Discover the Best Comedian Stand Up UK Acts: A Curated Selection

The UK comedy scene is absolutely brilliant right now, and it can be a bit of a mission to keep up with all the amazing talent. While the big names are great, there's something really special about discovering a comedian stand up UK act who's just starting to make their mark. We've had a look around and picked out a few of our favourites who we think you should definitely keep an eye on. Whether you like sharp wit, silly stories, or just a good old laugh, there's someone here for everyone. So, have a scroll and see who tickles your fancy!

Key Takeaways

• The UK has a vibrant stand-up comedy scene with many talented performers, both established and emerging.

• Discovering new comedians can be just as rewarding as seeing big names, offering a chance to see raw talent.

• Venues like The Stand Comedy Club are great for finding both popular comedians and up-and-coming acts.

• Award-winning comedians often tour and are a good indicator of quality and originality in stand-up.

• Gifting comedy tickets is a thoughtful present that offers a memorable experience and the chance to choose a preferred show.

1. Dan Tiernan

Right then, let's talk about Dan Tiernan. This bloke's been making waves on the comedy circuit for a bit now, and honestly, it's about time more people caught on. He's a gay Mancunian with dyspraxia, and he channels all of that into his act. It's high-energy, a bit chaotic, and packed with stories about his life that are sometimes just plain weird, sometimes a bit inappropriate, but always funny.

He's picked up a few awards already, like Best Newcomer at the Chortle Awards, which is no small feat. You might have even seen him on TV shows like Rosie Jones’s Disability Comedy Extravaganza. He's got this way of making you laugh at things you probably shouldn't, but he does it with such a natural charm that you can't help but go along with it.

Dan's stage presence is something else. He's got this nervous energy that somehow works perfectly with the often absurd and sometimes downright inappropriate jokes he tells. It’s a chaotic blend that leaves audiences in stitches.

If you're looking for someone who's genuinely funny and has a unique perspective, Dan Tiernan is definitely one to watch. He's got a knack for turning everyday chaos into pure comedy gold. Keep an eye out for him; his career is really starting to take off, and you'll want to say you saw him before he was massive. You can often find him performing at various comedy clubs across the UK, and he's a regular at many of the major comedy festivals.

Here's a quick rundown of what makes him stand out:

• High-energy delivery: He commands the stage with a nervous yet captivating presence.

• Gag-heavy material: His sets are packed with punchlines, covering everything from the mundane to the outrageous.

• Unique life experiences: He draws humour from his personal life, including his identity and dyspraxia, in a way that's both relatable and hilarious.

• Award nominations: Recognised for his talent with nominations at prestigious comedy awards.

2. Anna Thomas

Anna Thomas is a comedian who really stands out. Hailing from Wales, she's got this unique way of looking at the world, often sticking to her own peculiar logic in a way that's genuinely funny. It's this distinctive style that helped her bag the BBC New Comedy Award in 2021, a pretty big deal.

She's been steadily making a name for herself since then, and it feels like she's on the cusp of something even bigger. Her performances often feature an aloof demeanour, which, combined with her sharp observations, creates a really engaging set. You might even catch her performing alongside Kieran Lawless at the Whitehaven Rosehill Theatre on December 19th, 2025, with tickets priced at £18.00.

Thomas has a knack for taking everyday situations and twisting them into something hilariously absurd. Her adherence to her own internal logic, even when it makes little sense to the audience, is part of her charm. It’s this unexpected perspective that makes her sets so memorable.

Here's a quick look at what makes her act special:

• Unique Perspective: Finds humour in the mundane through a peculiar lens.

• BBC New Comedy Award Winner: Recognition of her talent in 2021.

• Engaging Stage Presence: A calm yet captivating delivery.

• Upcoming Shows: Keep an eye out for her tour dates, like the one at Whitehaven Rosehill Theatre.

3. Pat Draper

Pat Draper is a comedian who's been making waves on the UK comedy scene for a while now. He's got this really distinctive style that mixes observational humour with a bit of a surreal edge. You know, the kind of jokes that make you think, 'Where did that come from?' but then you can't stop laughing.

