J. R.

A great Bristol institution. Keep an eye on the amazing events and arts diary. Images from Saatchi Other Art Fair

A. R. L.

Always lovely to visit

E. B.

Great gallery next to the river. The Chantal Joffe exhibition is fantastic.

M. L.

Enlightening exhibition "Still I rise". Delicious tea.. lovely ambience.

E. A.

Arnolfini Arts is a great place to enjoy modern art exhibitions in central Bristol. I have fond memories of the Richard Long show in the spacious galleries a few years ago. There is a cafe with both indoor and outer seating by Bristol Harbourside. The Arnolfini's bookshop is excellent - I remember we bought a huge animal picture book for my granddaughter that she absolutely loves.

T. L.

Great exhibition of photography by Stephen Gill.

S. B.

A great artist at a great venue in Bristol - always worth a visit to check out some awesome art and design.

S. T.

Fascinating exhibition thoroughly enjoyed the visit

G. A.

The Paula Rego exhibition is a knock out. Very impressive. Excellent photos of single mothers also on show there.

S. P.

Really only came to go to the shop. I'd been coveting a blackwing pencil for MONTHS. I've now got one. Couldn't be happier. (Aside from the much coveted blackwing pencil they also sell a great range of books, postcards and quirky stationery. Staff nice and cheery too).

K. H.

Great place to go for a coffee and cake/light meal as you wander around the harbour. Always interesting exhibitions on, and a decent shop there too, great for gift ideas. Good selection of vegan treats in the cafe too, lovely coffee/beers and it's a perfect location. It can get quite busy but that's to be expected when you tick all the boxes.

k. t.

Steven Gill retrospective well worth a couple of hours of your time

T. L.

Great gallery, always have a look when we're in Bristol!

S. W.

Always enjoyable to visit a nicely curated space and the ARNOLFINI always sounds expensive, but is in fact a FREE contemporary art gallery. If you dig a little deeper into he roster you may enjoy screenings, events and the bookshop is a slice of heaven with some best sellers and some rares including art journals. There is a ccessable library and quiet space with provision for sketching which sometimes has kids makes.💛💛💛💛💓💓💓

K. H.

Great cake and cuppa, confusion over out order meant a delay

A. Y.

I had the pleasure of visiting the space recently. The interior design is very clean & minimalistic - complimentary to atmosphere. I also purchased a sketchbook & photo book from the book store. Everything is easily accessible & the staff were friendly. It's great to see art & creativity flourishing in the city of Bristol. Overall my visit was short, but definitely worthwhile!

S. C.

A great space to enjoy the art world. Good gift/book shop. Always a pleasure to visit when at Bristol. Well informed staff and very helpful.

M. F.

I hadn't been there for some time and it was nice to have a look around the art gallery with my daughter & we also had a look around the book shop before we headed for home.

P. D. T.

Its a beautiful museum to visit there is a cafe which sales great tasty food. And the art work is really awesome to see.

M. L.

Good coffee on the harbourside. Stick around for the Paula Rego exhibition!

P. L.

The Paula Rego exhibition is excellent. Well worth a visit. On until the end of May.

J. A.

I do love everything they have to offer! A friendly cafe, a book shop you can browse through for ages and a lovely shared workspace. I have attended some great club nights here, it seems there hasn't been much in terms of art exhibitions though as if late

F. M.

Excellent environment. Ideal to hang out with family and friends and also count with a front room quiet perfect for reading and studying. It's also a cultural and entertainment venue with a permanent agenda of exhibitions, theatre and music. Love its location just next to the harbour with a beautiful view.

J. E.

Again and again one of the museums with some of the most interesting exhibitions of modern art. Great shop with loads of interesting books about all different categories of art and great ideas for extravagant gifts. From children, over nice gimmicks for adults, to academic studies. Coffeeshop in one of the best locations of Bristol, directly at the basin of the floating harbour.

R. B.

Interesting place...named after the olive oil king...giovanni Arnolfini...whose marriage is celebrated in Jan Van Eyck s, iconic picture...its an old warehouse, a monumental structure built in 1831..it predates fascist Italy's most famous of the EUR buildings particularly in shares aspects with the travertine marble, Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (1938-1943).. it seems to lead the way ...There is one Modernist building that stands out in the centre of Bristol. Often overlooked despite or because of its size – it sits low down beside the river well below the surrounding hills – The Dickinson Robinson Group (DRG) building was the first big office block in the city. Also known as 1 Redcliff Street, it was designed as the headquarters of the Dickinson Robinson paper company by their Group Architects in 1961 and completed in 1963.

