The Bristol area is set to significantly increase its capacity for large-scale exhibitions, conferences and events, following the announcement of major venue developments and expansions in the city.
Meet Bristol and Bath, the official Convention Bureau for Bristol, Bath and the surrounding region, anticipates that it will put Bristol alongside destinations such as Glasgow and Manchester for delegate capacity.
What to expect
The YTL Arena Bristol, set to open in late 2025 or early 2026, will be the largest indoor arena and exhibition centre in the South. With a total 19,000 capacity, the East Hangar will offer 6,000sqm of floorspace and a 20m ceiling height.
The new Ashton Gate Sports and Convention Centre will sit alongside the current stadium with 4,000sqm floorspace and a 232-room hotel, with work expected to start later this summer.
Elsewhere in the city, refurbished music venue Bristol Beacon will reopen on 30 November, following a five-year transformation project. It will include the 2,000-plus capacity Beacon Hall, the 500-capacity Lantern Hall and the new 200-capacity Weston Cellar.
Helen Applin, head of business events at Meet Bristol and Bath Convention Bureau, said: “The next three years will see an exciting transformation for Bristol as the city repositions itself on the international stage. These developments will further enhance our reputation as a destination for business events, driving new business to the region and growing our local economy.”
