The Top 15 UK Stand Up Comedy Tours in 2026: Where to Check Out The Best Live Comedians
- comedyinyoureye
- Sep 6
- 17 min read
Updated: Sep 7
Top 15 Best Live UK Stand Up Comedy Tours in 2026
There is nothing quite like the electric buzz of a live comedy gig. It is that unique, collective experience of a room full of strangers united in laughter, hanging on every word from the person on stage. Get ready, because 2026 is shaping up to be a truly monumental year for live stand-up in the UK. The calendar is already bursting with an incredible array of talent, from stadium-filling legends making triumphant returns to the sharpest storytellers dissecting modern life, and a thrilling new wave of voices ready to become your next favourite comedian.  Â
Navigating this glorious landscape of laughter can be a challenge. That is why we have created the definitive insider’s guide to the 15 must-see events on the comedy calendar. This is your essential roadmap to the Best Uk Live Stand Up Comedy Tours in 2026. We will cover the household names you know and love, but we will also shine a spotlight on the future stars you can catch right now in more intimate venues. We will explore the Arena Giants, the Master Storytellers, the Alternative Champions, and the Rising Stars, ensuring there is a perfect show for every taste.
Quick Guide to 2026's Must-See Comedy Tours
For those who want a quick overview, here is a scannable guide to the top tours criss-crossing the country in 2026.
Comedian | Tour Name | Comedic Style | Perfect For Fans Of... |
Rob Beckett | Giraffe | Relatable, high-energy observational | Micky Flanagan, Parenting podcasts |
Jimmy Carr | Laughs Funny | Dark, one-liner, controversial | Frankie Boyle, Ricky Gervais |
Jason Manford | A Manford All Seasons | Warm, observational, everyman | Peter Kay, John Bishop |
Chris Ramsey | Here, Man! | Energetic, relatable, anecdotal | Sh**ged. Married. Annoyed. podcast, observational humour |
Dara Ó Briain | Re:Creation | Intelligent, fast-talking, interactive | Ed Byrne, QI, scientific wit |
Josh Widdicombe | Not My Cup of Tea | Gentle, observational, self-deprecating | Jon Richardson, The Last Leg |
Miles Jupp | On I Bang | Posh, anecdotal, movingly funny | Jack Dee, Rev., witty storytelling |
David Sedaris | An Evening with David Sedaris | Satirical, poignant, literary storytelling | Alan Bennett, BBC Radio 4 comedy |
Stewart Lee | Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf | Deconstructed, meta, anti-comedy | Daniel Kitson, The Fall |
Al Murray | All You Need is Guv | Character comedy, political satire | Harry Hill, topical comedy |
Garth Marenghi | This Bursted Earth | Character comedy, horror parody, surreal | The Mighty Boosh, What We Do in the Shadows |
Pete Firman | Tricks & Giggles | Comedy magic, quick-witted | Tommy Cooper, Penn & Teller |
Judi Love | All About The Love | Honest, bold, observational | Loose Women, relatable life stories |
Connor Burns | Gallus | Sharp, punchline-heavy, Scottish wit | Kevin Bridges, rising stars |
Joe Kent-Walters | Frankie Monroe DEAD!!! | Character comedy, surreal, musical | Vic Reeves, Edinburgh Fringe hits |
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The Arena Giants: Unmissable Blockbuster Comedy in 2026
This is the premier league of comedy. These are the acts who have become cultural phenomena, whose tours are not just gigs but major events. A key driver behind this level of success is a powerful trend that has reshaped the UK comedy landscape: the podcast-to-arena pipeline. While television appearances on panel shows were once the primary route to stardom, a new path has been forged. Comedians like Rob Beckett, Josh Widdicombe, and Chris Ramsey have cultivated fiercely loyal fanbases in the millions through their podcasts. These audio platforms create an intimate, direct-to-consumer relationship, building a sense of community that translates into enormous ticket sales, often bypassing traditional media gatekeepers entirely. These comedians are not just joke-tellers; they are multi-platform content creators who have proven that an engaged audio audience is one of the most powerful assets in live entertainment.  Â
