Fancy a proper laugh in London? Let me tell you, the city’s Comedy Clubs in London scene is absolutely buzzing, serving up everything from brilliant free stand-up nights to surprise sets by absolute legends (yep, people like Robin Williams and Bill Hicks have graced these stages!).
I’ve spent countless nights checking out London’s best comedy spots to pull together this list just for you. The Comedy Store in Soho? It stands tall as London’s answer to NYC’s famous Comedy Cellar, honestly! Then you’ve got places like Camden Head packing in multiple shows every single night. These venues promise a memorable night out, and for good reason too.
London’s comedy scene thrives all year round. Some proper hidden gems might slip past the average tourist – like The Bill Murray up in Angel. This brilliant spot runs multiple shows across two rooms every night, creating a vibe that feels just like being at the Edinburgh Fringe! Top Secret Comedy Club adds an extra layer of excitement by keeping some performers hush-hush until they walk on stage. And over at The Museum of Comedy, you can catch huge names really up close in their super cosy 72-seat venue.
Here’s my personal rundown of 11 Comedy Clubs in London that I reckon will have you laughing your socks off right through 2025. You’ll find free shows, mystery lineups that keep you guessing, and even comedy festivals – seriously, there’s something for everyone!
The Comedy Store, Soho: London’s Iconic Comedy Hub
Image Source: The Comedy Store
Founded way back in 1979 by the legendary Don Ward, The Comedy Store is a proper institution – a 44-year-old comedy club in London that basically gave birth to the whole alternative comedy movement here. It all kicked off in the old Gargoyle Night Club on Dean Street before shifting to its current spot at 1a Oxendon Street, tucked perfectly between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, back in 1993. If you’re hitting the shops nearby, maybe checking out the Best Shopping in London, swinging by here afterwards makes for a perfect evening.
The Comedy Store: Show Formats That Pack a Punch
The club keeps things fresh with an exciting mix of comedy shows all week long:
- The Cutting Edge (Tuesdays at 8 pm) – This is a brilliant topical panel show where comics tackle the week’s weirdest news stories with jokes, puns, and fun competitions. London Lite apparently said it “makes Mock the Week look like Points of View”! High praise indeed!
- The Comedy Store Players (Sundays at 7:30 pm) – You have to see London’s most enduring improv troupe! They showcase incredible talent like Neil Mullarkey, Josie Lawrence, and Ruth Bratt.
- The Best in Stand Up (Thursday-Saturday) – These stand-up nights bring top-tier talent from all over the globe right to the heart of London.
- King Gong (Last Monday of the month) – Fancy seeing comedy carnage? New comedians bravely try to last five minutes on stage without getting mercilessly “gonged” off. It’s brutal but hilarious!
- Paul Merton and Suki Webster also run their own fantastic improv show on Wednesdays, often bringing special guests along. The whole team creates comedy gold based entirely on audience suggestions!
The Comedy Store: Pricing and Getting Your Tickets
Most shows have pretty similar ticket prices. Expect to pay around £22 plus a £2 booking fee for those brilliant Comedy Store Players improv shows.
You can grab tickets from the box office (020 7024 2060), but just check their opening hours as they vary daily.
Good to know: they don’t offer refunds, but they do have a handy credit system. If you have to cancel, your tickets turn into Comedy Store credit in your account, valid for 12 months. The box office also manages a waiting list for sold-out shows, so there’s always hope!
Students and NHS staff can often bag discounts on certain shows – just remember to bring valid ID when you collect your tickets. And crucially, all shows are strictly 18+.
The Comedy Store: Location and That Electric Atmosphere
The 400-seat venue, with its amphitheatre-style seating and low ceilings, creates the absolute perfect environment for comedy. You can grab food and drinks at the bar and diner from 6:30 pm before the show kicks off.
They’ve got top-notch sound and lighting systems too – think a concert-level PA and a versatile lighting rig that makes every performance pop. These technical bits really help keep the club’s status as a world-class comedy venue in London.
The Comedy Store might be one of the oldest comedy clubs in central London, but it still keeps this wonderfully intimate feel that really connects the performers with the audience. This connection properly shines during the improv shows where you, the audience, actually help shape the fun!
My top tip? Get there early for sold-out shows, as seating is first-come, first-served. This best comedy club in London consistently leaves audiences “in stitches throughout”.
