Comedy history

The English are renowned for their love of all things comedy and with such a rich heritage, dating back to the dance halls of the 19th century, there are plenty of places to visit and enjoy a chuckle at some of our greatest comedic performers and creations.

The Laurel & Hardy Museum - Ulverston, Cumbria

Possibly the most famous comedic double act in film history, Laurel & Hardy made their millions in the Hollywood machine of the 1920s and 30s. Both hailed from humble beginnings, but it was Arthur Jefferson (Stan Laurel) who was born on this side of the Atlantic in Ulverston, Cumbria, and who first worked as Charlie Chaplin’s understudy before meeting his partner, Oliver Hardy, and seeking fame and fortune in America. Find out all you need to know about the legendary duo at The Laurel & Hardy Museum in Ulverston.

The Eric Morecambe Stage

One of England’s best loved comedians, Eric Morecambe was famously one half of Morecambe & Wise, who along with ‘Little Ern’ dominated Saturday night television throughout the 1970s.  A touching tribute to Morecambe was unveiled by the Queen in 1999 – a statue of the great man in one of his characteristic poses set against the backdrop of Morecambe Bay and the Lake District hills. Find out more about The Eric Morecambe Stage.

Ealing Studios - West London

The world famous Ealing Studios in London are probably best known for the collection of films produced in the 1950s, such as The Ladykillers, The Lavender Hill Mob and Passport to Pimlico, which helped launch the careers of stars such as Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers. Having survived two world wars and various advancements in film and television technology, the studios are still going strong and recent television productions include The Royle Family, Bedtime, Randall and Hopkirk Deceased and Emma Brody. The Studios also host live comedy events. Find out more about comedy at Ealing Studios.

Roll up, roll up!

Thought to have its origins in Ancient Rome, the circus is still very much a popular family attraction in England. If you visit a circus today, you’ll still find the same exciting mix of acrobats, fire eaters, animals and magic shows that founder of the modern circus, Philip Astley, introduced us to in the late 18th century – and most importantly, you’ll still find plenty of clowns causing all manner of mischief! Find out where Zippos and Billy Smart's Circus are appearing in England.

Wallace & Gromit

In 1985 animation company Aardman teamed up with Nick Park, who at that time was fresh out of the National Film & Television School and looking to finish his graduation film, A Grand Day Out. This was the start of a relationship that led to the incredible international success of Park’s clay-mation creations, Wallace and Gromit – a loveable, if a little hapless, Yorkshireman (voiced by Last of the Summer Wine star, Peter Sallis) and his ever-suffering dog! Hugely popular with audiences of all ages, Wallace and Gromit have to date starred in three feature films, the most recent being The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. Embroiled in all sorts of mysteries and adventures, all usually ends well for the charming duo, as long as there’s plenty of cheese and plenty of crackers! Find out more about Wallace & Gromit at the Animated Animations exhibition at the World Museum in Liverpool.