If you’re a small business owner based in Bristol or Bath, there are some brilliant local events you can tap into – from friendly networking meet-ups and practical skills workshops to inspiring business expos with expert speakers. And if you can’t make it in person, there are even a few online webinars and classes worth checking out.
I’ve hand-picked this selection for you, featuring trusted event hosts and experienced trainers. Most are completely free to attend, and for the few that are paid, I’ve chosen them because I genuinely believe they offer excellent value for small business owners.
The following information is correct at time of posting, however it is recommended that you visit the website in each case to check the details before making plans, particularly as many events (including free-to-attend ones) may have requirements for attendance or require advance booking.
E-Commerce Essentials for Early-Stage Businesses
When is it? 4 November, 11am - 12pm
Organiser: BrisBES
Location: Online webinar
Price: FREE
More info: https://westofengland.ytko.com/brisbes/events/
This session is perfect for Bristol-based small business owners who are looking to improve their e-commerce site – learn to boost sales, strengthen your online foundations and attract customers to your online store.
Grow Your Sales: Tell Your Business Story
When is it? 5 November, 10am - 12pm
Organiser: Bristol NatWest Accelerator
Location: NatWest Accelerator, 2 Avon Street, Redcliffe, Bristol BS2 0PT
Price: FREE
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/grow-your-sales-tell-your-business-story-tickets-1586890404919
Hosted by the Bristol Hub of the hugely popular NatWest Accelerator scheme, this session is designed to equip small businesses with improved tools and skills to pitch their business to their target audience with confidence. Sign up to develop your sales pitch and attention-grabbing skills!
Netwalk North Somerset: Business Networking
When is it? 6 November, 10 - 11.30am
Organiser: Freelance Mum
Location: Salthouse Fields Car Park, Clevedon BS21 7TR
Price: FREE
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/faye-dicker-6822413923
A relaxed, child-friendly networking walk for mums in business, hosted by Amy and Claire. Members of Freelance Mum network (and those of free 30day trial!) can join a short circular stroll where you can connect with like-minded women, share experiences, and often pick up inspiration from a guest speaker along the way. It’s a lovely mix of fresh air, friendly chat, and fresh thinking!
Hum4ns Talk
When is it? 10 November, 7 - 10pm
Organiser: Hum4ns
Location: The Square Club, 15 Berkley Square, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1HB
Price: FREE
More info: https://hum4ns.co.uk/events
Blending inspiring talks with relaxed, friendly networking, the Hum4ns events are definitely worth adding to your diary. Expect honest stories, valuable lessons, and real-life experiences about overcoming challenges – with insights that resonate far beyond business, and into everyday life too.
Bristol Creative Industries Freelancer Networking Drinks
When is it? 11 November, 5.30 - 8pm
Organiser: Bristol Creative Industries
Location: The Square Club, 15 Berkley Square, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1HB
Price: £7.13 for non-members/ FREE for members
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/bristol-creative-industries-11348031029
This popular networking event – held monthly – is perfect for freelancers in the creative industries (or anyone who works with them). It’s a relaxed chance to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations. Drinks and food are available.
Ladies Who Latte networking - Clifton, Bristol
When is it? 12 November, 10 - 11.30am
Organiser: Ladies Who Latte
Location: AQUA Grand Cafe, 153 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RF
Price: FREE
More info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/918304881595913
Led by Cherry Scott for over a decade, this is one group I myself attend, so can personally recommend it! Not like traditionally structured networking, the women-only group is supportive and friendly, with no paid membership. Join for the common-ground advice and to share your 60-second intro. No pressure, it's all about connections and collaborations. Find the group on Facebook and contact Cherry to try it for size; monthly on the 2nd Wednesday 🙂
Bath Business Conference 2025
When is it? 19 November, 8.30am - 4.30pm
Organiser: Bath BID
Location: Apex City of Bath Hotel, James Street West, Bath BA1 2DA
Price: £45 (includes lunch + refreshments)
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bath-business-conference-2025-tickets-1760148554709
Billed as a one-day, high-energy event in Bath, it's set to bring together ambitious entrepreneurs, innovative leaders, and expert speakers. With hands-on workshops and engaging panel discussions, the event is designed to spark new ideas, fuel business growth, and leave you feeling inspired and ready to take action.
