🎭 “That’s the way to do it!” – and it still is, after 150+ years.
There are some things that make a trip to the seaside feel just right: the smell of salty chips, a stroll along the prom, sand between your toes… and the unmistakable voice of Mr. Punch cackling from a red-and-white striped theatre.
Welcome to Codman’s Punch and Judy, Llandudno’s much-loved, laugh-out-loud puppet show that has been delighting families since 1860. Yep, you read that right—this iconic slice of British seaside culture has been running for over 160 years. And if the Tripadvisor reviews are anything to go by, it’s still just as magical, mischievous, and marvellously funny today.
🎪 A True Llandudno Legend
You’ll find Codman’s Punch and Judy Show right on Llandudno’s beautiful North Shore promenade, nestled between ice cream shops, donkey rides, and stunning views of the Great Orme. But while the setting is picture perfect, it’s the performance that steals the show.
With slapstick comedy, squeaky voices, and timeless characters, the show captures the hearts of both kids and adults alike. Mr. Punch, Judy, the baby, the crocodile, and that ever-unlucky policeman all make their grand appearances in a whirlwind of puppetry chaos.
💬 One Tripadvisor reviewer summed it up best:
“The kids laughed their socks off – and so did we! It was like stepping back in time, in the best possible way.”
👨👩👧👦 Loved by Generations
Codman’s isn’t just a show—it’s a tradition. Families return year after year, introducing their children and grandchildren to the very same performance they loved as kids.
💬 A nostalgic guest shared:
“My dad brought me here when I was little, and today I brought my own son. Nothing’s changed—and that’s exactly why we love it.”
Another reviewer praised the show’s timeless charm:
“It’s old-fashioned fun that still holds its own in today’s tech-obsessed world. No screens, no fuss—just genuine laughter.”
😂 Big Laughs, No Age Limit
While the little ones are often the loudest gigglers in the crowd, the humour isn’t lost on grown-ups. There’s a cheeky wink here, a knowing nod there, and a whole lot of slapstick for everyone.
💬 One Tripadvisor user wrote:
“I went expecting to be bored while my daughter watched it. But honestly, I laughed harder than she did!”
It’s the kind of humour that transcends generations – silly, outrageous, and brilliantly British.
📍 Easy to Find, Impossible to Miss
Located along the prom near the pier, Codman’s iconic puppet booth is a beacon of colour and joy. There’s no set seating, no tickets, no apps—just grab a spot, pop a donation in the hat, and enjoy the show. Performances run during the day in good weather, especially during school holidays.
💬 As one delighted guest put it:
“We didn’t plan to stop, but the sound of laughter drew us in. So glad we did—absolutely the highlight of our day in Llandudno!”
💷 Entry: Donations Welcome!
Codman’s remains refreshingly old-school. There’s no ticket barrier—just a heartfelt invitation to enjoy the show. If you’re moved to contribute, donations are gratefully received. Coins, notes, applause—it all helps keep the magic alive.
💬 “We gave a fiver and still felt like we’d underpaid,” said one Tripadvisor commenter.
“You can’t put a price on that much fun packed into 20 minutes.”
🎉 Final Thoughts: A Must-See in Llandudno
In a world of streaming and scrolling, Codman’s Punch and Judy is a joyful reminder that sometimes, the old ways are still the best ways. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll leave with a smile on your face and the words “That’s the way to do it!” ringing in your ears.
So next time you’re on the promenade, listen for the laughs, look for the booth, and prepare to fall in love with one of Llandudno’s most treasured traditions.
🎭 Codman’s Punch and Judy Show: still knocking ‘em dead (and getting away with it) after all these years.
📍 Location: North Shore Promenade, Llandudno
💬 Showtimes: Weather dependent, during holidays and peak seasons
💷 Admission: Donations
🧡 Tripadvisor Rating: 5 stars of pure fun!
🔗 Find us on Facebook: Codman’s Punch and Judy
Seaside Stories: Life at Min y Don, Llandudno and Beyond 
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