T. M. S.

Lovely view

V. K.

This is a great venue for drinks and snacks and of course for art. It's a nice place to take small kids or visitors to Bristol of all ages. For me the best part is the bookshop. There is always a great selection of different books, magazines, games, jewellery and cards.

U. V.

There is a place which can be called “library” to study and read the books portrayed there. Comfortable and silent.

R. M.

Great location, with harbour views. Very good restaurant serving home made food and artisan teas and coffees all day, closes at 5pm. There is a gallery, but when I visited it was not being used for an exhibition, it was being used as a meeting place, with books, Wi-Fi, newspapers, etc, plenty of seating and tables. There is a very good art bookshop here, great selection of art, graphic and film/theatre books, with seating area. Recommended for breakfast, lunch or a browse in a relaxed area.

m. k.

Good balance of challenging and accessible artworks. The book shop had some nice stuff.

P. G.

Always interesting to visit, with good modern art in many forms, the Arnolfini Gallery now has "The Front Room" - a large room with tables, chairs and lots of interesting art books and magazines. You can stay here as long as you like, read what you like, buy food and drink from the cafe or bring your own (!!) to consume whilst you browse. This is a great addition to this great gallery.

S. S.

An excellent gallery that hosts brilliant contemporary art exhibitions. It also has an art book reading library, a well stocked shop (sooo dangerous) and a great but pricey cafe/restaurant.

J. B.

Such a welcoming place. Great for having a drink, coffee, tea or something a bit stronger, with family and friends. There is also somewhere to go if you want to study, read or do some work. On top of that there is also a book shop. This place also has regular exhibitions and shows. 😊

t. w.

Great gallery in a very attractive setting. Free to enter, great exhibitions. Cafe had no food when I was last there and I waited a long time for my coffee. Oh a brilliant book shop.

L. M.

Interesting and varied menu. Food is good quality and not too pricey. Sometimes has too many people with laptops taking up whole tables by themselves while they sip a coffee, but it's understandable for the nice venue.

H. D.

Excellent exhibition. Relaxed place to be in.

L. D.

Great harbour side cafe/bar - perfect for summer afternoons sat outside in the sunshine. Decent selection of beer including Bristol Beer Factory. Can get busy in summer

O. G.

At the moment the arnolfini is a great place to get sh!t done. The downstairs exhibition room has been turned into a windowless box with a few tables where people can come along an use. In the room there are shelves and shelves of books on all aspects of the arts to read) if your not there to get sh!t done). There is constantly stuff going in, so check the listings. The cafe is very nice as well with friendly staff.

T. T.

Great co working space with WiFi and Charger and FREE

E. D.

Lovely cafe with the best hot chocolate I've ever had! The book shop had a lovely range of books and the 'front room' was a lovely space to chill, eat and read from their impressive range of books.

D. F.

Great use of this historic building. Inside and outside was good use of space and I could imagine people sitting around in the sunshine. It was winter when we visited. Just to say I didn't really understand or appreciate the art on display on our visit but I'm sure it means something to others.

V. W.

Book shop very good and helpful. cafe terrible not clean coffee left sittiing and cold when bought to table qusant? (Spelt wrong) Awful..

W. S.

Staff were polite and outgoing. Nice range if drinks from the Bristol Beer Factory Outdoor seating was nice and covered

Y. A.

Nice modern art. Just only 2 art galleries and 2 sharing space fit in this place.

S. A.

Lovely gallery cafe with lots of seating outside when it's hot. Brunch menu is tasty and good value. Cakes change regularly. Coffee and wifi both idea for remote working.

s. d.

Great concert venue with super location and facilities. Staff really helpful too. 🙂

P. C.

Free entry modern art gallery. Exhibitions that will delight and challenge. Family and education activities, talks and more. Shop for art books and gifts and a cafe and bar with waterside location that is a lovely place to relax.

A. B.

Nice and perfect for a cup of coffe or just a chilled drink.The lime cake was also good ! Not so crowded so ideal for peeps who just wanna have a chilled evening moment. Staff are nice and helpful.

A. F.

I recommend for a calm gallery in Bristol, not very many people there, and we didn't have to book

L. S.

Just been on an interesting 'In Between Time' experience. The cafe is lovely. Great exhibition on at the moment. Well worth checking out the bookshop.

L. B.

A great gallery, all I'd ask is that it were bigger. They have some very worthwhile exhibitions going on most all of the time and it's in a really handy location. The layout gives a very airy, light feel and they have a nice cafe too which provides free water. Sometimes there is even cucumber in it.

