We all need a good laugh sometimes, students in particular. Sometimes the stresses and strains of university can get us down, but all that is needed is a few laughs and we’re right back to our usual selves. Fortunately for those kind of people, Southampton has a vast array of comedy clubs, so you’ll hopefully be able to find one not too far from you.

1. The Attic

The Attic Facebook Southampton comedy clubs
Source: The Attic Facebook

The Attic is a nightclub, live music venue, and comedy club in Southampton. It’s the “newest and most innovating” comedy club in Hampshire and the south. It has previously hosted big names such as Milton Jones and Simon Brodkin, and is soon to host Jake Labert, who recently supported on Michael McIntyre’s Magnificent Tour. They also host Open Mic nights, allowing you to meet comedians and build connections for your own comedic journey, if that’s your thing.

2. Mayflower Theatre

We’ve covered some of the smaller comedy clubs, but what about the big names? Enter, Mayflower Theatre. Located in the city centre, this is the place to go for the big shows. Frank Skinner will soon perform there along with John Bishop, Rob Beckett, and more! While it’s on the more expensive side, there’s nothing like seeing a big, well-known name live in your own city.

3. O2 Guildhall

O2 Guildhall is Southampton’s largest multi-functional venue, with a capacity of up to 1,700. Like Mayflower Theatre, it has played host to some big names like Ed Byrne. While it’s known more for its live music, the Guildhall is still a place to look out for if you want to see the bigger names. It’s a case of quality not quantity with this venue.

4. The Stage Door

Source: The Stage Door

The Stage Door is a fringe theatre, live music venue, and bar in the Cultural Quarter of Southampton. As well as music and plays, it also shows comedy. Manford’s Comedy Club is soon to start there, featuring four top comedians chosen by Jason Manford. What started out as just a fringe theatre has now become a venue for a wide range of genres, with space even for a drink at the bar after the show.

5. The Hobbit

For those interested in the University of Southampton’s Comedy Society, both free and paid shows are shown at The Hobbit regularly, often every Monday and at least once a month (and more often during Freshers’ Week). This pub is a cosy place to relax with friends over a drink and a good laugh, with it being more intimate than some of the other venues on the list.

If drinks are more your thing, check out our article on the 10 best student pubs in Southampton.

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