He's known for his sharp writing and his ability to connect with an audience, even when he's talking about the most unexpected things. It's not just about the punchlines; it's the whole journey he takes you on with his stories.

Draper has a knack for finding the funny in the everyday, turning mundane situations into something quite extraordinary. His stage presence is relaxed, yet commanding, drawing you into his world with ease.

Here are a few things that make his act stand out:

• Unique Perspective: He tackles topics from an angle you probably haven't considered before.

• Clever Wordplay: Expect some really well-crafted jokes and witty remarks.

• Engaging Delivery: He's great at keeping the audience involved without being overly in-your-face.

He's definitely one of those acts that you'll be talking about long after the show has finished. Keep an eye out for his upcoming gigs; you won't want to miss him.

4. Joe Zalias

Right then, let's talk about Joe Zalias. He's one of those comedians who just seems to get it, you know? He’s got this knack for taking everyday stuff and twisting it into something genuinely funny. His observational humour really hits home, making you think, 'Yeah, I've totally done that!'

Zalias has been making waves on the comedy circuit for a while now, and it’s easy to see why. He’s got a really relaxed stage presence, but don't let that fool you – he’s sharp as a tack. He’s brilliant at interacting with the crowd, not in an aggressive way, but more like he’s having a chat with mates, and we all happen to be in on the joke.

He’s been building up a solid reputation, and you might have seen him popping up on various comedy nights or festivals. He's the sort of act that leaves you feeling good, with a belly laugh and a few new ways to look at the world. If you're looking for someone who can deliver a solid set without any fuss, Joe Zalias is definitely worth checking out. Keep an eye on his tour dates; you won't regret it.

He has a way of making the mundane feel extraordinary, finding the humour in the small details of life that most of us overlook. It’s this relatable quality that makes his performances so engaging.

He's been featured on bills alongside some big names, and it's clear he's on a similar trajectory. You can catch him at various comedy clubs across the UK, and he's definitely one to watch if you enjoy a comedian who is both witty and incredibly down-to-earth. He's a great example of the talent bubbling up in the UK comedy scene, and it's exciting to see where he goes next. He's got that natural charisma that makes you want to see him succeed, and his sets often feel like a breath of fresh air. If you're heading to a comedy club, and his name's on the bill, make sure you get a ticket. You might even find him sharing a stage with acts like Gary Delaney on occasion.

5. Babatunde Aléshé

Babatunde Aléshé is a comedian who's really making a name for himself. He's got this brilliant way of telling stories that just pull you in, making you feel like you're right there with him. His energy on stage is infectious, and he has a knack for finding the funny in everyday situations.

He's been on TV quite a bit lately, which is great to see. You might have caught him on shows like 'The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice' or 'Mock the Week'. He's also known for his podcast, 'Tunde Everything', where he chats with guests about all sorts of things.

Here's a bit about what makes his act stand out:

• Relatable Anecdotes: He talks about his life, family, and experiences in a way that most people can connect with.

• Engaging Persona: He's got a warm and friendly stage presence that makes the audience feel comfortable and eager to hear more.

• Sharp Observations: Babatunde has a keen eye for the absurdities of modern life, pointing out the funny details we often miss.

He's the kind of comedian who leaves you feeling good, with a big smile on your face. His material is clever without being overly complicated, and he delivers it with a natural charm that's hard to resist. It’s no wonder he’s becoming such a popular act across the UK.

6. Aurie Styla

Aurie Styla is a comedian who's really making waves. He's got this knack for observational humour that feels really fresh, and he’s brilliant at connecting with the audience. You know, the kind of comedian who can have you laughing at something you’ve never even thought about before. He's been doing the rounds on the comedy circuit for a while now, and it really shows in his polished performance.

He's known for his sharp wit and his ability to tackle everyday topics with a unique perspective. It’s not just about telling jokes; it’s about sharing a way of seeing the world that’s both funny and relatable. He’s got a stage presence that just draws you in, making you feel like you’re part of the conversation.

Some of the things that make Aurie stand out include:

• Engaging stage persona: He’s confident and charismatic, making it easy to warm to him.

• Clever writing: His material is well-crafted, with punchlines that land perfectly.

