Comedy clubs in London offer some of the world’s best live entertainment, and I’ve discovered a delightful secret about them! You won’t believe this – London might be one of the world’s most expensive cities, but you can actually enjoy live stand-up shows completely free of charge every single night of the week. How amazing is that?
The city’s comedy scene absolutely thrives with incredible venues like the legendary Comedy Store, which has hosted greats like Robin Williams and Bill Hicks. Oh my goodness, the small, intimate clubs put on multiple shows each night! The Bill Murray in Angel reminds me of a mini Edinburgh Fringe festival, as performers take the stage in different rooms at the same time.
I spent weeks searching through London’s comedy landscape and found 14 amazing comedy clubs that suit everyone’s preferences and wallet size. Trust me, these venues offer everything from polished weekend acts to raw weekday talent. Some clubs add mystery by keeping their lineup under wraps until showtime (which I find absolutely thrilling!), while others feature triple bills six nights weekly. Let me guide you through the city’s funniest spots, including hidden gems that tourist guides often miss.
The Bill Murray: Angel’s Comedy Treasure
Image Source: Angel Comedy Club
The Bill Murray, tucked away in a quiet Islington backstreet, stands as the world’s first crowdfunded comedy venue. To be honest, I was blown away when I discovered this unique space emerged from comedians’ vision to create something extraordinary for performers and audiences alike!
History and Transformation
You know what’s fascinating? This Victorian pub, previously known as The Mucky Pup, got a completely new lease of life in 2016. Barry Ferns and three business partners raised £46,000 through crowdfunding to acquire the property. The venue’s name has an amusing story behind it – they named it after Sir William Murray, the 17th-century “whipping boy” of King Charles I, rather than seeking permission from the famous “Ghostbusters” actor. All the same, the comedic Bill Murray’s spirit pervades the atmosphere.
What Makes It Special
The Bill Murray’s “by comedians, for comedians” philosophy absolutely sets it apart from other venues. This comedy gem at 39 Queen’s Head Street earned “Best Comedy Club in London” at the 2018 Chortle Awards, and I can totally see why!
The venue’s alternative comedy spirit shines through its décor. French graffiti artist Zabou’s stunning murals of comedy legends from Charlie Chaplin to Victoria Wood adorn the exterior. Inside, the walls showcase quotations from famous comedians. The intimate 92-seat space creates this amazing connection between performers and audience – I could practically reach out and touch the comedians during my last visit!
Barry Ferns captured their ethos perfectly: “If we’re making a profit, we’re doing it wrong”. This fresh outlook ensures proper payment for staff and comedians while keeping shows available to everyone.
Notable Performers and Shows
You won’t believe the talent that’s performed in this modest-sized venue! Star performers include:
- Eddie Izzard, James Acaster, and Daniel Kitson
- Nish Kumar, Russell Howard, and Simon Amstell
- Stewart Lee, Mae Martin, and Nina Conti
The venue hosts about 40 shows weekly, ranging from newcomers’ experimental acts to prominent stars testing new material. I caught James Acaster trying out new jokes last month and nearly fell off my chair laughing!
Ticket Prices and Booking Tips
The Bill Murray adopted a ticketed system after the pandemic while staying true to its accessibility mission. Each show reserves at least 10 free seats on a first-come basis, with additional tickets available to purchase ahead.
Trust me on this – popular shows require early arrival! Staff distribute stamps roughly 90 minutes before showtime. The venue runs an in-person waitlist for sold-out shows and allocates returns on a first-come basis. The DICE app provides a digital waitlist option for £2 extra.
Shows cost between £5-£15 depending on the performer, making this venue one of London’s most affordable comedy spots. I’ve spent more on coffee and cake at some places than I have on a night of world-class comedy here!
Top Secret Comedy Club: Covent Garden’s Best Kept Secret
Image Source: Top Secret Comedy Club
The Top Secret Comedy Club has grown into one of London’s most popular comedy spots, despite its mysterious name. You’ll find it in a simple office building on Drury Lane in Covent Garden. Oh my goodness, this club surprised me with its underground vibe and celebrity guest appearances the first time I visited!
