Where to Watch Comedy in Leeds

From Victorian music halls where Charlie Chaplin once performed to cutting-edge comedy clubs serving up side-splitting entertainment seven nights a week, Leeds knows how to deliver the laughs.

Whether you’re after premium dining experiences with world-class comedians or underground alternative nights that push boundaries, we have you covered!

The Powerhouse Comedy Clubs

The Glee Club Leeds

This brand-new 300-seat venue on Great George Street is already attracting the biggest names in comedy – we’re talking Michael McIntyre and Sarah Millican territory here!

Here’s what makes it special: Every Friday and Saturday night, you’ll get four top-tier comedians in a purpose-built venue that’s designed purely for comedy perfection. The allocated seating means no scrambling for the best spots, and the full restaurant service transforms your night into a proper dining experience.

Insider tip: Friday nights are your budget-friendly option at £14 (just £8 if you’re a student!), while Saturday’s £27 food packages give you the full premium experience. Doors open at 6:45pm but don’t push your luck – last entry is 7:30pm sharp!

Location: Great George Street, Leeds LS2 8ER

When: Every Friday and Saturday

Book: www.glee.co.uk/leeds

Follow: @gleeleeds on Instagram

The HiFi Club

Want to experience comedy history in the making? The HiFi Club has been launching careers for over 20 years – this is where Alan Carr, John Bishop, and Chris Ramsey all cut their teeth!

This intimate venue keeps things brilliantly no-nonsense with its first-come-first-served seating and strict policies.

Why it’s legendary: Two Saturday shows at 2pm and 5:30pm featuring four brilliant comedians for just £14. That 2pm matinee? Absolutely unique in Leeds – perfect for afternoon entertainment!

Fair warning: They’re serious about their 6:15pm arrival policy for evening shows, and fancy dress is banned (they want you focused on the comedy, not the costumes!).

Location: 2 Central Road, Leeds LS1 6DE

When: Every Saturday (two shows: 2pm & 5:30pm)

Book: thehificlub.co.uk/comedy-club

Contact: info@thehificlub.co.uk

The Comedy Cabaret

 

Saturday nights at Revolución de Cuba are absolutely electric! This award-winning comedy club transforms Call Lane into party central with four top UK comedians followed by a 3am DJ after-party. Yes, you read that right – comedy AND dancing until 3am!

The full experience: Doors at 7pm, comedy starts at 8pm, then the venue transforms into a proper party. You can even upgrade to VIP Prosecco booths for the ultimate night out! Cuban food available throughout.

Accessibility note: The comedy room is upstairs with no disabled access – worth knowing before you book.

Location: 64-68 Call Lane, Leeds LS1 6DT

When: Every Saturday from 8pm

Book: thecomedycabaret.club/leeds-about

Follow: @leedscomedyclub on Instagram

Historic Venues with Serious Comedy Credentials

City Varieties Music Hall

Ready for goosebumps? You’ll be watching comedy in the exact same venue where Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel, and Harry Houdini once performed! Britain’s longest-running music hall is a Grade II* listed masterpiece that’s been delivering entertainment since 1865.

Why it’s magical: That intimate 467-seat Victorian auditorium guarantees perfect sightlines from every single seat. Current comedy stars like Nish Kumar and Maisie Adam regularly grace this historic stage, and Paul Merton’s improv ensemble makes frequent appearances.

Insider tip: The authentic Victorian atmosphere is unmatched – you’re literally sitting in comedy history!

Location: Swan Street, Leeds LS1 6LW

When: Regular programming throughout the year

Book: 0113 243 0808 or leedsheritagetheatres.com

Follow: @CityVarieties on Facebook

Leeds Grand Theatre

Want to see the biggest names in the most spectacular setting? The Victorian Grand Theatre’s 1,466-seat auditorium hosts touring comedy superstars like Romesh Ranganathan, Dawn French, and Al Murray. This isn’t weekly programming, but when comedy comes to the Grand, it’s an event!

The experience: Pure theatrical grandeur meeting world-class comedy – it doesn’t get more special than this.

Location: 46 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NZ

Book: 0113 243 0808 or leedsheritagetheatres.com

Brilliant Pub Comedy Nights

House of Fun at The Wardrobe

Here’s the inside scoop: This monthly comedy night has showcased Stewart Lee, Russell Howard, and Reginald D Hunter – some of the biggest names in British comedy! The intimate comedy room at  The Wardrobe creates that classic pub comedy atmosphere you can’t get anywhere else.

