London's comedy scene pulses with raw talent and electric energy, hosting everyone from comedy giants testing new material to tomorrow's breakthrough stars. From historic basements that have launched countless careers to sleek modern venues pushing comedy's boundaries, the capital's laugh factories serve up an intoxicating mix of established acts and fresh faces seven nights a week.
As seasoned comedy aficionados who've spent countless nights in these hallowed halls of humor, we've traversed every corner of London to bring you the definitive guide to the city's finest comedy venues. From intimate rooms where you can see household names working out new material to grand theaters hosting the biggest tours, here's where to find your perfect comedy fix in London.
- Location:Soho
- Best for:Classic stand-up and improv
- Tickets:£15-£25
One of the most famous and longest-running comedy venues in London, The Comedy Store has been entertaining audiences since 1979. Over the years, it has built a reputation as the training ground for some of Britain’s best-known comedians. Many household names, including Eddie Izzard, Jimmy Carr, and Michael McIntyre, have graced its stage.
The venue is known for its high-energy stand-up nights, where top UK and international comedians perform, as well as its legendary "Comedy Store Players" improv troupe. Their Wednesday and Sunday night improv shows are among the best in the city, featuring comedians who can turn the most random audience suggestions into hilarious sketches.
- Location:Covent Garde
- Best for:Affordable comedy and surprise acts
- Tickets:£5-£10
For those who love the thrill of an underground comedy scene, Top Secret Comedy Club is a must-visit. Located in a basement in Covent Garden, this club offers an intimate setting where you’ll often find well-known comedians testing out new material. What makes it truly special is the affordability. With tickets as low as £5, it’s one of the cheapest places to see live stand-up in London, but don’t let the price fool you; many of the performers here are top-tier acts. Big names like Jack Whitehall, Joe Lycett, and Russell Howard have all dropped by unannounced to try out new jokes before their big tours.
The Bill Murray comedy club - Location:Angel
- Best for:Intimate gigs and comedy workshops
- Tickets:£10-£15
The Bill Murray is an independent, comedian-run venue that feels like a comedy community hub rather than just a club. Located in Angel, it has a cozy and friendly atmosphere that attracts both comedy lovers and performers alike.
One of its unique features is that many comedians use it as a workshop space, so you’ll often see big-name acts testing new material in front of smaller crowds. Regular performers include James Acaster, Stewart Lee, and Aisling Bea. The venue also runs comedy courses and workshops, making it a great place for those interested in trying stand-up themselves. If you love alternative comedy or want to see a comedian in a relaxed setting, Bill Murray is a fantastic choice.
- Location:Angel
- Best for:Free-entry comedy
- Tickets:Free (donations encouraged)
If you’re looking for top-quality comedy without spending a penny, Angel Comedy Club is the best place in London. Hosted at The Camden Head and The Bill Murray, this club runs free shows every single night of the week.
Despite being free, the quality of acts is outstanding. It’s one of the few places where you can see big-name comedians drop in unannounced, making it a hotspot for stand-up fans. However, due to its popularity, it’s advised to arrive early, as seats fill up quickly.
The vibe is very welcoming, and the audience often plays a big role in shaping the energy of the show. If you love live comedy but don’t want to break the bank, Angel Comedy is the place to go.
- Location:Greenwich
- Best for:High-energy stand-up
- Tickets:£10-£20
Greenwich’s Up the Creek is a comedy club with a reputation for being rowdy, fun, and unfiltered. It has been a staple of the comedy scene since the 1990s and continues to attract both top comedians and a loyal audience.
The venue is best known for its Sunday Special, a weekly night where you can see both rising stars and well-known acts perform. The atmosphere here is different from many other clubs; it’s more of a party vibe, and audience interaction is encouraged.
Comedians often describe this venue as one of the toughest but most rewarding places to perform because of the high energy and unpredictability of the crowd. If you love a lively atmosphere and don’t mind a bit of audience participation, Up the Creek is perfect.
- Location:Bethnal Green
- Best for:Casual comedy nights
- Tickets:£10-£15
Founded by comedian Lee Hurst, The Backyard Comedy Club in Bethnal Green is known for its laid-back vibe and spacious venue. Unlike many of London’s smaller, packed comedy clubs, this venue offers plenty of seating, a large bar area, and even a ping pong table for pre-show entertainment.
