The Definitive List: Uncovering the Top UK Comedians You Need to See

Right then, let's have a natter about some of the absolute legends of British comedy. We're talking about the top UK comedians who've made us chuckle, snort, and even cry with laughter over the years. It's a tough job picking just a few, but some shows and performers just stand out, don't they? These are the ones that shaped humour and are still talked about today. So, grab a cuppa, and let's get stuck in.

Key Takeaways

• Monty Python's Flying Circus brought surreal, stream-of-consciousness humour that changed comedy forever.

• Fawlty Towers, despite its short run, is a masterclass in character and farce.

• Blackadder offered sharp historical satire with brilliant wordplay.

• Only Fools and Horses provided relatable characters and laugh-out-loud situations.

• The Fast Show perfected rapid-fire sketch comedy with unforgettable catchphrases.

1. Monty Python's Flying Circus

Right then, let's talk about Monty Python's Flying Circus. This wasn't just a comedy show; it was a full-on revolution in how we thought about being funny. Airing from 1969 to 1974, it completely changed the game with its utterly bizarre, stream-of-consciousness style. You never knew what was coming next, and that was the whole point.

The Pythons, comprising Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin, crafted a unique blend of intellectual silliness, sharp satire, and pure, unadulterated absurdity. They took everyday situations and twisted them into something completely unexpected, often ending sketches with a sudden, jarring cut or a nonsensical animation. It was a show that didn't shy away from being clever, but it also wasn't afraid to be completely daft.

Here's a look at what made it so special:

• Surreal Humour: Forget traditional joke structures. The Pythons favoured the unexpected, the illogical, and the downright weird. Think of the Ministry of Silly Walks or the Spanish Inquisition appearing out of nowhere.

• Sketch Format: While it was a sketch show, the sketches often bled into each other or were interrupted by bizarre animated sequences, creating a feeling of constant, unpredictable movement.

• Social Commentary: Beneath the silliness, there was often a sharp critique of British society, bureaucracy, and even the nature of television itself.

• Memorable Characters: From the Pepperpots to Mr. Praline, the characters were often as strange as the situations they found themselves in.

The show's influence is massive. It gave us a new language for comedy, one that wasn't afraid to be smart, silly, and a bit rude all at once. Generations of comedians have looked to Monty Python for inspiration, and honestly, you can still watch it today and be genuinely surprised by how fresh and funny it feels.

It’s hard to pick just a few highlights, but the sheer inventiveness and the courage to be so different really set it apart. It wasn't just about making people laugh; it was about making them think, or at least question why they were laughing so hard at a man in a fish-suited bicycle.

2. Fawlty Towers

Right then, let's talk about Fawlty Towers. Even though they only made a dozen episodes, this show is absolutely legendary. John Cleese plays Basil Fawlty, the perpetually flustered owner of a seaside hotel, and honestly, he’s just brilliant at it. The sheer chaos that unfolds in each episode, usually thanks to Basil's terrible temper and his wife Sybil's sharp tongue, is comedy gold.

What makes it so good, I reckon, is the way it perfectly mixes slapstick with really sharp character observations. You've got Manuel, the Spanish waiter who barely speaks English, Polly the sharp-witted maid, and the ever-present, terrifying Mrs. Wilson. Every character feels so real, even when they're caught up in the most ridiculous situations.

It’s the kind of show that just gets better the more you watch it. You notice new little details, new facial expressions from Cleese, new bits of dialogue that you missed the first time around. It’s a masterclass in comedic timing and writing.

The show's genius lies in its relatable frustrations. We've all dealt with bad customer service or awkward social encounters, and Fawlty Towers just takes those everyday annoyances and cranks them up to eleven. It’s cathartic, really.

Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s a must-watch:

• Unforgettable Characters: From Basil's snobbery to Manuel's confusion, each character is a perfectly crafted comedic creation.

• Masterful Farce: The plots often descend into utter pandemonium, with misunderstandings and escalating disasters.

• Sharp Dialogue: Despite the chaos, the writing is incredibly witty and quotable.

It’s a show that’s been around for ages, celebrating its 50th anniversary recently, but it hasn’t aged one bit. If you haven't seen it, you're missing out on a true classic of British television.

3. Blackadder

Right then, let's talk about Blackadder. This show, honestly, it's a bit of a masterpiece, isn't it? It’s not just one series, but a whole run of them, each set in a different bit of history, but always with Rowan Atkinson as the cunning, often cowardly, Edmund Blackadder. You've got him as a medieval lord, a Tudor courtier, a Regency dandy, and then, my personal favourite, a World War I soldier.

