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.

  • Practical Jokes

    Classic joke shop favourites including whoopee cushions, stink bombs, snappy gum, fake insects, joke gifts and timeless pranks.

    See our jokes range 
  • Novelties & Gifts

    Unique presents, pocket-money jokes and unusual gifts guaranteed to raise a smile.

    No matter your age, there's always something new to discover.

    See our Novelties 
  • Retro & Pocket Money Toys

    Browse our range of vintage-inspired favourites and pocket-sized treasures that prove the best playthings never go out of style.

    See our range 
  • Fancy Dress & Costumes

    Masks, wigs, hats, make-up, accessories and costume pieces for parties, events and celebrations.

    See our range 
  • Magic Tricks

    From beginner-friendly tricks to professional performance effects used by working magicians around the world.

    See our range 
  • Playing Cards & Card Magic

    A huge range of decks, card tricks and accessories for beginners and experienced performers alike.

    See our card range 

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.

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