The comedy lineup is diverse, featuring everything from stand-up nights and improv shows to charity gigs and quiz nights. It’s a fantastic spot for those who want a more relaxed, social atmosphere with their comedy.
- Location: Leicester Square
- Best for:High-profile comedians
- Tickets:£15-£25
Located in the heart of London’s entertainment district, 99 Club Leicester Squareis perfect for those looking for a high-quality, professional stand-up comedy experience. This club consistently features big-name comedians from TV and radio, including past performers like Sara Pascoe, Milton Jones, and Romesh Ranganathan. The central location makes it a great spot for tourists and locals alike, and the stylish setting adds to the premium feel of the night.
- Location: Vauxhall
- Best for:Outdoor comedy and bottomless drinks
- Tickets:£5-£20
Vauxhall Comedy Club is one of the only comedy venues in London with an outdoor seating area, making it a fantastic option for summer nights. They also offer bottomless drinks and comedy packages, creating a fun, festival-like atmosphere.
Regular nights include themed events, such as "Roast Battles" and "New Material Nights," where comedians test out their latest jokes in front of a lively crowd. If you’re looking for a more casual, social comedy experience, this is a great choice.
The Boat Show Comedy Club - Loaction: Victoria Embankment
- Best for:A unique comedy experience
- Tickets:£15-£25
For a comedy experience with a twist, The Boat Show Comedy Club is literally a floating venue on the River Thames. Located on the Tattershall Castle boat, this club offers stunning views of London’s skyline while you enjoy a night of laughter.
The lineup typically features a mix of TV-famous comedians and top club acts, making it one of the most unique comedy experiences in the city. The setting also makes it a great date-night spot.
- Various Locations
- Best for:Comedy on the move
- Tickets:£8-£15
Laugh Train Home is a unique comedy night that moves across different London pubs, bringing stand-up comedy to various local neighborhoods. This club features a mix of TV comedians, established stand-up stars, and emerging talents, creating an ever-changing lineup that keeps audiences entertained.
Shows are hosted in friendly, laid-back pub environments, making it a great option for a relaxed night out with friends. The informal setting also allows comedians to interact with the audience, often leading to hilarious, unscripted moments. Expect to see big names testing new material alongside rising stars making their mark.
- Location:Stockwell
- Best for:Quirky, alternative comedy
- Tickets:Free-£10
Located in South London, The Cavendish Arms is one of the city’s most beloved hidden gems for comedy lovers. This cozy pub venue has a vintage, cabaret-style atmosphere that adds to its unique charm. The club is known for showcasing everything from traditional stand-up and musical comedy to bizarre, experimental, and offbeat performances.
It’s a fantastic spot to witness up-and-coming comedians pushing creative boundaries in an intimate and welcoming setting. The venue frequently hosts open-mic nights, giving new comedians a chance to hone their skills while offering the audience a diverse mix of comedic styles.
- Location: Piccadilly
- Best for:Central London location
- Tickets:£10-£20
Located in the heart of London’s West End, Piccadilly Comedy Club is a perfect choice for those seeking a spontaneous comedy night in central London. The club regularly features a strong lineup of comedians, including both UK stand-up regulars and international acts.
Due to its prime location, it attracts a lively mix of locals, tourists, and comedy enthusiasts. The venue is small and intimate, ensuring that every seat offers a great view of the stage. With its affordable tickets and consistently strong performances, this club is a great option for anyone wanting an evening of laughter in one of the city’s most vibrant areas.
- Location: Soho
- Best for:Theatre-style comedy performances
- Tickets:£10-£30
Soho Theatre is one of London’s most prestigious venues for comedy, theatre, and cabaret. Unlike traditional stand-up clubs, this venue specializes in comedy performances that lean towards storytelling, character-driven acts, and one-person shows.
Many well-known comedians, including James Acaster and Aisling Bea, have performed extended solo runs here. The theatre attracts audiences looking for something beyond standard stand-up, offering intelligent, thought-provoking, and sometimes experimental comedy. With its central Soho location, it's a great spot for comedy lovers who enjoy a mix of laughter and theatrical flair.
