Comedy Connections with TransPennine Express: Jim Moir Travels to Edinburgh

Ready for another hilarious train journey with one of your favourite comedians? Luckily for you, it’s time for another episode of Comedy Connections with TransPennine Express – our comedy series which sees Vernon Kay interview some of the funniest people in the UK onboard our trains.

Next up, it’s Jim Moir. You might know this funny man better by his stage name, Vic Reeves, and as one half of the legendary comedy duo, Reeves and Mortimer. Vernon recently had a chat with Jim onboard one of our Edinburgh-bound trains. Check out the full video below.

Feeling inspired by Jim’s journey to the gorgeous Scottish capital? We’ve put together a short comedy-themed guide on what to do in Edinburgh.

Comedy-related Edinburgh activities

Fancy following in Jim Moir’s footsteps by hopping on a train all the way up to elegant Edinburgh? There’s a bevy of things to keep you busy, including lots of activities that might just make you roll around on the floor with laughter. From comedy clubs to wacky museums, here are a few ideas to place on your Edinburgh itinerary:

1. Camera Obscura
   
   Edinburgh certainly has no shortage of great museums. This includes this weird and wonderful option that’s located right next to Edinburgh Castle and just minutes from Edinburgh station.
   
   
   
   Camera Obscura and World of Illusions first opened in 1835 and it packs in five floors of awesome attractions. The exhibits take inspiration from old-fashioned, Victorian illusions – think distorting mirrors, clever optics and view cameras.
   
   Both kids and adults alike are bound to have heaps of fun – and laughs – on a trip to this unique Edinburgh museum. Book your tickets in advance to avoid queuing on the day.
   
   
2. The Stand Comedy Club
   
   If you’re after a good time in New Town, you can’t go wrong with The Stand Comedy Club. You can visit this basement comedy club any night of the week to watch stand up performances from both novices and those with more than just a few years of cracking jokes under their belts. The Stand Comedy Club has regular themed nights too, including The Best of Scottish Comedy on Thursdays and RED RAW – a show open to complete beginners – on Mondays.
   
   Our top tip is to book in advance to secure your spot. Tickets can be booked on their website and start at £5.
   
   
   
   
3. The Edinburgh Playhouse
   
   Not just a theatre for musicals and some of the world’s top touring shows, The Edinburgh Playhouse also regularly hosts world-renowned comedians. Originally a cinema, the building is one of the most striking in the city and is thought to be modelled on The Roxy cinema in New York. Past witty performers at the Playhouse include Kevin Hart, Frankie Boyle, Jimmy Carr and Amy Schumer.
   
   
   
   Check out ATG tickets for details on the venue’s upcoming stand-up comedy shows in 2022. Confirmed acts so far include Jason Manford, Josh Widdicombe and Jack Dee.
   
   
4. Monkey Barrel Comedy
   
   Can’t get enough of Edinburgh’s epic comedy clubs? Monkey Barrel Comedy is tucked away in Edinburgh Old Town and its intimate venue makes it a good pick for couples after a few laughs.
   
   Monkey Barrel first opened in 2017 and is known for its alternative line-ups featuring both popular Scottish comedy acts and complete newbies. It’s open seven days a week, with The Big Show on Friday nights seeing a selection of more well-established comedians taking to the stage.
   
   
   
   Seating is unreserved, so get there early to bag a good spot. Just don’t sit in the front two rows if you want to avoid getting picked on by the performers!
   
   
5. Edinburgh Fringe Festival
   
   A trip to Edinburgh in August is never a bad idea. Why? It’s the month in which the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is held of course.
   
   The largest arts festival of its kind on the planet, you’ll find the Fringe’s programme is jam-packed with stand-up shows and other hilarious acts from both experienced and aspiring comedians. Some of the biggest names in UK comedy started off performing at Edinburgh Fringe, including Rowan Atkinson, Noel Fielding and Miranda Hart.
   
   You’ll find events for the Fringe scattered at locations across the city, although some tend to take place at well-known clubs like Monkey Barrel Comedy.
   
   

After more inspiration on where to go by train in 2022? Check out some of our other blogs for travel guides and top tips for adventures across our network. And if you’re travelling to one of these destinations, remember to book your train tickets in advance online or on the TPExpress app.