C. C.

I really like it here, great book and journal shop, exhibitions can be conceptual, but does have to artist such as Grayson Perry exhibiting. Worth a visit if your down on Bristol harbour.

B. F.

So nice to be able to see art again. Arnolfini is a great spot to do it. Not too big, not too small

0.

one of the places to see contemporary art in bristol. lots of interesting events, workshops and talks going on. friendly staff. good hot chocolate and coffee at the bar. there is a bookstore as well.

C. D.

Nice cafe and lovely gallery

m.

Set up very well for outside drinks under cover on docks edge . toilets added to outside space aswell.Table service was good and quick.

D. P.

A great gallery with a great set of exhibitions. Very much part of the creative hub of Bristol

D. H.

Massively enjoyed the Stephen Gill exhibition as well as his talk and recommend a visit to anyone!

R. S.

I love Arnolfini. I donate every time I can. If you love contemporary art, in Bristol, that's the place to go. There is also a nice cafe which serves also beers and you can drink them out in the sun, on summer.

M. K.

Very interesting place for modern art. I saw a live music performance and also I liked the current exhibition. Not a boring museum. It's worth visiting this place when coming to Bristol.

L. J.

It is an amazing venue that always makes me feel alive,because of how busy it is when we go there. The food is decent if you are looking for a quick bite to eat whilst enjoying the sun and view.

S. Z.

Arnolfini is a gorgeous and beautiful place where you can you can have fabulous time

R. A.

You can just walk in her off the street bear in mind they hope your donate £5 to view the art on two floors. Once you're done with that there is bar onsite but not open due to covid currently.

B. T.

Galleries not open on any floor with signage only advising they were closed on the ground floor. Book shop made up for this somewhat however better signage would've been appreciated.

B. R.

Great food .... would have been 5 stars if the waitress was friendly. Would go again ... and hope for a better service! Update ...we did go again and there was completely different staff! So much friendlier! Shame that parts of the menu changed too! I'll keep going I like this place!

N. H.

Nice and modern place for contemporary arts in the center of city. It has also a huge reading room, book shop and a coffee store with nice music and atmosphere. Its a place to be..

P. H.

It's hard to review an art gallery, but they consistently host brilliant exhibitions.

R. W.

The Arnolfini is something of a local treasure. It has been on the waterfront since 1975, when much of Bristol's floating harbour was all but derelict. It has always attracted comment, much of it complimentary, as well as the 'It might be art, but it's bloody poor welding' kind. Pretty much everything can and does happen there - art, sculpture, dance, film (sadly not as much as there used to be!) and golf! The golf was amusing enough, if a bit more mundane than I was expecting, but the outstanding exhibition of the moment is that of Ian Hamilton Finlay's printed works. Finlay was, to my mind, one of the most interesting and important artist/poets of the 20th century. This exhibition concentrates upon his printed concrete poetry and has been curated very well indeed. Our expectations of a gallery generally include a few large images spaced out in a much larger space. Finlay's printed works are rather small, often very small. I expect it took courage to display them as they are on the tall walls of a big gallery space. These are intimate things, like postcards and greetings cards, they speak to individuals rather than audiences. I was instantly engaged by Finlay's wit and his extraordinary imagination and delighted to see that, all around the gallery, other visitors were similarly absorbed in little worlds of their own with the work. Also great to see what I believe is almost the entire output of the Wild Hawthorn Press in one place. Finlay worked in all kinds of media - stone, wood, cloth, garden features, metal and actual concrete (!) in collaboration with a range of craftspeople. Thankfully some of those other media may be seen in the gardens around St Georges, Brandon Hill in commissioned works installed around 2002. Well worth a visit because what is missing at the Arnolfini is a sense of Finlay's extraordinary range - this is not a criticism, this show works really well as it is.

D. F.

Grayson Perry was great but there aren’t enough good exhibitions to make this the arts centre it’s supposed to be. It appears that the Arnolfini is morphing more into a “so-so” cafe bar in an already saturated market. It needs to present more international and also local community artists on a more frequent basis to avoid becoming yet another cafe on the Harbourside.

A. F.

Legendary arts centre and galleries, enriching the cultural life of they city.

D. P.

I have been here a couple of times, but only for the bookshop, which is small but filled with amazing things. A great selection of arty and alternative titles. An unusual selection not to be found in most stores.

T. H.

Perfect sun spot by the harbour for an after work drink. The gallery also has interesting events and music plus food stall on summer weekends.

s. H.

This is a very good location for the gallery next to the river. The team on the door were very lovely and informative. The gallery was very covid secure and felt open.

