The Comedy Lock-In

If you’re looking for an evening packed with laughs, The Comedy Lock-In offers just that. Held at The Comedy Attic — Edinburgh’s only late-night comedy venue — this experience promises about 1 hour 45 minutes of stand-up, spontaneous crowd work, and a lively atmosphere. With a solid 96 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it’s clear that many visitors find this show a highlight of their Edinburgh trip.

What really draws us in is the guarantee of variety: a charismatic MC, three different comedians, and the chance to enjoy some drinks amid the laughter. Plus, booking in advance not only secures your spot but also helps avoid those frustrating lines at the door. The ticket price of around $19 is a steal for a night filled with comedy and a genuine local vibe.

One potential consideration: this show is not suitable for pets, and if stairs are a problem, you might want to check the venue’s access as the show is on the third floor of the Beehive Inn. Still, this makes it a perfect pick for groups of friends, solo travelers wanting nightlife entertainment, or anyone eager to see Edinburgh’s comedy scene up close.

Key Points

• Affordable Night Out: At just over $19, it offers excellent value for nearly two hours of entertainment.
• Pre-Booking Advantage: Tickets often sell about 15 days in advance, so booking early guarantees your spot.
• Full of Variety: A typical lineup includes a lively MC plus three different comedians, ensuring a mix of humor styles.
• Authentic Venue: Located in a well-known pub, the venue has hosted some of the UK’s best comedians and offers a genuine comedy atmosphere.
• Ideal for Groups: A fun, social experience, especially suited for friends looking to enjoy Edinburgh’s nightlife.
• Not Food-Centric: Food and drinks are available at the bar but aren’t included, so plan to grab a drink or snack beforehand.

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Venue: The Comedy Attic

The Comedy Attic is housed within the Beehive Inn, a historic pub in the Grassmarket area. It’s a lively setting with a reputation for showcasing top comedic talent, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The show takes place on the third floor, which is accessible by stairs—something to keep in mind if mobility is an issue. The intimate space lends itself to a cozy, high-energy vibe, where crowd participation is encouraged.

The venue’s reputation for hosting some of the UK’s best comedians gives it credibility, and the reviews reflect this. As one visitor noted, “The acts were funny and the venue was cool,” emphasizing a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The decor is simple but effective, with good lighting and good acoustics, which is crucial for comedy shows.

The Lineup: What to Expect

The show’s structure is straightforward but effective, following a trusted formula: an engaging MC warms the crowd, followed by three comedians who each bring their unique style. We loved the way the MC kept the energy high and managed the audience with crowd work, making everyone feel part of the fun.

One reviewer mentioned that “the comedians did some great crowd work,” which indicates a show that’s interactive and spontaneous. The comedians are talented, with some acts delivering stand-up routines that had the audience in stitches, according to comments like “The opener was amazing!” and “Everyone worked hard to generate an atmosphere.”

The Experience: Laughter, Drinks, and a Night Owl’s Dream

The show begins around 8:15 pm, a perfect time to kick off your night out in Edinburgh. The ticket includes entry, and while drinks and food aren’t included, the bar offers a range of options. Multiple reviews mentioned the lively atmosphere, high energy, and good-quality drinks, making this more than just comedy — it’s a social evening.

One guest noted that the venue can become quite hot, especially with the combined heat of laughter and body warmth, so it might be worth bringing a fan or dressing lightly on warmer nights. The show often attracts a small but energetic crowd—some reviews mentioned fewer attendees on a particular night—but even then, the comedians worked hard to create a lively, engaging environment.

The Real-World Details

Booking in advance is highly recommended given the average booking window of 15 days. The price, just over $19, offers excellent value considering the quality of the acts and the intimate setting. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or pets should note that the show is on the third floor and pets aren’t permitted.

The activity wraps up back at the starting point, which makes it easy to continue your night exploring Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife scene. The limited group size (max 60 travelers) keeps the experience personal and prevents it from feeling crowded.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Reviewers have offered both praise and constructive feedback that paint a well-rounded picture:

• “This was our first time visiting Scotland and this was a great experience. The acts were funny and the venue was cool,” said Sandra_B.
• Another appreciated the crowd work and high energy: “Chose to do this last minute, turned out to be a great time,” noted svictoriar15.
• A more critical review pointed out a cancellation, reminding us that occasional hiccups can happen, but overall, the show is a popular choice, and the venue’s reputation remains strong.

A Few Downsides

Some reviews mentioned that the show can be unpredictable, with some nights feeling more lively than others, depending on the crowd. There’s also the occasional note about the temperature inside, which might be uncomfortable for some. A few reviewers had issues with logistics, like arriving to find the show hadn’t started or being unable to access the venue due to stairs. These are rare but worth considering.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This comedy night is ideal for groups of friends seeking a relaxed, social evening. If you enjoy a good laugh and want to experience Edinburgh’s local comedy scene, this is a fantastic choice. It’s also perfect for solo travelers who want to meet fellow travelers or locals in an informal setting.

If you’re after a more polished, large-scale comedy show, you might find this more intimate and perhaps less structured. But if your goal is authentic humor, lively atmosphere, and good value, The Comedy Lock-In hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Comedy Lock-In offers a genuinely fun, budget-friendly way to enjoy Edinburgh’s nightlife. With a talented lineup of comedians, a cozy venue, and the chance to be part of a lively crowd, this experience suits anyone looking for an authentic, entertaining night out. The fact that it’s Edinburgh’s only late-night comedy show adds a touch of exclusivity, and the reasonable price makes it accessible for most travelers.

Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxed evening filled with laughter, this show delivers. The combination of good humor, a convivial atmosphere, and the opportunity to enjoy local talent makes it one of those memorable nights you’ll talk about long after you leave.

If you love comedy, enjoy meeting new people, or just want to experience Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife, The Comedy Lock-In is worth booking. Just remember to reserve your tickets early and prepare for an evening of unpretentious, lively humor.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book my tickets?
It’s advisable to book about 15 days ahead, as tickets are often booked that early.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers your admission to The Late Show at The Comedy Attic. Food and drinks are not included but are available at the bar.

Where is the meeting point?
The show starts at 20 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JU, UK.

How long does the show last?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, including the MC and three acts.

Is the venue accessible?
The show takes place on the third floor of the Beehive Inn, accessible by stairs. If stairs are a concern, plan accordingly.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this show suitable for children or pets?
It’s not suitable for pets, and the content is aimed at adult audiences, so it may not be child-friendly.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is perfectly fine. The venue has a lively pub atmosphere.

Will I meet other travelers?
Most likely, yes. The small group size and lively crowd make it easy to mingle.

What are the reviews like?
Most reviews are positive, praising the talented comedians, energetic hosts, and great value. A few mention unpredictable nights or temperature issues, but overall the show is well-loved.

Enjoy your night out in Edinburgh with a good laugh and memories to cherish. Whether you’re a comedy connoisseur or just in for a fun evening, The Comedy Lock-In is a great way to experience local humor in a lively setting.