The genius of Blackadder is how it takes historical settings and completely twists them for comedic effect. It’s not about being historically accurate, far from it. It’s about using those periods as a backdrop for some seriously sharp writing and brilliant characters. Think of Stephen Fry as the pompous Melchett, Hugh Laurie as the dim-witted Prince George, and Tony Robinson as the ever-put-upon Baldrick. They're all just perfect.

What really makes it stand out, especially the later series like Blackadder Goes Forth, is that it can be incredibly funny one minute and then surprisingly poignant the next. That final episode in the trenches, for instance? Proper tear-jerker, but still managed to be funny. It’s a tricky balance to strike, but they pulled it off.

Here's a quick look at the main Blackadders:

• The Black Adder (1983): Medieval times. Edmund is a bit of a git, but not quite the master manipulator he becomes.

• Blackadder II (1986): Elizabethan England. Edmund is back, trying to get by with his motley crew.

• Blackadder the Third (1987): Regency era. Edmund is now a butler, trying to control his idiotic master, the Prince Regent.

• Blackadder Goes Forth (1989): World War I. This is where it gets really good, and a bit sad.

It's the sheer wit and the way they play with historical stereotypes that makes Blackadder so rewatchable. You can pick any episode and find something new to laugh at, even if you've seen it a dozen times before. It’s just that well-crafted.

4. Only Fools and Horses

Right then, let's talk about Del Boy, Rodney, and Uncle Albert. Only Fools and Horses is more than just a sitcom; it's practically a national treasure. Following the Trotter family's often hilarious, sometimes poignant, attempts to get rich quick in Peckham, the show perfectly captured the spirit of aspirational Britain in the 80s and 90s. David Jason as Derek 'Del Boy' Trotman is an absolute icon of British television.

What made it so special?

• Relatable Characters: Even though they were often getting into dodgy deals, you couldn't help but root for the Trotters. Their family loyalty and dreams, however outlandish, felt genuine.

• Brilliant Writing: John Sullivan's scripts were packed with memorable catchphrases ("Lovely jubbly!", "Rodney, you plonker!") and perfectly timed comedic situations.

• Evolution Over Time: The show ran for over two decades, allowing us to see the characters grow and change, from their early days in a high-rise flat to eventually finding a bit of success.

The series, which ran from 1981 to 2003, gave us countless classic moments, from the Reliant Regal van to Del Boy falling through a bar. It's a show that still gets re-runs and is loved by generations. You can even find out more about its enduring legacy in a special anniversary documentary.

It's the blend of genuine warmth, sharp observational humour, and the sheer resilience of the Trotter family that makes Only Fools and Horses stand the test of time. It’s a proper slice of British life, warts and all.

5. The Fast Show

If you’ve ever sat through a tired sketch show, watching endless scenes that drag on, then you owe it to yourself to catch The Fast Show. This was the sketch series that blew up the old way of doing things, running at a completely different speed. Fast jokes, quirky characters, and snappy catchphrases—suddenly, nothing hung around long enough to get dull. You never had time to wonder if a sketch was working or not; the show had already moved on to something new.

A few things that made The Fast Show stand out:

• Relentless pace – scenes could be seconds long

• Wild variety of characters – everyone from “Suit You Sir!” tailors to the hopeless weather man

• Phrases that quickly found their way into schoolyards, pubs, and offices (“Brilliant!”, “Which was nice…”)

Series Overview	Years Aired	Approx. Sketches per Episode
The Fast Show (main)	1994–1997	25–30
Specials / Revivals	2000+	20–35

If you ask me, so much modern comedy wouldn’t exist without The Fast Show’s madcap, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it energy. It was pure chaos and, most times, absolute genius.

It’s strange to think how a show that ran such short sketches left such a lasting impression—proof that sometimes less really is more.

6. Rising Damp

Right then, let's talk about Rising Damp. This sitcom, which ran from 1974 to 1978, really captured a certain grimy reality of British life, didn't it? At its heart, you've got Ronnie Barker as the landlord, Rigsby, who's just about as charming as a damp patch on a wall. He's perpetually trying to get one over on his tenants, especially the rather smooth-talking Philip, played by Nicholas Lyndhurst, and the ever-so-slightly dim Alan, portrayed by Richard Beckinsale. And then there's Miss Jones, played by Frances de la Tour, who Rigsby has a bit of a soft spot for, though she's usually oblivious to his advances.

The show's brilliance lay in its sharp writing and the way it tackled social issues, particularly class and race, without ever feeling preachy. It was often quite uncomfortable viewing, but that was part of its appeal. You knew people like Rigsby, or at least you knew the type. He was a man stuck in his ways, resentful of anyone he saw as better off or more modern than him.