E. C.

Get your mitts on an Aperol Spritz, Then coolly saunter down to the water. Sit or recline with a glass o’ crisp wine Or if you’re there all year just chill with a beer. Arnolfini won’t be a meany, You can pick any drink, And be merry in a blink, Wander the book shop, Have a little think. Order some grub, (They do nuts in a tub), Make some new friends, It’s the community hub.

M. P.

Beer lovely and food too, but lack of toilets is terrible for a place so popular... 2 cubicles only between male and female is not great.. Get some portaloos!

S. W.

Super friendly staff, relaxed but smart atmosphere. Slightly arty bookshop. Good coffee, free wifi a little shaky but good mobile coverage.

L. V.

Loved the kid play area but I wasn't amazed by its exhibition

W. B.

I love the Arnolfini, it has been the cultural cornerstone of Bristol since my childhood. It is a glorious space, possibly under-served, by the recent refurbishment that has robbed the space of natural light. Right now there is a limited programme, seemingly a drought of funding has halted the curatorial programme. I hope sense is seen and a new season of blockbuster shows, and fascinating tidbits of obscure brilliance continues again.

T. S.

The arts centre has a lot of interesting events throughout the year and there is a good auditorium for lectures/screenings. Bar closes fairly early.

B. W.

A wonderful venue. I've seen a performance and an art show there. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. Cafe is a little expensive but it has a great view.

O.

Great arts venue with good exhibition space, theatre, bookshop and a very good cafe/bar including outside seating in Bristol Harbour

H.

Hard working just to get a drink as payment issues with the wi fi but the staff did their best to sort and we're helpful despite being very busy.

P. N.

I met my partner here so I just have to give it five stars! Seriously, lovely place, only downside is limited access to toilets when only the bar is open.

A. F.

In a great spot right along the water front. The menu has lots of great choices but disappointed that I couldn't get a coffee with Coconut or Almond milk. 😢

S.

Nice place, some interesting galleries but perhaps the art is a bit too leftfield for me, lol. The cafe/bar is great

F.

Nice gallery with a few of the best free exhibitions I've seen over the past few years. Would recommend as part of any visit to Bristol.

G. D.

Unfortunately the exhibition at present was the dullest one I've seen. Some good craft beers available in the bar restaurant though 😁

G. G.

The cafe is nice and they have interesting events occasionally. They don't seem to have an exhibition space for art anymore which is a shame.

C. C.

Saw Black Men Walking performance. Great show. Helpful, warm friendly staff. Bar staff very knowledgeable. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

A.

Ah great exhibition this time! Had be hooked the whole way round. Then I spent some time in the wee bar next door doing some journalling. Perfect atmosphere!

M. B.

It was a shame when Arnolfini lost their funding for regular exhibitions, but hopefully that will change soon. It is certainly one of the most important venues for art in Bristol.

J. M.

Came here for the recent Grayson Perry exhibition, was really impressed. Good location, overlooking the harbour, and seems to be a real commitment to culture and the arts within Bristol.

T. H.

Been here a few times for exibitions and events. It's a good space with a good shop and cafe/bar. Always worth keeping an eye out for what's on.

C.

Really enjoyed my visit! The exhibits were very interesting

E. G.

A great art gallery in Bristol with a very interesting programme.

o. c.

Well organised arts venue with a varied program

I. S. A.

Very creative area, hipster and cool. The books in the bookshop are mostly about feminism, but there are other interesting topics as well.

D. W.

The Arnolfini is one of those places that mixes all sorts of things that might interest you, and does it well. Predoinantly a centre for Art, it has a substantial bookshop and a very good café-cum-restaurant (coffe and cake mid-morning or pre-theatre meals in the evenings), it's home to an ever-changing selection of installations, seminars, and films. My most recent visit was to see a 1927 Russian science fiction film (!), something I probably wouldn't have seen anywhere else. Check out the website, there's almost certainly something to catch your eye.

s. p.

Very nice, on the river, there arebplace to sit on a table and place to sit on the ground with your food and beer. Very good food and drinks. Beautiful shop and very well organised show

O. S.

Got one nice exhibition but not loads of exhibition options as the exhibition area is very small but has a nice atmosphere and shop has lots of interesting books.

C. H.

An interesting place, part library, part cafe and part community centre / meeting rooms. We used it as a venue for an event and mostly it worked really well.

y. c.

Staff pleasant... Coffee is good :) prices are slightly over... But apart from that its a good coffee shop :) cant speak of the food, considering i havent had any since the remodel :)

L. G. (.

Amazing place with a full bunch of interesting books... it's exactly the kind of shop I love to discover... fits perfectly to Bristol...

