“Critics rolled their eyes but Cocktail’s blend of star power, romance, and killer tunes was a recipe for box office success.
”
DOORS: 16:00 | FILM STARTS 16:15
We’re teaming up with our friends at Her Majesty’s Secret Service for a special Spirit of Cinema event for Bristol Cocktail Weekend!
Head to Clifton Observatory for a slice of movie-mixology magic, as we screen 80s cult hit Cocktail, starring Tom Cruise.
Enjoy stunning views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension bridge, before heading into the Observatory, where HMSS’ expert mixologists will transport you to the world of Brian Flanagan and his journey through New York City's vibrant nightlife. Indulge in three cocktails, each concoction capturing the essence of the film's characters, locations, and emotions.
Your ticket includes three cocktails, available as either an alcoholic or non-alcoholic options.
This event is part of Bristol Cocktail Weekend 2023; a city wide cocktail festival taking place from 28 September – 1 October. Find out more at bristolcocktailweekend.co.uk
Wristband wearers can access discounted tickets to this screening, priced at £36 (Please note - you will need to show your Cocktail Weekend wristband on arrival).
Please note that this event is strictly for over-18s only
About The Film
1989 | 15 | 99 mins
Tom Cruise stars as charismatic bartender Brian Flanagan, who moves to New York City seeking a better life. Working in a bar to finance his business degree, he befriends an older bartender, Doug. Together, their showy tricks and charisma command large crowds and tip payments, but their friendship is tested when they both become entangled with a charming artist .
About The Location
Established in 1766, Clifton Observatory is an iconic landmark and an integral part of the Bristol landscape. The Observatory has had a long and varied history, but one thing has remained consistent over the centuries: the spectacular and unforgettable views of Bristol, Avon Gorge, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
In 2015, the Observatory underwent a major restoration. Over the past few years. Today, it’s home to the 360 café, a museum featuring a rare Victorian-era Camera Obscura, and the atmospheric and mythical Giant’s Cave.
Watch The Official Trailer
See This Venue
Tickets
Getting Here
Clifton Observatory is located on Observatory Hill and is only accessible by foot. The nearest roads are Clifton Down and Observatory Road; the postcode is BS8 3LT.
It can be accessed on foot from three footpaths: one from Clifton Promenade, one from the corner of Clifton Down and Observatory Road, and one from the corner of Observatory Road and Sion Place.
Buses 8 & 9 both stop in Clifton Village, a short walk from the Observatory. The nearest train station is Clifton Down.
Clifton Observatory does not have dedicated parking. On-street Pay and Display parking is available near the Observatory in Clifton Village and the Clifton & Durdham Downs.
Wherever possible, we encourage walking the use of public transport when travelling to our events.
The venue entrance is via the black door on the south side of the building, facing directly onto the patio. While we normally have flagpoles outside the entrance for ease of identifying, due to the location we cannot always erect these when wind conditions are stronger than normal! If in doubt, look for the metal ‘Clifton Observatory’ arch; you can see this in the ‘See This Venue’ video above.
Accessibility
Clifton Observatory is a Grade II listed building, first constructed in 1766. As such, some areas are not suitable for people with limited mobility or using wheelchairs. For further information, please contact us to discuss your visit.
Clifton Observatory has no onsite parking, and does not allow drop-offs - there is a short uphill walk in order to reach the venue. The path from the corner of Clifton Down and Observatory Road is the least steep.
If you are attending an event as a carer for a disabled guest, then you are entitled to free access. Please select the relevant ticket and bring appropriate proof of eligibility such as proof of blue badge, access card, cinema for all card, letter from a professional or evidence of DLA/PIP. If you are uncertain, please contact us.
Please contact us if you require seating in a particular area (e.g. closer to the exit, at the end of a row).
If you require subtitles, please contact us in advance of making your booking.
We want to make your visit as enjoyable as possible, so please do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information about this venue’s accessibility.
Venue & Event Information
Doors for this event will open at 4:00PM (16:00). You will not be able to access the screening room before this time, so we recommend arriving as close to this time as possible.
This event is strictly for over-18s. As alcohol is included in your ticket price, you may be asked to show ID upon entry to the venue. If you fail to provide valid ID when asked, you will not be able to attend this event. In this instance we would be unable to offer event credit.
Please do not consume hot food in the Screening Room.
Please take care when walking to and from the Observatory, particularly after dark - light levels are low and the paths to the venue are steep.
We strongly encourage all guests to take a lateral flow test before attending this event, for the safety of other guests and event staff.
FAQs
Is there a non-alcoholic alternative available? Yes! Please select the non-alcoholic option when purchasing your ticket.
Can I buy food at the venue? Snacks will be available to purchase at the venue.
is this event indoors? Yes, this event will take place in the William Weston Room at Clifton Observatory.
I have a BuyAGift/Red Letter Days/other voucher. How do I redeem this for this event? Head to this page for more information about redeeming Gift Vouchers.
Is my ticket refundable? We operate a no-refunds policy; tickets may be exchanged for event credit to the same value of your ticket up to 48 hours before the start of an event. To request an event credit, please complete our event credit application.