Here's a little breakdown of the main characters:

• Rupert Rigsby: The penny-pinching, perpetually disgruntled landlord. Always scheming, rarely succeeding.

• Philip Smith: The educated, somewhat cynical tenant who often outsmarts Rigsby.

• Alan Moore: The naive, good-natured tenant, often the butt of jokes but generally well-meaning.

• Miss Jones: The attractive, somewhat naive tenant who Rigsby fancies.

It wasn't just about the laughs, though there were plenty. It was about the everyday struggles, the awkwardness, and the sheer desperation that could be found in a run-down Victorian terrace. The setting itself, a dilapidated property in a northern town, felt like a character in its own right. It’s a classic piece of British television that still holds up today, and you can catch some of its magic on a UK tour that's been announced.

The humour often came from the clash between Rigsby's outdated views and the more progressive attitudes of his tenants. It was a reflection of societal shifts happening at the time, presented through the lens of a boarding house.

It’s a show that really shows how far British comedy has come, and how it’s always been able to find humour in the mundane and the slightly miserable.

7. Open All Hours

Right then, let's have a butcher's at Open All Hours. This classic sitcom, which ran from 1976 to 1985, gave us a brilliant look into the everyday life of Arkwright's corner shop in Yorkshire. It’s the kind of show that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

At its heart, the show was driven by the wonderfully stingy and ever-so-slightly dodgy Mr. Arkwright, played to perfection by Ronnie Barker. His main ambition in life seemed to be making a quick quid, often at the expense of his long-suffering nephew and errand boy, Granville, who was brought to life by a young David Jason. Granville, bless him, was always trying to get one over on his uncle, or just generally trying to escape the drudgery of the shop, usually with little success.

The supporting cast was just as memorable, from the gossipy Mrs. Higgins to the ever-present Nurse Gladys Emmanuel. Their interactions with Arkwright and Granville provided endless comedic moments, often revolving around Arkwright's elaborate schemes to sell more goods or avoid spending any money.

What made Open All Hours so special?

• The characters: They felt like real people you might actually meet, albeit slightly exaggerated for comedic effect.

• The setting: A quintessential corner shop, a place many people would have known, making it instantly relatable.

• The humour: It was gentle, observational, and often relied on the characters' quirks and Arkwright's penny-pinching ways.

The show masterfully captured the small-town atmosphere and the simple, often mundane, routines of running a local business. It wasn't about big laughs, but more about the quiet chuckles derived from everyday situations and character interactions.

It’s a testament to the writing and performances that Open All Hours remains so beloved. It’s a slice of pure, unadulterated British comedy that still holds up today.

8. The Morecambe & Wise Show

Right then, let's talk about Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise. These two weren't just comedians; they were national treasures. Their show, which ran for years, was the absolute pinnacle of British light entertainment. It was the kind of show that brought the whole family together on a Saturday night.

Their format was pretty simple, really – a mix of sketches, songs, and that famous 'Gareth' bit. But it was the sheer brilliance of their timing, their rapport, and their ability to get huge stars to play along that made it special. You had everyone from Dame Vera Lynn to, famously, André Previn, all willing to be the butt of a joke. The sketches were often daft, but they were executed with such polish and charm.

What made them stand out?

• The Chemistry: Eric and Ernie had a connection that felt completely natural. You believed they were mates, and that made their jokes land even better.

• The Guest Stars: They treated their guests with respect, but also weren't afraid to poke fun at them, which was always good for a laugh.

• The Catchphrases: "What do you think of it so far?" and "Bring me sunshine" are still known by pretty much everyone.

Their Christmas specials were legendary, often pulling in massive viewing figures. It was a proper event, the highlight of the festive television schedule for many. You can still find clips of their most famous routines online, like the one with André Previn and Grieg's Piano Concerto. It’s a testament to their enduring appeal that these shows still make people laugh today. They really set the standard for what a variety show could be.

9. The League of Gentlemen

Right then, let's talk about The League of Gentlemen. This isn't your typical laugh-a-minute sitcom, mind you. It's a bit darker, a bit weirder, and all the better for it. Set in the fictional, and frankly quite unsettling, Yorkshire town of Royston Vasey, the show follows the bizarre lives of its inhabitants. We're talking about characters like Pauline, who runs a local job centre with an iron fist and a penchant for local history, or the terrifyingly cheerful barber, Edward. It’s the sheer commitment to the grotesque and the mundane that makes it so brilliant.

