Laugh Out Loud: Discovering the Best Comedy Nights Near Me in the UK

Looking for a good laugh and wondering about comedy nights near me in the UK? It can feel a bit like a hunt sometimes, right? Whether you're after a big night out with big names or a more low-key evening, the UK's comedy scene has loads to offer. We've pulled together some of the best spots to catch live comedy, so you can find exactly what you're looking for. Let's get you sorted with some laughs.

Key Takeaways

• The Comedy Store is a well-known venue with shows across the UK, great for spotting new talent.

• Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club features top comedians and is a good option for a full evening's entertainment.

• Up The Creek in Greenwich offers an intimate setting with both new and established acts.

• Last Laugh Comedy Club in Sheffield is Yorkshire's longest-running comedy club, known for its quality.

• Big Belly Comedy Club, Comedy Carnival, Comedy In Your Eye, Covent Garden Comedy Club, Just The Tonic, and Big Deal Comedy Club are other popular choices across various UK locations.

1. The Comedy Store

Right then, let's talk about The Comedy Store. If you've got even a passing interest in stand-up comedy in the UK, you've probably heard of it. It's been around for ages – nearly 40 years, which is quite something when you think about it. They've seen pretty much everyone who's anyone in British comedy pass through their doors at some point, from the big names you see on telly now to those just starting out and finding their feet. It’s a proper institution, really.

What's great is the sheer variety they manage to pack in. You've got your standard stand-up nights, of course, with different comedians and line-ups every week. But they also do some really fun improv nights, often featuring the Comedy Store Players. If you've ever watched 'Whose Line is it Anyway?', you'll get the vibe – it's all about quick thinking and pure silliness. Sometimes, they even host live recordings of popular comedy podcasts, which is a nice bonus if you're a fan of those.

The Comedy Store has a reputation for consistently putting on quality shows. It's a place that really understands what makes people laugh, and that's why it's managed to stay so popular for so long. You generally know you're in for a good night.

They've got shows happening in various locations, so it's worth checking their listings to see what's on near you. It’s a solid bet for a guaranteed laugh, and a brilliant place to catch both established acts and the next generation of comedy stars. You can often find out more about their upcoming events and book tickets directly.

2. Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

If you're looking for a good chuckle without breaking the bank, Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club is definitely worth checking out. They're not tied to one specific venue, which means they pop up in all sorts of places across the UK, often bringing top-notch stand-up to towns that don't always get a lot of live comedy. It's a great way to catch some familiar faces and discover new talent.

They're known for putting on a solid mix of comedians, from household names you've seen on TV to those up-and-coming acts who are really making a name for themselves. You can expect a show with a few different comics, usually hosted by a compere, and there's normally a bar service to keep you refreshed. It's a pretty straightforward setup, but that's part of the charm – the focus is purely on the jokes.

Here's what you can generally expect:

• Variety of Acts: You'll see a range of styles, from observational humour to storytelling.

• Regional Reach: They make an effort to bring comedy to areas outside the big cities.

• Discover New Talent: It's a good place to spot comedians before they become massive stars.

• Regular Shows: They tend to have shows running throughout the year, so keep an eye on their listings.

They really do seem to have a knack for finding comedians who know how to work a crowd and deliver a memorable performance. It's a reliable bet for an evening of genuine laughter, and the fact that they tour means you might just find a great night out closer to home than you think.

Keep an eye on their website for dates and locations near you. It’s a good shout for a fun, no-fuss night out.

3. Up The Creek Comedy Club

Tucked away in Greenwich, Up The Creek is a proper gem for a comedy night. It’s not a massive place, which is actually a good thing because it feels really intimate. You get a mix of comedians here, from folks just starting out and showing real promise, to some more established names who’ve probably been on your telly.

You can expect a good laugh whether you're after quick jokes, funny stories, or even a bit of banter with the audience. The atmosphere is pretty relaxed, and they’ve got drinks sorted, so it’s easy to just settle in for a good time. It’s the sort of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a real local secret.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Intimate Setting: The smaller size means you feel closer to the action.

• Varied Line-ups: A good blend of new talent and experienced pros.

• Friendly Vibe: It’s a laid-back spot to enjoy a night out.

If you're looking for a comedy club that feels genuine and puts on a consistently good show without any fuss, Up The Creek is definitely worth checking out. It’s a solid choice for a night that’s all about the laughs.

4. Last Laugh Comedy Club

Right then, if you're anywhere near Yorkshire and fancy a proper good laugh, you've got to check out Last Laugh Comedy Club. It's been around for ages, seriously, it's the longest-running comedy club in the whole of Yorkshire, and it's still going strong. They've managed to keep it really respected and important in the comedy scene, which is no mean feat.

