The Best Charity Auction Venues in Bristol for Large and Small Events

Bristol is a city that knows how to make an impression. With its mix of historic sites, modern hotels, and unique event spaces, it’s the perfect setting for a charity auction that gets people to give and keeps them talking long after the event is over. Bristol has a place that fits your mission, whether you’re hosting a small donor dinner or a big fundraising gala.

Here is our list of the best places to hold charity auctions in Bristol and the area around it, each with its own special charm and personality.

ASHTON GATE

Home to Bristol City Football Club, Ashton Gate is one of the city’s most versatile large-scale venues. It’s modern, well-equipped, and designed to host everything from corporate galas to charity auctions with impact.

Capacity: Up to 1,200 guests
Perfect for: Sports-themed fundraisers, gala dinners, high-energy auctions
Why it works: Excellent facilities, experienced event teams, and flexible spaces to suit events of any size.
Top Tip: Use pitch views and stadium lighting for dramatic photo opportunities or branded moments that get guests talking.

BRISTOL HARBOUR HOTEL

This five-star boutique hotel in the heart of Bristol brings elegance and atmosphere in equal measure. Set in a beautifully restored former bank, it offers a blend of history and contemporary luxury, perfect for more exclusive charity evenings.

Capacity: Up to 400 guests
Perfect for: Black-tie auctions, VIP donor dinners, legacy events
Why it works: Central location, stunning architecture, and a level of service that makes every guest feel special.
Top Tip: Use the former vault area for a pre-auction cocktail reception, it’s a unique talking point that sets the tone for the night.

AZTEC HOTEL & SPA

For those looking to combine fundraising with relaxation, Aztec Hotel & Spa offers the perfect balance. Located just outside Bristol, it’s a modern, welcoming venue that works well for charity weekends or corporate partner events.

Capacity: 100-250 guests
Perfect for: Mid-sized auctions, wellness-themed events, donor retreats
Why it works: Excellent catering, flexible event suites, and on-site accommodation for multi-day experiences.
Top Tip: Pair your evening auction with a daytime golf, spa, or networking activity to boost engagement and extend your event’s impact.

AEROSPACE BRISTOL

Where else can you host a charity auction beneath a Concorde? Aerospace Bristol offers an unforgettable setting with a strong sense of history and innovation.

Capacity: Up to 800 guests
Perfect for: Large-scale charity dinners, themed fundraising nights, STEM or heritage-linked causes
Why it works: A truly unique backdrop, professional event team, and flexible staging options under the wings of aviation history.
Top Tip: Incorporate an aviation theme into your auction, from décor to prize experiences, for a memorable, high-flying event.

THE BRISTOL HOTEL

Set right on the harbourside, The Bristol Hotel is a contemporary venue that brings both sophistication and convenience. Its elegant function rooms and water views make it a go-to for stylish, centrally located charity events.

Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Perfect for: Modern charity dinners, brand-led fundraising events, intimate galas
Why it works: Waterfront location, high-quality service, and spaces that adapt beautifully to any theme.
Top Tip: Host drinks on the terrace overlooking the harbour to create a relaxed, sociable start before the main event.

CENTAUR ROOMS AT CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

A little further afield but well worth the drive, Cheltenham Racecourse’s Centaur Rooms offer scale, flexibility, and prestige. Ideal for major fundraising nights with large guest lists and big production setups.

Capacity: Up to 2,250 guests
Perfect for: Regional or national charity galas, corporate donor events, high-profile auctions
Why it works: Exceptional facilities, professional production support, and a venue name that carries weight.
Top Tip: Align your event with a race day or major sporting occasion to maximise attendance and donor engagement.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT VENUE FOR YOUR BRISTOL CHARITY AUCTION

Bristol and its surroundings have everything you need for any kind of fundraising event, from the creative harborside to the grand country escapes. The right space will help you tell your story, connect with donors, and raise more money for your cause. You could choose a famous place like Aerospace Bristol or a beautiful place like The Harbour Hotel.

Impulse Decisions has helped hundreds of charities plan auction events that not only meet their goals but also go above and beyond what they thought would happen. We can help you make your charity auction a success by finding unique prizes and running the whole thing on the night of the event.