Bristol: Alcotraz Immersive Prison Cocktail Experience

If you’re craving something a little different during your trip to Bristol, the Alcotraz immersive experience offers a fun, theatrical twist on the usual night out. For around $66 per person, you’ll spend about 105 minutes stepping into a secret prison world where you’re both a mischievous inmate and a cocktail connoisseur.

What makes Alcotraz stand out? First, the prison-themed set—complete with movie-like jail cells, the warden’s office, and guards—creates an authentic backdrop for a playful adventure. Second, the chance to smuggle your own alcohol past the staff (aka the warden and guards) adds an element of mischief and creativity you won’t find in typical bars.

One thing to keep in mind is that these experiences are quite interactive, so if you prefer a relaxed evening with just drinks, this might feel a bit intense or theatrical. It’s best suited for adventure-seekers or groups of friends wanting a memorable, laughter-filled night out rather than a quiet cocktail lounge.

This experience is ideal for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a memorable story to tell. It’s a chance to dress up in an orange jumpsuit, get creative with secret missions, and enjoy bespoke cocktails crafted with your own alcohol—perfect for those who love a bit of theatrical fun combined with good drinks.

Key Points

• Unique Theme: The first prison-themed theatrical cocktail bar in Bristol offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Engaging Interaction: Smuggle in your own alcohol and participate in secret missions for a hands-on adventure.
• Professional Guides: Actors and mixologists bring the storyline to life, making the experience both fun and authentic.
• Creative Cocktails: Four personalized cocktails are made with your own liquor, adding a bespoke touch.
• Dress for the Part: Wearing an orange jumpsuit and taking photos behind bars makes it memorable.
• Limited Age Range: Not suitable for children under 18, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is Alcotraz Bristol?

Alcotraz Bristol is an immersive, theatrical cocktail bar that combines elements of performance art with bartending. Unlike traditional bars, it’s set in a secret, prison-themed environment where actors portray prison staff, guards, and inmates. The entire setup is designed to feel like a movie scene—with authentic props, realistic set pieces, and a storyline you’re encouraged to participate in.

For £66 per person, you’re buying more than just a drink; you’re purchasing an experience that blends storytelling, costume play, and craft cocktails into a lively evening. The experience lasts about 105 minutes, giving ample time to get involved, take photos, and enjoy your personalized drinks.

How the Experience Unfolds

The journey begins at the designated meeting point—your starting line into a secret prison world. Once inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an evocative set resembling a classic jail, complete with prison radios and actors playing The Warden, Guards, and Inmate Cassidy.

The storyline involves smuggling your own alcohol past the guards—an activity that adds a mischievous thrill to the evening. You’ll be given instructions on how to hide your liquor and pass it to the inmates, setting the stage for some theatrical fun.

We loved the way the story encourages creativity—whether trying to talk your way past the guards or adopting an American accent for extra flair. This playful element is what keeps the atmosphere lively and memorable.

The Role of the Guides and Actors

One of the best parts is the professionalism of the actors and mixologists. They don’t just serve drinks—they breathe life into the characters, making each interaction feel genuine. As several reviews indicate, “knowledgeable guides” enhance the experience, making the storyline more engaging and helping everyone feel involved.

While some guests choose to quietly observe, others dive into the role-playing, trying to outsmart the guards or sneak in extra liquor. You’re free to be as creative or laid-back as you prefer.

Making Your Own Cocktails

Once the smuggling mission is complete, you’ll sit back and watch your own alcohol—along with liqueurs, bitters, and homemade syrups—being transformed into up to four personalized cocktails. It’s a highlight for many, especially since the drinks are tailored to your preferences and the liquor you brought.

The quality of cocktails is noteworthy; the mixologists are skilled and attentive, ensuring each drink is both visually appealing and tasty. Guests have praised the bespoke nature of the cocktails, noting that they add a special touch to the evening.

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Dress Code and Photos

To get into the spirit, you’ll be provided with orange jumpsuits—a fun costume that makes for great photos, especially behind the bars or in front of the set. Many guests enjoy capturing these moments, which add to the overall fun and memorable vibe of the night.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The set design is deliberately movie-like, aiming to transport guests straight into a prison story. From the moment you step in, you’ll notice the attention to detail—wooden doors, barred windows, and authentic props. This immersive environment is what makes Alcotraz more than just a cocktail bar.

The soundtrack, the set decoration, and the actors’ performances all work together to create a theatrical experience that’s both playful and captivating.

Practical Details and Considerations

The activity is wheelchair accessible, which is important for inclusivity. It’s also worth noting that arrival times are strict; arriving more than 20 minutes late means missing out on your spot, so plan to arrive on time.

Participants are asked to bring unopened, sealed alcohol bottles—a key part of the smuggling game. The process of passing through security adds a layer of realism, making the experience feel like a true covert operation.

Once the experience concludes, everyone is taken back to the starting point. The entire process is designed to be safe, fun, and atmospheric, with professional actors ensuring everyone feels involved but also comfortable.

For the price of $66, you get significantly more than just cocktails—you get an interactive, theatrical adventure. Many guests have commented favorably on the quality of the guides, noting their enthusiasm and knowledge. The setting is convincing, and the chance to customize cocktails with your own liquor is a delightful touch.

However, as an activity that leans heavily into role-playing and interaction, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a quiet, traditional bar experience. It’s best suited for adventurous groups, couples with a sense of humor, or anyone looking to make some memorable stories.

Those who enjoy costume dressing, storytelling, and playful mischief will find this a perfect fit. If you’re curious about trying something different in Bristol and don’t mind a bit of theatrical flair, Alcotraz delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own alcohol?
Yes, you are asked to bring unopened, sealed bottles of alcohol to smuggle past the warden as part of the experience.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for anyone under 18 years old, as the activity involves themes and language more appropriate for adults.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for about 105 minutes, making it a relatively quick, yet engaging evening activity.

Can I arrive late?
No, arriving more than 20 minutes after your scheduled start time will result in missing your entry, so plan to arrive on time.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for most guests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is fine, but dressing up in the provided orange jumpsuits can add to the fun and photo opportunities.

The Alcotraz Bristol experience offers a refreshingly different night out—combining theatre, role-play, and craft cocktails into one package. It’s a lively, interactive adventure that prioritizes fun, creativity, and storytelling. If you’re someone who appreciates a good story, enjoys dressing up, and loves cocktails tailored to your taste, this could be just what you’re looking for.

While it might not suit those seeking a quiet night with just a drink, the immersive environment and professional guides promise an evening packed with laughs and memorable moments. It’s best for groups eager to participate and make some entertaining memories.

In the end, Alcotraz Bristol is about enjoying a playful escape from the ordinary, with the added bonus of personalized cocktails. It offers good value for a unique, theatrical experience that’s worth considering if you want a story to tell long after the night ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: