Where To Play Pool In Bristol

Pool (or billiards, as it's often known) can be traced back to the 14th century, when it was a leisurely lawn game among the French upper class. The game evolved through the years, moving indoors, then involving cues and six-pocket tables, before gaining mass popularity after the movie The Hustler hit the big screens in the 60s.

Nowadays, you'll find pool tables across the city, mostly at pubs and bars, where you can enjoy a bit of friendly competition with mates or perfect your backspin. But if you're not sure where to go? Check out our guide to the best pubs and bars with pool tables in Bristol, featuring American-style sports bars and laid-back pubs.

Last edited by Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Last updated on 24th October 2024




Felson's Bristol

If you're looking for bars with pool tables in Bristol city centre, set your sights on Felson's. Based on Fast Eddie Felson, the fictional American pool player from 60s movie The Hustler, this cool spot features walls adorned with pictures of the man himself alongside quotes from the film.

A haven for anyone who fancies a bit of friendly competition, whether you're a local pro or a newbie cutting your teeth, the Corn Street hangout is home to eight pool tables where you can play 9-ball pool.

In between games, make sure to check out the American-style menu, which includes small plates (like hot buffalo or sticky BBQ wings), as well as burgers, curries, fish and chips and more. And, if you get thirsty, there are plenty of ice cold beers to refresh yourself with.

The White Harte, Bristol

Wondering where to play pool in Bristol city centre? The White Harte is a fantastic pub on Park Row that's home to two large pool tables, so go on - grab a cue stick and show off your skills. While you do so, you can also watch all the sports fixtures on the numerous TVs dotted about the venue, which have SKY and BT Sports.

As for drinks, you'll be privy to their vast selection of Cask Marque real ales, not to mention the draught beers, wines and low and no sips. Food-wise, think crowd-pleasing sharing plates, featuring chicken wings, nachos and more, as well as crafted burgers, stone-baked pizzas and loaded subs.

The Lanes

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The Lanes is a buzzing, late-night entertainment destination in the city centre, where you can get stuck into everything from bowling and karaoke to of course a few games of pool. Shoot your shot with mates or dates, all while enjoying the brilliant atmosphere of this fun-loving spot, complete with craft beers, signature cocktails and pizzas from Ray's Pizzas.

Anchor, Bristol

Make your way over to the famous Gloucester Road to find Anchor, a classic pub complete with vintage photos on the colourful walls and unique light fixtures, not to mention two pool tables. Even better, they're overlooked by a screen showing live sports, so you won't have to miss any important matches.

If your stomach starts to rumble, there's plenty to quell your hunger, from cheesy stone-baked pizzas and gourmet burgers to sharing platters and loaded fries. Pair your feast with a tipple from the extensive selection of beers, then get crackin' on that bank shot.

The Birkett Tap, Bristol

There's a lot to love about The Birkett Tap in the Old City. Not only does it feature trendy, rustic interiors, but also live sports screenings (with both Sky and BT Sports) and a pool table where you can practice your backspin.

As you go head to head with your mates at this cool sports bar, fill your boots with a whole range of delicious bites, like BBQ beef-loaded nachos and chicken karaage burgers, all swilled down with real ale, beer or wine.

Zerodegrees Bristol

Located within a Grade II-listed converted tram shed, Zerodegrees is as cool as you can get. It's now an award-winning microbrewery-cum-restaurant set in an industrial-chic space, complete with leather sofas and quirky light fittings.

Head to The Bar, where you'll find a few pool tables, and put your aim to the test while getting to know the lineup of core beers and unique specials.

But that's not all, as this joint also slings out mouthwatering Italian food, including speciality pizzas, like the caramelised pear and gorgonzola number, as well as pasta, such as king prawn spaghetti.