M. H.

Another Art space in Bristol. M Shed is opposite it so if you visit Arnolfini head straight to M Shed afterwards

J. D.

Only the cafe open during January but that was a lovely spot to stop for friendly service and a snack, even had interesting vegan sandwich and cake option, I am cows milk intolerant!

J. C.

A lovely venue. The café/bar on the ground floor is great, made much better by being able to take drinks out onto the harbourside.

S. W.

Arnolfini gallery was founded in Clifton(1961) by Jeremy Rees and moved to Queens square(1970s) and its present location( Bristol's waterfront) in 1975. The name of the gallery is taken from Jan van Eyck's 15th-century painting The Arnolfini Portrait,a 1434 oil painting by Netherlandish painter Jan van Eyck, was to depict the Italian merchant Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini and his wife). Peoples of different age, race and countries come to Arnolfini not only to enjoy the arts and music but also to entertained with the natural beauty of Bristol water front. It is a vibrant place and suitable to enjoy, relax and have a couple of drinks sitting on the edge of the water front. There are also a lots of bars, restaurant and caffes around Arnolfini.

V. A.

Such a lovely venue. Great bar service, although busy the toilets were clean. Really enjoyed being a tourist for the day.

B. W.

Amazing free exhibitions here (most recently Grayson Perry), not too overcrowded. Lovely bookshop & cafe too.

J. S.

Very interesting art gallery which I had never been to before and I enjoyed the activities here as well especially the amphitheater which was very interesting and I would come back here again in the future.

J. N.

Always such interesting exhibitions and great coffee in the café.

W. G.

Always interesting exhibitions

M. V.

Lovely building with a decent coffee shop. Art gallery had a lot on display, however, the exhibition wasn't to my liking.

J. C.

Grayson Perry art exhibition. Very thought provoking. Set over three levels and free..so good value. Arnolfini has a cafe too. Wheelchair access and loos.

S. A.

Nice gallery and place to study or read. The bar is perfect to chill out with friends and the outside location is amazing when it is sunny

L. F.

Free modern art gallery, worth a look when visiting Bristol, always changing. lovely cafe overlooking the docks.

J. S.

Very friendly staff and wonderful space for a concert!

O. N.

Great gallery space with good shows & good bookshop. (Neighbouring bar yet to be tried) Needless to say, great location too.

N. H.

Nice coffee here & even better if it is warm enough to sit outside. Great spot, good choice on menu.

N.

Grayson Perry exhibition was great but Arnolfini don't secure interesting and relevant exhibitions often enough. Great space with vast potential that needs to be optimised.

T.

I'm very happy this place is open again. 2 excellent shows to kick off. Chantal Joffe & Hassan Hajjaj.

A. E.

Great gallery If you did not see Grayson Perry go now !!! Wonderful location on the dock Great cafe too and interesting outreach work as well as exhibitions

M. E.

The cafe/ bar is great with good atmosphere and selection. The bookstore is also lovely containing a great selection.

M. S.

Great gallery, also home to art students. Art displayed here is usually quite out of the ordinary but nonetheless interesting and provocative.

J. I.

I go for the superb bookshop which has some lovely books, they also hold some interesting exhibitions plus they have an excellent restaurant.

J. W.

When you are in Bristol this is a brilliant arts venue to chill out - cafe food is good and healthy - the bookshop is enlightening!

G. H.

visited the Arnolfini to see Daphne Wrights exhibition, it was amazing, astounding works of art, open tidy space, not too cluttered, easily accessible

S. H.

I always rememeber this place as a child, when my grandmother and I would go every Saturday, it was always very interesting. I came recently and learnt that their funding was cut and was quite empty :( I hope they get their funding back next year!

P. A.

Great bar and restaurant! Especially good fun in summer when there are lots of stalls outside.

J. L.

Good location next to the docks. Large outdoor seating area. And, it's all part of a large gallery.

T. H.

Wonderful art gallery / museum. Great cafe. And waterfront seating for those sunny days!

A. G.

popped in for a quick cake and coffee, nice and fresh, that is what you want from coffee and cake. sadly no exhibition was on due to a change in exhibit

g. s.

This is a great gallery! Always has some really interesting exhibitions one and is free to get in! Always worth a visit

L. C.

Nice location, quite space for reading and using WiFi, good collection of art mags/books, needs more interactive exhibit

E. B.

Great open and comforting big space for a break of the busy area in Bristol city were you can stop to work read, get online and recharge your phone or computer.