It's held in the rather grand setting of The Memorial Hall at Sheffield City Hall. Sounds a bit fancy, doesn't it? But don't let that put you off, it's a brilliant place for a big night out. You get a compere to keep things moving, and then three genuinely funny comedians performing each night. It’s a solid line-up, and the venue itself is pretty spectacular, so it makes for a really memorable evening.

Here's what you can generally expect:

• A warm welcome from the MC.

• Three different comedians, usually a mix of established acts and rising stars.

• A great atmosphere in a historic venue.

• Plenty of laughs, obviously!

This club is a real testament to the enduring appeal of live stand-up comedy.

They really know how to put on a show. It’s not just about the comedians, though they are top-notch, but the whole experience feels well put together. You get a good sense of the history of comedy in the region just by being there.

5. Big Belly Comedy Club

Right in the middle of London, near Waterloo on the Southbank, you'll find Big Belly Comedy Club. It used to be called Vauxhall Comedy Club, but don't let the name change fool you – it's still all about the laughs. They bring in comedians you'll recognise from telly shows like Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo, so you know you're in for a good time.

It's not just about the stand-up, though. They've got a bar on site, and there are usually street food vendors nearby, making it a proper night out. It’s a decent spot if you’re looking for something to do with mates or for a date night.

Here's what you can generally expect:

• Top UK comedians: Often featuring acts seen on popular TV comedy programmes.

• Central London location: Easy to get to in the Southbank area.

• Full evening entertainment: Combining comedy with drinks and food options.

This place is a solid choice for a guaranteed laugh. They focus on bringing in performers who know how to work a crowd, and the atmosphere is usually pretty buzzing. It’s the kind of venue where you can just turn up and know you're going to have a good chuckle without having to do much planning yourself.

6. Comedy Carnival

If you're after some truly unfiltered stand-up, Comedy Carnival is the place to be. They've been putting on shows since 2004, focusing on comedians who aren't afraid to push boundaries. It's a bit of a breath of fresh air, honestly, in a world that sometimes feels a bit too careful.

They host international acts, so you're likely to see some seriously talented people on stage. It's not just about the laughs, though. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can actually book a package that includes a pre-show dinner at one of three restaurants, followed by reserved seating at the comedy show. Talk about a full night out!

Comedy Carnival is known for its bold, brilliant, and always hilarious international comedians. You can catch their shows every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in various London locations, including Covent Garden and Leicester Square. It's a great spot for a date night or just a fun evening with mates.

Here's a quick look at what you might expect:

• Award-winning international comedians

• Unapologetic stand-up style

• Optional pre-show dinner packages

• Regular shows throughout the week

They even had the brilliant Shaparak Khorsandi perform recently, which was a big draw. It's definitely worth checking out their schedule if you're looking for a night that's a bit different and guarantees a good laugh. You can find out more about their upcoming events on their website.

This is the kind of comedy club that doesn't shy away from a topic. They aim to provide a space where comedians can be themselves and audiences can enjoy a show that's both funny and thought-provoking. It’s a refreshing change from some of the more mainstream comedy nights.

7. Comedy In Your Eye

If you're looking for a comedy night that's a bit more spontaneous and budget-friendly, Comedy In Your Eye is definitely worth checking out. They host shows most Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the Camden Eye Pub, which is super handy if you're around Camden Town. What's cool about this place is that they often have a mix of familiar faces you might have seen on TV – think shows like 'Live at the Apollo' or 'Mock the Week' – alongside some really promising up-and-coming comedians from the London scene.

It's not just about seeing one or two acts; the format here is usually a series of shorter sets. This means you get a really fast-paced show with a constant stream of jokes, so there's rarely a dull moment. They've had comedians who've appeared on Netflix and Amazon Prime specials, so you know the quality is generally pretty high.

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Great Value: Tickets can be as cheap as £3, which is brilliant for a night out.

• TV Comedians & Rising Stars: A good blend of recognisable talent and fresh faces.

• Fast-Paced Sets: Lots of different comedians performing, keeping the energy up.

• Convenient Location: Easy to get to from Camden Town tube station.

They really do pack a lot into one evening. It's the kind of place where you might discover your next favourite comedian without breaking the bank. Plus, with drink deals often available, it makes for a really affordable and fun night out in London.

8. Covent Garden Comedy Club

Right in the heart of London's West End, you'll find the Covent Garden Comedy Club. This place has been making people chuckle since way back in 2002, so they've definitely got a good handle on what works. They reckon they've had over 300,000 happy customers through their doors, which is quite a number!