• Audience interaction: He handles hecklers and spontaneous moments with ease and humour.

Aurie Styla has a way of making you see the funny side of things you might otherwise overlook. His sets often feel like a chat with a mate, but with way more laughs and a lot more structure. It’s this blend of accessibility and sharp insight that makes him a real talent to watch.

He’s definitely one of those acts you’ll want to catch live. You can often find him performing at various comedy clubs across the country, and he's a regular at many of the big comedy festivals. Keep an eye out for him at venues like The Comedy Store – you won't be disappointed.

7. Kevin Bridges

Right then, let's talk about Kevin Bridges. This guy is a proper Scottish comedy legend, isn't he? He's been around for a good while now, building up a massive following with his observational humour and that distinctive Glaswegian charm. His ability to connect with the audience, making everyday situations hilariously relatable, is what really sets him apart.

Bridges has a knack for taking the mundane and turning it into pure gold. Whether he's talking about his family, his mates, or just the general absurdities of life, he does it with such energy and wit. You can't help but get swept up in his stories.

Here's a bit of what makes him so good:

• Sharp Observations: He notices the little things that most of us miss and turns them into punchlines.

• Relatable Anecdotes: His stories often feel like something you've experienced yourself, making them even funnier.

• Energetic Delivery: He's got a stage presence that's both engaging and incredibly funny.

• Audience Interaction: He's brilliant at riffing with the crowd, making each show feel unique.

He's had some massive tours and TV specials, cementing his place as one of the UK's top comedians. If you ever get the chance to see him live, especially at a place like Comedy in Your Eye, do it. You're guaranteed a night of non-stop laughter. He's just got that knack for making everyone feel like they're having a good old natter down the pub, but with way more jokes.

You know, it's that feeling when you're watching him, and you think, 'Yeah, I've done that,' or 'I know someone like that.' It’s that shared experience that makes his comedy so powerful. He’s not just telling jokes; he’s reflecting our own lives back at us, but funnier.

His specials are always a big deal, and his tours sell out in minutes. It’s a testament to his consistent quality and the fact that he just keeps getting better. He’s a true master of his craft, and it’s a joy to watch him work.

8. Stewart Lee

Stewart Lee is a bit of a legend in the UK stand-up scene, and for good reason. He's not your typical joke-a-minute comedian; his style is more about building up a narrative, often with a healthy dose of self-deprecation and sharp observation. He's known for his long, meandering sets that can feel like a conversation, but one where you're hanging on his every word. His ability to dissect the mundane and find the absurd in everyday life is what makes him stand out.

Lee's approach to comedy is quite unique. He often plays with audience expectations, sometimes even seeming to mock the very idea of stand-up itself. It’s a clever, meta-commentary that many find incredibly funny. He’s been doing this for years, and his material often reflects on the state of comedy and society.

Lee's performances are often described as intellectual, but don't let that put you off. He manages to be thought-provoking without being preachy, and genuinely hilarious without resorting to cheap laughs. It's a delicate balance that he's perfected over his career.

Here's a look at some of the elements that make his shows so compelling:

• Observational Prowess: He can take the smallest detail and turn it into a hilarious point.

• Meta-Commentary: He often talks about the act of doing comedy itself, which adds another layer to the performance.

• Audience Interaction: While not always direct, his sets often feel like a shared experience with the crowd.

• Long-Form Storytelling: His jokes aren't always quick punchlines; they're often part of a larger, unfolding story.

He's been a vocal critic of certain aspects of the comedy industry, highlighting issues that affect performers. It's refreshing to see a comedian use their platform to discuss the realities of the job, especially when you consider the struggles within the UK's live comedy industry.

If you appreciate a comedian who makes you think as much as laugh, Stewart Lee is definitely an act to seek out. His shows are an experience, and you'll likely leave with plenty to ponder.

9. Michael McIntyre

Michael McIntyre. Where do you even start with him? He's basically become a household name, hasn't he? You can't really go to a family gathering without someone mentioning him or having one of his DVDs lying around. He's the king of observational comedy, really, picking out those everyday annoyances and turning them into something hilariously relatable. His energy on stage is infectious, and he has this knack for making even the most mundane things seem utterly ridiculous.

