Whether you’re visiting for the day or sticking around the city longer, there’s loads to see and do in Birmingham. If you’re out with mates, there’s no better way to spend an evening than to share some laughs and some beers over a great night of comedy. So, sit down and get ready to giggle along at our pick of Birmingham’s best comedy clubs.
The Glee Club
It’s easy to see why the Glee Club is widely regarded as the home of comedy in Birmingham – the venue plays host to local talent and big names alike and there’s a great range of drinks with an enviable menu. In short, this is the perfect place to spend a night out with mates.
Where? The Arcadian, 70 Hurst St, B5 4TD
Getting there: Less than 10 minutes’ walk from Birmingham New Street.
When? Thursday, Friday & Saturday (Big names may appear on other nights)
Don’t Miss the Gin Bramble and delicious pizzas – the food and drinks at this venue really outclass most other comedy clubs.
Jewellery Quarter Comedy Club
With super cheap tickets (only a fiver – but think about booking an online package) and professional names supported by up-and-coming comics, The Jewellery Quarter Comedy Club is a cheap night out with a difference. Perfect for groups with a budget, this is a comedy club with an old-school, friendly vibe.
Where? The Rose Villa Tavern, 172 Warstone Ln., B18 6JW
Getting there: Just a 20-minute walk from the station or get the metro to the Jewellery Quarter.
When? First Tuesday of the month
Don’t Miss the chicken package – £25 gets you 2 tickets and a whole kilo of homemade chicken wings. Perfect for you and a mate.
Just the Tonic Comedy Club
Described by The Times as “consistently boasting the most interesting line ups in the country,” Just The Tonic’s Birmingham offering is as reliably funny as the other locations on its roster. Standard seating is perfect for parties – pull up a pew, grab something to eat or drink and settle in for some proper belly laughs.
Where? Rosies Nightclub, 259-262 Broad St., B1 2HF
Getting there: Rosies is just 15 minutes’ walk from New Street station.
When? Every Saturday
Don’t miss the after-show party at the venue, which is included in the ticket price.
Cherrybomb Comedy Club
This intimate venue has hosted some surprisingly big names from Jo Enright to Joe Lycett. Between the great line up, good food menu, lots of drinks, and a central location, it’s easy to see why this comedy club regularly sells out. Add in the capacity of less than 50 seats, and you’ll definitely want to book ahead.
When? Once a month – keep an eye on their Facebook Page for more information
Where? Cherry Red’s Café Bar 88-92 John Bright St., B1 1BN
Getting there: Right behind Birmingham New Street Station, Cherry Red’s is less than 5 minutes’ walk.
Don’t miss the excellent selection of craft beers, or, if you prefer something sweeter, try one of their hand-blended milkshakes.
Kamikaze Club
Dedicated to craft, this independent bar supports local talent, from the brewers who supply their beer to the comics who feature in the line up of their popular comedy club. Here you’ll find smaller names trying new material, although occasionally you might stumble across professionals polishing their acts. With a completely unique location in a historic jewellery workshop across 3 floors, this is a venue not to be missed.
When? Once a month – keep an eye on the 1000 Trades facebook page
Where? 1000 Trades, 16 Frederick St, B1 3HE
Getting there: It’s a 20-minute walk from Birmingham New St or get the 101 bus from Newhall St to Graham St.
Don’t Miss the ‘natural’ wine, which is made by small producers in the traditional way and served on tap. Of course, if you’re off the sauce, you can check out their extensive library of coffee blends.
Other Comedy Venues
There are loads of other venues offering amazing comedy just about every night of the week if you want to see something while you’re visiting. From huge venues like the Symphony Hall to historic theatres like The New Alexandra Theatre (known to locals as the Alex), there’s something to suit every budget at taste. Barely a night goes by in Birmingham without a comedy event, so just look around to find something that will tickle your funny bone.
Even more comedy - Birmingham Comedy Festival
Running for 10 days every October, the Birmingham Comedy Festival is one of the longest-running comedy festivals in the UK. Hosting local talent and big names alike, this is a festival comedy lovers will not want to miss! With tonnes of unapologetically funny acts all over the city, you’ll find everything from theatre and improv, to podcasts, spoken word, book signings and, of course, lots and lots of comedy.
CrossCountry runs services to Birmingham from all over the country and there’s loads to keep you and your mates busy for a long weekend.
For more information, check out our Birmingham destination guide. Plus, remember to buy an Advance ticket to Birmingham using our Train Tickets app.
Written by Julia