Laugh Out Loud: Your Guide to the Best Comedy in Nottingham
- comedyinyoureye
- 1 hour ago
- 13 min read
Looking for a good laugh in Nottingham? You've come to the right place. Nottingham has a really buzzing comedy scene, with everything from up-and-coming local talent to big names you'll recognise. Whether you're planning a night out with mates, a birthday celebration, or just fancy a bit of a chuckle on a Tuesday, there's always something happening. We've put together a guide to some of the best spots and events for comedy Nottingham has to offer, so get ready to have a good time.
Key Takeaways
The Nottingham Comedy Festival happens every November, bringing a host of comedians to the city.
NCF Comedy organises various events throughout the year, and Missimp Improv Comedy has been a fixture since 1998, offering shows and workshops.
Venues like The Glee Club and Canalhouse regularly host comedy nights, with Canalhouse winning awards for its open mic nights.
Larger venues such as the Theatre Royal & Concert Hall, Squire Performing Arts Centre, and Motorpoint Arena also feature comedy acts on their schedules.
Keep an eye out for comedians like Russ Lee, who brings interactive stand-up across the county, and Den of Laughs Comedy, which offers regular shows in the city centre.
1. Nottingham Comedy Festival
Nottingham really knows how to put on a show when it comes to comedy, and the Nottingham Comedy Festival is a prime example. This annual event, usually happening in November, transforms the city into a hub for laughter, bringing together a mix of local talent and big-name comedians from across the UK. It’s a fantastic opportunity to catch a wide variety of stand-up, sketch, and improv acts all in one place.
The festival programme is always packed, and while the full lineup for 2026 is still being put together, you can expect a diverse range of performers. Keep an eye out for announcements, as acts are added regularly.
Here’s what you can generally expect:
A wide array of venues: From intimate clubs to larger theatres, the festival spreads across the city.
Diverse comedy styles: You'll find everything from observational humour and political satire to surreal and character-based comedy.
Emerging talent showcases: It's a great place to discover the next big thing in comedy.
The festival is a highlight of Nottingham's cultural calendar, offering a concentrated burst of comedic brilliance. It’s the perfect excuse to plan a weekend trip dedicated to having a good laugh.
Planning your visit often involves checking the official festival website closer to the time for the most up-to-date schedule and ticket information. It's worth booking in advance, especially for the more popular shows, as they can sell out quickly.
2. NCF Comedy
NCF Comedy is a name you'll want to remember if you're on the hunt for regular laughs in Nottingham. They've been putting on shows for ages, bringing a mix of established names and up-and-coming talent to the city. It’s not just about one-off big events; NCF Comedy tends to have a steady stream of gigs throughout the year, so there's usually something happening even outside of the main festival season.
They often host events at places like the Canalhouse, which is a pretty decent spot for a comedy night. You can expect a friendly atmosphere and a good chance to see comedians trying out new material or honing their craft. It's a solid choice for a night out that won't break the bank.
Here's a rough idea of what you might find:
A variety of comedians, from local favourites to national acts.
Regularly scheduled shows, often weekly or monthly.
A chance to discover new talent before they get really famous.
NCF Comedy provides a consistent platform for live stand-up, contributing significantly to Nottingham's vibrant comedy circuit. Their commitment to showcasing diverse comedic voices makes them a go-to for comedy fans.
Keep an eye on their listings, as they often have great comedians passing through. For instance, they've hosted acts like Laura Lexx, with tickets usually available for a reasonable price, around £18 for a good night out at the Canalhouse Bar.
3. Missimp Improv Comedy
If you're looking for a comedy experience that's completely unpredictable and always hilarious, then Missimp Improv Comedy is definitely worth checking out. They're all about creating spontaneous comedy shows right there on the spot, based on what the audience suggests. It’s a proper laugh-out-loud affair, and you never know what you're going to get.
