Discover the Best Comedy Open Mic Night in London This Week

Right then, fancy a good laugh this week and wondering where to find a comedy open mic night in London? It can feel a bit like a treasure hunt sometimes, can't it? Whether you're a budding comedian wanting to test out some new material or just someone looking for a good chuckle, London has a surprisingly vibrant scene. We've rounded up some of the best places to help you find exactly what you're after. So, let's get you sorted with some comedy.

Key Takeaways

• Facebook groups and online forums are great for finding out about comedy open mic nights, with promoters often posting details of upcoming shows.

• Interactive maps, like the London Stand Up Comedy Map, can pinpoint comedy venues and provide details on event types, frequency, and sign-up information.

• Apps like Gig Gag allow you to search for and book spots at comedy gigs directly, making it easier to find opportunities to perform.

• Many established comedy clubs across London, such as The Comedy Store and Up The Creek, host comedy open mic nights alongside their regular shows.

• If you can't find a suitable comedy open mic night, consider starting your own event, and don't hesitate to ask more experienced comedians for advice on where to perform.

1. G&B Comedy

G&B Comedy is a pretty established name in the London open mic scene, and for good reason. They run shows most nights of the week, which is handy if you're looking for a slot. You'll find them at a few different spots around town, so it's worth checking their schedule.

They've got a few different types of nights going on:

• New Act/Material Nights: This is where you can try out your latest jokes and see how they land. It's a staple for anyone starting out or working on new bits.

• BYOB (Be Your Own Bringer) Policy: This is a nice touch. It means if you go along to watch as an audience member, you don't have to drag a mate along with you when it's your turn to perform. Makes it easier to get stage time.

• Longer Spots: For those with a bit more experience, G&B also offers longer sets, usually between 7 to 10 minutes, and these often don't require you to bring anyone along.

G&B Comedy is known for being a solid place to get stage time. They've got a good setup for both beginners and more seasoned comics looking to test out material in front of a live crowd. It's a reliable option in the busy London comedy circuit.

2. Comedy Virgins

Right then, Comedy Virgins. This is a big one, especially if you're just starting out or fancy seeing a whole heap of new talent trying their luck. They run nights at the Cavendish Arms in Stockwell, and it's pretty much a London comedy institution at this point. Loads of comics you see on TV now probably cut their teeth here.

It's a really popular, long-running night, perfect for anyone who's never done stand-up before. They've got a system where you can even get 'red-carded' off stage by the audience if things aren't going well, which sounds a bit brutal, but it's all part of the fun. On the flip side, the judges give feedback, and the best acts can even win a paid spot at one of their pro nights. So, there's a real chance to impress.

Here's the lowdown:

• Venue: Cavendish Arms, 128 Hartington Road, Stockwell, SW8 2HJ

• When: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays

• What to Expect: A buzzing atmosphere, loads of new faces, and a chance to see comedy in its rawest form.

It's a proper breeding ground for comedians, and honestly, just watching can be a laugh in itself. You'll see everything from absolute gold to… well, let's just say memorable moments.

3. Lion's Den

Tucked away in the heart of the West End, Lion's Den is a long-standing favourite for new comedians trying out their material. It’s a proper no-frills kind of place, which is exactly what you want when you're focusing on the jokes. You don't need to book ahead here, which is a lifesaver if you're feeling spontaneous. Just turn up at Bar Rumba between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm on a Tuesday, put your name down, and hope for the best. It’s first come, first served, so don't be late if you want a shot at the mic.

This is a popular spot, so expect a decent crowd. It’s a great place to catch comedians working on fresh bits, and you might just see the next big thing before anyone else does. It’s a real slice of the London comedy circuit, and definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.

Here's the lowdown:

• When: Tuesdays

• Where: Bar Rumba, 36 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EP

• How to get a spot: Sign up on the door between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm. No booking needed.

It's a classic new act night. The vibe is usually pretty supportive, but you know, it's still a stage, and people are there to laugh. You get a real mix of acts, from those who are clearly just starting out to ones who have been doing this for a while but are trying out new jokes. It’s a good test for any comedian.

If you're looking for a solid Tuesday night out with some laughs, Lion's Den is a good bet. You never know what you're going to get, but that's part of the fun, isn't it? It’s a good place to see comedy in action, and you might even discover some new favourite comedians.

4. Rising Star Comedy Club

Tucked away at The Old Crown on New Oxford Street, Rising Star Comedy Club is a pretty established spot for new comedians to get a go. It runs on Mondays and Tuesdays, which is handy if you're looking for a mid-week laugh or a way to kick off your week. It's a popular night, so it usually pulls in a decent crowd, which is always a bonus for anyone brave enough to get on stage.

