Fawlty Towers in Stoke | February 2026

The greatest British sitcom of all time comes to Stoke’s Regent Theatre for one hilarious week, 24-28 February 2026. Fresh from two sold-out West End seasons that earned universal five-star reviews, Fawlty Towers – The Play brings Basil Fawlty’s chaos and calamity to Stoke-on-Trent with an 18-strong cast recreating all your favourite moments from the legendary BBC series.

Adapted by comedy legend John Cleese and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger, this laugh-out-loud production combines three iconic episodes into one theatrical masterpiece that’s been hailed as “the funniest show in town” by the Daily Express and “as good as comedy gets” by the Sunday Times.

Fawlty Towers Stoke: Performance Schedule

What is Fawlty Towers – The Play?

Nearly 50 years after Fawlty Towers first graced British television screens, John Cleese has brought his legendary sitcom to life on stage. The theatrical adaptation combines three of the most beloved episodes from the TV series into one continuous two-hour comedic masterpiece.

The Three Episodes Combined

The Hotel Inspectors: After receiving a tip-off that hotel inspectors may be visiting, Basil desperately tries to ingratiate himself with guests he suspects are there to critique his establishment. His obsequious behaviour towards the wrong people creates escalating hilarity.

The Germans: Following a concussion, Basil is ordered not to mention the war to a party of German guests. Naturally, he does precisely the opposite in one of British comedy’s most cringe-inducing and hilarious sequences.

Communication Problems: The formidable deaf guest Mrs. Richards arrives, making everyone’s life miserable with her infuriating complaints. Meanwhile, Basil tries to hide gambling winnings from his ever-vigilant wife Sybil, leading to farcical complications.

Plus a brand-new finale written by John Cleese specifically for the stage, bringing the chaos to a satisfying theatrical conclusion.

The Cast: Comedy Excellence

Danny Bayne stars as the manic Basil Fawlty, capturing John Cleese’s explosive energy and impeccable comic timing. He’s joined by Mia Austen as the sharp-tongued Sybil, Hemi Yeroham as the hapless Spanish waiter Manuel, Joanne Clifton as the resourceful Polly, Paul Nicholas as the bumbling Major, and Jemma Churchill as the formidable Mrs. Richards.

With an 18-strong cast bringing to life all your favourite characters and moments, this is British comedy performed by some of the UK’s finest theatrical talent.

About the Original Fawlty Towers

Fawlty Towers first aired on BBC Two in 1975 and ran for just twelve episodes, yet it became one of the most influential British sitcoms of all time. Written by John Cleese and Connie Booth, the show follows Basil Fawlty’s disastrous attempts to run a hotel in Torquay while dealing with demanding guests, an incompetent staff, and his own explosive temper.

The character of Basil Fawlty was inspired by Donald Sinclair, a real-life hotelier in Torquay whose spectacular rudeness fascinated Cleese during a Monty Python filming trip. The show won multiple BAFTAs and in 2000 was voted the best British programme of all time by the British Film Institute.

Regent Theatre Stoke: Venue Guide

The Regent Theatre, located in the heart of Hanley city centre, is Stoke-on-Trent’s premier entertainment venue. This stunning 1,600-seat theatre has hosted everything from West End tours to international ballet, making it the perfect setting for Fawlty Towers’ theatrical chaos.

Getting to Regent Theatre Stoke

Address: Regent Theatre, Piccadilly, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 1AP

By Train: Stoke-on-Trent Station is approximately 2 miles away. Take a taxi (5-10 minutes, around £6-8) or catch the frequent 99 bus service to Hanley (15 minutes). The theatre is a short walk from Hanley bus station.

By Bus: Excellent bus connections to Hanley from across Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas. The main Hanley bus station is a 5-minute walk from the theatre.

By Car: The theatre has no dedicated parking, but several car parks are nearby:

• Trinity Street Car Park: 2-minute walk, 600+ spaces
• Birch Terrace Car Park: 5-minute walk
• Hinde Street Car Park: 5-minute walk
• Potteries Shopping Centre: Multi-storey car park, 5-minute walk

Evening parking rates typically £2-4. Check current rates and opening times before you travel.

Pre-Theatre Dining in Hanley

Hanley city centre offers excellent dining options within walking distance of the Regent Theatre. Many restaurants offer pre-theatre menus with two or three courses at great value.

