UK Comedy Scene Set to Explode with Festivals and Star-Studded Shows

Get ready for a year packed with laughter as comedy festivals and individual shows across the UK announce their exciting lineups and dates. From London's Roundhouse to Manchester's Fairfield Social Club, and even intimate venues in Aldermaston and Hagley Hall, comedians are gearing up to deliver unforgettable nights of stand-up, sketch, and nostalgic humour.

Key Takeaways

• Multiple comedy festivals and one-off shows are scheduled across the UK in Spring 2026.

• Lineups feature a mix of established names, rising stars, and character-based comedy.

• Events cater to diverse tastes, from mixed-bill showcases to themed dinner shows.

Channel 4 and Roundhouse Unite for 'First For Funny'

London's iconic Roundhouse will host 'First For Funny' on Wednesday, April 15th, 2026, as part of the Roundhouse Three Sixty Festival. This collaboration between Channel 4 and the Roundhouse aims to showcase the best up-and-coming comedic talent in the UK. The event will feature short, fast-paced sets from 16 diverse comedians, including Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Ahir Shah, BBC New Comedy Award winner Eli Hart, and many others who have graced Channel 4's platforms.

Manchester's 'A Lovely Weekend' Promises Three Days of Laughter

Manchester is set to host its 'A Lovely Weekend' comedy festival from Friday, May 29th to Sunday, May 31st, 2026, at the Fairfield Social Club. The three-day event will feature a variety of comedians, including Harriet Kemsley, Tom Lawrinson, Mark Silcox, Sean McLoughlin, Josh Pugh, Larry Dean, and Celya AB. Weekend passes, which include a complimentary brew and breakfast sarnie, are available, alongside single-day and individual show tickets.

Aldermaston Gears Up for 'Epic Comedy'

The Aldermaston Recreational Society will once again host 'Epic Comedy' on Saturday, April 11th. This event promises a night of 'side-splitting entertainment' with performances by the character comic Sol Bernstein, seasoned comedian Ben Norris, and award-winning Samantha Day. The evening is hosted by Paul Cox of Epic Comedy, with the aim of bringing top-tier comedy to local communities.

Nostalgic Laughs at Hagley Hall's 'British Comedy Capers'

For those with a taste for nostalgia, Hagley Hall will present the 'British Comedy Capers Dinner Show' on Friday, March 20th. This unique event will feature live performances inspired by beloved sitcoms such as "Dad's Army," "Hi-de-Hi," "Allo-Allo," "Father Ted," and "The Vicar of Dibley," promising a night of hilarious celebration and fun vibes.

US Star Russell Hicks Brings 'This Time It's Personal' to Exeter

American comedian Russell Hicks is set to perform his latest tour, 'This Time It's Personal,' at Exeter Phoenix on April 12th. Known for his improvisational style and popular 'Dear Diary' Instagram series, Hicks has gained significant traction on the UK comedy circuit and is also venturing into film. His show promises a more personal exploration, building on his previous success and Arts Council England endorsement.

Sources

• Channel 4 and Roundhouse Three Sixty Festival Announce First for Funny Line Up, Channel 4.

• Manchester's 'A Lovely Weekend' Comedy Festival announces full lineup for 2026, About Manchester.

• Epic Comedy returning to Aldermaston Recreational Society, Basingstoke Gazette.

• British Comedy Capers Dinner Show to be held at Hagley Hall, The Worcester News.

• US comedy star Russell Hicks heads to Exeter with new tour, The Moorlander.