Discovering the Best Stand Up Comedy Open Mics in the UK

So, you're looking to get into stand up comedy and want to find some stand up comedy open mics? It can feel a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack sometimes, can't it? Especially when you're just starting out and need those all-important first few minutes on stage. Luckily, there are a few handy resources out there that can point you in the right direction, whether you're in a big city or a smaller town. Let's take a look at some of the best places to find those all-important stand up comedy open mics across the UK.

Key Takeaways

• Facebook groups and pages are often the best place to find listings for stand up comedy open mics, as organisers find it easier to promote events there than building websites.

• Online directories like The Comedy Collective and Gig Gag can help you find open mic nights, though information might not always be perfectly up-to-date.

• The London Stand Up Comedy Map offers a visual way to find open mics specifically in London, with details on event type and sign-up information.

• Some platforms, like Gig Gag, even allow you to book spots at gigs directly through an app, making the process simpler.

• Don't be afraid to ask other comedians for advice; experienced performers are usually happy to share tips and point you towards good stand up comedy open mics.

1. The Facebook Comedy Forum

Right then, let's talk about Facebook. Now, I know what you're thinking – another social media thing? But honestly, for anyone trying to get a foot in the door with stand-up comedy in the UK, the Facebook Comedy Forum is a bit of a goldmine. It's basically a massive online noticeboard where people running open mic nights, and even some bigger gigs, post up their upcoming shows and look for performers. You'll find everything from tiny pub gigs to slightly more established nights looking for acts. It's probably the most direct way to find out who needs comedians and when.

It's not just about finding spots, though. These groups often become hubs for comedians to chat, share advice, and generally keep up with what's happening on the circuit. You might see discussions about new venues, tips for writing jokes, or even just people venting about a tough gig – it's all part of the scene.

Here's a rough idea of what you can expect to find:

• Gigs Posted Daily: Promoters regularly update with shows needing acts.

• Variety of Venues: From small pubs to dedicated comedy clubs.

• Direct Sign-Ups: Often you'll sign up via a link, email, or a quick message.

• Community Chat: A place to connect with other comedians.

You'll see a lot of posts asking for performers for specific dates, sometimes with very little notice. It's worth checking regularly because opportunities can pop up out of nowhere. Just be ready to send a quick message or fill out a form if you see something that takes your fancy. It's a good place to see what's happening, and you might even discover a gem of a night like Red Raw.

So, if you're serious about performing, make sure you're part of the relevant Facebook groups. It’s a bit of a digital wild west sometimes, but that’s where the action is.

2. The London Stand Up Comedy Map

Right then, if you're looking to get your funny bone tickled or even try out your own material in the capital, you're in luck. The London Stand Up Comedy Map is a proper gem. It's basically an interactive map that shows you where all the open mic nights are happening, not just in London, but a bit further afield too. You can see details like when they're on, how to sign up, the venue itself, and contact info. It's a brilliant way to get a handle on the sheer number of opportunities out there.

If staring at a map isn't your thing, no worries. You can switch it off and just get a list of all the gigs, or even export it all into an Excel sheet. Handy, eh?

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Venue Details: Get the lowdown on where you'll be performing.

• Event Frequency: Know if it's a weekly gig or a one-off.

• Sign-Up Information: Figure out the best way to get a slot.

• Contact Details: Reach out to the organisers directly.

Finding the right open mic can feel like a bit of a mission, but having a resource like this really cuts down the time you spend searching. It means more time for writing jokes and less time scrolling through endless pages. It's a great starting point for anyone serious about getting on stage in London.

For more general news and insights into the London comedy scene, you might want to check out this blog. It's a good place to keep up with what's happening.

3. The Comedy Collective

Similar to its Facebook counterpart, The Comedy Collective acts as a hub for comedians and show organisers. You'll find people posting about available spots for their upcoming gigs, whether it's for the next few months or even last-minute openings due to cancellations. It's a really useful place to keep an eye on for gig opportunities.

