Hey there comedy lovers! 😃 When it comes to letting off some steam and having a good laugh, there’s nothing quite like a live comedy show. And you know what else? London happens to be one of the world's greatest cities to experience the magic of these laughter riots! In fact, London is home to over 100 comedy clubs. So, I did a little digging (well, a lot actually) and put together the ultimate guide for the best comedy clubs in town just for you.

Grab your notepads (or just save this page), 'cause you're gonna want all this info.

1. The Comedy Store

• Location: 1a Oxendon Street, London, SW1Y 4EE

• Nearest Tube Station: Piccadilly Circus Tube Station (Bakerloo & Piccadilly Line)

• Opening Days: Tuesday to Sunday (Monday once a month for King Gong)

The Comedy Store, a pioneer in the comedy club game, all started right here in London! Plus, historically, it's been a launchpad for some of the biggest names in comedy! So, you never know, you could be laughing at the next big thing.

The Comedy Store in London is renowned for its 'King Gong' show, held on the last Monday of every month, where amateur comedians are given five minutes to impress the audience. This club is also known for its improvisation nights, 'The Comedy Store Players', featuring a team of highly skilled improvisers who create hilarious sketches on the spot.

2. The Top Secret Comedy Club

• Location: 170 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PD

• Nearest Tube Station: Covent Garden Tube Station (Piccadilly Line)

• Opening Days: Every day of the week, because why limit laughter to only certain days, right?

The name may sound 'hush-hush', but The Top Secret Comedy Club is infamous for offering some of the best stand-up gigs in town. You just can't miss it! Top Secret Comedy Club is known for its surprise celebrity appearances, where famous comedians often drop in unannounced to test out new material. 

The Top Secret Comedy Club also offers a unique experience with their 'Free Fringe' shows, where visitors can enjoy free stand-up comedy performances. These shows often feature top-notch comedians testing out new material, providing a fresh and unpredictable comedy experience.

3. Downstairs at the Kings Head

• Location: Crouch End, London

• Nearest Tube Station: Finsbury Park

• Open Days: Friday and Sunday nights, and 'try-out' shows on Thursday nights

Okay, guys, real talk. If you're after that intimate comedy club atmosphere, you HAVE to check out Downstairs at the Kings Head. This joint is known as one of the oldest comedy clubs in Britain! 🇬🇧 It has an informal vibe where you might find yourself sitting next to a big-name comedian (That's right, seriously!). They hold 'try-out' nights (Thursdays) and established acts every Friday and Sunday nights. 

4. The Stand Up Club

• Location: The Comedy Pub, Piccadilly

• Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus

• Open Days: Thursday to Saturday

I couldn't talk comedy in London without a big shout out to The Stand Up Club. Located in the heart of Piccadilly, this place brings the laughs from Thursday to Saturday each week. (What better way to start your weekend, right?) 🎉 The club is set in a Grade II-listed building, adding a dash of historical charm to your comedy experience. Talent? Check. Location? Check. Good times? Double check! 

5. Comedy Carnival 

• Location: Covent Garden Studios

• Nearest Tube: Leicester Square

• Open Days: Thursday to Saturday

Hold onto your hats folks, because Comedy Carnival is about to deliver a whirlwind of laughter! 👒 Situated in Covent Garden Studios, the club offers an exceptional line-up from Thursday to Saturday. Whether it's the latest and greatest comedy talent or legendary stand-up stars, this spot has got you covered. Trust me on this one, you're going to leave with sore sides from all the giggles. 

6. City Comedy Club

• Location: Shoreditch

• Nearest Tube Station: Old Street or Shoreditch High Street

• Open Days: Wednesday to Saturday

Got a soft spot for humor with a side of chicken wings? 🍗 Well, good news because City Comedy Club is the place for you! It is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Shoreditch, offering shows from Wednesday to Saturday. The nearest tube station is Old Street or Shoreditch High Street if you fancy a bit of a walk. But hey, trust me, it’s completely worth the few extra steps. 

Here comes the best part - the tickets range from £3 to £15, and did I mention it includes unlimited wings? Yes, you heard it right, folks! Bottomless wings, drinks, and laughs. Could there be a more perfect combo? I think not! 🍻😂 

7. Craft Comedy

• Location: Clapham

• Nearest Tube Station: Clapham North or Clapham Common

• Open Days: Hosted on the first Friday of every month

Hey, what's that I hear? The first Friday of the month fast approaching? Then make sure to check out the Craft Comedy night hosted by the fabulous Alex Kitson at Coach and Horses in Clapham. This show boasts a jam-packed line-up of six hilarious comedians, guaranteeing laughs a plenty! 🎤 

8. The 99 Club

• Location: Leicester Square, WC2H 7NA / Covent Garden, WC2E 9NG

• Nearest Tube Stations: Leicester Square / Covent Garden

• Open Days: The 99 Club tickles your funny bones seven days a week!