Missimp offers a range of ways to get involved or just enjoy the show. They run workshops for those who fancy trying their hand at improv, which sounds like a brilliant way to boost your confidence and have a good giggle. These sessions are designed to be welcoming, whether you've done improv before or you're a complete beginner. You can explore different games and techniques in a friendly atmosphere. They even have specific workshops focusing on the fundamentals of improvised comedy theatre, which sounds like a great way to really get stuck into the craft fundamentals of improvised comedy theatre.
When it comes to their shows, expect a fast-paced, energetic performance. They often do short-form improv games, which means lots of quick jokes and rapid-fire scenes. It’s the kind of comedy where the performers have to think on their feet, and that’s where a lot of the magic happens. You might see them do a whole show based on a single audience suggestion, building a story and characters out of thin air. It's genuinely impressive to watch.
The beauty of improv is that no two shows are ever the same. It’s a unique blend of performance and audience interaction, making every night a special event. You’re part of the show, in a way, by giving them the ideas to run with.
They've been known to put on some really creative shows. For example, they've done a whole improvised show based on Harry Potter fan fiction titles, which sounds like a riot for fans of the wizarding world. Imagine a completely new, made-up Potter adventure, complete with live music! It’s this kind of inventive approach that makes Missimp stand out. They really know how to put on a show that's both funny and clever. If you're after a night of genuine, unscripted fun, Missimp is a solid bet.
4. Russ Lee – Stand-Up Comedy & Live Events
When you're looking for a good laugh in Nottingham, Russ Lee's name often pops up. He's a familiar face on the local comedy circuit, known for his energetic performances and relatable material. Russ Lee Comedy regularly puts on shows across the city, making it easy to catch a gig.
He's not just about stand-up either; Russ often hosts comedy nights and live events, bringing a variety of comedians to the stage. It’s a great way to discover new talent or see seasoned pros in a more intimate setting. Keep an eye out for his Bank Holiday Belly Laughs events, which have become a bit of a tradition for comedy fans.
Here’s what you can generally expect from a Russ Lee Comedy night:
A mix of established and up-and-coming comedians.
A lively and friendly atmosphere.
Regular events, so there are often opportunities to go.
Often held in popular city centre venues.
It's always a good idea to check what's on and book tickets in advance, especially for popular dates. You can usually find details on his social media or dedicated event pages. This is a good place to start if you're looking for what's happening in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Russ Lee himself is a solid comedian, often drawing on everyday life for his jokes. He has a knack for making you feel like you're just chatting with a mate, but with way more punchlines. His shows are usually a safe bet for a fun night out.
5. Den of Laughs Comedy
Den of Laughs Comedy is a proper staple of the Nottingham comedy circuit, putting on regular stand-up nights right in the city centre. They're known for mixing it up, so you'll often find a blend of comedians who are already well-known alongside some fresh faces trying to make their mark. It’s a great shout if you're looking for a lively night out that isn't tied to the big festival dates. They really do bring a good buzz to the local scene.
You can expect a good mix of established and up-and-coming talent at their shows.
Here's a bit of what makes Den of Laughs stand out:
Variety of Acts: They don't stick to one type of comedian; you'll get a range of styles and experiences.
Regular Nights: There are frequent opportunities to catch a show, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
City Centre Location: It's super convenient to get to, meaning less hassle and more laughs.
They often host events like the 'Battle of the Bits', which is a really raw and unpredictable night where comedians, both new and experienced, go head-to-head. It's a fantastic way to see comedy in its most unpolished form, and you never quite know what you're going to get. It's definitely a place to discover new favourites.
This is the kind of place where you might just stumble upon the next big thing in comedy, or at least have a really good chuckle trying to figure out who it will be. They're all about keeping the energy high and the jokes coming.
6. The Glee Club
The Glee Club is a proper staple on the Nottingham comedy circuit, and for good reason. It’s one of those places that consistently puts on a good show, whether you’re after a big name or just want to see some fresh talent trying out new material. They host a variety of comedy nights throughout the year, so there’s usually something happening whatever your schedule.
