About The Scarborough Joke & Magic Shop
Scarborough's Home of Magic, Mischief & Memories Since 1986
Step through the door of The Scarborough Joke & Magic Shop and you'll discover something increasingly rare on the British high street – a genuine traditional joke and magic shop packed from floor to ceiling with laughter, amazement and nostalgia.
Since 1986, we've been delighting visitors of all ages with practical jokes, magic tricks, fancy dress accessories, masks, wigs, novelty gifts and those classic joke shop favourites that never fail to raise a smile.
For many of our customers, a visit to the shop has become a cherished holiday tradition. Some first visited as children and now return years later with children and grandchildren of their own.
Whether you're looking for your very first magic trick, a hilarious prank gift, a professional illusion, or simply a trip down memory lane, you'll find something to surprise and entertain you here.
A Lifetime In The Joke & Magic Trade
My name is Miles Jackson, and I have spent most of my life surrounded by practical jokes, magic tricks and novelty products.
My journey with The Scarborough Joke & Magic Shop began as a teenager when I started working in the shop. What began as a weekend job quickly became a lifelong passion.
I was fascinated by the world of magic. The ability to create moments of wonder, astonishment and laughter never lost its appeal. Over the years I learned the trade, developed my own performing skills and built relationships with magicians, manufacturers and customers from across the UK.
Eventually, I had the opportunity to take over the business myself.
Today, I am proud to continue the tradition of one of Britain's remaining independent joke and magic shops, serving customers both in-store and online.
Many people also know me as Mr Joke Shop, through my live demonstrations, social media videos and online broadcasts, where I showcase new products, demonstrate magic tricks and share the fun that has made the shop such a special place for generations.
More Than Just A Shop
The Scarborough Joke & Magic Shop isn't simply a retailer.
It's a place where people discover a new hobby.
It's where future magicians buy their first deck of cards.
It's where families find the perfect joke gift.
It's where holiday memories are made.
Every day we see customers walk through the door with stories of visiting the shop decades ago.
They remember the joke they bought, the magic trick they learned or the laughter they shared with friends and family.
Those memories are what make this business so special.
In a world increasingly dominated by large online retailers, we're proud to offer something different – personality, knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for what we sell.
What You'll Find Inside
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Practical Jokes
See our jokes rangeClassic joke shop favourites including whoopee cushions, stink bombs, snappy gum, fake insects, joke gifts and timeless pranks.
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Novelties & Gifts
See our NoveltiesUnique presents, pocket-money jokes and unusual gifts guaranteed to raise a smile.
No matter your age, there's always something new to discover.
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Retro & Pocket Money Toys
See our rangeBrowse our range of vintage-inspired favourites and pocket-sized treasures that prove the best playthings never go out of style.
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Fancy Dress & Costumes
See our rangeMasks, wigs, hats, make-up, accessories and costume pieces for parties, events and celebrations.
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Magic Tricks
See our rangeFrom beginner-friendly tricks to professional performance effects used by working magicians around the world.
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Playing Cards & Card Magic
See our card rangeA huge range of decks, card tricks and accessories for beginners and experienced performers alike.
A Proud Part of Scarborough
Located in the heart of Scarborough, our shop has become a familiar landmark for both locals and visitors.
Every year thousands of holidaymakers discover us while exploring the town, often leaving with bags full of practical jokes, novelty gifts and magical souvenirs.
Many visitors tell us that finding the shop is one of the highlights of their trip to Scarborough.
There's something magical about discovering a traditional joke shop unexpectedly and stepping into a world filled with masks, magic tricks, fake insects, whoopee cushions and impossible mysteries.
We're proud to have been part of Scarborough's high street for decades and hope to continue entertaining visitors for many years to come.
Blog posts
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Scarborough Station Clock Tower Damaged After O...
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Scarborough Station Clock Tower Damaged After O...
Scarborough station clock tower damaged after overnight lightning strikeA recently restored clock tower at Scarborough railway station has been damaged following a lightning strike during overnight storms. The Grade II-listed...
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A Trip Down Memory Lane: Nostalgic Treasures at...
Take a trip down memory lane with our collection of nostalgic treasures! From classic games like Jacks and Tiddlywinks to retro pranks and iconic toys like the Slinky, discover the...
A Trip Down Memory Lane: Nostalgic Treasures at...
Take a trip down memory lane with our collection of nostalgic treasures! From classic games like Jacks and Tiddlywinks to retro pranks and iconic toys like the Slinky, discover the...
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The Scarborough Joke Shop at Blackpool Magic Co...
Every February we pack the van, count the thumb tips, and head to the world’s biggest magic gathering — the Blackpool Magic Convention. Here’s what happened when The Scarborough Joke...
The Scarborough Joke Shop at Blackpool Magic Co...
Every February we pack the van, count the thumb tips, and head to the world’s biggest magic gathering — the Blackpool Magic Convention. Here’s what happened when The Scarborough Joke...