Dare To, a prominent fetish and kink club in Bristol, has permanently closed its doors after nine years. The announcement follows a recent licensing committee decision to suspend its operations for three months due to safety concerns.
In a public statement, the club's owners expressed "great regret and sadness" at the decision. They extended "deepest gratitude" to customers and associates who helped build the venue, which they described as being "at the heart of Bristol’s nightlife." The message, signed by owner Cheryl Brice, concluded, "You created the energy, the community, and the memories that defined us. We love you all."
The closure comes after Bristol City Council's licensing sub-committee suspended the club's premises licence for up to three months. The suspension was triggered by a review application from Avon and Somerset Police, Avon Fire and Rescue Service, environmental health officers, and the council's neighbourhood enforcement team.
Concerns were raised following a demonstration at the St Philips venue involving rope bondage and suspension. Authorities cited multiple safety issues, including insufficient lighting in a designated area for sexual activity—creating a trip hazard—overloaded electrical sockets near the DJ booth, and a large broken mirror that posed a risk of serious injury.
During the hearing, police licensing officer Louise Mowbray criticised the club's management, stating there had been an "ongoing pattern" of owner Cheryl Brice cancelling meetings with authorities since 2022. Ms Mowbray also accused Ms Brice of lying about being a registered door supervisor with the Security Industry Authority (SIA), a legal requirement for door staff. "She literally lied to me about her experience and ability to manage these premises," Ms Mowbray told councillors, arguing Ms Brice was "not fit and proper" to be the designated premises supervisor (DPS).
Ms Brice's solicitor, Piers Warne, acknowledged his client had "let people down" and apologised for the "perception" of not engaging. He cited since-resolved personal issues and noted that the identified safety works had been completed. Mr Warne emphasised the club's importance as an LGBTQ+ positive space employing 16 to 18 regular staff. The panel ultimately rejected the police's request to remove Ms Brice as DPS, agreeing instead to the three-month suspension proposed by all parties to allow for corrections.
Despite this resolution, the club has now ceased trading permanently, marking the end of a significant chapter in Bristol's alternative nightlife scene.
