Nottingham Comedy Venues
Nottingham has plenty of stories to tell. From the adventures of Robin Hood to its love for live shows, this city is filled with entertainment options. Comedy is also a big part of Nottingham's scene. You can find everything from sharp political jokes in grand theatres to laughs over a pint in cosy pubs.
Below, we explore the best comedy venues in the city, featuring both long-standing favourites and new pop-up spots.
Just the Tonic Comedy Club
Held at Metronome (NG1 1AP), near the city centre. Modern, low-ceilinged but well-equipped venue seating ~228 people, ideal for club nights with energy
If you ask a Nottingham local where to find the heart of the city's stand-up scene, Just the Tonic is often the first name they mention. Founded in the 1990s, this club built its reputation on bringing big names to intimate spaces, and it still delivers on both fronts.
You might find familiar faces from regular TV shows trying out fresh material one week, while the next week, you could see up-and-coming talent on the brink of breaking through. Acts like Johnny Vegas, Sarah Millican, and Reginald D. Hunter have all graced its stage. The atmosphere is distinctly Nottingham: vibrant, genuine, and ready for a good time.
Funhouse Comedy (various pubs and venues)
Located at 476 Woodborough Rd, Nottingham NG3 5GW.
Funhouse Comedy is more of a travelling laughter caravan than a single venue. It pops up in various pubs and venues across Nottingham and the surrounding area, giving audiences the chance to see stand-up without trekking into the city centre.
Each gig is carefully curated, often mixing a seasoned headliner with solid circuit acts and promising newcomers. Past shows have included everyone from Gary Delaney to Patrick Monahan.
The settings are relaxed, the beer is cold, and the laughter often carries into the bar afterwards.
Canalhouse Comedy Night (NCF Comedy)
Located at 48-52 Canal St, Nottingham NG1 7EH.
Inside the unique Canalhouse pub, with its exposed brick walls and barges docked right in the building, NCF Comedy’s regular night has become a favourite among the comedy fans in Nottingham.
It’s a place where you feel involved in what’s happening. You can see every expression clearly, but you’re far enough away not to be part of the joke unless you want to be. The line-ups range from national headliners to local talent, and the post-show atmosphere is always buzzing.
Typically held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show beginning at approximately 7:30 PM. Tickets are generally very affordable, starting at only £2.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
Located at Theatre Square, Nottingham NG1 5ND, Theatre Royal is located in the centre of the city’s cultural area. It shares its site with the Royal Concert Hall.
For comedy on a grander scale, Nottingham’s Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall deliver the goods. These are the venues that draw the big touring names. The ones you’ve seen on panel shows or selling out arenas.
Past bills have included Jimmy Carr, Sarah Millican, Michael McIntyre, and Bill Bailey. With comfortable seating, exceptional production, and a central location, they’re ideal for those nights when you want your comedy with a bit of glamorous theatre flair.
Nottingham Playhouse
The Playhouse is located at Wellington Circus, Nottingham NG1 5AF, right in the city centre. It is just a short walk from the Nottingham rail station, NET tram stops, key bus routes, and there are plenty of parking options available.
Nottingham Playhouse is best known for its theatre performances, but it also hosts comedy shows. When it does, you can expect something unique. You might see a clever storytelling show or a political comedy double-feature.
The Playhouse attracts an audience that enjoys both skilled performances and humour, making it a great choice for fans of smart comedy.
Metronome
Metronome sits at Marco Island, Huntingdon Street, Nottingham NG1 1AP, right in the heart of the city’s Creative Quarter.
Metronome is a modern, purpose-built venue in the city’s Creative Quarter, and it has quickly established itself as a go-to space for live events. The main live performance area can host 400 people standing, or 228 seated, perfect for lively comedy nights to smaller spoken word performances.
Its comedy nights are a mix of local programming and guest events, including appearances from Just the Tonic. With a state-of-the-art sound system and comfortable seating, it offers a polished experience without losing the intimacy that makes live comedy so engaging.
The Robin Hood Comedy Club
Located at 540 Mansfield Road, Nottingham NG5 6FZ, The Robin Hood Comedy Club performs pop‑up shows across Nottingham, so venues can vary night to night.
Not every comedy night has to be held in a fixed location. The Robin Hood Comedy Club demonstrates that pop-up events can be just as memorable as regular ones. By hosting shows in various locations throughout Nottingham, this club successfully brings together top-quality acts and creates a unique atmosphere for each event..
The temporary nature of the shows adds a little urgency. When you see a Robin Hood Comedy Club night advertised, it’s worth grabbing a ticket before it disappears.
The Angel Microbrewery
The Angel Microbrewery is located at 7 Stoney Street in Nottingham’s Lace Market (NG1 1LG). This building is a Grade II-listed former coaching inn that has been around since the 1600s.
Comedy and craft beer is a pairing Nottingham didn’t know it needed until The Angel Microbrewery started hosting stand-up nights. This venue is located in a historic building with high, curved ceilings. It has a warm and rustic feel, making it a great place to spend the entire evening.
The comedy nights are varied. Sometimes intimate open-mic sessions, sometimes headline shows with circuit regulars. Either way, the beer is brewed on-site, the atmosphere is friendly, and the laughter flows as easily as the ale.