The Venue’s Unique Atmosphere
Walking into this place feels like you’ve found a hidden comedy shelter. The underground black box setup creates this cozy space that comics and audiences absolutely love. The club started in a run-down community centre but has evolved into a comedy hotspot that operates seven nights a week. The relaxed vibe hits you right away—this isn’t a fancy theatre experience. It’s a genuine comedy space where laughs matter most.
Famous Surprise Appearances
You know what the best part about Top Secret is? Exactly what its name hints at—you never know who’ll show up! Big-name comedians often drop by unannounced to test new material before TV shows or tours. Stars like Jack Whitehall, Katherine Ryan, Romesh Ranganathan, and Paul Chowdhry have surprised audiences here. I nearly spilled my drink when Michael McIntyre walked in unexpectedly during my last visit! Each show buzzes with excitement since any night could feature tomorrow’s viral TV moment.
Affordable Pricing Structure
You won’t find better comedy deals in central London, I promise! Shows run on a pay-what-you-can basis from Sunday to Wednesday, and performers get their share directly. Weekend tickets usually cost £12-15, but prices change by show. A membership card at £20 saves you money if you’re a regular visitor like me!
Food and Drink Options
The club’s drink prices won’t break the bank in central London. You can get pints from £4 (4-pint jugs for £14), wine starting at £4.50, and spirit mixers from £5. They don’t serve food, but here’s the cool part—you can bring in takeaway from any nearby restaurant to enjoy during the show. Covent Garden’s restaurants are just around the corner, so you can plan a full night out (much better than dealing with those tiny kitchen flies at home!).
Book your tickets through their website early since shows often sell out. Groups should arrive 30 minutes before showtime to sit together.
The Camden Comedy Club: North London’s Laughter Hub
Image Source: Camden Comedy Club
A hidden gem sits upstairs at The Camden Head pub – one of North London’s busiest laughter hubs. This 10-year-old comedy club has become the life-blood of London’s comedy scene and attracts both seasoned performers and rising stars. I stumbled upon this place completely by accident last year, and it’s become my go-to comedy spot ever since!
Venue Layout and Ambiance
This intimate space accommodates 65 people where performers and audience share an immediate connection. Camden Comedy Club strikes the perfect balance between professional setup and neighbourhood charm, unlike larger commercial venues. The room comes equipped with everything needed – an in-house PA system, professional-grade microphones, spotlight, LED lighting, and air-conditioning. These features keep performers and audience comfortable throughout the shows. Trust me, such technical excellence in a cozy setting creates absolute magic when comedy happens.
Weekly Show Schedule
The venue stands out with shows running every night of the week. Comedy fans can find something that matches their taste:
- Stand-up showcases with seasoned and emerging talent
- Improv and sketch comedy troupes
- Podcast recordings
- Comedy workshops and work-in-progress hours
Quality entertainment remains available at budget-friendly prices. Shows typically start between 7:30-8:30 PM, with multiple performances lined up through April and May. My cousin and I check their schedule every month to catch the best shows!
Rising Stars to Watch
Stephen Merchant, Aisling Bea, Rosie Jones, Desiree Burch, Tom Ward, and Jessica Fostekew have all performed on this stage. The venue regularly features performers from Netflix, Amazon, BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Live at the Apollo, and Mock the Week. I’ve seen comedians here before they hit the big time – it’s like being in on the best secret in London!
Time Out’s guide to London 2024 recognizes Camden Comedy Club as one of London’s best comedy venues. Comedy lovers looking for excellent entertainment that won’t break the bank will find this North London treasure delivers outstanding performances. The atmosphere perfectly balances professional production values with authentic comedy club charm.
Backyard Comedy Club: East London’s Comedy Gem
Image Source: backyardcomedyclub.co.uk
The Backyard Comedy Club is the largest professional comedy space in London. This impressive purpose-built venue has made locals laugh since 1998. You know what’s amazing? You can find it just two minutes from Bethnal Green tube and overground stations – I timed the walk myself!
The Story Behind the Venue
TV comedian Lee Hurst started the club, which went through a complete transformation in 2013. The venue became a state-of-the-art comedy space. To be honest, I was impressed by how Hurst took such a bold step by closing and demolishing the original building. He developed a seven-story hotel and put the new comedy club on the ground floor. This bold move paid off! The club now features advanced facilities and expanded beyond stand-up to host variety shows, cabaret events, and swing dancing nights. It reminds me of how some people completely transform their homes using a good dehumidifier – sometimes a total rebuild just works better!