It’s a reliable spot for a laugh, no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, a work night out, or just a spontaneous decision to seek out some humour, The Glee Club usually fits the bill. They’ve had some big names pass through their doors over the years, and you can often catch touring comedians on their way up or established acts trying out new sets.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might expect:
Variety of Acts: From solo stand-up comedians to sketch groups, the programming is pretty diverse.
Regular Club Nights: They often have weekly or bi-weekly comedy club nights featuring a mix of comedians.
Special Events: Keep an eye out for one-off shows and festival appearances.
Accessibility is something they seem to take seriously. They provide specific seating arrangements for disabled patrons, with options in the first few rows for seated gigs and a mezzanine area for standing shows. If you have particular needs, it’s always best to get in touch with them beforehand to make sure they can accommodate you properly. They aim to make sure everyone has a good time.
The Glee Club has built a solid reputation for being a go-to venue for live comedy in Nottingham. Its central location makes it easy to get to, and the atmosphere inside is generally buzzing, which always helps when you're looking for a good night out. It’s the kind of place where you can just turn up and expect a decent laugh without too much fuss.
7. Canalhouse
The Canalhouse is a proper Nottingham pub that also happens to put on some cracking comedy nights. It's not just about the drinks, though they are good, it's about the atmosphere they create for live comedy. You can expect a comedy show here every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. It’s a fantastic spot for seeing both established comedians trying out new material and fresh faces just starting their journey.
This isn't some stuffy theatre; it's a relaxed pub environment where you can grab a pint and enjoy the laughs. They've even picked up a few awards, like Best Open Mic Night and Best Small Club at the Midlands Comedy Awards, which tells you something about the quality they're putting out. It’s a great place to catch a mix of acts, from seasoned pros to up-and-coming talent, all in one night. You might even catch a big name trying out some new jokes before a tour. Keep an eye on their listings for specific dates and acts, as things can change.
The Canalhouse offers a more intimate comedy experience compared to larger venues. It's the kind of place where you feel connected to the performance, making it a really enjoyable night out for anyone looking for some genuine laughs in a friendly setting.
Here's what you can generally expect:
A regular comedy night, usually on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month.
A mix of comedians, including experienced performers and new talent.
A relaxed pub atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out.
Award-winning comedy nights, recognised in the Midlands Comedy Awards.
8. Theatre Royal & Concert Hall
When you're looking for a proper night out with some laughs, the Theatre Royal & Concert Hall is definitely worth checking out. It's a grand old place, and they often host some really top-notch comedy acts.
They've had some big names grace their stage over the years, and it's not just stand-up. You might catch a touring comedy play or even a sketch show. It’s a proper theatre experience, so expect good seats and a decent atmosphere.
It's a good bet for catching established comedians and larger-scale comedy productions.
Here's a look at what you might find:
Stand-up Specials: Big names doing their latest tours.
Comedy Plays: Think shows like Fawlty Towers, bringing classic humour to life.
Variety Shows: Sometimes they have mixed bills with different types of performers.
It's always a good idea to check their listings regularly because shows get announced all the time. You can often find tickets for upcoming events like Matt Forde: Defying Calamity on their website.
This venue offers a more traditional theatre setting, which can make for a really special comedy night. It’s not your typical sticky-floored club, so if you fancy dressing up a bit and enjoying a show in a beautiful building, this is the place.
They've got a pretty varied programme, so while comedy isn't on every single night, when it is, it's usually something pretty special. Keep an eye on their schedule for any comedy performances that catch your eye.
9. Squire Performing Arts Centre
The Squire Performing Arts Centre is a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to catching some laughs in Nottingham. It’s not always the first place that springs to mind for comedy, but it does host some interesting events.
They’ve put on shows like ImproVision, which is an improv comedy night. This kind of show is brilliant because you never know what you're going to get, and it's all made up on the spot. It’s a great way to see performers think on their feet and create something hilarious out of thin air.
