Backpackers Guide to London

Comedy Clubs

Backpackers' Guide to London's Tourist Information | Backpackers' Guide to London Tourist Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to London's Historical Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to Shopping in London | Backpackers' Guide to Sport in London | Backpackers' Guide to Entertainment in London | Backpackers' Guide to Food in London | Backpackers' Guide to London Museums

Introduction

While most tourists associate London with historical sites, shopping and the Buckingham Palace guards, there’s another side to the city that often gets left out of its travel brochures: the comedy clubs.

After a long day of seeing museums and the requisite historical and cultural attractions, the comedy clubs are a fine way of unwinding and ending the night in high, happy spirits. These clubs are a good way of tasting the British’s own brand of humor, and can add color and spice to one’s tour of the city. Among the well known spots are the Comedy Store, Banana Cabaret and the Canal Café Theatre.

The Comedy Store

This popular gathering place attracts both tourists and locals, who are willing to brave the long lines to listen to both well known and up and coming stand up comedians. It has gained a reputation as one of London’s most enjoyable hangouts and promises a night of side-splitting laughter. Be sure to come early to get a good table.

The Banana Cabaret

This venue has a lot of top class acts, reflecting management’s efforts to continuously improve the lineup to give patrons their money’s worth. It’s best to make prior reservations or come very early, as the place is often packed. Still, the performances are worth the discomfort of standing in the aisles throughout the show.

Canal Café Theatre

One of London’s most popular comedy clubs, the Canal Café Theatre can be packed. It’s best to come early and have dinner (food is served until around 9 pm) while you wait for the show to start, just to guarantee that you have a table. The place is particularly packed on weekends, when the best acts are scheduled. Of course, try to finish your drink before the performance starts, as you’re likely to choke on your water while laughing.

Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677