WHAT
Simple Things is Bristol’s independent, multi-venue celebration of forward-thinking music and culture. Curated by Crack Magazine, Team Love, and Bristol Beacon, it returns for its 11th edition this November, transforming the city into a hub of experimental sounds, live performances, and late-night energy.
The week-long programme includes stand-alone shows from Autechre, John Maus, and Daniel Avery, culminating in a full-day city takeover on Saturday, 8 November. Across venues large and small, the festival offers a chance to experience the next generation of artists before they hit the wider radar — from Bristol’s underground innovators to international trailblazers.
This year’s line-up also features TAKKUUK, a Bicep-scored audio-visual film exploring Arctic life and climate, screened at the newly reopened Bristol Megascreen.
WHERE
Bristol’s city centre provides the perfect backdrop — from the grand spaces of Bristol Beacon to intimate clubs and warehouse venues scattered through Stokes Croft and the Old City. The festival’s footprint encourages exploration: music blends seamlessly with the cafés, bars, and independent spirit that define Bristol’s creative scene.
WHEN
4–9 November 2025, with the main festival day on Saturday, 8 November.
WHY
Simple Things offers an unfiltered glimpse into Bristol’s artistic core — a place where you can catch bold new sounds, meet an audience that lives for discovery, and feel the city’s cultural energy up close. It’s part festival, part adventure through one of the UK’s most dynamic creative cities.
GETTING THERE
Bristol is easily reached by train from London Paddington in under two hours, or by car via the M4 or M5. The city centre is walkable and well-served by public transport, making venue-hopping straightforward. Bristol Airport also offers direct flights from most major UK and European cities.
WHERE TO STAY
Stay in the heart of the action at The Bristol (part of The Doyle Collection), perfectly positioned on the harbourside with sleek rooms and a great restaurant. Other popular choices include Artist Residence Bristol, with its boutique charm and bar buzz, and Moxy Bristol, a short walk from several festival venues.
WHAT YOU’LL PAY
Tickets for the main Saturday festival start at around £55, with separate tickets available for individual midweek shows.
WHAT TO BRING
Comfortable shoes, curiosity, and an open mind — you’ll be crossing venues, discovering new artists, and seeing Bristol at its boldest.
CAN’T MAKE IT?
Stay tuned – The Travel Magazine will be on the ground bringing you the sounds, the scenes, and the serendipitous discoveries that make Bristol one of Europe’s most inventive small cities.
More info and tickets: simplethingsfestival.co.uk