- Locaton: Sydenham
- Best for:Local comedy scene and themed nights
- Tickets:£5-£10
The Poodle Club is a small, independent comedy club in Sydenham, South London, known for its friendly, intimate atmosphere. Unlike larger comedy venues, this club offers a community-driven experience where the audience feels connected to the comedians on stage. The club frequently hosts themed nights, including LGBTQ+ comedy showcases, all-female lineups, and musical comedy specials.
The Poodle Club prides itself on supporting up-and-coming talent, making it a fantastic place to discover fresh, exciting acts before they break into the mainstream. If you’re looking for a cozy venue with a strong sense of community, this is the place to be.
- Location: Camden
- Best for:Intimate, laid-back comedy nights
- Tickets:£10
Located above a pub in the heart of Camden, The Top Deck Comedy Club offers a relaxed and cozy stand-up experience. The venue’s small size allows for a direct connection between comedians and the audience, often leading to spontaneous interactions and personalized jokes.
The club’s lineup includes a mix of professional stand-ups, TV comics, and promising newcomers, ensuring a well-rounded night of comedy. Given its location in Camden, it's a great place to start a fun night out, with plenty of bars and live music spots nearby. The intimate setup makes it perfect for comedy fans who prefer a close-up and personal experience rather than a large, theatre-style show.
The Leicester Square Theatre - Location: Leicester Square
- Best for:Comedy specials and big-name acts
- Tickets:£15-£35
Situated in the heart of London’s entertainment district, The Leicester Square Theatre is one of the city’s premier venues for stand-up comedy, theatre, and live performances. Unlike smaller comedy clubs, this venue hosts high-profile comedians from the UK and around the world, making it an excellent choice for those looking to see internationally renowned acts.
The theatre’s spacious seating and excellent acoustics create a more polished and professional comedy experience compared to pub-based comedy nights. Big names such as Stewart Lee, Bill Burr, and Sarah Millican have performed here, often showcasing extended comedy specials. The venue also features a mix of established and rising comedians, making it an exciting place to catch both mainstream and underground talent.
Comedy carnival leicester square - Location: Clapham & Leicester Square
- Best for:A lively, high-energy night out
- Tickets:£15-£20
Comedy Carnival is a fantastic choice for those looking for a vibrant, energetic comedy night. With locations in both Leicester Square and Clapham, this club brings together top-tier UK and international comedians, creating a high-quality lineup every week.
The club has a lively, party-like atmosphere, making it ideal for groups and social nights out. Many of the comedians who perform here have been featured on TV shows like Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week, ensuring a night of high-caliber stand-up.
After the show, the Leicester Square venue is surrounded by bars and clubs, making it a perfect starting point for an exciting night in central London.
Downstairs At The King’s Head - Location: Crouch End
- Best for:Underground comedy and intimate performances
- Tickets:£10-£15
As one of London’s longest-running comedy clubs, Downstairs at the King’s Head has built a reputation as a breeding ground for comedic talent. Established in 1981, this venue has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy before they hit the mainstream, including Harry Hill and Eddie Izzard.
The club’s basement setting creates a close-up, personal atmosphere where comedians interact with the audience, making for a unique and spontaneous experience. The lineup features a mix of professional stand-ups, rising stars, and experimental acts, offering an unpredictable and often hilarious night of comedy. For those who enjoy raw, authentic stand-up in a historic venue, this club is a must-visit.
- Location: Shoreditch
- Best for:Alternative and edgy comedy
- Tickets:£10-£15
Located in the heart of trendy Shoreditch, The Comedy Pit offers a refreshing break from traditional stand-up. This club specializes in alternative, offbeat, and experimental comedy, making it a favorite among the hipster crowd and those looking for something different.
Expect to see acts that push the boundaries of humor, whether through surreal storytelling, dark humor, or unconventional performance styles. The audience is often made up of comedy enthusiasts who appreciate the cutting-edge nature of the performances. If you're looking for a night of laughs with a side of unpredictability, The Comedy Pit is the place to go.
- Location: Fitzrovia
- Best for:Work-in-progress shows and unfiltered performances
- Tickets:£10
Old Rope Comedy Club is a well-known spot for comedians to test out new material before taking it to larger venues or television. The name “Old Rope” comes from the tradition that comedians must try out at least one new joke during their set while holding a length of rope on stage if the joke works, they metaphorically "let go of the rope."