Beyond just gig listings, this platform also serves as a space for comedians to chat about what's happening in the scene. Think of it as a virtual green room where the latest developments and talking points affecting comedians are discussed. It’s a good spot to get a feel for the current conversations happening amongst performers.

Here's what you can typically find:

• Gig Availability: Organisers posting about open slots.

• Last-Minute Gigs: Quick notices for immediate openings.

• Industry Chat: Discussions on current comedy topics.

• Networking: Connecting with other comedians and bookers.

This kind of community space is where you can really get a sense of the day-to-day life of a working comedian. It’s not just about the stage time; it’s about the hustle, the connections, and staying in the loop with what’s going on.

4. Gig Gag

Gig Gag is a bit of a hidden gem for finding open mic nights, especially if you're looking beyond the usual big cities. It’s not as flashy as some of the other platforms, but it gets the job done. Think of it as the reliable, no-nonsense mate of comedy listings. You won't find a load of bells and whistles, but you will find actual gigs.

It’s particularly useful for spotting smaller, local events that might otherwise slip under the radar.

Here’s what you can generally expect when you use Gig Gag:

• Event Listings: The core of Gig Gag is its list of upcoming comedy nights. You can usually filter by location, though the interface is pretty basic.

• Venue Information: It often provides basic details about the venue, like the address and sometimes a link to their website or social media.

• User Submissions: A lot of the listings come from people running the nights themselves, which means it's often quite up-to-date.

It’s worth checking out if you’re keen to explore different areas for stage time. While it might not have the slick design of some competitors, its focus on just listing the gigs makes it a straightforward tool for comedians on the hunt. You might even discover a fantastic little club in a town you'd never have considered before, much like the diverse venues found in London's comedy scene.

Running an open mic night can be a real balancing act. You want to be professional and keep things running smoothly, but you also need to be approachable and supportive of the acts. It's about creating a space where comedians, whether they've done four gigs or four hundred, feel comfortable trying out their material. Getting the timing right, managing expectations, and just being decent to people goes a long way in building a good reputation for your night.

5. Open Comedy

Open Comedy nights are the beating heart of the UK stand-up scene. Think of them as the comedy equivalent of a gym or a playground. It's where new talent gets its first taste of the stage, often referred to as the 'kindergarten' of comedy. Here, nerves are shared, and the first, often shaky, steps are taken. But it's not just for beginners. More experienced comics use these nights as a testing ground, a place to try out new material, push boundaries, and refine their jokes in front of a live audience without the pressure of a paid gig. This raw, unfiltered environment is where the next generation of comedy stars are forged.

These nights offer a unique space for experimentation. A comedian might spend months working on a single bit, tweaking it based on audience reactions at various open mics. It's a chance to see comedy in its most unpolished, yet often most exciting, form. You might catch a seasoned pro trying out some edgy new material under the radar, or a brand-new act delivering a surprisingly killer set. It’s a gamble, sure, but the potential for discovery is huge.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Stage Time: Comedians typically get a short slot, usually around 3-5 minutes, to perform.

• Varied Talent: From absolute beginners to seasoned pros trying new stuff.

• Low Stakes: Often free to enter, meaning the audience might be less invested, but the comedians have more freedom to take risks.

• Community Feel: A supportive atmosphere where comics cheer each other on.

The beauty of open mic comedy lies in its unpredictability. It's a space where comedians can truly play, experiment, and sometimes, spectacularly fail. But it's in these moments of vulnerability and daring that genuine comedic breakthroughs often happen. It’s a vital part of the ecosystem for anyone serious about making it in comedy.

When looking for an open mic, don't be afraid to try a few different ones. Each venue has its own vibe, its own crowd, and its own way of running things. Some might be rowdier, others more intimate. Finding the right fit for you, whether you're performing or just watching, is part of the fun.