Show Formats and Special Events
Professional comedy shows light up the stage every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Each night brings together established TV names, circuit professionals, and rising talent. “The Comedy Hump” stands out as a free Wednesday night showcase. It blends new material with improvised comedy. The Friday Charity Comedy nights run on a unique 50/50 ticket-split model. These shows help local organizations raise funds while delivering quality entertainment. I attended one benefiting a local animal shelter last month – laughed all night while supporting a great cause!
Food and Drink Experience
The club serves fresh homemade pizzas instead of typical pub food. Drinks come at reasonable prices. Separate bar and performance spaces ensure great sound quality during shows. Early birds can enjoy pool tables, table football, darts, and board games in the bar area. Trust me, their pizzas are delicious – I’ve tried almost every flavour on their menu!
Accessibility Information
The club’s design puts accessibility first. The venue sits on one level without steps and features wide doorways. This makes it easy for wheelchairs and people with mobility issues to move around. The staff learns how to serve people with various disabilities. This East London gem delivers professional shows in a space that welcomes everyone, going beyond basic accessibility requirements. It’s refreshing to see a venue that truly cares about making comedy accessible to all!
The Comedy Store: Legendary Central London Venue
Image Source: The Comedy Store
The Comedy Store has stood proudly in London’s West End since 1979. This legendary venue rules as British comedy clubs’ undisputed godfather. The club first opened above a Soho strip club and became a game-changer in the UK comedy scene that still draws crowds looking for top-tier entertainment. Oh my goodness, I got goosebumps the first time I walked through those doors!
Historical Significance in British Comedy
Insurance salesman Peter Rosengard and businessman Don Ward started The Comedy Store as a six-month experiment, drawing inspiration from LA comedy clubs. The venue launched comedy legends like Alexei Sayle, Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, French & Saunders, and Paul Merton. The club’s success above the Nell Gwynne strip club on Dean Street sparked a wave of comedy venues across the UK. It’s like the grandfather of the entire British comedy scene!
The King Gong Show Experience
King Gong stands as London’s most notorious open mic night and gives new comedians a brutal baptism of fire. This monthly event challenges newcomers to last five minutes on stage while facing a ruthless crowd. The show’s rules are simple – three audience members hold red cards, and when all cards go up, performers must leave the stage. This comedy gladiatorial arena creates heroes and villains in what people call “London’s most brutal open mic night”. I watched a friend try his luck last year – he lasted just under two minutes before getting gonged off!
Comedy Store Players
The Comedy Store Players brought improvised comedy to London in October 1985. This iconic group performs every Sunday and creates unique shows based on what the audience suggests. Mike Myers was part of the original lineup before his Hollywood success. Today’s rotating team features veterans like Josie Lawrence, Richard Vranch, Neil Mullarkey and Lee Simpson. Their 39-year run makes them one of Britain’s longest-running comedy shows. I try to catch them at least once a month – no two shows are ever the same!
Best Nights to Visit
The Comedy Store runs shows almost every night, not just Sunday’s improv shows (£22). The infamous King Gong takes over the last Monday each month, while weekend shows feature seasoned circuit headliners. Comedy fans looking for political humour should check out The Edge (formerly The Cutting Edge) – a show that once featured stars like Jimmy Carr and Bill Bailey. Much better than spending your evening trying to get rid of a cough at home!
Celebrity Sightings
The London venue, just like its LA counterpart, often surprises audiences with comedy royalty. Robin Williams used to drop in for unannounced sets, and today’s big names still pop by to test new material before major tours. I nearly dropped my drink when Ricky Gervais appeared unannounced during my last visit!
Soho Theater: Where Edinburgh Fringe Hits London
Image Source: Soho Theater
Missing the Edinburgh Fringe but want that creative buzz? Soho Theatre brings festival magic to London all year round. This vibrant venue reinvests profits into nurturing new talent as both a charity and social enterprise. Trust me, the atmosphere here is absolutely electric!
Multi-Level Comedy Experience
You’ll find Soho Theatre in two spots—their classic Dean Street home in central London and a newer space in Walthamstow, just 20 minutes away on the Victoria Line. Each location offers something different, from cozy basement shows to grand theatrical productions. The theatre becomes a hotspot for the Fringe’s best acts right after the Edinburgh Festival. I love how you can experience completely different shows just by changing floors!
