What Is the Sip and Paint Party in Bristol?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, creative way to spend an afternoon or a perfect activity for celebrating special occasions, the Sip and Paint Parties in Bristol offer a lively mix of art, socializing, and light-hearted fun. For around $62 per person, you get a two-hour session led by an experienced local artist, where you’ll follow along to produce your own painted masterpiece. It’s suitable for everyone—whether you’re a complete beginner or have some painting experience—and everyone leaves with a canvas to take home. The experience is hosted at Riverstation, a charming spot along the Bristol River, making for a scenic and inspiring setting.
What I especially like about this experience is how inclusive it feels. The fact that all materials are provided—from paints to brushes and easels—means you can focus on having fun without worrying about buying supplies. Plus, the tips shared by the instructor help even the most hesitant artists feel more confident. Another highlight is the social aspect. Many reviews mention how well-organized and friendly the atmosphere is, making it a fantastic activity for groups like hen parties or friends wanting a creative night out.
A potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, so if you’re looking to sip wine or craft cocktails, you’ll need to purchase drinks at the onsite bar. For some, this might add a small extra cost, and you might want to plan for a visit to the bar before or after painting. The experience delivers great value with its combination of professional guidance and relaxed fun, even for those with no prior art experience.
Key Points / Takeaways
- All-inclusive materials: Paints, canvases, brushes, and easels are provided, making it easy to jump straight into creating.
- Led by an experienced local artist: The instructor provides full tuition, helpful tips, and encouragement, ensuring everyone leaves with a sense of achievement.
- Social and flexible: Suitable for birthdays, hen parties, or solo adventures, with a friendly atmosphere that caters to all ability levels.
- Location advantages: Starting and ending at Riverstation in Bristol offers a scenic, easily accessible meeting point, near public transport.
- Price and duration: At about $62 for two hours, this activity offers good value for a memorable creative experience.
- Additional costs: Drinks are not included, so plan for bar purchases if you want to sip while you paint.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bristol.
The Setup: What to Expect from Your Bristol Sip and Paint Experience

When you arrive at Riverstation, you’ll find yourself in a welcoming space with all art materials ready for you. The event begins promptly at 2:00 pm, and you’ll be greeted by a friendly instructor—someone with plenty of local experience who knows how to make painting accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The group is typically small, capped at around 20 participants, which helps foster a relaxed, intimate vibe.
The class is designed to last roughly two hours, giving you enough time to relax, chat, and create without feeling rushed. During this period, you’ll follow step-by-step instructions, often with helpful tips on techniques and color mixing, from the instructor. For example, one reviewer mentioned how their instructor offered specific tips that made their first painting better than expected. The guidance ensures even total beginners can produce something they’re proud of, and no one feels put on the spot.
What sets this apart from other art activities is the emphasis on enjoyment rather than perfection. Many reviews highlight how well-organized everything was, with instructions that were clear and easy to follow. The atmosphere is described as “nice” and “friendly,” with several participants mentioning that it’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening.
The only extra to keep in mind is that alcoholic drinks are purchased separately at the onsite bar. This can be a plus if you enjoy sipping wine or craft beers while painting, but it’s good to plan ahead. The Bristol location’s scenic riverside setting adds a charming backdrop for your creative endeavors, making it a memorable experience.
Who Will Get the Most from This Experience?

This activity is ideal for small groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back artistic activity. It’s especially popular for hen parties or birthday celebrations because it’s social, fun, and provides a tangible takeaway—a painting to remember the day by. If you’re someone who enjoys trying something new without the pressure of being a pro, you’ll appreciate how approachable and inclusive this experience is.
The activity’s two-hour duration makes it a manageable addition to a day’s itinerary, fitting easily between other sightseeing or relaxing. Its location at Riverstation adds a scenic touch, perfect for those who enjoy combining a little culture with social fun.
While the experience isn’t a deep art class, it’s a great way to break the ice, have some laughs, and perhaps surprise yourself with your artistic side. It’s also suitable for those who simply want some downtime, away from the hustle of sightseeing, with a focus on social bonding and creative expression.
Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?
At $61.59 per person, this Sip and Paint experience offers good value considering the two hours of guided activity, all materials, and the chance to bring home a personalized painting. Compared to other hobbies or activities in Bristol, it’s a fair price for a fun, hands-on event that doesn’t require prior experience.
The booking window averages about 14 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot. The activity begins at 2:00 pm, making it a perfect early afternoon activity—ideal for a leisurely day in Bristol. The mobile ticket feature adds convenience, allowing you to skip printing tickets and just show your confirmation on your phone.
One of the most appealing aspects is the free cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This?
If you’re after a lighthearted, social experience that combines creativity with the chance to meet new people or celebrate with friends, this Bristol Sip and Paint party is a winner. Its inclusive approach means no previous art skills are needed, making it accessible for everyone, from curious travelers to locals celebrating special occasions. The scenic setting and friendly atmosphere guarantee a relaxed and enjoyable time, with memorable souvenirs in hand.
However, if you’re seeking a serious art class or want included drinks, this might not be the best fit. But for pure fun, light drinking, and a chance to create something colorful, it hits the mark.
Whether you’re visiting Bristol for a few days or looking for a creative twist on your trip, this activity makes for a delightful, memorable experience that blends social bonding with a splash of artistic flair.
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FAQ Section

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. All materials and full tuition are provided, and many reviews mention how helpful the instructor was, making it perfect for those new to painting.
Can I bring my own drinks?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included and must be purchased at the onsite bar. This allows you to enjoy a drink alongside your creative session.
How long does the activity last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, starting at 2:00 pm, providing plenty of time for relaxed painting and socializing.
Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and ends at Riverstation, The Grove, Bristol BS1 4RB, making logistics simple and convenient.
What is included in the price?
All art materials—paint, canvas, brushes, easels—are included, so everything you need for painting is covered.
Is the activity suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s especially popular for groups like hen parties or friends celebrating together. The small group size creates a friendly environment.
How far in advance should I book?
On average, bookings are made about 14 days ahead, but early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund, thanks to the flexible cancellation policy.
In the end, if you want a fun, social, and creative way to enjoy Bristol, the Sip and Paint Parties are worth considering. It’s a chance to unwind, laugh, and maybe discover a hidden artistic talent—all in a scenic riverside setting with friendly guidance.
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