This club attracts a mix of well-known stand-ups and rising stars, all experimenting with fresh material in front of a supportive audience. As a result, performances feel spontaneous and unpolished, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process of professional comedians. Expect to hear brand-new jokes, some of which may later become iconic routines.
- Various Locations
- Best for:Budget-friendly comedy nights
- Tickets:£5-£10
Laugh Out London is one of the capital’s most affordable yet high-quality comedy nights. This roaming club operates across different pubs and venues, mainly in areas like Angel, Islington, and Soho, offering comedy fans a chance to see fantastic lineups without breaking the bank.
The club regularly features rising stars of the stand-up scene alongside established TV comedians testing out new material. Past performers have included the likes of James Acaster, Bridget Christie, and Nish Kumar.
The casual, laid-back environment means you get to experience comedy in a relaxed setting, often just a few feet away from the performers. Because of its affordability and consistently great lineups, it’s a favorite among Londoners looking for a fun and cheap night out.
- Location: Camden
- Best for:Indie and alternative stand-up
- Tickets:£5-£15
Tucked away above The Camden Head pub, Camden Comedy Club is an intimate, low-key venue that has become a hub for alternative and indie stand-up. The small size of the room creates a close-knit atmosphere where audience interaction is common, and laughter fills every corner of the space.
The club runs several nights a week, featuring a diverse mix of up-and-coming comedians, critically acclaimed acts, and special themed nights. It’s also known for its experimental comedy, meaning you might witness a performer testing out surreal or offbeat material that you wouldn’t typically see in mainstream clubs. With a relaxed, friendly vibe and an affordable ticket price, it’s a great place for discovering new comedic talent.
- Location: Hackney
- Best for:Improv and unscripted comedy
- Tickets:£10
For those who love quick-thinking, unscripted comedy, The Free Association is a must-visit. Unlike traditional stand-up clubs, this venue specializes in long-form improv, where performers create entire scenes and stories based on audience suggestions.
Located in the heart of Hackney, The Free Association has gained a strong reputation for its high-energy performances and talented ensemble cast. Many of the comedians here have trained at top improv institutions like the Upright Citizens Brigade and iO Theatre, making this one of London’s best spots to see improvisational comedy at its finest.
Regular themed nights and special guest appearances keep the performances fresh and unpredictable. If you enjoy shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, this is the perfect place for an evening of spontaneous, off-the-cuff humor.
- Location: Shepherd’s Bush
- Best for:Underground and alternative comedy
- Tickets:£5-£15
One of London’s quirkiest comedy venues, Ginglik Comedy Club is housed in a former Victorian public toilet beneath Shepherd’s Bush Green. While the setting may sound unconventional, it only adds to the club’s charm, making it one of the most unique spots to enjoy stand-up in the city.
Ginglik has built a reputation for hosting cutting-edge, underground comedy, with lineups that mix fresh-faced newcomers with well-known comedians looking to test out edgier material. The club’s intimate size and atmospheric underground setting create an immersive experience where the audience feels like part of the show.
Expect an eclectic mix of stand-up, storytelling, and even occasional cabaret-style performances. For those seeking an offbeat, unconventional night of comedy, Ginglik is the perfect hidden gem.
- Location:Chiswick
- Best for:High-quality stand-up in West London
- Tickets:£10-£20
For West London residents looking for a top-tier comedy night without trekking to Soho, Headliners Comedy Club in Chiswick is the go-to destination. Running since the 1990s, this well-established club has hosted some of the biggest names in stand-up, including Micky Flanagan, Romesh Ranganathan, and Jo Brand. The venue, located inside The George IV pub, offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where audiences can enjoy professional comedy in a comfortable setting.
The club prides itself on high-quality acts, so you can always expect a strong lineup of seasoned performers and rising stars. With its reputation for delivering consistently excellent comedy, Headliners is a fantastic option for those wanting a guaranteed night of laughter in West London.