Here’s what you might find at the Squire:
Improv comedy nights
Potentially other touring comedy acts
Local theatre productions that might include comedic elements
It’s worth checking their schedule regularly because they don't have comedy every week, but when they do, it can be a really fun and different night out. Keep an eye on their listings for any upcoming performances.
While not exclusively a comedy venue, the Squire Performing Arts Centre offers a more intimate setting for performances. This can make for a really engaging experience, especially for improv shows where audience interaction is key. It’s a good spot if you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual stand-up circuit.
For specific event details, like ticket prices and times for shows such as ImproVision, it's always best to check the venue's official website or ticketing partners directly.
10. Motorpoint Arena
The Motorpoint Arena Nottingham is a pretty big deal when it comes to live entertainment in the city. It's a large venue, capable of holding up to 10,000 people, which means it attracts some of the biggest names in comedy when they tour the UK. You won't find intimate club nights here, but rather the major arena tours from well-known comedians.
If you're looking for a large-scale comedy show with a massive audience, this is the place to check. It's not just about comedy, though; the arena hosts everything from major music acts to sporting events, so it's a real hub for entertainment.
When big comedy tours come to Nottingham, the Motorpoint Arena is often a stop on their schedule. It’s worth keeping an eye on their listings if you’re a fan of stand-up. You might catch someone like Romesh Ranganathan or another big hitter performing here.
Here's what you can generally expect:
Major Tours: Expect to see comedians who have a significant following and are touring large venues.
High Production Value: Arena shows often come with impressive stage setups and lighting.
Large Audiences: Be prepared for a crowd – these shows are popular!
While it's fantastic for seeing huge stars, remember that the atmosphere can be different from a smaller comedy club. It's more about the spectacle and the shared experience of a massive crowd enjoying a top act.
Getting tickets can sometimes be a bit of a scramble, as these events are popular. It's a good idea to sign up for alerts from the venue or your favourite ticketing sites. You can find out more about what's on at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on their official website.
The Motorpoint Arena is a fantastic spot for a great night out. It's a place where you can catch all sorts of exciting events. Fancy seeing a top comedian or a brilliant show? This is the place to be! For the latest listings and to grab your tickets, head over to our website.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Right then, we've had a good look at what Nottingham has to offer when it comes to having a good chuckle. From the big names that pop up now and then to the regular nights at places like Den of Laughs and the Canalhouse, there's always something going on. Don't forget the Nottingham Comedy Festival in November if you want a whole load of laughs in one go. Honestly, whether it's a big event or just a casual night out, a bit of comedy is always a good idea. So get yourself down to a show, grab some mates, and prepare to laugh your socks off. You won't regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of comedy can I find in Nottingham?
Nottingham has a really lively comedy scene! You can catch everything from big-name comedians to up-and-coming stars. There are stand-up shows, improv nights, and even comedy festivals happening throughout the year.
Where can I see live comedy in Nottingham?
There are loads of great places to see comedy in Nottingham. Check out venues like The Glee Club, The Canalhouse for award-winning open mic nights, and also places like the Theatre Royal & Concert Hall, Squire Performing Arts Centre, and the Motorpoint Arena often have comedy shows.
Are there any regular comedy nights or clubs?
Yes, definitely! NCF Comedy puts on events all year. Den of Laughs Comedy has regular stand-up shows in the city centre, and The Canalhouse hosts comedy every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Missimp Improv Comedy also has regular shows and workshops.
When is the Nottingham Comedy Festival?
The Nottingham Comedy Festival usually happens every year in November. It's a great time to see a lot of different comedy acts all in one place.
Can I buy tickets for comedy shows as a gift?
Absolutely! You can often buy tickets for comedy events as gifts. Sometimes you can even get gift cards that the recipient can use to choose their own comedy show.
Are there famous British comedians I should know about?
The UK has produced so many brilliant comedians! You might know names like Peter Kay, Sarah Millican, or Mo Gilligan. There are also lots of newer comedians who are really popular, so it's always worth checking out who's performing.