Top Secret Comedy Club, Covent Garden: Unpredictable Laughs Guaranteed
Image Source: Top Secret Comedy Club
Top Secret Comedy Club, tucked away near Covent Garden, definitely ranks as one of the most loved comedy venues in London. This underground spot keeps things brilliantly simple – just great comedy at fair prices in a really cosy space.
Top Secret Comedy Club: Those Amazing Surprise Lineups!
The real magic of this comedy club in central London is right there in its name. Huge comedy stars often just show up unannounced!
Honestly, any night you might catch Jack Whitehall, Katherine Ryan, Romesh Ranganathan, Seann Walsh, Judi Love, or Paul Chowdhry testing out new material. These big names use this intimate spot to practise before massive tours, TV appearances, or festival runs.
The club cleverly packages these appearances as “Top Secret Mystery Guest” and “Special Celebrity Guest” shows. They can’t spill the beans on who’s coming, but trust me, you’ll see a proper big name in stand-up. Jack Whitehall summed it up perfectly: “Top Secret is one of London’s best comedy clubs, it won’t be secret for long!”.
Most comedy venues in London shout about their lineups weeks in advance. But here? That surprise factor creates something really special. You genuinely never know when a comedy superstar might pop in to try out new jokes – something that would cost you a fortune in bigger venues! It’s almost like discovering one of those 15 Unusual Free Things to Do in London – unexpected and brilliant value!
Top Secret Comedy Club: Prices That Can’t Be Beaten
This place seriously beats most other Comedy Clubs in London on price:
- Sunday night shows often cost just £1 per person! Yes, £1!
- Saturday early shows (7 pm) usually go for around £5. Bargain!
- Sunday to Wednesday shows often let you pay what you think it’s worth at the end, with the money going directly to the performers. How good is that?
- Drinks won’t break the bank either: pints start from £4 (or grab a 4-pint jug for £14), wine from £4.50, and spirits with mixers from just £5.
These prices really match their honest, no-nonsense approach. Their website says it straight: “We want to entertain and surprise you in the right way, not rip you off!”. You can even bring your own food to munch on during the shows.
Comics getting ready for big events like the Edinburgh Festival or Adelaide Comedy Festival often test their new material here. These preview shows usually run Monday to Thursday (6:00-7:15 pm), Saturdays (2:00 pm), and Sundays (3:00 pm). You get to see works-in-progress without spending much at all.
Top Secret Comedy Club: The Audience Experience
The club actually runs across two spaces – the upstairs room fits 145 people, while the basement holds 220. During really packed shows, you’ll see comedians literally sprinting between the rooms to perform in both spaces!
The place keeps it real; there are no fancy frills here. The basement’s dark, slightly grungy vibe actually adds to the comedy atmosphere, I reckon. Some reviews mention the toilets are basic, but honestly, the laughs more than make up for it.
Unlike other comedy venues in London, seats aren’t reserved. My advice? Get there early, especially for potentially sold-out nights, to snag a good spot. Kids under 18 can come along with parents, but be warned, the jokes definitely get pretty adult (probably not ideal for anyone under 15).
This small venue lets you get properly up close with big-name comedians instead of watching them from miles away in a huge theatre. That unique intimacy is why they’ve got some of the best ratings on TripAdvisor and Google among all UK comedy clubs.
Angel Comedy Club at The Bill Murray, Angel: Comedian-Run Charm
Image Source: Angel Comedy Club
Angel Comedy Club really stands out among comedy venues in London with its two brilliant venues up in Islington. It’s run by comedians, for comedians (and us lucky audience members!), starting life back in 2010 in a borrowed room at the Camden Head pub.
Fast forward to 2016, and The Bill Murray pub opened its doors after an amazing win with a £46,643 Kickstarter campaign. It’s now a proper 7-year-old comedy hub, beautifully refurbished and buzzing with energy. It’s definitely a highlight if you’re exploring the Best Places to Live in London around Angel.
Angel Comedy Club: A Smorgasbord of Shows
This club brings such a diverse range of shows to life, seven nights a week across both its venues. You get everything from Raw nights featuring carefully picked acts fresh from the open mic circuit, right up to gala performances with seasoned pros you’ll recognise from the telly.
Regular shows I love include:
- Angel Comedy Pro Nights (Fridays and Saturdays) – Top established acts doing their thing.
- Angel Comedy Gala Nights – Often featuring TV headliners, these are always brilliant.