Types of Comedy Showcased
The theatre brings you three main styles of shows:
- Stand-up from both seasoned pros and fresh faces
- Theatre that mixes laughs with compelling stories
- Bold cabaret and drag shows that push boundaries
South Asian comedy gets special attention here. The theatre teams up with OML to bring London audiences amazing performers like Sapan Verma and Urooj Ashfaq. Comedy stars Patti Harrison and Megan Stalter have also made this their London stage. The diversity of performances here reminds me of the variety you find at London’s best universities – something for everyone!
How to Spot Tomorrow’s Stars
The theatre’s talent programs are second to none with their Writers’ Lab, Comedy Lab, and Cabaret & Drag Lab. Their yearly Soho Rising festival puts 26 new talents in the spotlight across different performance styles. Stars like Archie Maddocks, Jack Rooke, and Sikisa started here before hitting it big. I spotted a comedian here last year who’s now got her own TV show – that’s how quickly talent can rise!
Bar and Social Scene
The bar has become the place where performers and audiences hang out together. They’ve partnered with Adnams Southwold to serve great beers, including their own “Soho Theatre Neon” lager. Hungry? Try their fresh sweet and savoury toasties with your drink. Members get some sweet perks too—late-night bar access, 10% off, and special events just for them. I’ve had some of my best post-show conversations at this bar – you never know who you might meet!
Want Edinburgh-quality shows without the trip north? Soho Theatre brings that festival feel to London every day of the year.
Up The Creek: Greenwich’s Comedy Institution
Image Source: SATURDAY NIGHT COMEDY – UP THE CREEK | Up the Creek
Up The Creek, a comedy institution on Creek Road in Greenwich, has been making people laugh since 1991. Malcolm Hardee, a legendary comedian, started this riverside venue that won the inaugural Chortle Award for Best Large Venue in 2002. To be honest, this place feels like a time capsule of British comedy history – I could practically feel the decades of laughter in the walls when I first visited!
The Famous Blackout Show Format
The Blackout stands out as Up The Creek’s most notorious event. Every Thursday night, this unique open mic format gives audiences real power—they can turn off the stage lights when performers fail to make them laugh. Comics must win over the crowd quickly or face total darkness in this thrilling yet brutal setup. Josh James, Abigoliah Schamaun, and Gbemi Oladipo will host regular shows throughout 2025. I’ve seen comedians absolutely crushed by the darkness and others who triumphed against all odds – the tension is absolutely electric!
Riverside Location Benefits
The venue sits at the meeting point of Deptford Creek and the Thames, right in the heart of historic Maritime Greenwich. A microbrewery added in 2018 serves exclusive craft beers you can only get on-site. Visitors can enjoy South Bank attractions before heading to shows at this entertainment hub. It’s the perfect spot to combine with one of those unusual free things to do in London for a complete day out!
Weekend vs. Weekday Experience
Weekend shows at Up The Creek turn into full-night events with legendary afterparties from 11pm until 2am. Established comedians share the stage with rising stars on Friday and Saturday nights. The weekday Blackout shows create a different vibe—raw and unpredictable—where new talent performs with seasoned pros. I prefer the weekday shows for the raw energy, but my friends always drag me to the weekend shows for those amazing afterparties!
Notable Alumni
The club’s 30-year history features an impressive list of comedy giants. Jimmy Carr, Jo Brand, Michael McIntyre, and Dara O’Briain have performed on this stage. Phil Nicol, Andrew Maxwell, Sam Simmons, Tim Vine, and Boothby Graffoe round out the notable performers. The television series No Such Thing as the News chose this club as its filming location, adding to its British comedy legacy. You never know which future TV star you might catch on their way up!
The venue serves reasonably priced drinks and street food from “Up The Greek”. Tickets cost between £8.80 and £22, making quality comedy accessible to everyone at this Greenwich gem.
The Exhibit: Balham’s Multi-Floor Entertainment Venue
Image Source: Exhibit Balham
The Exhibit stands proud across three floors in Balham’s heart. This 23-year-old venue has grown from a local pub into an entertainment hub where comedy, food, and drinks blend naturally under one roof. South London’s laughter seekers have made this their go-to spot. Trust me, I’ve spent many nights here laughing until my face hurt!