T. K.

Comfortable seating upstairs in the library style room. Nice place and lovely setting by the harbour.

G. S.

Always something interesting and worth popping in for. If the art doesn't take your fancy the cafe/bar has plenty to offer.

S. C.

Great gallery, exhibitions updated quarterly or sooner. Excellent bookshop and nice bar for summer drinks.

P. T.

Mega friendly bartender, mega selection and affordable

J. B.

Amazing gallery in great location. Always have interesting exhibitions. Great book shop and café.

K. K.

Good place. Nothing special from my aspect I'm afraid but friendly, can host a lot of people outside too.

H. L.

Great book shop for art. Nice cafe. Really for the art connneisseur (except the cafe of course).

M. M.

Night View from inside

A. B.

Very creative place! A must see in Bristil

T. M.

Tidy bar with accommodating staff. Would get 5 stars if it sold at least 1 dark ale.

H. C.

Wonderful space. Grayson Perry exhibition on at the time. Friendly staff and an area for children. Real sense of community

R. D.

Such an interesting place, great displays and book shop. Food and drinks great.

A. H.

Amazing toliet stop when you are sitting out in the sun and need a pee! Don't know about the drinks or food, haven't ever been in for that but used the loo loads 😂

M. W.

I visited for a conference and really appreciated the space. Especially afterwards at the bar and during the breaks exploring the art works. Excellent spot.

J. H.

Lovely bookshop with an eclectic range focussing on art and culture, along with good food and drink in a waterside location.

D. B.

This is a Bristol treasure. I have seen great poetry here, been to many exhibitions, and also just love sitting outside with a coffee.

A.

Can't visit Bristol without going to the Arnolfini, never disappointed yet.

D. P.

Thought provoking art, family activities, and once had a calculator on a plinth. Did I mention the cardboard space shuttle pill packet with the Dutch guy rapping about Lariam? That happened.

E. G.

Great museum although a bit small, lovely cafe and brilliant to sit outside in good weather

I. G.

The Bristol Harbour Festival . July 2st and 22nd 2018 held around the inner Bristol Harbour and the Arnolfini Gallery...A weekend of eating, drinking and messing around in boats ...attracting over 200,000 visitors.

J. U.

Nice staff, good food and drink, but the ambience is not very cosy. The seating and tables are quite functional and not very comfortable.

H. P.

Brilliant exhibition and wonderful place to visit

J. M.

Great centre home to lots of different art displays. Good place to visit if you are in the city.

D. W.

Grayson Perry exhibition. Excellent Gallery.

A. B.

Interesting exhibitions and performances, well-stocked bookshop, friendly staff, tasty if pricey café/bar/restaurant.

H. K. C.

lovely building with friendly staff wish their was an exhibition back on but looking forward to seeing what they do after their break.

M. G.

Lovely community gallery

A. D.

I love this place. Artwork frequently changes. Cafe is brilliant. Nice atmosphere on the harbourside. Really good customer service.

A. S.

A great place for the arts, food and refreshments.

G. C.

Relaxed atmosphere. Outside seating. Relatively cheap beer in town at 4 per pint

a. h.

Great venue! Cinema/performance space very comfortable. Enjoyed the film and talk

A. S.

They have lovely coffee tea rooms here, enjoyed a leisurely morning with the papers and pleasant company

M. B.

Bristol arts institution. The bar / cafe has been done out since last time I visited, so no big long tables, which is a shame.

K. S.

Always interesting stuff going on - and a relaxed cafe.

J. Z.

Lovely trendy cafe with excellent food - try the salmon and celeriac fishcakes - delicious!

R. R.

Very helpful staff. Beautiful free extibition on Frank Bowling

T. P.

Bristol arts institution! Great exhibitions , community engagement and a lovely bar for meeting people

A. D.

A little gem. Good beers and ciders. Gorgeous cake. Friendly welcoming staff

P. S.

We had a lovely time looking round a few exhibs

C. P.

Lovely independent artsy cafe/bar with a beautiful area outside to sit overlooking the harbourside

P. O.

Lovely space. Great bookshop. Super interactive light installation to partake in. Would re

P. B.

Museum is closed at this moment but the cafe is a good place to have lunch.

J. B.

A nice place, good cafe. The rest depends on what is being exhibited in the galleries at the time you visit.

J. G.

A great space for art exhibitions - a good cafe & shop, too.

W. W.

Great place in the summer to drink outside and absorb the view. Live musicoutside on occasion gives this place a European feel

E.

In a great spot by the river and with a lively cafe/bar. We saw a video exhibition on the sea and it was incredible

J.

