Bristol has produced many of the UK’s greatest comedians, from Stephen Merchant and Russell Howard to Mark Watson and Lee Evans. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that our comedy scene is one of the country’s finest, where you can enjoy a good giggle most nights of the week.
From touring stand-up comedians at Bristol Beacon, The Bristol Hippodrome, Redgrave Theatre and Tobacco Factory Theatres, to annual comedy festivals and regular top-notch comedy nights at venues like Bristol Improv Theatre, you’ll be entertained by familiar faces and newcomers alike.
Fans of slapstick won’t want to miss Bristol’s annual Slapstick Comedy Festival, which celebrates silent and classic comedy and provides the largest assembly of living comic talent and the greatest comedy stars of the past.
Fancy seeing your favourite acts perform back-to-back? Check out Bristol Comedy Garden, held every summer, where big-name comedians take part in an epic week of gigs in the beautiful Georgian surroundings of Queen Square.
Head to one of Bristol’s quirky comedy clubs and bars throughout the year for regular events platforming up-and-coming stand ups, along with the occasional secret gig featuring more established comedians.
As well as comedy, Bristol is also home to an emerging magic scene, thanks to dedicated magic bar Smoke and Mirrors. Nestled behind the Hippodrome, this cosy boutique pub and theatre allows you to marvel at live magicians and illusionists from the comfort of your seat. After all, the famed mentalist, illusionist and hypnotist Derren Brown started his early career in Bristol!