6. Open Mic Finder

Right then, finding a place to try out your new jokes can feel like a bit of a treasure hunt, can't it? You'd think with the internet, it'd be dead easy, but honestly, a lot of the time, those online lists are about as up-to-date as a dial-up modem. Websites dedicated to open mics are out there, sure, but they often rely on organisers to keep them updated, which, let's be honest, doesn't always happen. It seems like the scene changes faster than you can say 'heckler'.

The real trick is often looking in the right places online, and Facebook groups are usually your best bet. Promoters are more likely to post there than bother with a whole website. You'll find dedicated pages for specific nights, or broader local comedy groups where people share all sorts of gig info. It's not just for comedy either; sometimes you'll find music or poetry nights that have a comedy slot, or even 'anything goes' events.

Here’s a quick rundown of how to approach it:

• Check Facebook Groups: Search for local comedian groups or open mic nights in your area. These are often the most current sources.

• Look for Venue Listings: Some pubs and clubs might list their open mic nights on their own social media pages.

• Consider General Event Sites: While not always comedy-specific, sites like Eventbrite can sometimes list open mic events.

It's worth remembering that the comedy scene is always buzzing and changing. What's listed today might be different next month. So, keep your eyes peeled and don't be afraid to ask around the circuit itself. The best intel often comes from other comedians.

While Open Mic Finder might cover a broad range of open mic events, it's worth a look, though it does seem to lean more towards music. Still, you never know what you might stumble upon. For more general comedy news and insights, checking out London comedy circuit can be a good shout.

7. Spotlz

Spotlz is another platform that pops up when you're looking for places to perform. It seems to be a system for booking spots, and a couple of nights in London have used it. However, it's not the most widely known or used service out there. Information about it is a bit thin on the ground, and it doesn't appear to have a massive following.

It's worth checking out if you're specifically looking at a venue that uses it, but don't expect it to be a go-to for finding every open mic.

If you're keen to get your name out there, you might find it useful to:

• Sign up for a few different platforms to cast a wider net.

• Keep an eye on venue websites directly for their booking procedures.

• Network with other comedians to hear about less obvious opportunities.

While Spotlz might not be the most popular option, the comedy scene is always evolving. New platforms emerge, and existing ones gain traction. Staying informed about these changes can be beneficial for any aspiring comedian looking to secure stage time.

For more general comedy news and listings, you might want to check out resources like the London comedy circuit.

8. Comedy In Your Eye

If you're looking to catch some live comedy, especially if you're in London, Comedy In Your Eye is definitely worth checking out. They've been mentioned as one of the top comedy clubs around, so it's a good spot to see what's happening on the circuit.

They offer a chance to see both up-and-coming comedians and potentially some more established acts trying out new material. It's a place where performers can test the waters, and audiences get to see the raw side of stand-up.

If you're keen to get on stage yourself, they have a straightforward process. You just need to fill out a form on their website. If you're a good fit for one of their upcoming shows, they'll get in touch. It’s a pretty standard way to get your foot in the door at many open mic nights.

Open mic nights are where the magic often happens. It's a space for comedians to be brave, try new things, and sometimes fall flat on their faces. But that's how you learn, right? You see the real talent, the unexpected jokes, and the sheer nerve it takes to get up there. It's comedy in its purest form.

For those who just want to watch, you can also buy tickets for their shows. It's a good way to get a feel for the comedy scene before you decide to perform yourself. They host events at various venues, so it's worth keeping an eye on their schedule.

9. Up The Creek

Right then, let's talk about Up The Creek. This place in Greenwich has been around for a while, and it’s got a proper, lived-in feel. It’s not one of those shiny, new venues; it’s more like a cosy, slightly worn-around-the-edges pub that just happens to host some brilliant comedy nights. You'll often find a good mix of newer faces and more established comedians trying out new material here. It’s the sort of place where you can genuinely get close to the action, and the atmosphere is usually pretty relaxed, which is just what you want when you're trying to catch some laughs.