- Location: Kennington
- Best for:Friendly atmosphere and new material nights
- Tickets:£10-£15
Always Be Comedy, based in Kennington, has built a strong reputation as one of London’s most welcoming and friendly comedy clubs. With a warm and intimate setup at The Tommyfield pub, this club is a favorite spot for both audiences and comedians alike. Many well-known names, including Lee Mack, Josh Widdicombe, and Jack Whitehall, use this venue to test new material before taking it to larger audiences.
The resident host, James Gill, keeps the energy high and ensures the audience is engaged from start to finish. Always Be Comedy is perfect for those who enjoy an interactive comedy experience, as the comedians often chat with the crowd, making every show feel unique. Due to its popularity and limited seating, tickets tend to sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
- Location: Balham
- Best for:South London’s comedy lovers
- Tickets:£10-£20
One of the longest-running comedy clubs in London, Banana Cabaret has been delivering laughs in Balham since the 1980s. Hosted at The Bedford, a historic pub with a stunning performance space, this club has seen some of the biggest names in British comedy pass through its doors.
Past performers include Eddie Izzard, Catherine Tate, and Michael McIntyre. The venue itself is spacious and beautifully designed, making it a great option for those who prefer a more traditional comedy setting over cramped, underground spaces.
The club runs every Friday and Saturday, providing consistently high-quality acts in a lively and well-organized setting. If you’re looking for a classic stand-up comedy experience in South London, Banana Cabaret is an excellent choice.
The stand-up club piccadilly - Location: Piccadilly
- Best for:Classic stand-up fans
- Tickets:£10-£20
Situated in the heart of London, The Stand-Up Club at The Comedy Pub offers a no-nonsense, high-quality stand-up experience. This venue attracts a mix of established comedians and promising newcomers, ensuring a varied lineup that caters to all comedy tastes. The setting is a traditional comedy club environment, with tiered seating that ensures a great view from any spot in the house.
Many well-known acts, including Hal Cruttenden and Zoe Lyons, have performed here, making it a great place to catch big names in an intimate setting. The relaxed but well-run format makes The Stand-Up Club ideal for those who enjoy straightforward, classic stand-up without gimmicks.
- Location: Covent Garden)
- Best for:Comedy date nights
- Tickets:£10
If you’re looking for a comedy club with a slightly more refined and relaxed atmosphere, The Funny Side in Covent Garden is a great pick. Located within the Charterhouse Bar, this club combines a cozy setting with a carefully curated lineup of comedians. The shows feature a mix of British and international stand-ups, ensuring a diverse range of comedic styles.
The intimate venue allows for a close connection between the performers and the audience, making it a fantastic choice for couples or small groups looking for an enjoyable night out. Unlike some of the rowdier comedy clubs, The Funny Side offers a more polished and professional experience, making it an excellent venue for a relaxed but entertaining evening.
- Location: Covent Garden
- Best for:Hidden comedy gem
- Tickets:£5-£15
One of London’s best-kept comedy secrets, Big Belly Comedy Club is a small but mighty venue in Covent Garden. Tucked away beneath the historic Lamb & Flag pub, this club offers a cozy, underground atmosphere that makes for an intimate and immersive comedy experience.
The venue hosts a mix of new and established comedians, giving audiences the chance to see fresh talent alongside seasoned performers. With affordable ticket prices and a relaxed pub setting, Big Belly Comedy Club is a great option for comedy lovers looking for a hidden gem in central London. The compact space ensures a lively atmosphere where laughter spreads quickly, making every show feel special.
London’s comedy scene isn’t limited to traditional clubs; there are plenty of unique ways to enjoy live comedy throughout the city. From festivals and pub gigs to engaging podcasts, here are some alternative ways to experience comedy in London.
London is home to several major comedy festivals throughout the year, bringing together an impressive lineup of comedians from the UK and beyond. These festivals offer a mix of stand-up, improv, sketch comedy, and experimental performances. Some of the most notable ones include:
- London Comedy Festival:A large-scale event showcasing top-tier comedians and rising stars.
- Vault Festival:An underground arts festival featuring alternative and cutting-edge comedy acts.
- Camden Fringe:A diverse festival that provides a platform for fresh and innovative comedians.Attending a comedy festival is a great way to experience a variety of comedic styles in one place.