The South Gloucestershire Business Show 2025
When is it? 19 November (9.30am - 4.00pm) and 20 November (9.30am - 3.00pm)
Organiser: County Business Shows
Location: UWE, Enterprise 1, Long Down Ave, Filton, Bristol BS34 8RB
Price: FREE
More info:https://www.business-shows.co.uk/south-gloucestershire/
The South Gloucestershire Business Show is a dynamic festival of business, innovation, and thought leadership, combining a lively exhibition with keynote speakers, panels, workshops, and forums. Designed to inspire and inform, it gives attendees the chance to explore new ideas, build meaningful connections, and tailor their experience to their business needs. With a focus on collaboration and practical solutions, the event fosters innovation, sparks conversation, and supports growth for businesses locally, regionally, and beyond.
Sales strategy, mindset & skills for small business
When is it? 19 November, various timeslots available
Organiser: Business & IP Centre
Location: Central Library, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TL
Price: FREE
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/business-ip-centre-bristol-36461696673
Bristol-based business owners can access free, one-to-one support sessions with sales expert Lisa Yelland, a mentor and trainer with over 30 years’ experience. These monthly, bookable sessions via the BIPC offer tailored advice for start-ups, growing businesses, and those looking to scale, helping you refine your strategy, boost sales, and streamline processes. Funded support such as this can be a huge boon for local organisations, so why not make the most of it?
Third Thursday - Social drinks + networking
When is it? 20 November, 6 - 8pm
Organiser: TechSPARK
Location: Newark Works, 2 Foundry Lane, Bath BA2 3DZ
Price: FREE
More info: https://techspark.co/calendar/
Light networking, with nibbles and drinks – this is a community get-together event for those in the creative, tech or digital business space in the Bath/ Bristol area. Enjoy a guest speaker talk, throw in a great chance to chat with like-minded folks and find collaborations.
Digital Learning - Instagram Reels Workshop for Small Business
When is it? 25 November, 9.30am - 12.30pm
Organiser: the hive
Location: Online webinar
Price: FREE
More info: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thehiveweston/1877315
This is a new session from the fab business support team at The Hive; this is an online workshop to be presented by… yours truly, Ruth from Swallowtail Social. It's a beginner-friendly session for North Somerset business owners and solo entrepreneurs who are ready to boost their brand visibility on Instagram (and Facebook) using Reels. You’ll learn step-by-step how to create engaging, bite-sized videos without needing to show your face or attempt cheesy trends. Through practical demonstrations and hands-on guidance, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to start making Reels that showcase your brand and reach new audiences. Join us!
Preparing for Self-Assessment - Guidance for Sole Traders
When is it? 26 November, 10am - 1pm
Organiser: Cool Ventures
Location: The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 4AR
Price: FREE
More info: https://coolventures.co.uk/eventbrite-event/preparing-for-self-assessment-guidance-for-sole-traders-kingswood-3/
Another fantastic class from the Cool Ventures business support team – disclosure; I am one of the Associate Experts on the team, though not specifically the one who'll be running this workshop. The knowhow delivered in all Cool Ventures classes is second-to-none.
This practical workshop is designed for sole traders and small business owners locally (S.Glos or BANES areas) who need support with their self-assessment tax return. Led by experienced accountants, you'll receive clear, step-by-step guidance on how to complete your return accurately and on time. Ideal for those who find tax forms daunting or want to ensure they're claiming all eligible expenses. This session is free to attend – funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund – and offers valuable, jargon-free advice to help you stay compliant and confident.
Let me know if you plan to take part in or attend any of the events I've featured - if it's one I'm going to or hosting myself, it'd be great to see you there!
And of course, if you are hosting a small business skills workshop, event or will be exhibiting at one, then email me the details.
I'm looking for small business skills workshops, networking/ co-working events, expos and exhibitions, whether online or in-person, if you're in the Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire, Keynsham, Portishead or North Somerset areas.
If it fulfils the selection criteria before that month's listing is published, I'd like to include it!
Ruth 🙂