Rob Beckett: Giraffe
Who He Is: Affectionately known as "Bobby Beckles," Rob Beckett is one of the most successful and recognisable faces in UK comedy. He is the co-host of the BAFTA-winning Rob and Romesh Vs, a team captain on Rob Beckett's Smart TV, and the unmistakable voice of Celebs Go Dating. His autobiography,   Â
A Class Act, which details his experiences as a working-class comic in a middle-class industry, was a Sunday Times Bestseller.  Â
The Comedic Style: Rob’s comedy is defined by its infectious, high-tempo energy and a genuine working-class perspective that resonates with audiences nationwide. He is a master of witty observations on class, the absurdities of modern parenting, and family life, all delivered with a magnetic personality and his signature toothy grin.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "Giraffe" tour is a mammoth undertaking, with dates stretching from late 2024 right through to April 2026. The tour promises to see him "smashing the life out of the M25, M1, M5 and any other road that's in his way". The name is a nod to his lanky stature, and the show is packed with his signature brand of relatable humour that has made him an arena-filling star.  Â
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny
Who He Is: A true global comedy superstar, Jimmy Carr is one of the biggest-selling live acts in the world. He is renowned for his prolific touring schedule and a string of hugely popular Netflix specials, including the recent and typically controversial Natural Born Killer.  Â
The Comedic Style: Jimmy Carr is the undisputed king of the one-liner. His style is built on dark humour, razor-sharp punchlines, and completely fearless crowd work that can leave audiences gasping. His delivery is polished, relentless, and designed for maximum comedic impact, making him one of the most distinctive voices in British comedy.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "Laughs Funny" tour sees Carr on the road with all-new material, and its premise is as direct as his jokes: "Jimmy Carr laughs funny and he wants to make you laugh by being funny". The tour continues its global domination with UK dates into September 2026, including massive arena shows at venues like the OVO Arena, Wembley.  Â
Jason Manford: A Manford All Seasons
Who He Is: A nationally acclaimed comedian, Absolute Radio presenter, and all-round entertainer, Jason Manford is a true household name. His extensive TV credits include everything from 8 out of 10 Cats and Live at the Apollo to hosting The Olivier Awards and appearing in The Royal Variety Performance.  Â
The Comedic Style: Jason Manford is a master of what The Guardian calls "expert observational comedy," consistently finding the "comic gold" (Mail on Sunday) in the minutiae of everyday life. His style is warm, charming, and universally relatable, allowing him to successfully straddle the line between old-school mainstream entertainment and contemporary stand-up.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The smash-hit "A Manford All Seasons" tour continues its extensive run into March 2026. Fans can expect more of the expert observations and hilarious anecdotes that have cemented his place as one of the UK's most beloved comics. The tour covers a huge number of UK venues, from Swansea to Stoke-on-Trent.  Â
Chris Ramsey: Here, Man!