Beyond dedicated comedy clubs, many London pubs host regular comedy nights. These events often feature up-and-coming comedians testing new material, making them a great place to discover fresh talent. Some popular pubs known for comedy nights include:
- The Bill Murray (Islington): A renowned venue for intimate comedy gigs.
- The Cavendish Arms (Stockwell):Hosts quirky, alternative acts and open-mic nights.
- The Harrison (Kings Cross):A cozy pub with a reputation for high-quality comedy events.Pub comedy nights often have a relaxed atmosphere and affordable entry fees, making them an excellent option for a casual night out.
If you love comedy but can’t always attend live shows, comedy podcasts are a great way to stay connected to the scene. Many feature interviews with comedians, discussions about the art of stand-up, and even recordings of live performances. The best times to visit Londonfor comedy events often coincide with major festivals and special performances, making it easier to catch top comedians live. Some of the most popular UK-based comedy podcasts include: - The Comedian’s Comedian:Hosted by Stuart Goldsmith, this podcast dives into the creative process behind comedy.
- No Such Thing As A Fish:Created by the researchers behind QI, this podcast combines humor with fascinating trivia.
- Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster:A comedy-food podcast featuring hilarious guest interviews.Listening to comedy podcasts can give you behind-the-scenes insights into the world of stand-up and help you discover new comedians to watch live.
Attending a comedy show in London is a fantastic way to enjoy a night filled with laughter, but a little preparation can enhance your experience. The city of Londonis home to a diverse comedy scene, from intimate pub gigs to large-scale theatre performances, so knowing what to expect can make your night even more enjoyable. Here are some essential tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit: Many of London’s top comedy clubs, especially those featuring well-known comedians, sell out quickly, particularly on weekends. To secure your spot, it’s best to book your tickets in advance through the club’s official website or trusted ticket platforms.
Some venues offer discounts for early bookings, student deals, or group rates, so check for promotions before purchasing. If you're attending a free comedy night, arriving early is recommended, as seating is often on a first-come, first-served basis. To get around Londonefficiently and reach your chosen venue on time, consider using the Underground, buses, or taxis, as many comedy clubs are located in busy areas with limited parking. While most comedy clubs in London don’t enforce a strict dress code, smart-casual attire is generally a safe choice. Avoid overly formal wear, but also steer clear of overly casual outfits like gym clothes.
Some upscale venues, such as those located in theatres or fine-dining establishments, may have a slightly more polished dress code. If you’re unsure, check the club’s website or social media pages for any specific guidelines.
Respecting the performers and fellow audience members is key to an enjoyable night. Keep these etiquette rules in mind:
- No Disruptive Talking:Engaging with friends during a performance can be distracting. Save conversations for the breaks or after the show.
- Turn Off or Silence Your Phone:The glow from screens and unexpected ringtones can disrupt both comedians and the audience.
- Be Mindful of Heckling:While some comedians may engage with the crowd, heckling or interrupting a performance is generally frowned upon unless it’s encouraged by the act.
- Laugh Freely, But Be Respectful:Enjoy the show, but avoid excessive shouting or interrupting punchlines.
Most comedy clubs have bars where you can purchase drinks before and during the show. Some venues, like The Top Secret Comedy Club and 99 Club, offer table service for added convenience.
If you’re planning to dine at the venue, check whether they serve food, as offerings vary. Some clubs provide full meals, while others only offer snacks. If food isn't available, consider eating beforehand, as many clubs are located near excellent restaurants.
Comedy clubs can make excellent date venues, but choose wisely. Avoid front row seats on first dates and research the show style some nights are more interactive than others.
Most clubs have a relaxed dress code, but smart casual is always safe. Some central London venues might restrict entry in sportswear or trainers.
For weekend shows at popular venues, advance booking is strongly recommended. Many clubs offer walk-up tickets for weeknight shows.
Standard shows usually run for about 2-2.5 hours, including intervals. Format varies by venue, but typically includes a compere and 2-4 acts.
London is home to some of the best comedy clubs in the world, offering everything from intimate stand-up nights to large-scale performances. Whether you’re looking for a legendary venue like The Comedy Store or a hidden gem like The Bill Murray, there’s a club for every taste.
If you love comedy, visiting one of these clubs is a must. Grab a ticket, sit back, and get ready to laugh the night away.