Going South Comedy Night Experience
Every other Wednesday, MC Suzie Preece brings “Going South Comedy” to life. This free-entry showcase lets talented comics try their newest material. The doors open at 7:30pm and shows start at 8pm. The intimate setting makes audience interaction a key part of the show. A visitor once said, “Host is great. Very intimate so be prepared you may get asked a question or two”. Getting there early will give a better chance to grab a seat for what many call “hilarious acts” and a “fresh and funny” experience. I learned this the hard way after showing up late and having to stand at the back!
Food and Drink Packages
The Exhibit raises the comedy club experience with its food and drink selection. Happy hour runs daily from 4-7pm with two-for-one cocktails, plus better prices on beer, wine, and gin. Thursday nights bring half-price Mamma Dough pizza. Groups can pre-book special packages including “party platters” – short rib cheese toasties (£30), truffled arancini (£30), and mac and cheese bites (£22). The mac and cheese bites are absolutely to die for – I order them every single time!
Private Hire Options for Comedy Lovers
Comedy fans looking for private events have several spaces to choose from:
- The Gallery: The biggest space fits up to 100 guests and comes with its own bar and balcony
- The Studio: A stylish speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden on the first floor
- The Garden: A covered outdoor space with its own bar and dedicated servers
The venue offers more than just comedy. Guests can enjoy the boutique cinema or try the Lucky Voice karaoke suite with its collection of over 10,000 songs. Private hire starts at £500 for Sunday daytime or evening events. The Exhibit is perfect for groups who want their own comedy-themed entertainment space. I celebrated my birthday here last year and it was absolutely perfect!
Banana Cabaret at The Bedford: South London’s Comedy Landmark
Image Source: www.bananacabaret.co.uk
Banana Cabaret has been South London’s premier comedy landmark for more than 40 years. The beautiful Bedford pub in Balham houses this venue, which stands as one of the UK’s longest-running comedy spots since 1983. Oh my goodness, the history in this place is absolutely incredible!
The Unique Theater Setting
The Bedford’s main performance space features a circular room with a balcony. Many people compare it to a “latter-day Globe” theatrical experience. This proper arena fits up to 300 people while keeping an intimate feel. The venue got a multi-million pound makeover and now provides exceptional comedy shows in its historic building from 1931. I love how you can see the performers from every angle – there’s truly not a bad seat in the house!
Four Decades of Comedy History
Banana Cabaret, 40 years old, holds the title of the longest comedy club residency at a single UK venue. Photos of almost every major comedian who performed here cover the entrance walls. Paul Merton and Mark Steel were among the founders who helped build London’s thriving comedy scene along with The Comedy Store and Jongleurs. Walking past those photos feels like a journey through British comedy history!
Pre and Post-Show Experience
The Bedford gives guests a complete night out. The venue serves full restaurant meals, so come early to grab dinner before the show. The fun continues until 2am after performances. Recent renovations transformed The Bedford into a one-stop entertainment spot with a pub, club, restaurant, and 15 hotel rooms for overnight stays. Perfect if you don’t feel like rushing for the last train home – much better than worrying about how to improve your credit score to afford a taxi!
Transport and Accessibility
The venue sits in Balham’s lively South London neighbourhood with great transport links. Banana Cabaret stands out not just for its legendary status but also its steadfast dedication to a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere. The circular design gives everyone a good view of established acts like Maisie Adam, Seann Walsh, Marcus Brigstocke, and Rich Hall who perform here regularly.
Downstairs at the King’s Head: Muswell Hill’s Intimate Venue
Image Source: Hornsey Historical Society
The King’s Head pub in Crouch End houses one of Britain’s oldest comedy institutions in its basement. This veteran of London comedy clubs is 42 years old, started by Peter Grahame and Huw Thomas who wanted to create an alternative comedy scene in north London. I still get goosebumps thinking about the history in those walls!
The Basement Experience
The intimate basement venue lets you find comedy at its purest form. The space fits just 100 people, while its low ceilings and brick wall backdrop create what performers call the perfect comedy club atmosphere. Every seat faces the stage, and busy nights might have you sharing tables with other comedy fans. These days, tables have more breathing room between them, giving you both intimacy and comfort. Trust me, there’s something magical about watching comedy in such a close-knit space!
