Best Stand Up Comedy in London: Where to Go for a Great Night Out

😂 Best Stand Up Comedy in London

London’s comedy scene is one of the best in the world. Every night somewhere in the city there’s a stand up show happening, whether it’s a tiny basement club, a buzzing pub venue, or a theatre hosting a big name comedian testing new material.

What makes London comedy nights great is the mix. You might see a well known comedian trying out jokes before a tour, followed by a completely new act who ends up stealing the show. Multi bill nights are common, which means you get several comedians in one evening instead of just one long set.

If you’re visiting London, catching a comedy show is one of the easiest and most fun nights out you can have. Tickets are often cheap, the crowds are lively, and there is always something new happening.

🎤 Best Comedy Clubs in London

Top Secret Comedy Club

If you want a classic London comedy night, Top Secret Comedy Club is a great place to start. Hidden in a basement on Drury Lane, this no fuss club hosts stand up shows every single night of the week.

Tickets can be incredibly cheap, sometimes just £1 or even free. Big names regularly drop in to test new material before tours or TV appearances. Comedians like Amy Schumer, Jack Whitehall, Eddie Izzard, and Russell Howard have all appeared here.

Shows usually run from around 8pm to 10:30pm, with extra shows on Fridays and Saturdays.

Angel Comedy Club

One of London’s most popular comedy nights is Angel Comedy Club. It runs shows across two North London venues, The Bill Murray and the Camden Head.

The Camden Head shows are famous for being totally free to attend, though donations are encouraged. The line ups are strong, often featuring experienced comedians alongside rising talent.

Doors open around 7:30pm and the room fills quickly, so arriving early is a good idea.

The Comedy Store

You cannot talk about London comedy without mentioning The Comedy Store. Open since 1979, this Soho venue helped shape the UK’s alternative comedy scene.

Many famous comedians performed here early in their careers, including Rik Mayall, French and Saunders, and Alexei Sayle. Today the venue still hosts stand up, topical shows, and the famous Comedy Store Players improv show.

Camden Comedy Club

For a more local and intimate vibe, head to Camden Comedy Club. Located above a classic Camden pub, it feels like the type of comedy venue you imagine when thinking of London.

Tickets are usually between £5 and £10, and the line ups include both local comedians and bigger names previewing material.

🎭 Unique Comedy Spots

Soho Theatre

While not strictly a comedy club, Soho Theatre is one of the best places in London to see cutting edge stand up and comedy shows.

The venue focuses on fringe theatre, cabaret, and comedy, often hosting full shows from comedians rather than multi bill line ups. Many performers bring their Edinburgh Fringe shows here before touring.

Leicester Square Theatre

Located in the heart of the West End, Leicester Square Theatre hosts some of the biggest comedy names performing in London.

Comedians like Bill Bailey, Michael McIntyre, and Micky Flanagan regularly appear here. It also hosts live podcast recordings and comedy tours.

The Boat Show Comedy Club

For something different, check out the Boat Show Comedy Club on the P.S. Tattershall Castle. Yes, the show actually takes place on a boat.

Moored near the London Eye, the venue hosts stand up nights featuring both established comedians and rising stars. Shows usually take place on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Banana Cabaret

Located in the Bedford pub in Balham, Banana Cabaret has been running comedy nights for more than thirty years.

It’s known for showcasing tomorrow’s big comedy names alongside experienced performers. After the comedy finishes, the venue often turns into a lively late night bar with music and dancing.

🎟 Tips for a Great Comedy Night

• Arrive early if seating is not reserved.
• Check line ups online because surprise comedians often appear.
• Weeknight shows are usually cheaper than weekends.
• Small venues often have the best atmosphere.
• Bring cash for donation based shows.

Whether you are visiting London or living in the city, comedy clubs are one of the easiest ways to have a fun night out. Grab some friends, find a show, and get ready for a lot of laughs.