Mark Taylor’s pick of the week - where to eat and drink and what to watch

The theatre show

Hamlet at Bristol Old Vic, from Thursday, October 13

Previews begin for Bristol Old Vic’s new production of Hamlet on Thursday October 13. The production marks director John Haidar’s return to the theatre after Richard III in 2019, bringing his characteristically cinematic style and pace to the stage to both subvert and reimagine this classic play for a new audience. Billy Howle plays Hamlet and is joined by Niamh Cusack as Gertrude, Mirren Mack as Ophelia and Finbar Lynch as Claudius. Until November 12.

The big gig

Sugababes at SWX on Sunday October 16

Sugababes kick off their 17-date comeback tour at Bristol’s SWX. The chart-topping, multi-platinum iconic London trio - Siobhan Donaghy, Mutya Buena and Keisha Buchanan - are back on the road over 20 years after their debut album, One Touch, and chart-topping single Overload. One of the biggest selling British girl groups of all time, with six Number One singles and multiple multi-platinum albums, expect a show packed with classics like Run For Cover and Round Round.

The night out

FEAR at Avon Valley Scream Park

FEAR is back at Avon Valley Scream Park and there’s a terrifying new attraction this year. Hailed as a ‘scare experience like no other’, The Exorcism promises to test even the most hardened thrill seeker. There’s also the popular fire show, thrilling funfair rides and street entertainment. The dates for this year’s FEAR nights are October 14,15, 21, 22 and 25-31.

The pub

Taproom at Lost & Grounded, Saturday October 15

Award-winning Brislington brewery Lost & Grounded has reopened its taproom for weekly events. Directly next to the state-of-the-art brewery on Whitby Road, it’s a family-friendly space to enjoy a range of beers brewed on site, as well as street food. This week, the dishes are created by Ceylon & Beyond with their authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Open 1pm-9pm.

The restaurant

The Ethicurean, Wrington

A restaurant within a stunning walled garden on the outskirts of the city, The Ethicurean has always done things differently. The menu is dictated by produce available on the day and 90% of fruit and veg comes from the garden itself, the other ingredients from local farmers and small food producers. The holder of a green Michelin star for its sustainable practices, the restaurant has launched a seasonal set-menu for the ‘full Ethicurean experience’. This four-hour dining experience costs £150 per head and includes time to explore the garden. There’s also a set-lunch at £75 per head. Pre-booked reservations only, no walk-ins.

The free day out

The Island Open Weekend, Bridewell Street

The Island Open Weekend is back from October 14-16, celebrating the wealth of creativity in the building with exhibitions, taster classes, performances, music and open studios. Most events are free and these include a guided tour of the building and a ballet taster session.

The exhibition

The 169 Annual Open Exhibition at RWA, Queens Road

The RWA’s renowned Annual Open Exhibition is back for its 169th year with a stunning variety of work from emerging and established artists. This dynamic and varied exhibition invites painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture, installation and mixed media submissions and is a showcase of some of the most exciting artists from across the country and beyond. All work will be for sale, making the Annual Open a perfect opportunity to discover new artists or invest in well-known names.