Longest-Running Comedy Nights
Known as “London’s Friendliest Comedy Club”, Downstairs at the King’s Head celebrated its 40th birthday with shows by Arthur Smith, Ria Lina, Al Murray, and Phil Nichol. The venue’s reputation has drawn amazing talent through the years, including Rob Beckett, Nina Conti, Phil Wang, and Ivo Graham. Peter Grahame, the club’s founder, still gives honest feedback to performers and keeps the venue’s standards high. I spotted his legendary notebook during my last visit – comedians both fear and respect that thing!
Local Atmosphere and Audience
The club draws a supportive local crowd that helps comedians test their new material comfortably. People often praise its “good sound system, good lights, focus in the room”. The venue keeps things simple yet effective. Grahame’s inner sanctum sits in a small office/green room next to the stage – performers must earn their way in, though nobody tells them when they’ve made it. The atmosphere reminds me of how cozy and welcoming some of the best places to live in London can feel!
Best Seats in the House
Shows happen every Thursday and Saturday. Thursday nights spotlight newcomers who wait months for their chance, while Saturdays feature established circuit performers. Doors open at 8pm and shows start at 8:30pm. Tickets cost between £5-£17, making it one of London’s more affordable comedy spots. You can park for free next to the venue after 6:30pm, which is rare for London comedy clubs. I always try to arrive early to grab a front-row seat – close enough to feel part of the show but not so close I’ll get picked on!
The Queer Comedy Club: LGBTQ+ Comedy Haven
Image Source: The Queer Comedy Club
Two friends launched what would become the UK’s first dedicated LGBTQ+ comedy club in London during 2022. The Queer Comedy Club started as a monthly event and grew into weekly shows. The club ended up finding a permanent home in Elephant & Castle where it now runs shows five days a week. Oh my goodness, I’ve never seen a venue grow so quickly!
Inclusive Comedy Philosophy
The founders began a mission to create an exceptional space where LGBTQ+ comedians could perform together specifically for LGBTQ+ audiences. Their commitment extends beyond basic inclusion – the venue has earned certification as an LGBTQ+ safe space from independent governing body Queerify. The club’s dedication to performer safety led them to join Get Off Live Comedy, an industry HR organization that works to eliminate sexual harassment in live comedy. I love how they’ve created this amazing safe space where everyone feels welcome!
Show Formats and Special Events
Stand-up comedy remains the club’s core focus, but they’ve expanded into television production. The club now produces its own TV shows, including “Live at The Queer Comedy Club” and the upcoming “Stand Up Specials London”. Each week brings different comedians to the stage, from prominent TV personalities to circuit professionals and emerging talents. The venue’s décor proudly displays camp and unapologetically queer aesthetics. Last time I visited, I couldn’t stop taking photos of their fabulous interior design!
Supporting Queer Performers
The venue serves as a creative community that encourages diversity in stand-up comedy. They help develop and support more queer comedians. New comedians get opportunities to improve their craft among established performers who test their new material. This supportive environment plays a vital role in bringing diverse voices to the comedy scene. My cousin performed here as a newcomer and said it was the most encouraging audience she’d ever faced!
Audience Experience
People often describe the venue as “friendly,” “welcoming,” and “supportive”. The club’s design makes it available to everyone with wheelchair access and all facilities on one level. LGBTQ+ audiences remain the focus, but allies can enjoy the diverse lineup of performers. A reviewer captured the essence perfectly by describing the space as having “fun and funny inclusive queerness”, making it stand out in London’s comedy scene. The positive energy in this place is absolutely contagious!
Big Belly Comedy Club: South Bank’s Rising Star
Image Source: Big Belly Comedy Club
The 2-year old Big Belly Comedy Club sits near London’s iconic Southbank Centre. This rising star, previously the Vauxhall Comedy Club, has become a vital part of London’s comedy scene. To be honest, I’ve watched this place transform from a tiny setup to one of the most exciting venues in London!