What's the deal then? Well, they promise a friendly vibe and a professional setup, bringing in comedians from all over the globe. You can expect a different lineup of four comedians every single week, and there's a good chance you'll spot some familiar faces from TV and radio. It's a pretty intimate setting, with only about 100 seats available, so it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance if you don't want to miss out on this Covent Garden Comedy Club experience.

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• A mix of established and up-and-coming talent

• International comedians alongside UK favourites

• A cosy atmosphere perfect for a night out

• Regular shows throughout the week

It's one of those spots that really captures the buzz of the area. You know, you can grab a bite to eat nearby and then head over for some laughs. It feels like a proper night out, the kind where you can just switch off and enjoy the show. They really aim to create a welcoming space for everyone looking for a good time and a good laugh.

9. Just The Tonic

Just The Tonic has been putting on comedy shows for over three decades, which is quite a long time when you think about it. They put on shows every couple of weeks all over the country, so you've got a good chance of finding one near you. They've hosted some big names over the years, like Jon Richardson and Al Murray, so you know you're likely to see some quality acts.

What's interesting about their shows is the format. It's not just a straight stand-up gig. They mix things up with sketches, chats, pre-recorded bits, and even music. It sounds a bit chaotic, but that's probably part of the fun. They aim for a real mix of stuff, which can keep things fresh and surprising.

They've got a reputation for putting on a good night out, and with that much experience, they probably know a thing or two about making people laugh. It's worth checking out their schedule to see who's on.

Here's a bit of what you might expect:

• A varied lineup of comedians, from established stars to newer faces.

• A show that's more than just stand-up, with different types of comedy segments.

• Venues spread across the UK, including places like Nottingham, Birmingham, Reading, and Edinburgh.

• A lively atmosphere that aims to be entertaining and a bit unpredictable.

10. Big Deal Comedy Club

If you're looking for a laugh in East Anglia, Big Deal Comedy is your go-to. These folks really know how to put on a show, bringing live comedy to towns like Cambridge, Huntingdon, and Peterborough. It's run by a brother and sister team, Jason and Leanne, who are proper comedy fans themselves, so you know they're passionate about it.

They focus on making comedy accessible and affordable for everyone. You won't break the bank here, and the line-ups are always fresh, meaning you get to see new talent alongside some more established acts. It’s a great way to spend an evening, and they’ve got a bar too, so you can grab a drink while you chuckle.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• A mix of rising stars and familiar faces.

• Regular shows across various East Anglian towns and beyond.

• A friendly atmosphere perfect for a casual night out.

• Affordable ticket prices.

They really do try to bring good quality comedy to local areas that might not get many touring shows. It’s a nice change from the bigger city venues and feels a bit more personal.

They often have shows happening in places like Saffron Walden and Downham Market, so it’s worth checking their schedule if you're in the region. It’s a solid choice for a fun, low-key night out, and you might just discover your new favourite comedian. You can find out more about their upcoming events on their website.

Ready for a Giggle?

So there you have it, a quick rundown of how to find a good laugh across the UK. Whether you're after a big night out at a famous club or a more low-key open mic session, there's definitely something out there for everyone. Don't forget to check out those local listings and social media groups, as they're often the best places to find out what's happening right on your doorstep. Go on, treat yourself to a night of comedy – you deserve it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find comedy clubs in the UK?

You can find loads of comedy clubs all over the UK! Places like The Comedy Store have venues in many towns, while others like Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club and Last Laugh Comedy Club are also popular spots. Big Belly Comedy Club and Up The Creek are great options if you're in London.

What kind of comedy shows can I expect?

Comedy clubs usually have a mix of stand-up comedians, from well-known names trying out new material to up-and-coming talent. You might also see improv shows or sketch comedy. It's all about having a good laugh!

Can I buy comedy tickets as a present?

Absolutely! Gifting a comedy night out is a brilliant idea. You can often buy gift vouchers or directly purchase tickets for a friend or family member. Check the specific club's website for options.

Are there comedy nights outside of big cities?

Yes, definitely! While London has many venues, places like Just The Tonic host events in cities like Birmingham and Edinburgh. Big Deal Comedy Club also puts on shows in smaller towns across East Anglia. It's worth checking local listings.

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

Big comedy clubs usually feature professional comedians performing longer sets, often with a compere. Open mic nights are more informal, where anyone can sign up to perform a short set, often in pubs or smaller venues. It's a great place to see raw talent!

How do I find out about specific comedians performing?

Most comedy club websites have a 'What's On' or 'Events' section where you can see their upcoming lineups. You can also follow your favourite comedians on social media, as they often announce their tour dates and club appearances there.