London comedy nights: Best stand-up, improv, and live laughs in the city

When you’re looking for a night out in London that doesn’t cost a fortune and actually makes you laugh, London comedy nights, live performances where comedians test new material, tell personal stories, or improvise with the crowd. Also known as stand-up nights, they’re one of the city’s most reliable escapes from the daily grind. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always a show happening somewhere—whether it’s a tiny pub basement in Peckham, a packed theater in Soho, or a surprise pop-up in a bookstore.

These nights aren’t just about famous names like John Mulaney or Hannah Gadsby (though they show up sometimes). Most of the magic happens with rising comedians testing jokes, local improv troupes making up scenes on the spot, and open mics where anyone with a mic and a nerve can try their luck. Stand-up comedy London, a form of live entertainment where performers deliver humorous monologues to an audience thrives here because the crowd is honest—you know when a joke lands or flops. And that’s part of the charm. Then there’s improv shows London, unscripted performances where comedians create scenes based on audience suggestions. No two nights are the same. One night you might get a Shakespearean pirate rap battle; the next, a 30-minute soap opera about a talking pigeon.

You don’t need to book months ahead or pay £50 for a ticket. Many venues offer £5-£10 entry, sometimes with a drink included. The best spots? The Comedy Store in Soho, the Stand in Camden, and the tiny but legendary Lion & Unicorn in Kentish Town. Some nights are themed—like ‘Naked Mic’ (yes, just the mic, no notes) or ‘Women Who Kill’ (dark humor from female comics). Others are free, hosted by local collectives in bars that don’t even have a sign. You’ll find them on Instagram, on community boards, or just by walking past a line of people laughing on a Tuesday night.

What makes London’s scene different? It’s not polished. It’s messy, real, and often weird. That’s why people keep coming back. You might see a doctor who does bits about NHS waiting rooms, a student who riffs on Tube delays, or a retired postman who tells stories about the weirdest people he ever delivered to. These aren’t just performances—they’re snapshots of the city’s voice.

Below, you’ll find handpicked posts that cover everything from where to catch the next big name to the hidden gems where comedians first test their material. Whether you’re looking for a date night, a group outing, or just a place to laugh after a long day, there’s a comedy night here for you.