Went to the Grayson Perry exhibition. It was well done. Bristol should make more of the Arnolfini.

A. E. L. M.

The roasted vegetables salad and quiche is pretty good. Very nice spot in the wharf.

C. B.

I only visited the cafe, the tea was good, but the coconut and lime cake was stodgy. It was also cold in there.

P. W.

Went for the Grayson Perry exhibition. Very enjoyable and coffee in cafe nice too.

S. K.

Good gallery, pleasant bar. A nice shop that stocks Analog Sea Review publications

P. L.

The best arts centre

O. C.

At the time of posting, I saw a Grayson Perry exhibition with a beautiful selection of vase and carpet art.

O. V.

Good to go for the art. The food is pretty good, and the staff are enthusiastic and friendly. I would go again.

J. P.

Really good bar, a great bookshop and wonderful exhibitions. Particularly GRAYSON PERRY!

J. S.

A great place for an outside drink, especially dangling ones feet over the harbour in the summer time with friends...

W. B. B.

Great place to get some work done. Friendly and competent staff and then the food arrived and it was great too!

F. M.

Great burgers, great beer, incredible views!

A. H.

Plenty to do and see.

S. K.

Beautiful exhibitions, events around the year with nice bar and coffee shop

T. S.

Lovely space that do nice food and drink. Can get very busy.

R. L.

Some great exhibitions but doesn’t engage much with the local community or feel particularly welcoming.

C. D.

Great facilities. Nice little bar. Went their for 2 networking events.

J. J.

Good coffee/beer, but made by a massive outside area on the harbour :)

S. F.

Visited the Grayson Perry exhibition, was very well presented with a good catalogue of his work.

D. L.

Lovely bookshop and cafe! No exhibitions when we visited sadly.

P. L. (.

Very Friendly staff and interesting people enjoying themselves.

A. M.

Nice art gallery with a great shop. Very interesting and varied exhibitions.

S. R.

great cafe to catch up on work or studies in, nice atmosphere and huge spaces

J. O.

Always friendly and helpful staff offering good grub and drinks for a reasonable price in a great atmosphere.

M. C.

The cafe is nice and so is the bookshop but the art exhibitions are always a bit dubious. But hey, what *is* art anyway?

J. B.

Gets crowded during popular exhibitions. Lots of space on multiple floors.

L. M.

Really interesting selection of books and magazines. I could spend the whole day browsing their shelves

S. C.

Cakes were really good. And also free quality art exhibitions.

S. S.

Interesting space with art installations. Free as well! Donations are encouraged

S. I.

True modern art place

J.

Thought provoking art space, with cafe and bookshop, a must visit any time of year

P. L.

Top notch exhibition space combined with excellent book shop and bar.

S. V.

Nice to sit outside in good weather with a beer and had some great things to see inside.

A. W.

Great location. I love art, but somehow the content of exhibitions is always disappointing here.

D. B.

Went to free exhibition of Grayson Perry was fantastic and I'm not an arty person!

I. S.

What an amazing gallery and thinking space. Loved the Grayson Perry exhibition here!

S. C.

A modern art paradise. Must visit! Excellent location and bar.

H. R.

Caffé and museum with art exhibition, it is a quiet place for a tee, Caffè and breakfast

G. C.

Great exhibits, friendly, knowledge staff, nice coffee shop

R. O.

Good food, drink, gift shop and exhibitions!

k. o.

In between exhibitions, so not able to rate. Bookshop good

A. M.

Pleasant galleries. bright and open. amazing range of books.

P. C.

Lovely setting, good atmosphere, excellent local beer.

A. G.

Great space, nice cafe, questionable exhibitions at times

J. C.

Always interesting and challenging! One of my favourite places in Bristol.

M. P.

Just love the place. Queue can be long, but really cool atmosphere

P. B.

The Grayson Perry exhibition was as awesome as it was stimulating and thpught provoking.

L. M.

Funky and wierd at same time. Great cafe bar and lift to all floors

N.

Inconsistently open but when they are they have amazing exhibitions

J. P.

A very stylish cafe and art gallery. Great coffee!

M. W.

Truly a space full of wonder. Nice food, nice ambiance, friendly service

A. B.

Weird art if you like that kind of thing. Nice outdoor space, good alcohol choice

K. P.

Great place good child friendly changing facilities nice cafe

C. R.

Definitely worth looking in at the latest exhibitions, cafe can be expensive tho

a. m. g.

Interesting exhibitions and events space with nice terrace in the summer

G.

Great to see some contemporary art couture outside of London!