The show, created by Jeremy Dyson, Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, and Reece Shearsmith, really pushed the boundaries of what British comedy could be. They all play multiple characters, and honestly, you sometimes forget it's the same actors under all that makeup. It’s a masterclass in character acting and writing that’s both genuinely funny and deeply uncomfortable.

Here are just a few of the unforgettable characters you'll encounter:

• Pauline Campbell-Jones: The formidable and utterly terrifying job centre advisor.

• Edward and Tubbs Tattsyrup: The seemingly sweet, but deeply sinister, couple who run the local shop.

• Reece Shearsmith's various roles, including the demonic Papa Lazarou.

• Steve Pemberton's creations, such as the local butcher, Mr. Chinnery, who has a rather unique approach to his trade.

The humour often comes from the unsettling normality of the characters' extreme situations. It’s a kind of comedy that sticks with you, making you question the everyday a little more.

If you're looking for something that's a bit off-kilter and brilliantly executed, then The League of Gentlemen is definitely worth a watch. You can find it streaming on Britbox Apple TV Channel.

10. Father Ted

Right then, let's talk about Father Ted. This show, set on the fictional Craggy Island, is just brilliant. It follows the lives of three priests – Ted, Dougal, and Jack – who are, let's say, 'exiled' to this remote spot off the coast of Ireland. The sheer absurdity of their daily lives, dealing with eccentric parishioners and bizarre situations, is what makes it so funny.

It's not just slapstick, though. The writers, Arthur Mathews and Graham Linehan, were incredibly clever at poking fun at the Catholic Church without being mean about it. They managed to find humour in the everyday struggles and the slightly odd rules and traditions. You've got Ted, the slightly more sensible one trying to keep things together, Dougal, who's a bit dim but means well, and Father Jack, who's mostly interested in drink and women. It's a classic trio, really.

Some of the most memorable moments include:

• The time they tried to win a competition to have the 'freshest' member of the clergy.

• The episode where they got lost in a department store.

• And who could forget the 'Lovely Girls' competition?

It’s a show that really captured a certain kind of Irish humour, a bit dry, a bit silly, and always with a good dose of the unexpected. Even though it only ran for a few series, its impact is huge. You can still hear people quoting lines from it all the time. It’s one of those comedies that just sticks with you, and honestly, it’s a testament to the writing and the performances that it remains so popular. If you haven't seen it, you're missing out on some proper Irish comedy gold.

Fancy a good laugh? If you're a fan of classic British comedy, you'll know all about the brilliant Father Ted. This show brought us so many memorable moments and characters. For more chuckles and a great night out, check out our upcoming comedy nights. Visit our website today to book your tickets!

So, Who's Next on Your List?

Right then, that’s our take on some of the funniest people gracing UK stages and screens. It’s been a proper laugh putting this together, and honestly, there are so many more brilliant comedians out there we could have mentioned. This list is just a starting point, really. If you haven't seen these lot live yet, do yourself a favour and get a ticket. You won't regret it. And who knows, maybe you'll discover your new favourite comedian. Keep an eye out, keep laughing, and let us know who we missed!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these British comedy shows so special?

These shows are brilliant because they're really funny and often quite clever. They use different kinds of humour, from silly jokes to smart observations about life. Many of them have characters you'll remember for ages, and they often say things that make you laugh out loud. They've also inspired lots of other comedy we see today.

Are these shows still funny even if they're old?

Absolutely! Even though some of these shows were made a long time ago, the jokes and the characters still hold up. Good comedy is often timeless. You'll find that the situations and the way people react are still relatable and hilarious, no matter when they were made.

Where can I watch these classic British comedies?

You can often find these shows on streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or BritBox. Sometimes they're shown on TV channels too. It's worth checking online or asking around, as many are available to watch whenever you like.

What's the difference between a sitcom and a sketch show?

A sitcom, like 'Only Fools and Horses,' usually follows the same characters in funny, everyday situations over a whole series. A sketch show, like 'The Fast Show,' is made up of lots of short, funny scenes with different characters and jokes in each one.

Why is Monty Python so famous?

Monty Python's Flying Circus was a bit wild and different! They didn't follow normal rules for comedy. Their shows were full of silly ideas, unexpected twists, and a kind of mad logic that nobody had really seen before. It changed comedy for good.

Are there any newer British comedians I should know about?

While this list focuses on the absolute legends, British comedy is always growing! Keep an eye out for stand-up comedians you see on TV shows or at live gigs. Many of today's funniest people were inspired by the shows on this list, so you'll often see echoes of their brilliance.