Who He Is: A leading figure in UK comedy, Chris Ramsey is celebrated for his high-energy stand-up, his memorable run to the semi-finals of Strictly Come Dancing, and coming second on Taskmaster. Alongside his wife Rosie, he is the co-creator and co-host of the record-breaking podcast and BBC TV show,   Â
Sh**ged. Married. Annoyed..  Â
The Comedic Style: Chris’s stand-up is described as "frighteningly talented" by The Times and "stand-up gold" by the Evening Standard. He delivers his material in a "deceptive off-the-cuff style," focusing on relatable and often "relishable remarks about parenthood and domesticity" that keep the fun flowing.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "Here, Man!" tour is a major national run scheduled for February, March, and April of 2026. It will see Chris performing at some of the UK's most prestigious venues, including the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Manchester Opera House, and London's Eventim Apollo.  Â
The Master Storytellers: An Evening of Wit and Wisdom
Moving from the high-octane energy of the arenas, we turn to the comedians who craft their shows like a theatrical performance. This is comedy for those who appreciate a perfectly told story, intelligent and thought-provoking observations, and a more deliberate, captivating pace. Despite the rise of fast-paced comedy tailored for social media clips, there remains a huge and dedicated audience for intellectually stimulating and thoughtfully constructed stand-up. The enduring popularity of performers like Dara Ó Briain, Miles Jupp, and David Sedaris demonstrates that wit, narrative depth, and intelligence are still powerful draws. Their success proves that comedy can be both hilarious and profound, often drawing on deeply personal—and sometimes difficult—experiences to forge a powerful connection with the audience, offering substance that lingers long after the final punchline.  Â
Dara Ó Briain: Re:Creation
Who He Is: As one of Britain and Ireland's most recognisable television personalities, Dara Ó Briain is celebrated for hosting long-running shows like Mock The Week, Robot Wars, and Star Gazing Live. His previous tour,   Â
So, Where Were We?, was a huge international success and was named UK Comedy Tour of the Year 2023 by Chortle.  Â
The Comedic Style: Dara is a master of what The Guardian calls "intelligent, no-frills stand-up". His performance is a whirlwind of erudite humour and lightning-fast wit, but his true genius lies in his incredible ability to interact with the audience, creating unique moments of "madness" at every single show.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: Following his global success, "Re:Creation" sees Dara back on the road doing what he loves most: standing in a theatre, telling stories, and riffing with the crowd. This guaranteed very, very funny night continues its UK run until at least March 2026, with dates in major theatres like the Edinburgh Playhouse.  Â
Josh Widdicombe: Not My Cup of Tea
Who He Is: Hailed as an "ace observationalist" by The Guardian, Josh Widdicombe is a household name thanks to his starring role on The Last Leg, the hugely popular Parenting Hell podcast with Rob Beckett, and countless appearances on shows like QI, Taskmaster, and Live at the Apollo.  Â
The Comedic Style: Josh possesses the rare "ability to find the sparkle in the mundane". His comedic style is built on a gentle, low-key charisma and brilliantly crafted observational routines that perfectly capture the petty frustrations and absurdities of modern life.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "Not My Cup of Tea" tour continues its run across the UK into May 2026. In his own self-deprecating style, Josh says the show will be "shorter and with lower production values than Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, but funnier and with more references to tea".  Â
Miles Jupp: On I Bang
Who He Is: Miles Jupp is an accomplished actor and comedian, instantly recognisable from his roles in shows like Rev. and The Thick of It, as well as for his distinctive, eloquent, and often wonderfully flustered stage persona.  Â
The Comedic Style:Â Jupp is a master storyteller, delivering hilarious and often unexpectedly moving tales with a quintessentially British charm. His latest show sees him mining a deeply personal and life-altering experience for both comedic and poignant gold.
About the 2026 Tour: The Chortle award-nominated show "On I Bang" continues its highly successful and emphatically received run into March 2026. The show is a captivating ride, telling the story of what happens when life suddenly throws you off script, following Jupp's unexpected brain seizure and subsequent surgery to remove a tumour in 2021.  Â
David Sedaris: An Evening with David Sedaris
Who He Is: Described as one of America's "pre-eminent humor writers" and a true "master of satire," David Sedaris is a multi-bestselling author and a regular, beloved contributor to The New Yorker and BBC Radio 4.  Â