He's been doing this for a good while now, and his tours are always massive. Remember his 'Showman' tour? That was huge. He's got a way of connecting with everyone, no matter their age or background. It’s that feeling of 'Oh my gosh, I do that too!' that makes his sets so popular.

McIntyre's comedy often centres on family life, the quirks of modern technology, and just general observations about being alive in the 21st century. He's got a very clean style, which means he's suitable for pretty much any audience, making him a safe bet for corporate events or if you're just looking for some good, clean fun. He's a master of the big arena show, but he can also make it feel intimate.

He has a unique talent for finding the funny in the ordinary, transforming everyday experiences into laugh-out-loud routines that resonate with a vast audience. His performances are a testament to his skill in observational humour.

His career trajectory has been pretty remarkable, from smaller club gigs to selling out stadiums across the country. He's also a regular fixture on TV, hosting shows like 'Michael McIntyre's Big Show', which further cements his status as a comedy giant. If you're looking for a comedian who guarantees a night of pure, unadulterated laughter, Michael McIntyre is definitely your man. You can often catch clips of his routines online, giving you a taste of his comedic style.

10. Sarah Millican

Sarah Millican is a name that most people in the UK will recognise. She's been a regular fixture on our TV screens for years, bringing her down-to-earth humour and relatable observations to a massive audience.

Her style is often described as observational, focusing on everyday life, relationships, and the little annoyances that we all experience. She has a knack for making the mundane hilarious, and her delivery is always spot-on. It’s this ability to connect with people on a personal level that has made her such a beloved comedian.

Millican's career really took off after her appearance on 'Mock the Week' and has since gone from strength to strength. She's had several successful stand-up tours, with specials like 'Home Bird' and 'Control Freak' being widely popular. Her shows are known for being packed with jokes, but also for having a genuine warmth that makes you feel like you're just having a chat with a funny mate.

What's great about Sarah Millican is that she doesn't shy away from talking about things that matter to her, but she does it in a way that's funny and inclusive. You leave her shows feeling good, like you've shared a laugh with thousands of other people who get it too.

Here's a look at some of her notable achievements:

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival: Gained significant recognition after winning the Best Newcomer award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

• Television Appearances: Regular appearances on shows like 'Live at the Apollo', 'Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow', and her own series 'The Sarah Millican Television Programme'.

• Sell-out Tours: Consistently sells out arena tours across the UK and internationally, demonstrating her broad appeal.

So, Go and Have a Laugh!

Right then, that’s a wrap on our look at the UK's stand-up scene, with The Stand Comedy Club being a real highlight. We’ve seen it’s a place that really knows its comedy, from the big names to the ones just starting out. It’s clear why so many comedians love it – it’s just a great spot to catch a show. Whether you’re in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Newcastle, there’s usually something on. So, don’t just sit there wondering what to do, get yourself a ticket and go have a good laugh. You won’t regret it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Stand Comedy Club a good place to see comedy?

The Stand is really popular with comedians, and many say it's one of the best clubs anywhere to perform. They focus on putting on great shows and helping new funny people get started.

How can I find out about upcoming comedy shows?

You can check the websites for comedy clubs in places like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Newcastle. They usually have lists online showing who's performing and when the shows are happening.

How do I pick a comedy night that I'll enjoy?

To find a show that will make you laugh, look through the comedy listings. Pick a date and a club that sounds good, and then buy your tickets quickly before they sell out.

Are there any comedians I should look out for?

Yes, there are always brilliant comedians to watch! Keep an eye on performers who have won awards or are known for being really talented. You'll also find lots of new comedians who are sure to make you chuckle.

Where else can I find comedy shows in the UK?

Besides The Stand, there are comedy clubs all over the country. You can also find special comedy nights in big cities like London. It's a good idea to look for tickets as a present for someone who likes a good laugh.

Can I buy tickets for comedy shows as a gift?

Definitely! Giving tickets to a comedy show is a great gift idea. You can often buy gift cards that let the person choose their own comedy event, which makes it even more special.