The 99 Club has several locations across London, but its Leicester Square venue is particularly notable. It's won several awards, including the Chortle Best London Comedy Club from 2011 to 2018 and the Best UK Club 2015. The nearest tube station is Leicester Square. It's open seven days a week.

9. Backyard Comedy Club

• Location: 231 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, London, E2 0EL

• Nearest Tube Stations: Bethnal Green

• Open Days: Tuesday to Sunday

An absolute gem situated in Bethnal Green. You may have heard of it because a lot of famous faces have stood up on stage here, getting laughs from the crowd. Yes, comedians like Harry Hill, Dara O'Brien, and Jo Brand are just a few of the big names who have graced its stage. 😄🎙️ Here's the lowdown:

10. Soho Theatre

• Location: 21 Dean St, Soho, London W1D 3NE, UK 

• Nearest Tube Station: Tottenham Court Road 

• Opening Days: Monday through Saturday. 

Now, here's what makes Soho Theatre pop. Besides its stellar line-up, the venue itself is unbeatable. It's not just a dark room with a microphone stand - it's a professional theater that provides a unique environment unlike any other comedy club. Get ready for an intimate, engaging, and downright hilarious night out! 😂 

The Soho Theatre is not just a comedy club, but a venue that hosts a variety of performances, including theatre, cabaret, and spoken word. However, it's particularly known for its comedy shows, often featuring big-name comedians. 

11. Up The Creek

• Location: 302 Creek Road, Greenwich, London, SE10 9SW 

• Nearest Tube Station: North Greenwich (easy peasy to get to with the Jubilee Line)

• Opening Days: Wednesday-Sundays

This spot is a bit of a force in the London comedy scene. Located in the heart of Greenwich, it's an ideal place if you love being surprised by big-name comedians who often do mystery appearances. The club boasts a lively, intimate atmosphere. 

Up The Creek is famous for its 'Sunday Special' shows, which have been running for over 20 years. These shows often feature big names in the comedy industry and are known for their high-energy performances. The club also offers an open mic gong show night on Thursdays, providing a platform for emerging talents.

12. Covent Garden Comedy Club

• Location: The Covent Garden Comedy Club, The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG 

• Nearest Tube Station: Embankment or Charing Cross 

• Opening Days: Every Friday and Saturday night 

The Covent Garden Comedy Club stands out with its intimate setting, allowing for a more personal comedy experience. The club is known for hosting only professional comedians, ensuring a high-quality performance every time. The club also offers a dinner and comedy package, making it a perfect choice for a night out.

Wrapping up the Comedy Scene

So, at this point you've probably got your calendar out and you're ready to book several evenings of chuckles, right? 😄 Before we part ways, let me throw a few more gems your way that you might want to look up. London's comedy scene is like a bustling, chortle-filled treasure chest, and these are the pearls that didn't quite make the top list, but are worth a mention nonetheless.  

• Poster Comedy Club: Located on Stroud Green Road, this club is a stone's throw from Finsbury Park tube station. They're open on Friday and Saturday nights - perfect for kicking off the weekend on a hilarious note!

• Comedy Virgins: In the heart of Stockwell, this spot is perfect if you're looking to discover raw talents. They're open Monday to Wednesday up to 7:30 in the evening. The nearest tube station? Stockwell, of course! Oh, and did I mention the entry is free? 💸

• Double Bubble Comedy: Nestled in Commercial Street, Aldgate, this hidden gem showcases both new and experienced comedians. It’s a Tuesday evening affair with Aldgate East being the nearest tube station.

• Comedy Bandits: This lively space is situated in the heart of Camden, just a short strut from Camden Town tube station. Operating just on Fridays, it's the best reward after a long, tiring week! 🙌

• Angel Comedy Club: At the heart of Islington, a quick stroll from Angel tube station. They are open seven days a week. Yes, you heard right, seven! No excuse to miss out on the fun here. 😎

Remember, these are just some of many comedy clubs scattered across London. There's many more, and most comedy clubs in London are located within a 5-minute walk from a tube station, so they're easy to get to too! 

And of course, if you want to try your hand on stage, approximately 70% of London's comedy clubs offer open mic night.

Each club offers a unique style and atmosphere suited to different comedy preferences, so don't be afraid to explore. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite spot! 😄 

Happy laughing, everyone! 🎭🎉