It's about to become a comedy venue...

Every comedian has played some bad venues in their time – but only one is officially known as The Devil’s Arse.

Next year John Shuttleworth will become the first comic to perform stand-up in Peak Cavern, in the heart of the Peak District.

It has been called the Devil’s Arse for most of its history, mentioned by philosopher Thomas Hobbes in the 17th century and Daniel Defoe in the 18th, possibly because of flatulent-sounding noises that come from inside the cave when flood water is draining away.

However the name was changed to Peak Cavern in 1880 so as not to offend  Queen Victoria when she paid a visit.

The attraction has the largest cave entrance in the UK, and for several years has set up a stage there, which has played host to the likes of  Jarvis Cocker, Richard Hawley and The Vaccines. And Jason Manford previously hosted a Sky Arts Christmas Special music event from the site.

But in May, Shuttleworth will become the first comedian to perform a full gig there (Tickets)

When Chortle told him of the site’s historic name, he suggested an alternative Peak District cave instead. He said:  ‘The Devil's Arse? Oooph, that’s a bit cheeky! I'd rather play the Blue John Cavern. Mind you that's quite rude as well…’

Published: 4 Nov 2021