- The Alternative Comedy Memorial Society (ACMS) shows – Expect the wonderfully weird and experimental!
- Green Milk’s “putting weirdos on stage” nights – Exactly what it says on the tin, often hilarious.
- Hysterical Women showcases – Championing funny women, always a great night.
- Late-night improv from Shoot From The Hip – Perfect for spontaneous laughs.
And get this – The Bill Murray serves as the official UK home of The Second City, the super-acclaimed US improv school. Their incredible alumni list includes names like Bill Murray (hence the pub name!), Tina Fey, and Steve Carrell. Wow!
Big names often test their material here too. Eddie Izzard actually built a whole world tour at this venue, while stars like James Acaster and Aziz Ansari have surprised audiences with impromptu drop-in sets. You never know who might appear!
Angel Comedy Club: Fantastic Pricing and Free Shows
The club’s dedication to keeping comedy accessible really sets it apart from other comedy clubs in central London (and nearby!). Most shows here let you enter for free, with optional donations collected after the show. How good is that? It reminds me of the great value you get at some of the 15 Must-Visit Free Museums in London.
Weekend shows fill up super quickly though, so my tip is to arrive a good 30-60 minutes early to try and secure a spot.
Even the paid shows stay really affordable compared to many other comedy venues in London. This approach has cemented Angel Comedy as one of the most popular and beloved Comedy Clubs in London. Honestly, the quality often matches venues charging triple the price!
Angel Comedy Club: The Unique Venue Vibe
The Bill Murray’s intimate atmosphere is key to the amazing comedy experiences you get here. The cosy setting puts audiences so close to the performers that, as someone perfectly put it, “you could almost reach out and touch the comedian”.
I love the venue’s walls too – they showcase brilliant painted cartoon versions of comedy legends like Victoria Wood, Mr. Bean, and Charlie Chaplin.
This place truly feels like a community hub. Winning the Chortle award for Best London Venue (voted for by the audience!) just proves its special place in the capital’s comedy scene. The stage itself is super adaptable – it can be expanded or removed completely, and collapsible chairs add even more flexibility.
Crucially, the venue puts all its profits straight back into supporting the performers and staff, rather than taking money out of the operation. You’ve got to love that ethos.
Backyard Comedy Club, Bethnal Green: East London’s Laugh Factory
Image Source: Backyard Comedy Club
Backyard Comedy Club has been the beating heart of East London’s nightlife for a whopping 25 years! This premier comedy club in London had an impressive makeover back in 2013.
This purpose-built venue sits proudly on Cambridge Heath Road, just a quick two-minute walk from Bethnal Green tube station. It’s grown way beyond just stand-up now, becoming a proper cultural hub in the area – another great reason Bethnal Green features in lists of the Best Places to Live in London.
Backyard Comedy Club: Standout Special Features
As possibly the largest professional, purpose-built comedy venue in London, Backyard stands out with some unique features I really appreciate:
- Accessibility: The venue welcomes absolutely everyone with its brilliant step-free design, wide doorways, and single-level layout. Top marks!
- Modern Feel: The facilities feel fresh and modern after that 2013 renovation.
- Comfort & Safety: Proper fresh air circulation systems and readily available sanitiser stations keep everyone feeling safe and comfortable.
- Atmosphere: The space just buzzes with energy and promises a night filled with laughter.
- Extras: Guests can enjoy free WiFi and stay cool thanks to good air conditioning throughout.
The venue hosts much more than just stand-up too. You’ll often find variety shows, cabaret performances, fun swing dancing nights, and important charity fundraisers happening here. This vibrant mix of entertainment definitely makes it one of the best Comedy Clubs in London.
Backyard Comedy Club: Affordable Pricing and Fun Events
Among comedy venues London offers, the prices here are refreshingly easy on the wallet:
- Thursday shows: £7.50 online (if booked before 6 pm on the show day) or £10 at the door.
- Friday shows: £10 online or £15 at the door.
- Saturday shows: £13.50 online or £20 at the door.
- “The Comedy Hump” on Wednesdays costs absolutely nothing – it’s FREE! A brilliant mid-week treat.
Shows typically run from 7:45 pm to 10:00 pm, and the box office opens its doors at 6:30 pm. Just remember: if you’ve bought advance tickets, make sure you swap them for wristbands by 7:15 pm, otherwise, there’s a £3 late fee.