Venue Transformation Story
Big Belly’s progress stands out as one of London’s most exciting comedy venue developments. The team runs shows in a lively bar on Stamford Street while building a dedicated comedy club next door. This bold expansion will add two comedy rooms, a state-of-the-art podcast studio, and a food hall. The venue plans to open in September 2025. Their mission is clear and ambitious: “to become the best comedy club in the world and it starts at Southbank”. I’ve been watching the construction progress each month, and it’s going to be absolutely incredible when finished!
Affordable Comedy Options
Big Belly makes comedy accessible through budget-friendly prices. Tickets for midweek shows cost just £5. Each ticket comes with a free drink (shot or soft drink) when you join their loyalty program. Weekend shows feature comedians from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo, and other TV shows. Visitors can enjoy both wallet-friendly shows and premium weekend entertainment at the same venue. I love how you can have a night out here for less than the cost of descaling your kettle with branded products!
Emerging Talent Showcase
The Sunday “Ding Dong Gong Show” gives new comedians a chance to survive five minutes on stage. Three crowd-picked judges can “gong” performers off stage if they don’t get laughs. Successful acts earn spots in professional shows, which creates a direct path for talent development. I’ve seen some performers absolutely bomb and others secure professional bookings in the same night – the tension is absolutely electric!
Pre-Show South Bank Activities
Big Belly’s location makes it perfect to mix comedy with South Bank exploration. The club is 3 minutes from Blackfriars, 5 from Southwark, 7 from Waterloo, and 10 from London Bridge. Visitors can explore South Bank’s attractions before the show. The bar serves craft beers from Laines Brewery with wines and cocktails. This creates a complete night out in one of London’s most vibrant cultural areas. I love combining a visit here with one of the best escape rooms in London for a perfect day out!
Knock2Bag at MOTH Club: Hackney’s Alternative Comedy Night
Image Source: MOTH Club
The glittering comedy wonderland of Hackney’s MOTH Club houses Knock2Bag, one of Time Out’s top five comedy clubs in London. This chaotic yet beloved comedy night has fostered a dedicated following over its 10-year run. To be honest, I was completely mesmerized by this refreshing alternative to the polished mainstream comedy scene when I first discovered it!
The Golden Curtain Experience
A signature shimmering gold curtain backdrop sets an unmistakable aesthetic that takes visitors to another era. The club, 51 years old, started as a sanctuary for ex-forces personnel and now welcomes everyone with diverse events. The venue’s distinctive atmosphere caught TV producers’ attention, leading to the mockumentary comedy series “Live at the Moth Club” being filmed here. I still remember gasping when I walked in and saw that gold curtain for the first time – it’s like stepping into a glamorous time machine!
Alternative and Experimental Comedy
Knock2Bag thrives at comedy’s stranger end of the spectrum. TV producer Rupert Majendie started the night in Shepherd’s Bush, and it grew to feature prominent stars like Harry Hill, Stephen Merchant, and David Cross among influential cult figures such as Dr Brown, John Kearns, and Tim Key. The shows keep an anarchic, experimental energy that reminds many of Vic and Bob’s surreal performances. Trust me, if you’re tired of predictable observational comedy, this place will blow your mind!
The Working Men’s Club Atmosphere
A contemporary twist blends with classic working men’s club spirit here. The relaxed environment creates what one filmmaker calls “a weird secret club which you might find by accident.” The club’s unique character shines through its two distinct bars – one serves original members and war veterans, while another hosts young comedy audiences. This mix of old and new creates something truly special – much more interesting than spending the evening bleeding your radiators at home!
Booking and Arrival Tips
The venue ended up with limited seating, so early arrival helps secure a good spot. Shows get booked quickly, and comedy enthusiasts might spot famous faces in the audience. The location sits near Hackney Central, making it available to locals and visitors who want London’s most innovative comedy experience. My cousin and I showed up 30 minutes late once and had to stand at the back – learn from our mistake!
Gits & Shiggles at Half Moon: Putney’s Comedy Jewel
Image Source: Gits & Shiggles
The Half Moon, a Fuller’s brewery pub in Putney, doubles as one of southwest London’s comedy gems with its Gits & Shiggles Comedy Night. This affluent Thames-side neighbourhood sheds its usual reserved character every other Tuesday. The night fills with laughter and craft beer. I discovered this place completely by accident and now it’s one of my absolute favourites!