What makes it special: Professionals only – no open mic here, just established circuit comedians delivering high quality entertainment in St Peter’s Square. Food service available throughout!

Location: 6 St Peter’s Square, Leeds LS9 8AH

When: Monthly shows

Book: thehouseoffun.co.uk

The Old Woollen

Picture this: Three Live at the Apollo-caliber comedians performing in a stunning converted mill space with 500 capacity and the venue’s own craft brewery! You get world-class comedy plus brilliant beers in one of Leeds’ most unique venues.

Bonus treat: Edinburgh preview shows throughout summer – catch tomorrow’s comedy stars today! Recent acts include Daliso Chaponda and Clinton Baptiste.

Location: Sunny Bank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ

When: Monthly Saturdays

Book: oldwoollen.co.uk

Contact: info@tam-events.com

Hyde Park Book Club

This place is absolutely one-of-a-kind! A converted petrol station turned bohemian arts venue hosting comedy in two intimate spaces (45 and 150-capacity). The relaxed atmosphere attracts both award winners and emerging talent – you never know who might surprise you!

Why it’s perfect: Right in the heart of student territory with coffee, food, and drinks available. Recent performers include Ben Pope and Alexandra Haddow, and with 26k Instagram followers, they clearly know what they’re doing!

Location: 27-29 Headingley Lane, Hyde Park, LS6 1BL

When: Various shows throughout the month

Book: hydeparkbookclub.co.uk

Follow: @hydeparkbookclub

Alternative Comedy and Open Mics

Verve Comedy Cellar

Here’s something brilliant: Every Tuesday night, you can watch comedy for absolutely nothing! This basement bar on Merrion Street has been running Leeds’ premier free open mic for 16-years, mixing new comedians with established acts testing fresh material.

The community spirit: Comperes Silky, Pat Devine, and Eddie French create the most welcoming atmosphere you’ll find anywhere. New performers can approach the comperes on the night – no booking required!

Location: Verve Bar, Merrion Street, Leeds

When: Every Tuesday, 8:30pm

Entry: Completely free!

Follow: @leedscomedy on Facebook

Improv and Comedy Workshops

Want to try comedy yourself? Leeds has got you covered with brilliant opportunities to learn and perform!

Laugh at Leeds runs six-week courses in stand-up and improv with Monday evening classes for £220 – perfect for getting your feet wet! laughatleeds.com

University Comedy Scene

Leeds University Union brings touring comedians and student comedy to Stylus (450 capacity) and the intimate Pyramid Theatre. Past acts include Tom Allen and Iain Stirling, with student-friendly pricing throughout!

Your Week-by-Week Comedy Calendar

Monday: Perfect for planning your comedy week!

Tuesday: Verve Comedy Cellar open mic (free!) – every single week

Wednesday: Pigeon Hole at Brudenell (third Wednesday monthly)

Friday: The Glee Club delivers premium comedy

Saturday: Multiple options! Glee Club, HiFi Club (2pm & 5:30pm), Comedy Cabaret

Insider Tips for the Perfect Comedy Night

Weekend warriors: Friday and Saturday are comedy central, with guaranteed entertainment at The Glee Club and Comedy Cabaret. Want something different? That Saturday 2pm show at HiFi Club is absolutely unique!

Budget-conscious laugh seekers: Verve Comedy Cellar’s free Tuesday nights can’t be beaten, while student tickets (£5-10 at various venues) and The Old Woollen’s £15.90 monthly shows offer incredible value.

Food and comedy lovers: The Glee Club’s restaurant service, Comedy Cabaret’s Cuban dining, and The Wardrobe’s food options let you make a proper night of it!

Planning ahead: Weekend shows at dedicated clubs sell out regularly – book online for the best deals and group discounts for 10+ people.

Accessibility matters: The Glee Club offers wheelchair access with lift facilities, and The Old Woollen provides step-free access with accessible parking. Note: Comedy Cabaret is upstairs only with no disabled access.

Ready to dive into Leeds’ incredible comedy scene? Your perfect night of laughter is waiting – whether you want premium club experiences, historic venue magic, or underground alternative vibes, this city delivers comedy gold every single week. Pick your night, gather your crew, and prepare for some serious laughs!