The club’s best comedy nights in London feature a great mix of seasoned pros testing out fresh material alongside the rising stars of tomorrow. Special events, like Andrew Lawrence’s satire shows or Lee Hurst’s comeback tour, often add extra spice to the lineup.
Backyard Comedy Club: Tasty Food and Drink Options
Great comedy definitely deserves great refreshments!
- Food: Freshly made pizzas and tasty sides are available all evening.
- Drinks: The bar is well-stocked with plenty of beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options too.
Food and drinks start flowing from 6 pm, giving you time to grab something before the show. The pizza menu has become a real favourite among regulars at this East London comedy club. Like everything else here, the food and drinks offer good value for money and just add to the overall fun vibe.
This club brings together quality entertainment, fair prices, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere that makes it a really special spot in East London’s comedy landscape.
Soho Theatre, Soho: A Multi-Arts Comedy Powerhouse
Image Source: Soho Theater
Soho Theatre stands out as a multi-arts powerhouse right in London’s vibrant Soho district. Honestly, this renowned venue goes way beyond your regular comedy clubs. It acts as a crucial launchpad for fresh, exciting talent across theatre, comedy, and cabaret, making it one of the most versatile comedy venues in London. It’s a perfect stop on a night out exploring Soho, maybe after checking out the nearby Best Shopping in London or before heading to one of the amazing Rooftop Bars London has nearby.
Soho Theatre: Diverse Comedy Programming
The comedy lineup at Soho Theatre features such an impressive range of styles. New artists really get their moment in the spotlight through brilliant programmes like Soho Rising 2025.
This showcase celebrates fresh work from comedians and performers who’ve come through their highly-regarded Writers’ Lab, Comedy Lab, and Cabaret & Drag Lab programmes. I love that the venue reaches out globally too, bringing fresh comedy perspectives from places like India right to London audiences.
Big international names like Kate Berlant and Natalie Palamides have graced the stage recently, with Palamides delivering her incredible tour-de-force show “WEER”. Shows like the FOC IT UP! Comedy Club also highlight their fantastic support for diverse voices, celebrating comedians of colour who aren’t cis-men.
Soho Theatre: Understanding Ticket Pricing
This comedy club in central London sets its ticket prices based on which of its unique spaces you choose for your show:
- Soho Theatre (main house): Typically £18-£26
- Soho Downstairs: Usually £16-£26
- Soho Upstairs: Generally £15-£23
Each ticket includes a £1.50 restoration levy and booking fee. Good news for bargain hunters: Students, seniors, and unwaged visitors can often get discounts, while registered patrons have access to special tickets too.
Just be aware that prices might change based on how popular a particular show is proving to be. If you’re a regular theatre-goer, the £60 yearly membership could be worth it, giving you first dibs on booking and discounts on shows.
Soho Theatre: Venue Layout and Ambiance
The theatre boasts three unique performance spaces, each with its own feel:
- The main house: Fits about 150 people with cosy seating and really clear views of the stage.
- Soho Upstairs: Works as an intimate black box studio space seating around 90.
- Soho Downstairs: Fits about 140 people, often using flexible cabaret-style seating which is great for comedy.
You’ll find a handy bar right inside the Downstairs space that opens during showtimes. The stage itself sits about half a metre up from the floor and measures 3.6m wide by 2.5m deep.
The building’s fairly simple exterior cleverly hides a real creative hub buzzing with new writing and innovative ideas. Inside, the bench-style seating slopes nicely, meaning everyone gets a decent view. Air conditioning keeps things comfortable throughout the venue, and I appreciate that they have gender-inclusive and accessible toilets available on each floor.
Camden Comedy Club at The Camden Head: Historic Pub Laughs
Image Source: Wikipedia
Camden Comedy Club sits perfectly nestled in a historic building dating all the way back to 1787, right above the iconic Camden Head pub. This brilliant club has been making Londoners chuckle since 2014.
Honestly, this legendary spot quickly cemented itself as one of the best Comedy Clubs in London, known for its electric vibe and fantastic mix of shows. It’s a must-visit if you’re exploring Camden, perhaps checking out why it’s one of the Best Places to Live in London.
Camden Comedy Club: What Shows Can You Catch?
This cracking comedy venue in London runs shows every single night of the week. Comedy fans like me can enjoy:
- Stand-up shows featuring both TV stars you’ll recognise and exciting fresh talent cutting their teeth.
