The Comedy Lock-In

If you’re after a night of genuine laughs in Edinburgh without breaking the bank, The Comedy Lock-In at The Comedy Attic could be just what you need. This late-night comedy show offers a chance to see some of the UK’s best comedians in an intimate, energetic setting. We’ve looked into what makes this experience tick—and what to keep an eye on—so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

What draws us to this experience are two standout features. First, the venue itself—The Comedy Attic—has a reputation for hosting talented comedians and offers a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. Second, the variety of comedy acts ensures that no two nights are the same, keeping the laughs fresh and unpredictable. But of course, there’s a flip side; being an outdoor or semi-private venue, it can sometimes get crowded or hot, especially in Edinburgh’s summer months. If you’re someone who prefers a quieter, more polished comedy experience, this might not be your best pick.

Overall, The Comedy Lock-In works well for groups of friends, comedy lovers, or anyone looking to end their Edinburgh day on a high note. It’s a casual, fun option—perfect if you’re okay with the unpredictable nature of live comedy—and offers a good value at just under $20 per ticket.

Key Points

• Affordable fun: At around $19, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Edinburgh’s buzzing comedy scene.
• Variety of acts: One MC plus three different comedians guarantee diverse humor styles.
• Pre-book for convenience: Booking in advance helps avoid lines and guarantees your spot, especially since it’s Edinburgh’s only late-night comedy show.
• Venue atmosphere: The Comedy Attic is a cozy spot with a lively vibe, but it can get warm and crowded.
• Real crowd energy: Reviews highlight the comedians’ crowd work and high-energy performances.
• Limited food options: No food is included, and drinks are available at the bar, so plan accordingly.

What’s the Experience Like?

The Comedy Lock-In is a roughly 1 hour 45 minutes show that kicks off at 8:15 pm from 20 Grassmarket. This spot is right in the heart of Edinburgh, making it easy to combine with dinner or a pub crawl afterward. The show features a trusted formula: a charismatic MC, followed by three stand-up acts that keep the audience engaged and laughing throughout.

The venue itself is a key part of the charm. Located in The Beehive Inn, the Comedy Attic takes comedy up a notch, perched on the third floor for an intimate experience. It’s a classic London-style comedy club setting, but with a local Edinburgh twist. As some reviews note, if stairs are an issue, you’ll want to plan ahead, since it’s on the upper level.

When you arrive, you’ll get your mobile ticket—an easy and contactless way to check in. The atmosphere is lively, with enthusiastic comedians and a crowd that’s ready to laugh. Expect some good crowd work, as noted by reviewers who enjoyed comedians who played with the audience and made the night even more personal.

The Highlights and What to Expect

Entry and Booking

Booking in advance is highly recommended. With an average booking window of 15 days prior, tickets sell quickly, especially during peak tourist season. The price point of $19.32 makes it an accessible evening activity, especially compared to other forms of entertainment in a city like Edinburgh.

The Comedy Acts

Each night includes an MC and three comedians, which means you’ll experience a variety of humor styles. The acts are generally well-reviewed, with many reviewers mentioning how funny and engaging they found the performers. The acts do crowd work, which keeps the show lively and tailored to the audience’s vibe.

Venue Atmosphere

The pub setting combined with comedy creates a relaxed, almost pub-like vibe. Some reviews mention the heat—body heat from the crowd and laughter can make the space quite warm, so dressing comfortably is a smart move. The venue can accommodate up to 60 people, so it feels cozy but lively.

Food and Drinks

While food is not included with your ticket, a bar service is available, so you can enjoy drinks while watching the show. It’s an ideal setup for groups of friends or couples looking for a relaxed night out. Just keep in mind that food isn’t part of the experience, so plan to eat before or after if you want a full meal.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

Several reviews highlight the high energy and fun of the night, with many callers rating it 4 or 5 stars. People love the comedians’ crowd work and the lively atmosphere. One reviewer even described her experience as “a great night,” and many found the value for money to be excellent.

However, the experience isn’t without hiccups. There are reports of cancellations—one reviewer was disappointed to find the show canceled without prior notice, which underscores the importance of checking the latest updates before booking. Others noted the venue can be quite hot, especially if the crowd is large, and some found stairs a challenge.

A small number of reviews pointed out logistical issues, like confusion at check-in or delays in entering, but overall, these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. It’s worth noting that the show is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re sensitive to noise or crowded spaces, consider that.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the price, the variety of acts, and the central Edinburgh location, this comedy night offers good value. You’re paying for nearly two hours of entertainment, with the added bonus of experiencing Edinburgh’s vibrant pub scene. The ticket price compares favorably to other entertainment options and provides a lively, authentic comedy experience.

The main thing to remember is that this isn’t a polished, high-brow comedy show—it’s lively, sometimes unpredictable, and designed for fun. If you’re after a relaxed, informal night with lots of laughs, it’s a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, social activity that combines local culture with comedy. It’s perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun night out, especially those who enjoy crowd interaction and an energetic atmosphere. If you love stand-up and aren’t bothered by small inconveniences like heat or stairs, you’ll likely have a great time.

It might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a quiet, refined comedy experience or have difficulty managing stairs, but overall, it’s a fun, accessible way to enjoy Edinburgh’s nightlife.

FAQ

Is the ticket price for the entire night?
Yes, at around $19, your ticket covers admission to the entire comedy show, which lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s highly recommended. The show is popular, and booking 15 days in advance helps secure a spot and avoid long lines.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes entry to The Comedy Attic and the comedy show itself. Food and drinks are available at the bar but are not included.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the show. Just be mindful of the cut-off times to get a full refund.

Is it suitable for groups?
Absolutely. The show works well for groups of friends wanting a lively night out.

What about accessibility?
Since the venue is on the third floor, stairs could be a concern for some. Service animals are allowed, but pet policy should be checked if traveling with pets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a fun, lively, and affordable way to spend your evening in Edinburgh, The Comedy Lock-In at The Comedy Attic delivers on all fronts. It’s a relaxed, social experience that captures Edinburgh’s vibrant comedy scene while offering good value. The mix of talented comedians, energetic crowd interaction, and a central location makes it an appealing choice for many travelers.

Just keep an eye on cancellations and weather, dress comfortably, and arrive ready to laugh. Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for a few days or looking for a memorable night out, this comedy show can add a light-hearted touch to your trip. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy spontaneous, crowd-involved humor and don’t mind a warm, bustling space.

Enjoy the laughs, and don’t forget to book early—your funny night in Edinburgh awaits!