Legendary Bristol nightclub announces shock closure with immediate effect after 25 years

One of Bristol’s longest-running and iconic nightclubs has announced its closure with immediate effect. Dojo on Park Row made the surprise announcement yesterday after 25 years.

The club, owned by former Gloucestershire and England cricketer David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, opened in 1999 and became well known as one of Bristol’s top nightclubs.

In a statement from the management, the reason for the shock closure is said to be the ‘challenging nightlife economic circumstances facing the industry’ which have made it ‘impossible for us to continue operations’.

The statement reads: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the immediate closure of Dojo Nightclub, one of Bristol's longest-running and most iconic independent underground venues. 

‘Dojo Nightclub has been one of a pillars of Bristol's vibrant nightlife scene, hosting countless legendary events for community of music lovers. For over two and a half decades, we have strived to provide a space for underground sounds to thrive.

‘We would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported Dojo Nightclub over the years. Your passion, energy, and loyalty have made this venue the special place. It has been one hell of a ride, and we are proud to have been a part of Bristol's scene.

‘This closure is another blow to the city's nightlife landscape. The challenging nightlife economic circumstances facing the industry have made it impossible for us to continue operations.

‘We want to thank all the DJs, promoters, staff, and, most importantly, the loyal clubbers who have made Dojo Nightclub such an integral part of Bristol's scene. Your memories and the legacy of this venue will live on.’

Hundreds of Dojo fans took to social media last night to express their sadness at the closure.

Dave Kirikmaa said: “Sorry to here this, I had the pleasure to DJ and promote some great nights there over the years when we moved up from Timbuk2 (Empathy and Drama), it was a late night clubbing destination well know across the South West.”

Sophia Ali added: “End of an era! Recall many fun nights dancing with friends and I also worked with the security team for some time here back in the late 1990s /early 2000s.”

And Dojo fan Rebecca Scott said: “End of an era for sure, loved my days working there in the late 90s/early 2000s and made some life-long friendships..such good times. Thanks for the memories.”

What memories do you have of nights at Dojo, let us know in the comments below.