If you're looking to get on stage yourself, they usually have open mic nights. It’s a good spot for anyone starting out, or even just for a laugh if you fancy watching people take a punt. They tend to have a few slots available, but it’s always best to check their schedule.

• Check the schedule: Their website or social media will have the most up-to-date info on open mic nights and any specific rules.

• Arrive early: For open mic spots, getting there early is often key to signing up.

• Be supportive: It’s an open mic, so everyone’s there to have a go. A good audience makes a big difference.

It’s a solid choice if you're in the Greenwich area and fancy a night of stand-up. You can find out more about their events on their website.

This kind of venue is perfect for discovering comedians before they get really famous. It feels more personal than the big clubs, and you never know what you're going to get, which is part of the fun.

10. Big Belly Comedy Club

Big Belly Comedy Club is a name that pops up when you're looking for live comedy, especially if you're in the London area. They seem to host a variety of shows, featuring both established names and newer faces on the comedy circuit. It's one of those places that aims to be a go-to spot for a good laugh.

They're known for putting the spotlight on rising talent.

If you're keen to see who's next in line to make a name for themselves, this could be a good bet. They often have listings for different comedians, so it's worth checking their schedule regularly to see who's on.

Here's what you might find:

• A mix of well-known comedians and up-and-coming acts.

• Regular shows, often with multiple dates.

• A focus on providing a platform for new talent.

While the exact schedule can change, the general vibe is that Big Belly Comedy Club is a place where you can catch a range of comedy performances. It's not just about one specific type of show; they seem to cover a bit of everything to keep things interesting for the audience.

So, Where Do We Go From Here?

Right then, that's a lot of info about finding those comedy open mic nights across the UK. It’s not always the easiest thing to pin down, is it? Sometimes a quick Google search just doesn't cut it, and you end up down a rabbit hole of outdated listings. Facebook groups and dedicated comedy forums seem to be the real winners for keeping up with what's on, and there are even apps popping up now to help you book spots. Don't forget, if you can't find what you're looking for, maybe you're the one to start it! Most importantly though, just get out there. Ask other comics, check out the listings, and get yourself signed up. That first step onto the stage, even for just a few minutes, is the big one. Good luck, and we'll see you at the mics!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find comedy open mic nights in the UK?

Finding open mic nights can feel a bit like a treasure hunt! A really good place to start is by searching on Facebook. Lots of people who run these nights have Facebook pages, and there are also groups for local comedians where they share info about upcoming gigs. Some websites list open mic nights too, but they might not always have the latest details because things change so quickly.

What's the best way for a beginner to get stage time?

Open mic nights are perfect for anyone just starting out in stand-up. They're low-pressure events where you can try out your jokes and get used to being on stage. It's all about practicing and getting comfortable in front of an audience.

Are there any apps or websites that help find gigs?

Yes, there are a few! Some websites and apps are designed to help you find open mic nights. For example, 'Gig Gag' is an app where you can search for gigs and apply for spots. Other sites like 'Open Comedy' focus specifically on stand-up and can be really useful.

What if I can't find an open mic that suits me?

If you're struggling to find a place that fits what you're looking for, or if you think there's a gap in the comedy scene where you live, why not consider starting your own open mic night? It's a great way to get more stage time and help build the local comedy community.

Is it hard to get started in stand-up comedy?

It can take a bit of effort to find places to perform when you're starting out, especially outside of big cities. The key is to keep looking, use resources like Facebook groups and comedy directories, and don't be afraid to ask other comedians for advice. Everyone started somewhere!

What's the difference between an open mic and a comedy club?

An open mic is usually a night where anyone can sign up for a short slot to perform, often with new or developing comedians. A comedy club is typically a venue that hosts professional comedians, often with ticketed shows. Open mics are a great stepping stone to performing at bigger clubs.