Getting a spot here is fairly straightforward. You can usually book through their Facebook page, but it's worth checking their specific booking details closer to the time. They do have a 'bringer' policy, meaning you're expected to bring a friend along to watch if you want to perform. However, there's a bit of a workaround if you're flying solo – if you go along as an audience member on another night, you can often avoid the bringer requirement for your own performance slot. It’s a good way to suss out the vibe and see what you’re in for.

Here's what you can expect:

• Performance Slots: Typically around 5-10 minutes, depending on how busy they are and your experience level.

• Audience: Generally supportive, especially as it's a place for new talent.

• Atmosphere: A classic pub setting, which can make for a relaxed but still energetic night.

It's one of those places that feels like a proper stepping stone for comics. You get a real sense of the London comedy circuit here, with acts trying out fresh material and the audience getting a good mix of hits and misses. It’s not always perfect, but that’s part of the fun, right?

5. The Comedy Store

Right, let's talk about The Comedy Store. This place is practically a London institution, isn't it? It's been around for ages, like, over 40 years, which is a seriously long time to keep people chuckling. They've got a few different things going on, not just your standard stand-up. You might catch the famous Comedy Store Players doing their improv thing – you know, the ones who were on 'Whose Line is it Anyway?'. It's all about quick thinking and pure silliness, which is always a good laugh.

They also host proper stand-up shows with different comedians every week, and sometimes even live podcast recordings. It’s a reliable spot for a good laugh, and they really know their stuff when it comes to what makes an audience chuckle. The Comedy Store is a place that truly understands the art of comedy, offering a consistent quality of performance that keeps audiences coming back for more.

If you're feeling brave and want to try your hand at performing, they run the legendary King Gong show. It's a bit of a brutal affair, where you have to last five minutes or face the dreaded gong. It's a tough gig, but surviving it means you've got some serious grit. You can find out more about King Gong and other events on their listings.

It's a venue that has seen countless comedians hone their craft, from absolute beginners to seasoned pros. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and you're pretty much guaranteed a night of solid entertainment, whatever kind of show you end up seeing.

6. Up The Creek

Tucked away in Greenwich, Up The Creek is a proper comedy institution. It’s one of those places that’s been around for ages, consistently putting on live stand-up. They’ve got a real knack for knowing what makes people laugh, and it shows in the quality of the acts they book.

If you're looking to get on stage yourself, they run a particularly notorious night called 'The Blackout' on Thursdays. The challenge here is to last a full five minutes without the audience deciding you've had enough and 'gonging' you off. It’s a proper test of nerve and material, and the best acts get rewarded. You'll need to get in touch to book a spot for this one, so don't just turn up expecting to perform.

Here’s a bit of what to expect:

• The Blackout Gong Show: A Thursday night event where survival is key.

• Audience Participation: Be prepared for a lively crowd.

• Potential for Paid Spots: Successful acts can earn a spot on pro nights.

It’s a solid venue for both watching and performing, offering a genuine taste of the London comedy circuit. Definitely worth checking out if you're in South-East London and fancy some laughs. You can find out more about their events on the Up The Creek website.

This place has a reputation for being a tough but fair proving ground for comedians. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards for those who succeed can be significant, offering a stepping stone to bigger gigs.

7. Gigl Comedy

Tucked away in Walthamstow, Gigl Comedy at Ye Olde Rose & Crown is a spot for those looking to test out new material. It’s a Friday night affair, which is always a good way to kick off the weekend, right? They offer slots of either five or ten minutes, giving you a decent amount of time to work through your set.

This is a new material night, so expect raw, unpolished jokes and the occasional brave attempt at something completely new. It’s the kind of place where you can really see comedians finding their feet.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Venue: Ye Olde Rose & Crown, Walthamstow, London, E17 4SA

• When: Fridays

• Spot Length: 5-10 minutes

• How to Book: Sign up via the link on their [Instagram page](Gigl Instagram Page).

It’s a great chance to catch comedians in their developmental stages. You might even discover a future star before they hit the big time. If you're a budding comedian, it's a solid place to get some stage time and feedback. Remember, every great comedian started somewhere, and nights like these are where the magic begins. It's a good idea to check out their social media for the most up-to-date booking information, as things can change quickly in the comedy world. You can often find these kinds of gigs listed on sites that track comedy gigs in London.

This venue is known for being a supportive environment for comedians trying out fresh jokes. It’s less about a polished performance and more about the process of creation. Audience members are generally there to encourage the acts, making it a friendly atmosphere for both performers and watchers.

8. Comedy Cabin

Tucked away in Hoxton, the Comedy Cabin is a bit of a hidden gem for anyone keen on catching new talent. They run regular comedy nights, but the real draw for aspiring comedians and comedy fans alike are the RAW new act/material nights. These usually happen on a Wednesday and on Saturday evenings, kicking off early. It’s a proper chance to see comedians working out their freshest material, and you never know what you’re going to get – sometimes it’s brilliant, sometimes it’s… well, a work in progress.

