The market town of Machynlleth (known locally as Mach) sits just south of the Eryri/Snowdonia National Park in the heart of the UNESCO reserve of the Dyfi estuary. Visit Wales describes the town as a ‘quirky eco-friendly’ vibe. It’s also arty, playing host to a selection of galleries including MOMA Machynlleth, which houses art, sculpture and photography from across Wales.
But Mach has another claim to fame. Every year thousands of comedy fans descend on the town for the annual Comedy Festival, a small but vibrant event that transforms Machynlleth for three days each May.
The first festival took place in 2010 and since then it has grown from an audience of a few hundred to over 7,000 in 2024. It was founded by Henry Widdicombe, who set out to create a more intimate and experimental comedy festival in the heart of Wales.
Widdicombe was drawn by Machynlleth’s independent spirit and energy. He says the event generates over £1 million of visitor spend for the Welsh economy and by and large the town itself responds positively to the festival, which stages 300 shows in an eclectic range of venues of all sizes.
The festival attracts big name comedians. In 2024 the lineup featured James Acaster, Miles Jupp, Kiri Pritchard-Mclean, Bridget Christie and Ria Lina, as well as podcasters Three Bean Salad. In previous years the festival has also drawn Nish Kumar, Joe Lycett, Mark Watson, Ivo Graham and Rhod Gilbert.
How do you get tickets to the Machynlleth Comedy Festival?
Tickets are available on the festival’s website, machcomedyfest.co.uk. Ticket prices start from under £10 up to £20+ for bigger names performing at the Mach Arena.
How do you get to the Machynlleth Comedy Festival, and what about accommodation?
Machynlleth is in the beautiful heart of Wales. The town has a railway station which makes taking the train an option, however most visitors choose to drive to the festival.
The festival offers camping for those visitors wanting to attend the whole weekend’s festivities. The camp site includes hot showers, flushing toilets and phone charging points as well as 24-hour security. If you prefer your accommodation with walls then you’ll find a selection of guest houses and small hotels in Mach itself as well as a wide range of other options in the surrounding area. Why not base yourself on the Welsh coast in nearby Aberdyfi, a twenty minute drive from Machynlleth. Or how about the attractive town of Dolgellau 30 minutes to the north.
What else can I do in the area?
This area of Wales is rich in attractions to suit visitors of all ages and interests. King Arthur’s Labyrinth near Corris is a fun subterranean adventure for all the family. The beaches at Aberdyfi, Ynyslas and Barmouth will keep everyone happy if the weather’s right. And for thrill seekers, Zip World at Blaenau Ffestiniog offers zip lines, underground mini golf and more.
The Hattie 