The Music Venue Comedy Crossover
The Half Moon has rocked Putney since the early 60s. We earned our reputation as one of London’s most iconic music venues. Live performances happen in the dedicated music space off the main bar throughout the week. The comedy takes over on alternating Tuesdays, which creates a perfect contrast in this historic setting. You can feel the musical history in the walls even during comedy nights!
Bi-Weekly Show Format
Gits & Shiggles stands out with consistent quality despite running every two weeks. This Fuller’s pub’s backroom welcomes comedy talent that reads like a “who’s who” of British stand-up. Big names like Ahir Shah, Rosie Holt, and Abandoman have graced recent lineups. Special guest events sell out fast. I’ve learned to book my tickets the minute they’re released after missing out several times!
Local Crowd Experience
Putney’s wealthy demographic influences the performers’ material. Comedians love to crack jokes about the audience’s “posh” and “minted” nature. The crowd gives back with warmth and receptiveness that performers love. This creates a space where acts feel free to test both their polished material and new jokes. I’ve seen comedians take risks here that they wouldn’t dare try at other venues!
Fuller’s Pub Atmosphere and Drinks
The Half Moon’s Fuller’s brewery connection means great cask ales and craft beers. Fuller’s “Comedy on Tap” initiative started to meet post-pandemic entertainment needs. The pub serves “a cracking selection of hearty fresh pub grub”, perfect before showtime. The authentic pub setting makes the comedy experience intimate and special. Their beer selection is almost as impressive as their comedy lineup – I highly recommend trying their seasonal ales!
Conclusion
London’s comedy scene is second to none, with venues ranging from The Comedy Store’s legendary status to The Bill Murray’s hidden charm. These venues create unique experiences through The Top Secret Comedy Club’s surprise guest appearances, Angel Comedy’s free performances, and The Queer Comedy Club’s welcoming environment.
These 14 clubs ended up showcasing London’s rich comedy landscape. The Bill Murray’s intimate atmosphere and The Camden Comedy Club’s reliable quality shows are my favourites. Great comedy runs on passionate performers and eager audiences, whether in purpose-built spaces or converted Victorian pubs.
Live comedy is one of London’s best entertainment values. Shows are available to everyone thanks to Angel Comedy’s free performances, Up The Creek’s budget-friendly tickets, and reasonable drink prices at most venues. The scene lets you watch world-class performers test new material while rising stars take the stage. After visiting all these amazing venues, I’m absolutely convinced that London offers the best comedy scene in the world!
If you’re looking for a perfect day out, why not combine a comedy show with one of those best breakfast places in London I discovered? Start with a delicious morning meal, perhaps check out some unusual free things to do in London during the day, and cap it off with a night of laughter at one of these incredible comedy venues!
FAQs
Which comedy clubs in London offer free or low-cost shows?
Angel Comedy Club at The Camden Head offers free nightly shows, while venues like The Top Secret Comedy Club and Up The Creek have affordable ticket options starting around £5-£15. I’ve enjoyed incredible performances at all of these venues without breaking the bank!
What are some of the most iconic comedy venues in London?
The Comedy Store in Leicester Square is widely considered London’s most legendary comedy club. Other iconic venues include Soho Theatre, The Bill Murray in Angel, and Banana Cabaret at The Bedford in Balham. Each has its own unique history and atmosphere that makes it special!
Are there comedy clubs that cater to specific audiences or styles?
Yes, The Queer Comedy Club in Elephant & Castle focuses on LGBTQ+ performers and audiences. Knock2Bag at MOTH Club in Hackney specializes in alternative and experimental comedy styles. I love how London’s comedy scene has something for absolutely everyone!
How early should I arrive at a comedy club to get a good seat?
For popular weekend shows, it’s recommended to arrive 60-90 minutes before showtime. Some clubs like Angel Comedy and The Top Secret Comedy Club operate on a first-come, first-served basis for free or discounted seats. Trust me on this one – being early makes all the difference between a great seat and standing at the back!
Do any London comedy clubs offer food and drink packages?
Several venues combine comedy with dining options. The Exhibit in Balham offers pre-bookable food platters, while Banana Cabaret at The Bedford provides full restaurant service before shows. Many clubs also have special happy hour deals on drinks. The Exhibit’s mac and cheese bites are absolutely to die for!
