Map & Venues

The Electric Palace

In 1926 the local brewing family JC and RH Palmer, took the courageous and enterprising step to build an opera house in Bridport.  A new venture in every way, but particularly because it was powered by electricity, a rare commodity for many at the time.  Generating its own power, it enabled the people of Bridport to experience the wonder and glamour of a new age of cinema, as well as opera and other stage shows.  Bridport is fortunate to have not only a cultural gem but an architectural one too. The building retains many of its original features in the Art Deco style and the centrepiece of the building is the collection of stunning ‘art deco’ murals painted by George Biles in 1936. The Electric Palace has been operating almost continually since 1926 with great success.  It has recently undergone a  extensive renovation retaining and enhancing the original features and improving the cinema technology, stage equipment and other facilities to bring it into the 21st century.  The building is still owned by a local family  and continues to provide first-class film and live entertainment for the people of Bridport, West Dorset and beyond.

Bridlit audiences love the atmosphere and all the comforts of the Electric Palace.

35 South St, Bridport DT6 3NY / 01308 424 901 / www.electricpalace.org.uk

The Bull Hotel

The beautifully restored 16th century coaching inn with its charm and character in the centre of town, has become the natural ‘hub’ of the Festival.  Many of the events take place here and it is a good watering hole for audiences moving from event to event.  There is an excellent restaurant and an affordable Pizza and Pie eaterie in The Stables next door.  A perfect place to stay during the festival week along with the Bridge House Hotel in East Street which you will find featured on our Places to Stay page.

34 East St Bridport / 01308 422 878 / www.thebullhotel.co.uk

Mercato Italiano

Mercato Italiano was established as a weekly market stall supplying high quality cured meats and cheeses to the general public directly imported by Ilaria using her Italian produce contacts. This expanded out to include tasting experiences and food festivals. Trading now in Bridport Market twice a week and Axminster Market on a weekly basis, Popular produce include Gorgonzola Dolce, of which, Mercato Italiano is the only importer from this particular producer in the UK. Almost 10 years on the market stall is as much a Bridport staple as it is an authentic Italian experience.

Unit 3B Dreadnought Trading Estate / 01308 459274 / mercatoitaliano.uk