The Comedic Style: An evening with David Sedaris is not a traditional stand-up show. Instead, he takes to the stage to read new and unpublished personal essays. His style is a unique and captivating blend of hilarious, poignant, and occasionally shocking observations on his family, his life, and the cultural absurdities he encounters on his travels.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: David Sedaris is bringing his celebrated reading tour back to the UK for a run of dates in July 2026. He will be appearing in some of the country's most prestigious concert halls, including Brighton's Theatre Royal, Manchester's Bridgewater Hall, and two nights at London's Royal Festival Hall.  Â
The Alternative Champions: Pushing Comedy's Boundaries
This section celebrates the innovators, the cult heroes, and the comedians who play by their own rules. The UK touring circuit is a broad church, and it is not just for traditional stand-up. A significant and growing niche is occupied by high-concept shows built around specific characters or elaborate conceits. The deconstructive, meta-comedy of Stewart Lee, the enduring satirical brilliance of Al Murray's Pub Landlord, and the multi-layered horror parody of Garth Marenghi all point to a strong audience appetite for comedy that is immersive, theatrical, and intellectually playful. These performers are not just telling jokes; they are creating entire worlds, blurring the lines between stand-up, theatre, and performance art to deliver a truly unique night out.  Â
Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf
Who He Is: Famously described by The Times as "The world's greatest living stand-up," Stewart Lee is a critically adored comedian's comedian. He is best known for his BAFTA-winning BBC2 series Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle and his uncompromising artistic integrity.  Â
The Comedic Style: Drier than an autumn leaf and a master of the deadpan delivery, Lee's comedy is famously deconstructed, repetitive, and intellectual. He will often spend ten minutes dissecting the anatomy of a single joke or berating his audience for not being clever enough. It is challenging, unique, and utterly unforgettable.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The tour for "Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf" continues into June 2026. The show is framed as Lee's response to the algorithm-driven, anger-fuelled comedy of Netflix specials, pitting his silver bullets of comedy against a "humanity-hating North American werewolf" in a hilarious scream into the void.  Â
Al Murray: All You Need is Guv
Who He Is: Al Murray is one of the most recognisable figures in British comedy, having honed his hilarious, xenophobic, and secretly astute alter-ego, The Pub Landlord, to perfection since 1994.  Â
The Comedic Style: As The Pub Landlord, Murray delivers a masterful satirical performance. He serves up "common sense" hot-takes and ancient pub wisdom that cleverly skewers British attitudes, class, and politics, all while engaging in brilliant, quick-witted banter with the audience.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: Hot on the heels of a sell-out 138-date tour, The Guv is back with a brand-new show for 2026, "All You Need is Guv." Prepare for a fresh barrel of barroom banter and a much-needed "truth tonic for these whacked out and troubled times". The tour runs throughout 2026 across the UK.  Â
Garth Marenghi: This Bursted Earth
Who He Is: Garth Marenghi is the legendary, fictional horror author and self-described "dream-weaver" created and portrayed by comedian Matthew Holness. He is the star and creator of the cult Channel 4 comedy series Garth Marenghi's Darkplace.  Â
The Comedic Style: A live show with Garth Marenghi is a masterclass in character comedy and parody. The performance features Marenghi reading from his "latest masterpiece," offering his conceited, pretentious, and blissfully unaware commentary along the way. It is surreal, layered, and deeply funny for those in on the joke.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: Marenghi's new show, "This Bursted Earth," is a live reading from the third book in his fictional Nick Steen trilogy. It promises "three freshly rancid tales" of horror and is set to tour in April 2026, including a prestigious date at The London Palladium.  Â
Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles
Who He Is: Pete Firman is the UK's top comic magician, with a huge social media following of over 4.5 million and numerous TV appearances on shows like Good Omens, Tonight at the London Palladium, and The John Bishop Show.  Â