- Improv troupes creating hilarious moments completely on the spot – you never know what will happen!
- Sketch comedy groups bringing their cleverly prepared and often brilliantly silly acts to the stage.
- Work-in-progress (WIP) shows where big names test out their brand-new material before tours or TV specials.
The small room here makes every seat feel right in the heart of the action. You get a truly authentic Camden experience. The intimate space fits around 60-100 people, which really helps create that electric atmosphere that makes comedy shows in London so special.
Camden Comedy Club: Pricing and Show Times
You can usually grab tickets from a very reasonable £6 up to £13+, depending on the night and who’s performing. The prices stay refreshingly affordable compared to many other comedy clubs in central London, with top tickets often capping at just £10. Bargain!
Shows run daily from 7:00 PM right through to 11:00 PM. This makes it absolutely perfect for some weeknight entertainment or a weekend laugh-fest.
My advice? Book your tickets early! The venue’s stellar reputation means shows fill up fast, especially at weekends. The doors usually open an hour before showtime, giving you plenty of time to pop downstairs to the pub and grab a drink beforehand.
Camden Comedy Club: Star Performers Who’ve Graced the Stage
This comedy club in London has welcomed some truly amazing talent over the years:
- Stephen Merchant, the genius co-creator of “The Office”.
- Huge TV comedy stars like Alan Carr and Russell Howard.
- Stand-up favourites I adore, like Aisling Bea and Rosie Jones.
- Legends like Harry Hill, Bob Mortimer, and Bridget Christie have all performed here.
The club has rightly been featured by big names like BBC1, the Evening Standard, and Time Out magazine. Time Out even ranked it among London’s Top 20 Comedy Clubs! Yelp users consistently call it Camden’s best, making it a vital part of the scene for the best comedy nights in London.
The Stand Up Club, Piccadilly: Intimate Giggles in the West End
Image Source: The Stand Up Club
The Stand Up Club sits perfectly positioned right between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. This buzzing comedy club in London offers a wonderfully intimate comedy experience from its home at The Coach House, a 110-capacity venue that cleverly balances cosiness with comfort.
The Stand Up Club: Regular Show Formats
The club runs professional comedy shows all year round, with a great regular weekly lineup:
- Thursday nights bring you their “Get-Up, Stand-Up” competition heats. Here, new comics bravely battle it out to win the audience’s hearts (and votes!). Tickets usually cost between £5.00 and £7.50.
- Friday shows are an absolute steal at just £7.00! Plus, you can often grab 50% off selected drinks, including cocktails. Perfect for starting the weekend.
- Saturday nights deliver premium weekend laughs with top acts. Tickets for these range from £15.00 to £20.00.
The Stand Up Club doesn’t just stick to Piccadilly, either. You can find their fantastic shows popping up in London Bridge, Soho, Tooting, and Notting Hill too. This means comedy fans can catch their handpicked lineups in different corners of London throughout the week.
The Stand Up Club: Ticket Prices and Packages
The club’s ticket options cater to different preferences. You can choose standard row seating or table seating, although groups smaller than four might end up sharing tables (a great way to meet people!).
Early birds often get special discounts, and students can save a bit with valid ID. Shows usually run from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm, giving you a good 2-3 hours of solid entertainment.
The Coach House is also available for private events. Companies can book custom comedy shows complete with food and drink packages. I also like that the club helps school PTAs and local sports clubs put on brilliant charity fundraiser shows.
The Stand Up Club: Central Location Perks
Being right in the heart of the West End makes everything so much easier! You’ll find countless restaurants and bars just steps away – perfect for grabbing dinner before the show or heading for drinks afterwards. Maybe even try one of the spots from my Best London Afternoon Tea guide if you’re making a day of it?
People consistently praise the venue’s “great size to be intimate enough yet not intimidating” and its “super friendly, inclusive” atmosphere.
The Stand Up Club also runs the prestigious British Comedian of the Year competition. This contest offers the UK’s biggest comedy prize – a whopping £10,001! Because of this, you’re guaranteed to see both established big names and the hottest rising stars taking to their stage.
Comedy Carnival, Covent Garden: International Laughs and Late-Night Fun
Image Source: Comedy Carnival
Comedy Carnival has been a fantastic home for raw, unfiltered stand-up comedy right in London’s bustling Covent Garden for an impressive 19 years. This top-notch comedy club in London really takes pride in its shows, celebrating brilliant storytelling and traditional stand-up acts. Audiences find it a welcome break from some of today’s overly careful humour!
