Discover the heartwarming and rib-tickling world of comedy in London. This guide unveils the city’s top laughter hubs, where seasoned comedians and rising stars light up stages. From historic establishments to modern haunts, immerse yourself in the diverse humor that London’s comedy clubs offer. Get ready for nights with chuckles, guffaws, and unforgettable comedic moments that capture the essence of this dynamic city’s entertainment scene.
The Comedy Store
The club opened in 1979 in Soho district near Piccadilly Circus. Inspired by Comedy Store in L. A. it quickly gained popularity. The Comedy Store offers stand-up comedy shows that feature a mix of experienced comedians testing new material and new comedians trying to establish themselves. Multiple comedians usually perform short sets. The club was part of the Comic Strip Live, an alternative comedy movement in the 1980s that challenged traditional comedy. Comedian Eddie Izzard launched his career thanks to this club. The club also produced many TV Shows and it has its own Comedy Store Players – an improvisational comedy group that performs regularly at the club and includes well-known comedians like Paul Merton and Josie Lawrence.
Camden Comedy Club
Located on Camden High Street, the club opened in 2014. The club hosts high-profile TV names, emerging comedians, improvisation groups, sketch troupes, and alternative performers. Names like Harry Hill, Stephen Merchant, Alan Carr, Russel Howard, Bridget Christie, Ava Vidal, Rich Hall, and many others have been part of the club`s vibrant nightlife. The club has regular features on BBC Radio, BBC TV, Evening Standard, Time Out and The Paper.
Up The Creek Comedy Club
Located in Greenwich, the club opened Malcolm Hardee in 1991. Hardee is known for his eccentric and influential contributions to the comedy scene. The club offers a mix of established and emerging talents and a variety of shows like stand-ups, open mic nights, and themed events. The venue won the Chortle Award in 2002 and among comedians who performed in the club are Phil Nicol, Sam Simmons, Tim Vine, and Ricky Grover. Also TV series No Such Thing as the News was filmed there.
Soho Theatre
The venue was founded in 1969 as the Soho Poly Theatre focusing on new and emerging talents. The Theatre is located at 21 Dean Street in Soho, but through many years it underwent several transformations and relocations. Besides contemporary plays, you can attend comedy shows, cabaret, drag shows and more. Although being a theatre it mostly features comedy programming. It often features comedy previews during which comedians test and refine materials before taking them to the public at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Also, the theatre collaborates with various festivals, artists, and organizations like LGBTQ festivals, or Comedy Film Festival, and initiatives like Soho Rising.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
The club was opened in 2001 by Ben Van der Velde as a small event on a boat. It stands on the Tattershall Castle on the River Thames and near the Embankment tube station. The venue usually offers live comedy with 4 comics, has 4 bars, and a nightclub. The club features a diverse lineup of comedians, including both established acts and emerging talents. This variety ensures that audiences get to experience a range of comedic styles and perspectives. It has participated in various comedy festivals, showcasing its distinct brand of comedy in different contexts.
Angel Comedy Club
The club opened in 2010 and was founded by comedian Barry Ferns. Formerly it was just a small weekly show and open mic night that grew over the years and became an important part of the London comedy scene. The club has a supportive atmosphere and puts emphasis on nurturing talent. One of the defining features of Angel Comedy Club is its commitment to offering free comedy shows. Angel Comedy Club often hosts Edinburgh Festival Fringe preview shows, where comedians test and polish their material before taking it to the renowned festival. The club has organized the “Alternative Comedy Memorial Society” (ACMS) festival, showcasing unique and innovative comedy performances. It hosted comedians like Tommy Tierman, Eddie Izzard, Russell Howard, Holly Walsh, and many more.
Top Secret Comedy Club
The UK`s highest-rated comedy club is located in Covent Garden, Drury Lane. The club offers shows every day of the week – mostly late-night shows and themed nights. The basement location provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere for comedy shows, allowing audiences to feel close to the performers. It was opened in 2011 by Brian Luff. The club quickly gained a reputation for its intimate setting and high-quality comedy performances. Comedy shows like stand-ups, open mic nights and themed events are common features. Similar to other comedy clubs, Top Secret Comedy Club often hosts comedians performing Edinburgh Festival Fringe preview shows.
The 99 Club
The 99 Club was founded by James Woroniecki in 2004. Woroniecki, a former investment banker, had a passion for comedy and decided to establish a chain of comedy clubs that would showcase top-notch comedic talent in London. The 99 Club operates multiple venues across London including Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and the West End. The club offers headline acts, well-established comedians, and support acts, showcasing both seasoned professionals and comedians on the rise. This mix of talents adds depth and variety to the club’s performances. The club offers corporate and private event packages, making it a popular choice for entertainment at company gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. Also, the club hosts themed nights and special events.
Backyard Comedy Club
The club offers stand-up comedies and cabaret acts in a modern venue with a bar, pizzas, and pub games. It opened in 1998 and is located in East London a walk away from Bethnal Green and 231 Cambridge Heath. The place is accessible by wheelchair too with amazing acoustics. They offer free wifi, table football, loads of board games, and air conditioning.
There are definitely more comedy clubs and venues in London where you can enjoy a night full of laughter. You can further explore on your own and add additional spots to your London trip. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour that includes visits to such venues or is part of a broader day tour.
Sources: Wikipedia, TripAdvisor, backyardcomedyclub.co.uk, google maps
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Freya
Photographer, artist, content creator, and a solo female traveler since 2017.