J. K.

Lovely friendly venue. Nice bar that serves great food.

J. B.

Not bad. Not great.

J. N.

Great breakfast. Good atmostphere. Nice drink selection

A. H.

Chilled out venue and you can sit outside by the river on a sunny day

A. A.

Great beer and atmosphere!

H. O.

Lovely vegan and veggie food options in the café!

W. M.

I've been to some interesting installations here. Has bookshop and cafe.

D. P.

Fabulous for the galleries, events and relaxing with a beer or coffee...

G. T.

Good space for art and a good cafe bar.

T. T.

Great selection of drinks. Friendly stuff brilliant location

W. H.

Great beers. Lovely staff. Fantastic location

K. J.

Grayson Perry exhibition well curated, friendly staff, good facilities, thank you

C. H.

Both a good cappuccino and good latte served well. Croissant also good.

A. C.

Great venue for exhibitions, lectures and movie events alike

A. B.

Good cafe. The art is unusual... Interesting as a change

M. G.

Really cool gallery, very well laid out and contains plenty of information about the artists.

D. S.

Great place, friday night throughout summer events on...

R. M.

Wiered as always. Can't help thinking that a lot of the exhibits are flimsy. Occasional diamond in the melee.

D. C.

Very lovely staff who will tell you every detail of exhibition. Every time I go I see different things.

P. M.

A very good place for a coffee with an excellent book shop

J. S.

Great gallery with brilliant exhibitions and good cafe

C. A.

Bit of a weird mix of a place but coffee was good.

A. L.

Lush food, great service n lovely vibe - highly recommend!

M. E.

Great views of the harbour and an outside bar on sunny days

I. C.

Great art centre in Bristol, lovely bar & cafe

M. P.

A beautiful space in which you can relax yourself reading a book.

R. C.

Wonderful building inside and out. Good coffee and cake

T. P.

Amazing place.

B. M.

Interesting exhibitions in a beautiful space. With a nice café.

P. w.

Not sure if this is part of modern art display " labelled days gone bye " or just mindless graffiti!see attached picture of phone box outside on harbour front!

S. C. R.

Very good place for stay a couple of hours with your children.

S. Q.

If you're a fan of art then this place is for.you. otherwise skip it

g. “. o. t. l. s.

Always something challenging to see in this FREE venue...love it

s.

Great place, very bright, very clean with a nice cafe.

P. R.

Lovely atmosphere & good selection of food & drink

J. M.

Don't skip the bookshop. Cafe is nice too.

M. F.

Very clean and nice place for a pint with mates.

R. C.

Friendly staff, good spaces .Adequate Covid prep

B. E.

I'll happily admit I just took advantage of the bar to sit outside in the sun...

J. W.

Went to see the Grayson Perry exhibition which was very thought provoking

D. H.

Nice exhibition of St. Paul's carnival photos

E. J.

Really nice space, very photogenic. Modern and contemporary.

J. W.

Great venue with interesting art exhibitions

E. F.

Good exhibition from UWE nice little bar outside and pleasant location

C. G.

Great place for a visit, excellent cafe as well.

A. Z.

Quite interesting excebitions, theatre for talks and performances, special events and parties

D. G.

Interesting building and gallery. Great place for the university.

C. K.

Good museum, good cafe- tasty food and good service.

R. T. Y.

If you like some contemporary (is that the word?) arts, I think this is the place.

J. L.

Enjoyed taking my toddler to the Grayson Perry. Very friendly staff.

L. B.

Classic Bristol place for the sunshine. But can get busy

t.

Beautiful space! Helpful and friendly staff who help loads.

M. N.

Great Grayson Perry exhibition, lovely place!

J. S.

Good selection of drinks fast service

R. N.

Amazing brekky by the river, really good atmosphere

L. S.

Attended training here v good hospitality. Fantastic shop.

S. H.

Excellent display space for all types of art.

T.

Such a cool place, gotta see the new works here.

J. R. M. G.

The cafe is expensive but other than that pretty enjoyable

J. V.

The front room is a very nice space to study

M. G.

Cafe during day, and nice pub in the evening

L. V.

Great cafe, nice workspace adjacent

D.

Free, good location and just the right size. Well worth a visit.

T. D.

Very odd abstract art and nice cafe

H. M.

Take a moment out of your busy day to look around the gallery

J. H.

Very busy but very nice place to relax

S. G.

Great for outdoor drinks in the sun on the quays.

L. P.

Great venue and views... not great queues!!

M. D.

Best café to enjoy the sunset at winter

I. W.

Excellent Grayson Perry exhibition. Shop decent.

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