Comedy Carnival: Showcasing International Acts
Comedy Carnival brings incredible international talent to its stage all year round. The shows regularly feature stars you’ll know from Live At The Apollo and Mock The Week, alongside other highly acclaimed international comedians.
Each night typically features four carefully chosen acts, all bringing unique content, styles, and backgrounds to the stage. Regular host Pete Gionis is brilliant at introducing talented performers like Keith Farnan, Dana Alexander, and Jeff Innocent, who bring fantastic comedy traditions from across the globe.
Comedy Carnival: Smart Pricing and Dinner Packages
Comedy Carnival’s show tickets won’t break the bank, making it great value for its prime location:
- Thursday performances: £16
- Friday shows: £18
- Saturday nights: £20-£22
Students can often grab discounts on Thursdays and Fridays too!
Now, here’s something clever: Comedy Carnival’s dinner packages make your night out extra special by partnering with popular nearby restaurants. Here are some options I’ve seen:
- Pizza Express (£40-£44): Includes two courses with wine/beer and your reserved comedy seats. Simple and tasty!
- Flesh & Buns (£52-£56): Offers three courses of delicious Japanese-inspired food, paired with Asahi beer or sparkling sake.
- Monmouth Kitchen (£52-£56): Features three courses of tempting Peruvian/Italian small plates, served with wine or beer.
- Côte (£56-£60): Enjoy three courses of classic French cuisine before heading over for the laughs.
These packages are a brilliant idea for a date night or a group outing, maybe even rivalling some Unique Things to Do in London for Couples!
Comedy Carnival: The Fun Continues Post-Show
The fun doesn’t stop when the comedy wraps up around 10:30 pm! The venue cleverly transforms into a nightclub, letting guests keep the party going right there.
You get a complete night out – dinner, comedy, and dancing – all potentially under one booking. Guests really love this smooth transition. As one review perfectly put it: “We booked a package with dinner before the show and stayed for the club night afterwards”.
The 200-person venue creates a properly electric atmosphere that definitely sets it apart from some of the smaller, more intimate comedy spots. Comedy Carnival stands out by focusing purely on professional comedy shows rather than running open mic nights, ensuring a consistently high quality of performance.
Museum of Comedy, Bloomsbury: Laughs Amongst History
Image Source: The Museum of Comedy
Now this is unique! The Museum of Comedy sits tucked away in the historic crypt beneath St George’s Church in Bloomsbury. This absolutely brilliant spot among comedy venues in London cleverly brings together performance spaces and fascinating comedy memorabilia. History and humour blend perfectly in this truly remarkable setting.
Museum of Comedy: A Truly Unique Venue Setting
This incredible Grade I-listed space used to be a crypt holding 840 coffins (yes, really!) and even served as an air raid shelter during World War II. Wow!
Today, the venue features the Comedy Crypt, a cosy 72-seat performance space, and the Cooper Room which seats 70. There’s also a bar area that hosts fun quizzes and parties.
Its location is fantastic too – just a short walk from the brilliant 15 Must-Visit Free Museums in London like the British Museum, and close to Holborn underground station. You honestly won’t find another comedy club in London quite like this one. It’s definitely one for the list of 15 Unusual Free Things to Do in London (well, the museum part is super affordable!).
Museum of Comedy: Fab Pricing and Exciting Events
The museum keeps its entry prices refreshingly low, with adult tickets usually around £5 and concessions at £4. Bargain!
The venue runs exciting events all year round:
- The Monday Club: This lets comedians try out new material, and students can often grab seats for just £1!
- Competitions: Look out for their yearly new comedian ‘sketch-off’ competition which showcases fresh talent.
- Podcasts: Around 40 different comedy podcasts are recorded here, keeping audiences laughing even when there isn’t a live show on.
- Big Names: Top comics like Paul Merton and Frankie Boyle perform regularly in this intimate space.
Museum of Comedy: Fascinating Historical Exhibits
Martin Witts, the museum’s founder, spent an incredible 30 years collecting around 30,000 artefacts from the entertainment industry. Wow!
The collection includes amazing pieces like Tommy Cooper’s actual handmade magic tricks, a stuffed bear from the classic sitcom Steptoe and Son, and Bill Bailey’s unique six-neck guitar.