If you fancy trying your luck on stage, you can usually book a spot through their Facebook page. It’s a friendly enough atmosphere, and they’re known for putting on a good mix of acts.

The great thing about places like Comedy Cabin is that they offer a genuine platform for comedians to test their jokes. It’s not always polished, but that’s part of the fun. You’re seeing comedy in its rawest form, and that’s pretty special.

It’s worth checking their social media for the exact timings and booking details each week, as these things can change. Definitely one to keep an eye on if you're in the E2 area and looking for some laughs.

9. Monkey Business

Monkey Business is a comedy club based in Camden that hosts regular new act and new material nights. It's a solid spot for both budding comedians trying out fresh jokes and for audiences wanting to catch the next wave of talent.

If you're looking to get on stage, they usually have spots available on Thursdays and Sundays. It's worth checking their new act info for the most up-to-date sign-up details, as these things can change. They often operate on a first-come, first-served basis for sign-ups on the night, so getting there early is usually the best bet.

It's a great place to see comedians working on their craft. You might see someone trying out a completely new bit that bombs, or you might witness a joke that's so good it becomes a staple of their set. It’s all part of the fun of a new material night.

The energy at a new material night is always a bit different. There's a shared understanding among the audience and the performers that this is a space for experimentation. It's less about polished perfection and more about the raw process of creation. You're not just watching a show; you're part of the development process, which can be quite exciting.

10. Ding Dong Gong Show

Right then, for those who like their comedy with a bit of a gamble, the Ding Dong Gong Show at Big Belly Comedy Club Southbank is your spot. This isn't your average open mic; it's a gong show, which means things can get pretty intense. Audience members have the power to 'red card' acts they don't like, sending them off stage. It's a proper test of nerve for any comedian brave enough to step up.

But it's not just about survival. There's a panel of judges who'll give feedback, and the real carrot dangling is the chance to win a paid spot at one of the club's professional nights. So, if you're a comedian, it's a high-stakes chance to impress. If you're in the audience, you get to be part of the action and influence the show.

Here's a bit of what to expect:

• The Gong Mechanism: Acts need to win over the crowd and the judges, or face the dreaded gong.

• Judging Panel: Get insights and critiques from experienced eyes.

• Prize: A paid spot at a pro-night for the top performers.

• Venue: Big Belly Comedy Club Southbank, Unit 6 & 7, 30 Stamford St, London SE1 9LQ.

It's a lively night where the energy is always high, and you never quite know what's going to happen next. Definitely one for the adventurous comedy fan looking for something a bit different. You might even spot a future star, or at least see someone get thoroughly gonged off! It's a great place to see comedians like Sharifa Butterfly really test their mettle.

Get ready for some laughs at the "10. Ding Dong Gong Show"! It's a fantastic night out filled with top-notch comedians ready to tickle your funny bone. Don't miss out on the fun and great deals. Visit our website today to grab your tickets and see who's on next!

So, Where Will the Laughs Take You This Week?

Right then, that's a wrap on finding some cracking comedy open mics happening across London this week. Whether you're looking to get on stage yourself or just fancy a good laugh with some new talent, there's loads going on. Don't forget, places like Facebook groups, dedicated comedy maps, and even apps like Gig Gag can be super helpful for spotting these events. And if you can't find anything, why not start your own? Most importantly, don't be shy – chat to other comedians, they're usually happy to share tips. So get out there, have a laugh, and maybe even discover the next big thing in comedy. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find comedy open mic nights happening this week?

Loads of comedy nights are listed on Facebook groups, so give those a search! You can also check out comedy websites or apps like Gig Gag. Sometimes, just looking up 'comedy open mic nights near me' online will show you what's happening locally.

What's the best way for a beginner to try stand-up?

Open mic nights are perfect for newcomers! They're usually pretty relaxed, giving you a chance to try out your jokes on a real audience without too much pressure. It's a great way to get used to being on stage.

Are there any apps or websites that list comedy gigs?

Definitely! Apps like Gig Gag can help you find and even book spots for gigs. Websites like Eventbrite or DesignMyNight also list comedy shows. Joining online comedy groups is another good way to hear about upcoming events.

What if I can't find an open mic night close to me?

Don't worry if you can't find one right away. Sometimes, you might need to travel a bit further. Also, consider checking out comedy clubs that aren't specifically open mics; they might have nights where new talent gets a chance to perform.

Are open mic nights usually free to attend?

Many open mic nights are free to watch, especially those held in pubs or smaller venues. This is a fantastic way to catch some laughs without spending any money. However, always check the venue's details just in case.

What should I expect at a comedy open mic night?

You'll see a real mix of performers, from people trying out their very first jokes to more experienced comedians testing new material. The atmosphere can vary a lot, from super supportive to a bit more challenging, but it's always an interesting experience!