The Comedic Style: Pete offers a "seamless blending of quality magic and stand-up comedy" (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine). He has been called "the new poster-boy for British comedy magic" (The Telegraph), delivering impossible feats of sleight of hand and jaw-dropping illusions with the timing and wit of a seasoned stand-up.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "Tricks & Giggles" tour continues into 2026, bringing his trademark blend of mind-boggling magic and laugh-out-loud comedy to stages across the UK. Expect a night of impossible feats and big laughs from one of magic's most exciting performers.  Â
The Rising Stars: Catch The Future of UK Comedy in 2026
This is your insider’s guide to the names you need to know now. Fresh from winning prestigious awards and selling out entire runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, these are the comedians right on the cusp of breaking into the big time. The Fringe, alongside industry accolades like the Chortle Awards, remains the single most important engine for launching new comedy talent in the UK. Winning, or even just being nominated for, an award like Best Newcomer is a career-defining moment, as it has been for recent talents like Joe Kent-Walters. This critical acclaim acts as a flywheel, generating industry buzz, securing management, and leading directly to national tours. For audiences, this provides a clear and reliable signal of quality, offering a golden opportunity to see the next generation of stars in an intimate venue before they become household names.  Â
Judi Love: All About The Love
Who She Is: Judi Love is a phenomenal breakout star, winning over a huge and growing fanbase with her appearances on shows like Loose Women, Strictly Come Dancing, and Taskmaster.  Â
The Comedic Style: Judi is celebrated for her incredible honesty, infectious humour, and refreshingly real insights into the hustle of juggling parenting, work, and everyday life. Her comedy is bold, unapologetic, relatable, and always delivered with a huge amount of heart.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: The "All About The Love" tour is scheduled for 2026, with dates already announced for May. The show promises to be packed with Judi’s signature home truths and hilarious takes on the struggles and transformations of modern life.  Â
Connor Burns: Gallus
Who He Is: Hailing from Scotland, Connor Burns is a "hilarious global break-through stand-up star" who is rapidly making a name for himself, having sold out two nights at the prestigious King's Theatre in Glasgow in 2025.  Â
The Comedic Style: Described as "fearless and it is wonderful" by The Scotsman, Burns has an authentic and "gallus" Scottish voice. His act is a high-energy affair, delivering "brilliant gags coming at you at a terrifying rate" with superb comic timing and a brilliant comedy mind.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: Connor is taking his all-new show "Gallus" on the road, with dates confirmed for the Glasgow International Comedy Festival in March 2026. This is a chance to see one of Scotland's most exciting new talents live.  Â
Joe Kent-Walters: Frankie Monroe DEAD!!! (good fun time)
Who He Is: Joe Kent-Walters is the winner of the coveted 2024 Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer, marking him out as one of the most exciting rising stars of character comedy in the UK.  Â
The Comedic Style: Performing in character as the sinister yet hilarious Frankie Monroe, the proprietor of a Rotherham working men's club, Kent-Walters delivers a brilliantly unique show. His act is a thrilling mix of character work, catchy original songs, and surreal storytelling that has captivated critics and audiences alike.  Â
About the 2026 Tour: Following a sold-out run at London's Soho Theatre, the award-winning show "Frankie Monroe DEAD!!! (good fun time)" is embarking on a full UK tour from February to June 2026. It will visit cities including Cardiff, Manchester, Glasgow, and Brighton.  Â
Quick Takeaways: Your 2026 Comedy Cheat Sheet
The Podcast Pipeline is Real:Â The biggest arena tours of 2026 are powered by comedians with massive podcast followings like Rob Beckett and Chris Ramsey.
Variety is King:Â The UK scene is thriving with more than just traditional stand-up. Do not miss the comedy magic of Pete Firman or the character parody of Garth Marenghi.
Intelligent Comedy Sells: Master storytellers like Dara Ó Briain and Miles Jupp prove there is a huge appetite for witty, thoughtful, and even moving comedy.
Follow the Awards:Â To find the next big thing, look to the Edinburgh Comedy Award winners. See rising stars like Joe Kent-Walters in small venues now before they hit the big time.
Book Early for Legends:Â Icons like Stewart Lee and Al Murray have fiercely loyal fanbases; their 2026 dates will sell out quickly.
The Everyman Endures:Â The relatable, observational humour of Jason Manford and Josh Widdicombe remains a powerful and beloved cornerstone of British comedy.
Planning Your Comedy Night Out: A Pro's Guide
With so many incredible shows to choose from, planning your perfect comedy night out is key. Here are a few pro tips to make sure you have the best experience possible.