The museum’s archive features a massive 16,000 music hall sheets and show posters dating right back to 1780. The oldest piece? An oil painting from 1799 showing a bronze token of Joseph Shepherd Munden, the very first comedian at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.
The venue draws about 35,000 visitors each year. It delivers some of the best comedy nights in London in a space absolutely steeped in history.
Boat Show Comedy Club, Tattershall Castle: Laughs on the Thames
Image Source: Tripadvisor
Fancy your comedy with a side of river views? The historic Tattershall Castle, a beautifully restored paddle steamer permanently anchored on the Thames, stands out as one of London’s most distinctive comedy venues.
This brilliant floating comedy club has been entertaining audiences with stellar comedy and spectacular riverside views for over 22 years! It’s definitely a unique experience, maybe even rivalling some of the 18 Mind-Blowing Immersive Experiences in London.
Boat Show Comedy Club: Prime Location on the Thames
The stationary vessel sits perfectly between Westminster and Embankment tube stations, right opposite the London Eye. Guests are treated to absolutely breathtaking views of London’s iconic skyline – imagine the photos!
The comedy shows actually happen below deck in a space fitted out with modern air-conditioning and heating systems. So you’ll stay perfectly comfortable whatever the British weather decides to throw at you!
The venue first opened its doors back in March 2000, with none other than Michael McIntyre performing the inaugural gig. Many legendary comedians have graced its stage since, including Micky Flanagan, who actually created and refined his last three sell-out arena shows right here.
Boat Show Comedy Club: Pricing and Show Schedule
The club runs several weekly shows with different price points:
- Friday shows: Usually £13.50 if booked online (£16 at the door).
- Saturday shows: Typically £20 online (£20+ at the door).
- Tuesday’s Guinea Pig Club: This is their new material night, costing just £6. Great value!
- Meal Packages: Fancy making a night of it? Two-course meal packages range from around £39-£43.
Shows generally start at 8 pm (or 7 pm on Sundays), and the doors open an hour earlier, giving you time to soak up the atmosphere (and maybe grab a drink on deck!). Guests should definitely book in advance, as the friendly staff allocate seating upon arrival.
Boat Show Comedy Club: Party On After the Show
The Tattershall Castle isn’t just a premier comedy venue in London – it brilliantly transforms after the shows finish! The venue becomes a Popworld Nightclub, staying open until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
And the best bit? Your comedy ticket gets you free entry into the club!
The upper deck turns into a lovely floating beer garden where you can soak in those spectacular city views before and after the comedy. With over 300 five-star reviews praising the “fantastic, friendly and experienced staff,” you know you’ll be well looked after.
Just a heads-up: the venue enforces a strict 18+ age restriction due to licensing rules, and you’ll need valid ID. Also, leave the sportswear, tracksuits, and fancy dress at home, as they’re not allowed. The Evening Standard perfectly summed it up, calling it “glitzier than your average night of stand-up”.
Downstairs at the King’s Head, Crouch End: North London’s Comedy Gem
Image Source: Hornsey Historical Society
Downstairs at the King’s Head has been a truly cherished part of North London’s vibrant comedy scene for an incredible 40 years! This authentic, grassroots comedy spot brings laughter to Crouch End from its cosy basement location beneath The King’s Head pub on Crouch End Broadway.
This family-run comedy venue in London stays proudly independent and creates a wonderfully welcoming space for both rising stars discovering their voice and seasoned performers honing their craft. It’s a real fixture in Crouch End, one of the lovely areas highlighted in my guide to the Best Places to Live in London.
Downstairs at the King’s Head: A Variety of Show Types
The venue’s weekly calendar features different shows catering to various tastes:
- Sunday Night Variety Sessions: Their flagship show brilliantly combines stand-up, musical comedy, and storytelling in a fun cabaret format.
- Try-Out Tuesday: This is where professional comedians bravely test out brand-new material in a really supportive atmosphere.
- Saturday Cabaret Nights: A curated mix of established acts and promising newcomers take to the stage for a top weekend show.
- Monthly Sketch Shows: Catch rising sketch groups developing their craft and trying out hilarious new ideas.
Special events fill the calendar throughout the year too, including the brilliant annual Women in Comedy Festival and themed holiday shows. I love that the venue welcomes every style of comedy, from classic stand-up routines to quirky musical performances.
Downstairs at the King’s Head: Affordable Ticket Pricing
The venue really stands out among other Comedy Clubs in London with its brilliantly affordable tickets:
- Sunday shows: Usually cost between £7-£10.
