Down the Country for the Craic

The Best Comedy Clubs in Cork Right Now

Cork is more than just a pretty face.

Cork has always done things its own way — the accents, the banter, and yes, the comedy. While Dublin might grab most of the headlines, Cork has quietly built one of Ireland’s liveliest and most original stand-up scenes. From legendary venues to new pop-ups, the Rebel County is full of places where the laughter rings out as loudly as the bells of Shandon.

Whether you're a local looking for a Friday night plan or visiting the city for the weekend, here are the best comedy clubs in Cork to check out in 2025.

1.⁠ ⁠City Limits Comedy Club – Cork’s Comedy Landmark

Location: Coburg Street, Cork City

Best For: Big names and a proper comedy night out

Ask anyone in Cork where to go for guaranteed laughs and they will point you straight to City Limits Comedy Club. Open for over 30 years, it is the beating heart of the city’s comedy scene. The venue has hosted everyone from Tommy Tiernan and Dara Ó Briain to international acts passing through town.

The room is perfectly sized — intimate enough to feel personal, big enough to hold a roaring crowd. The shows are always sharp, well-produced, and never the same twice.

Why go: For the mix of homegrown talent and touring comedians, all performing to one of the best audiences in Ireland.

2.⁠ ⁠Coco Comedy Club – Fresh Faces and Fierce Energy

Location: The Roundy, Castle Street

Best For: Upcoming talent and energetic line-ups

Run by The Comedy Cavern team, Coco Comedy Club is where Cork’s next generation of comedians cut their teeth. The weekly line-ups blend new faces with seasoned performers, all bringing their best five minutes to the mic. The crowd is lively, supportive, and sometimes just as funny as the acts.

It's the perfect place for a midweek laugh, and the atmosphere feels more like a community than a club.

Why go: To see tomorrow’s stars before everyone else does — and for the unbeatable Cork energy.

3.⁠ ⁠The Comedy Cavern – The Underground Favourite

Location: The Roundy, Castle Street (downstairs)

Best For: Intimate gigs and experimental sets

The Comedy Cavern is a must-visit for anyone who loves comedy that feels a little different. The shows are relaxed and often unpredictable, with comedians testing new material and taking creative risks. The low-ceilinged basement, candle-lit tables, and close-up stage make every performance feel like a shared secret between the audience and the comic.

Why go: For a front-row view of Ireland’s boldest and most original comedy voices.

4.⁠ ⁠Cork’s Pop-Up & Festival Scene – One-Night Wonders

Location: Various venues across Cork City and County

Best For: Variety and special events

Cork’s comedy scene is not limited to club nights. From the Cork Fringe Festival to pop-up gigs in pubs and theatres, there is always something happening. Many of the country’s biggest names test new shows here before taking them on tour. Keep an eye on local listings or follow venues on Instagram to catch these one-off nights — they often sell out fast.

Why go: For the spontaneity — you never know who might show up.

Final Thoughts

Cork’s comedy scene is proof that great humour does not start and end in Dublin. With venues like City Limits and Coco Comedy leading the way, the city has carved out its own identity: friendly, fearless, and full of personality.

So the next time you find yourself down south, skip the usual pint session and spend a night laughing with the locals instead. You will leave with a sore face from smiling — and maybe a new favourite comedian.

After all, when it comes to comedy, Cork never does it by halves.