Great Venue!! But can get really cramped if a concert is sold out. I always go to carling acadamys as you always have a good view because they are quite small. when there is a really loud bass the floor in certain places actually jumps!

Last time I went to the Bristol Carling Academy, there was no mobile phone reception (I think I was on orange). The bouncers wouldn't let me out temporarily to use my phone. My tip is that if you're meeting friends, you might want to do it the old fashioned way (pre-planned time & place) rather than relying on mobiles.

Opposite The Academy is one of Bristols oldest pubs - The Hatchet Inn. Local legend has it that the front door, beneath the paint and tar is covered with human skin! It's usually filled with quite an alternative crowd, plus people who are either on the way to a gig at The Academy or have just been to one. The gardens great and cheesy rock is always on the jukebox! One of the best pubs in Bristol and a great meeting point if you are going to a gig.

Although some of the bouncers are amongst the most unreasonable, ignorant people I have ever had the misfortune meet, overall the venue isn't bad - soundsystem is fairly average - copes better with Live music than heavy bass club nights. Selection of beers is pretty poor - but shouldn't expect much else from a 'Carling' academy. Due to its size there will be many acts that will only play here in Bristol and, as such, it will continue to do pretty well.

I have been to the O2 three times this year to see rise against, stiff little fingers and sensess fail. the O2 is one of the most populer venus in bristol. with a bar opposit the stage with a upper level if you don't want  to get stuck in. they now have reopend the smoking area which is out side next to the bar.
i would recamend going to the O2 at bristol when ever they can it is one off the best in bristol.