- Tuesday try-out nights: Typically run just £4-£6. Amazing value!
- Saturday performances: Generally range from £8-£12.
Special events and festivals will have variable pricing, but it’s always reasonable. Patrons enjoy fantastic value without any minimum drink requirements, which helps create a really relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Downstairs at the King’s Head: The Intimate Setting
The basement venue’s 100-person capacity creates a cosy, intimate atmosphere completely naturally. Low ceilings and close-set tables build that special connection between performers and the audience that bigger venues just can’t replicate.
Comedians often praise the electric atmosphere here, saying it genuinely makes their jokes land better!
This brilliant North London comedy club keeps the spirit of classic comedy venues alive. It stays true to its roots – unpretentious, community-focused, and absolutely dedicated to delivering quality comedy shows in London.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to London Laughs!
Wow, London’s comedy scene truly has something to fit every taste and budget, doesn’t it? This guide has covered 11 amazing Comedy Clubs in London that have genuinely shaped the city’s comedy landscape.
From The Comedy Store standing tall as a historic institution, to the unique shows aboard the Tattershall Castle adding their own special flavour, the variety is just incredible.
These comedy clubs are special for reasons way beyond just the amazing talent you see on stage. Each venue’s intimate atmosphere and often smart pricing create properly memorable nights out in the capital. You might even catch surprise appearances by huge celebrity comics at spots like Top Secret, while others brilliantly mix fresh new talent with established big names.
I’m really impressed by how accessible many venues are too. Angel Comedy Club champions free shows where you can just donate what you feel, while The Museum of Comedy cleverly blends hilarious shows with fascinating history exhibits. Top Secret Comedy Club proves you can keep prices low while keeping the quality sky-high.
London’s amazing cultural mix shines through these clubs too, featuring both top international acts and beloved local stars. Many spots even turn into complete evening hangouts after the final joke, offering food, drinks, and sometimes even proper club vibes.
The city’s comedy scene runs strong all year round, thankfully! You can find world-class comedy pretty much every night of the week – from cosy basements like the King’s Head to custom-built spaces like Backyard, from totally free gigs to fancy dinner-and-show combos.
Honestly, your biggest challenge might just be picking which of these awesome Comedy Clubs in London to hit first! Go on, get out there and have a laugh!
FAQs: Your London Comedy Club Questions Answered
Got a few more questions buzzing around about navigating the amazing world of Comedy Clubs in London? No problem, let me help clear things up!
Q1. What makes London’s comedy clubs unique?
London’s comedy clubs offer such diverse experiences! You’ve got historic venues like The Comedy Store rubbing shoulders with unique settings like the Tattershall Castle floating on the Thames. Many clubs feature surprise celebrity drop-ins, offer really affordable pricing, and boast intimate atmospheres that make for truly unforgettable nights out.
Q2. Are there any free comedy shows in London?
Yes, definitely! Several venues offer free or really low-cost shows. Angel Comedy Club, for instance, hosts loads of free performances where you just give a voluntary donation at the end. Other clubs like Top Secret Comedy Club keep their general pricing incredibly affordable without ever compromising on the quality of the laughs. It’s brilliant for seeing comedy on a budget!
Q3. Can I combine dinner with a comedy show in London?
Absolutely! Many comedy clubs in London offer fantastic dinner and show packages. Comedy Carnival, for example, partners with popular restaurants nearby to create complete evenings out, with options ranging from pizza to fancy French cuisine before the show starts. The Boat Show also offers two-course meal packages. It’s a great way to make a proper night of it!
Q4. Are London’s comedy clubs suitable for international visitors?
Totally! London’s comedy scene is incredibly welcoming to international visitors. Many clubs feature really diverse lineups with performers from all over the world. Venues like The Comedy Store and Comedy Carnival regularly host top international acts, ensuring the humour has a broad appeal that everyone can enjoy.
Q5. What should I expect at a London comedy club?
Expect a fantastic night of laughter in all sorts of settings – from intimate basements to slick, purpose-built venues. Most shows feature multiple acts, often mixing established comedians you might know with exciting rising stars. Some clubs, like the Boat Show, even transform into nightclubs after the comedy finishes, offering a whole evening’s entertainment in one spot. Just remember to check individual venue websites for their specific policies on age restrictions and any dress codes before you go!