Booking Tips: For the big arena tours, it is crucial to book months in advance directly from the venue or through official ticket agents like Ticketmaster, SeeTickets, or ATG Tickets to avoid disappointment and inflated prices. Always be wary of unofficial resale sites, as you risk buying invalid tickets.  Â
Choosing Your Experience: The type of night you want will determine the venue you choose. The massive energy of an arena show, with thousands of people laughing together, is a unique thrill. However, for a different kind of magic, nothing beats the up-close and personal experience of a dedicated comedy club. In an intimate setting like   Â
Comedy in Your Eye, you can see the whites of the comedian's eyes, feel the immediate impact of every punchline, and maybe even become part of the show through a bit of crowd work. It is in these clubs where comedy feels most alive.
Making a Night of It: Frame the comedy gig as the centrepiece of a great evening. Plan for a pre-show dinner or post-show drinks with friends to discuss your favourite jokes. Some venues even have their own unique offerings; for example, London's Boat Show Comedy Club famously turns into a nightclub after the show, allowing you to party into the small hours.  Â
Conclusion
As 2026 unfolds, it is clear that the UK's live comedy scene is more vibrant, diverse, and energetic than ever before. From the blockbuster arena shows driven by podcast superstars to the intellectually stimulating performances of master storytellers, there is an incredible breadth of talent on display. The alternative champions continue to push the boundaries of the art form with high-concept character pieces and genre-bending magic, while a new generation of award-winning rising stars proves that the future of British comedy is incredibly bright. There has truly never been a better time to get out and experience the unique, unifying thrill of live stand-up.
While seeing the big names command vast arenas is an unforgettable experience, the heart and soul of comedy is born and nurtured in intimate clubs. It is in these spaces that performers hone their craft, take risks, and build the foundations for their future success. It is in places like Comedy in Your Eye that you can feel every punchline land, see the future stars before anyone else, and be part of a truly electric and authentic atmosphere. We host the best up-and-coming and established talent every single week, offering a front-row seat to the engine room of British comedy. Do not just read about comedy in 2026—live it. Check out our upcoming listings and book your tickets today for a night of unforgettable laughter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How far in advance should I book tickets for the best UK comedy tours in 2026? For major arena tours like those by Rob Beckett or Jimmy Carr, it is best to book months in advance as popular dates sell out very quickly. For rising stars or smaller theatre venues, you might be able to book closer to the date, but booking early is always recommended to secure the best seats and avoid disappointment.
2. Where is the best place to buy official comedy tickets? Always try to buy directly from the venue's official box office first. If that is not possible, trusted primary ticket sellers like Ticketmaster , SeeTickets , and ATG Tickets  are your safest options. Be extremely cautious of unofficial resale sites, as there is no guarantee the tickets will be valid for entry.  Â
3. What does 'Work In Progress' mean for a comedy show? A 'Work In Progress' (WIP) show is where a comedian is testing out new material for an upcoming tour or a TV special. These shows are often held in smaller, more intimate venues and are typically cheaper than a full tour show. They offer a fantastic and unique chance to see a comedian's creative process up close and be among the first to hear their new jokes.
4. Are there age restrictions for stand-up comedy shows? Yes, the vast majority of stand-up shows have age restrictions, commonly 14+ or 16+, due to the likelihood of swearing and adult content. Some shows or venues may be 18+. Always check the specific event details and venue policy before booking, especially if you are planning to attend with younger family members.  Â
5. What is the difference between seeing a comedian in an arena versus a comedy club? Arenas offer a huge, blockbuster experience with incredible production and thousands of people sharing the laughs. It is a massive event. Comedy clubs, like Comedy in Your Eye, provide a much more intimate and atmospheric night. You are closer to the performer, the reactions are more immediate, and it is often where you will discover the next big names in comedy long before they are playing arenas.
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the top best live UK Stand Up comedy Tours 2026!
Share Your Thoughts!
And that is our round-up of the unmissable comedy tours of 2026! But the world of comedy is always moving. Who are you most excited to see? Did we miss a tour you think is essential? Let us know in the comments below, and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with your comedy-loving mates!
Looking for a more up-close-and-personal comedy experience? Comedy in Your Eye offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of comedians performing shorter sets. It's the perfect way to discover new talent and enjoy a night of laughter in a relaxed setting. And at just £3 a ticket, it's a steal!