Close to the Theatre (5-minute walk or less):

• The Greyhound: Traditional pub food in a historic building
• Zizzi Hanley: Italian favourites with pre-theatre offers
• Ask Italian: Classic Italian dishes near the Potteries Centre
• Cosy Club: All-day dining in stylish surroundings on Piccadilly
• The Quarter Lounge: Contemporary dining and cocktails

Hanley City Centre (5-10 minute walk):

• Miller & Carter: Quality steakhouse on Piccadilly
• Bill’s Hanley: Relaxed all-day dining
• Nando’s: Quick, reliable Portuguese chicken
• Wagamama: Asian-inspired dishes at Intu Potteries

Book restaurants in advance, especially for Saturday performances when Hanley is busiest. Aim to finish dining by 6:45pm for 7:30pm shows to allow time to reach the theatre and find your seats comfortably.

Seating at Regent Theatre

The Regent Theatre offers excellent sightlines from most areas of its 1,600-seat auditorium. The theatre’s traditional layout ensures clear views of the stage.

Best Seats for Comedy:

• Stalls (Orchestra Level): Centre stalls rows E-P provide perfect views of the physical comedy and facial expressions. Premium pricing but worth it for the detail of the farce.
• Dress Circle: Front rows offer superb elevated views. Excellent for appreciating the full stage picture and the timing of entrances and exits.
• Upper Circle: Centre seats offer good value with clear views, though you’re further from the action. Ideal for families on a budget.

For comedy like Fawlty Towers, sitting closer to the stage enhances the experience – you’ll catch every facial expression and physical gag.

Accessibility

Regent Theatre is fully accessible with wheelchair spaces in the Stalls and Dress Circle. The theatre has accessible toilets, lifts to all levels, hearing enhancement systems, and assistance dogs are welcome. Contact the box office when booking to discuss specific requirements.

Making a Weekend of It in Stoke

With performances running Tuesday through Saturday, many visitors combine Fawlty Towers with exploring Stoke-on-Trent’s rich pottery heritage and vibrant cultural scene.

Where to Stay

Close to the Theatre:

• TheDoubleTree by Hilton Stoke-on-Trent: Modern city centre hotel, 5-minute walk
• Holiday Inn Stoke-on-Trent: Family-friendly, city centre location
• Quality Hotel Stoke-on-Trent: Adjacent to Stoke Station, easy bus links
• Premier Inn Hanley: Budget-friendly, central location

What Else to Do in Stoke-on-Trent

Between performances, explore the World Capital of Ceramics:

• The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery: World-class ceramics collection, 5 minutes from theatre
• Emma Bridgewater Factory: Pottery painting and factory tours
• Gladstone Pottery Museum: Victorian pottery factory experience
• Wedgwood Museum & Visitor Centre: Discover the story of Josiah Wedgwood
• Trentham Gardens: Beautiful Italian Gardens and shopping village
• Alton Towers: UK’s premier theme park, 20 minutes away
• The Ceramic Quarter: Historic pottery factories and artist studios

Booking Your Tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The performance runs approximately 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. This gives you time to grab interval drinks and discuss the chaos unfolding on stage!

Is it suitable for children?

The show is recommended for ages 8 and above, with no children under 5 admitted. The show contains some adult themes and language consistent with the original TV series. Teenagers and adults will get the most from the sophisticated wordplay and farce.

Is it funny if I haven’t seen the TV show?

Absolutely! The play works perfectly as standalone theatre. While fans of the TV series will appreciate references and callbacks, the comedy is self-explanatory and the characters are clearly introduced. You’ll leave wanting to watch the original series!

Can I take photos during the performance?

No. Photography is not permitted during performances to protect the actors and ensure everyone enjoys the show without distraction. You’re welcome to take photos in the theatre foyer before the show and during the interval.

What should I wear?

There’s no dress code – most audiences dress smart casual. The Regent Theatre is relaxed, so smart jeans and a nice top are perfectly fine. Many people dress up for an evening out, but comfort is most important.

When should I arrive?

Arrive 30 minutes before curtain up to collect tickets, visit the bar, buy programmes, and find your seats comfortably. The theatre has spacious foyer areas perfect for pre-show drinks. Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break.

Are there accessible facilities?

Yes. The Regent Theatre offers wheelchair spaces, accessible seating, accessible toilets, lifts, and hearing enhancement systems. Contact the box office when booking to discuss specific requirements and ensure the best experience.

Last updated: January 2026. Fawlty Towers – The Play performs at Regent Theatre Stoke 24-28 February 2026. Check with the box office for current ticket availability.

More Comedy & Theatre Guides

• • Fawlty Towers 2026: Complete UK Tour Guide
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  • Fawlty Towers Torquay: 14-18 April 2026
  • Fawlty Towers at Regent Theatre