'End of an era' as Bristol nightclub announces shock closure after 25 years

A Bristol nightclub has announced its shock closure after 25 years in the city. Dojo Nightclub, which is situated on Park Row and owned by former Gloucestershire and England cricketer David 'Syd' Lawrence, took to its Facebook page to announce its immediate closure, on Wednesday (May 8).

The nightclub management wrote: "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 the pillars of Bristol's vibrant nightlife scene, hosting countless legendary events for a 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.

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"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."

Taking to the comments section, fans, clubgoers and even those who had played at the venue over the years since its opening in 1999, shared their sadness and disappointment at the news of Dojo's closure, calling it the 'end of an era'. One wrote: "Dojo was the first place I ever played in front of a crowd. It was also the first place I got the rush of seeing people dancing and raising hands to the music I made at home.

"Such good memories there, best place in Bristol for House music hands down. I had no idea I'd host and play the last night, and the last set at this iconic club."

A second said: "Such sad news. I started working for 'Syd' David Lawrence at Dojo Nightclub Bristol in 1999 a couple of months after it first opened. I was 16 at the time, working on the front till and cloakroom. I would then go on to become the bar manager and licensee there when I turned 18.

"I’ve met many life long friends throughout the five years I worked there (on my first run) and many fantastic up and coming DJs and promoters - some who have gone on to do so well in their careers. Celebrated many birthdays, Christmas’s and New Years and worked every weekend. My life was Dojo... Great memories.

"Even when I finally left, I still came back to do the odd managers shift in more recent years. A brilliant club and has done amazingly well to last 25 years (many clubs have come and gone in those years) Fond memories indeed. Dojo you shall be missed."