Edinburgh: Scottish Comedy Night at an Old Town Cocktail Bar

If you’re heading to Edinburgh and want to get a taste of its renowned comedy scene without the crowds of the Fringe Festival, the Scottish Comedy Night at an Old Town Cocktail Bar offers a charming and affordable evening of laughs. Hosted by Good Egg Comedy, this 1.5-hour show promises a lively lineup of some of Scotland’s best emerging comedians trying out new material in a cozy, stylish setting.

What we love about this experience is how it combines authentic local humor with the relaxed vibe of a boutique cocktail bar. You’re not just watching a performance; you’re becoming part of a warm, intimate audience that often includes award-winning comedians, TV stars, and social media personalities. Plus, for just $9, it’s an accessible way to support up-and-coming talent and enjoy Edinburgh’s vibrant comedy culture.

One potential consideration is that drinks and food are not included, so you might want to budget extra for beverages or snacks if you’re feeling peckish. Also, as this is an evening event in a small venue, it’s best suited for adults over 18 who enjoy casual, stand-up comedy rather than family outings.

This comedy night is ideal for travelers looking for authentic local entertainment, those interested in supporting new comedians, or anyone wanting a fun, inexpensive way to spend an Edinburgh evening away from the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Affordable entertainment with tickets costing just $9 per person.
• Supports emerging talent, giving comedians a platform to refine their routines.
• Intimate venue in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town enhances the comedy experience.
• Relaxed atmosphere with the chance to enjoy quality cocktails and socializing.
• Diverse lineup with 4 or 5 comedians, often trying out brand-new jokes.
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay-later reservations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Comedy Night Experience

Setting the Scene: The Dragonfly Cocktail Bar

The evening begins at the Dragonfly Cocktail Bar, a stylish venue located within Edinburgh’s Old Town. From the moment you step inside, you get a sense of character—moody lighting, cozy decor, and a welcoming vibe. The bar is a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors, often frequented by comedians and social media stars, which adds a layer of authenticity and excitement.

The bar’s ambiance is perfect for comedy, offering a relaxed, intimate setting where performers can connect directly with the audience. Expect a small, lively crowd that’s eager to laugh and engage, making for a warm, friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “The cutest cocktail bar very cosy moody vibes, great drinks! So glad we got to experience this; we would definitely go again.”

The Comedy Lineup and What to Expect

Each Thursday, 4 or 5 comedians take the stage, trying out their material—sometimes for the first time in front of a live audience. The lineup is curated to feature some of Edinburgh’s finest emerging acts, with hosts like Ralph Brown or Ross Leslie holding the show together with humor and professionalism.

The focus is on brand-new jokes, meaning you’re witnessing comedians in the process of refining their sets—an authentic look at comedy in the making. This provides a unique experience for fans who enjoy seeing performers test their material before bigger gigs, festivals, or TV appearances. One satisfied attendee said, “The acts were really good, loads of laughs, great audience engagement,” which underscores how well the show generally hits the mark.

The Value of Supporting Upcoming Talent

For just $9, you get a full live comedy show that lasts around 90 minutes. Considering that ticket prices for stand-up in larger venues can be much higher, this experience offers exceptional value. More importantly, your support helps up-and-coming comedians hone their craft, which adds a layer of authenticity and purpose to your night out.

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Drinks, Food, and Atmosphere

While drinks and food aren’t included, the bar’s quality cocktails, coupled with its welcoming environment, make it easy to settle in and enjoy the show. According to reviews, the drinks are excellent, and the venue’s cozy vibe encourages conversation and laughter. If you’re hungry, it might be worth grabbing a snack beforehand or ordering a drink during the performance.

Practical Details and Booking

The show runs every Thursday, with starting times vary—so it’s wise to check availability for your preferred date. Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your plans. Reservations are handled via the booking platform, and the activity takes place entirely at the bar, with no need for transportation once there.

The meeting point is simply inside the bar, where a staff member will assist you, and the show concludes back at the same location. The activity is conducted in English and is not suitable for children under 18.

Authenticity and the Edinburgh Comedy Scene

Edinburgh’s reputation as a world-famous comedy hub is well-earned. While this event is more intimate than the massive Fringe Festival shows, it captures the essence of the city’s comedy scene—supporting local talent in a fun, relaxed environment. Several reviews mention great audience engagement and excellent comedians, which suggests that the event is consistently well-received.

What Real Attendees Say

One reviewer happily recounts, “Me and my boyfriend Fergal had an amazing time. I laughed so hard I inhaled a mint!” Highlighting that it’s a genuinely funny night, perfect for unwinding. Another praises the “cosy, moody vibes,” emphasizing how the venue’s atmosphere enhances the comedy experience. Yet another mentions the diversity of comedians and excellent drinks, reinforcing that the night is engaging on multiple levels.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This comedy night is a delightful way to spend an evening in Edinburgh if you’re interested in authentic, local humor without the hefty price tag of larger venues. It’s especially suited for adults and mature audiences who enjoy stand-up comedy, support emerging performers, or simply want to soak in the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Travelers who appreciate a casual yet lively environment will find this event a perfect fit. It’s also an excellent choice for those wanting a more personal and behind-the-scenes look at Edinburgh’s comedy scene. Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, this experience offers genuine laughs and memorable moments.

FAQs

How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are $9 per person, offering excellent value for a lively 1.5-hour show.

Where does the show take place?
Inside the Dragonfly Cocktail Bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a cozy, well-loved venue.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the event.

What is included in the ticket?
The ticket covers the comedy show and live entertainment. Drinks and food are not included.

Are drinks available during the show?
Yes, you can order cocktails and other beverages from the bar, but they are not part of the ticket price.

Is the event suitable for children?
No, the show is for adults over 18 years.

Can I see which comedians will perform?
Performers are scheduled and can be seen on the event’s Instagram page.

How long does the show last?
About 1.5 hours, usually starting in the evening with check-specific times available at booking.

What should I expect in terms of atmosphere?
A relaxed, intimate, and friendly environment with a lively crowd, perfect for enjoying comedy and good company.

This comedy night in Edinburgh offers a fantastic blend of local talent, authentic atmosphere, and affordability — perfect for a memorable night out in the city’s historic heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: