If you’re looking for a lively evening in London that guarantees plenty of laughs, the London International Stand Up Comedy Show is worth considering. Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or simply want a relaxed night out, this experience offers something memorable in prime locations. The show features award-winning comedians from around the world, many of whom are TV favourites and Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees, promising top-tier humor.
What we love about this experience is its prime placement in London’s entertainment hotspots—Leicester Square and Covent Garden—making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or dining adventures. Another plus is the show’s unapologetic, unfiltered style; the comedians’ boldness makes for a lively, authentic night that’s both hilarious and slightly daring.
One potential consideration is that the show is strictly 18+, so it might not be ideal for families or those traveling with younger friends. Plus, drinks are not included in the ticket price, so if you’re looking for a full dinner and show, you’ll need to plan accordingly.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy comedy, want something uniquely London, and are comfortable with lively, adult humor. If you’re after an authentic, high-energy night that showcases some of the best international comedy talent, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Prime London locations in Leicester Square and Covent Garden for easy access.
- Global comedians including TV favourites and award nominees.
- Unfiltered, bold humor that’s both refreshing and entertaining.
- Accessible and flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes access to the bar before, during, and after the show.
- Strictly 18+ and ID required, so plan for adult audiences.
An Overview of the Comedy Carnival Experience
The Comedy Carnival has been London’s go-to spot for international stand-up comedy since 2004. Its reputation as a venue for bold, unfiltered humor makes it stand apart from more traditional comedy clubs. You’re likely to see comedians who are TV favourites, along with Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees, ensuring high-quality performances.
While the show is known for its uncensored and unapologetic style, it maintains a focus on professionalism and high-class entertainment. The venues in Leicester Square and Covent Garden are both lively, centrally located, and ideal for ending an evening with a bit of laughter before heading out for dinner or further exploration.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
Detailed Breakdown of the Venues & Locations
The Covent Garden venue at 42 Earlham St is perfect if you’re already exploring the West End. It’s within walking distance of many restaurants, bars, and theaters, making it easy to combine your night with other entertainment options. Shows here are scheduled on Friday and Saturday nights, giving you flexibility over the weekend.
The Leicester Square venue at 61-63 Shaftesbury Avenue offers a similar prime location, especially appealing if you’re in the mood for a classic London night out. It’s open on Saturday nights, which is great for visitors planning to spend the weekend in the city’s entertainment hub.
Both venues are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the show comfortably.
What to Expect During the Show
Expect a two-hour comedy experience packed with energetic, sometimes edgy performances. The comedians are known for their sharp wit and bold delivery — no holding back here. The atmosphere is lively, often relaxed, but with a sense of anticipation as the talents take the stage.
Before the show starts, you can access the bar, which remains open before, during, and after performances. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, this setup encourages mingling and soaking in the vibrant, London comedy scene.
Check-in times are typically before the show begins—arriving early is advisable to secure good seats. Remember, seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early guarantees a better view of the stage.
The Audience and Age Restrictions
This experience is strictly 18+, and you will need ID for entry. The humor can be quite adult, and the comedians often push boundaries, so it’s not suitable for children or those sensitive to offensive language.
The group size varies depending on the venue and date, but generally, it’s a cozy, intimate setting—perfect for socializing and sharing some laughs with friends.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing and Value
While ticket prices vary depending on the date and seating, the value lies in the quality of entertainment. You’re paying for top-tier comedians and a central London experience—a tasty combo for anyone wanting a memorable night without breaking the bank.
The show lasts about two hours, offering a substantial and engaging evening. Access to the bar, combined with the high-calibre performances, makes the overall experience quite competitive compared to other nightlife options.
Notably, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility and peace of mind, especially when planning a spontaneous night out.
Authenticity and Experience
We love how The Comedy Carnival maintains its reputation for unfiltered comedy that reflects the city’s lively spirit. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable performers and the fun, energetic atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned the “bold, brilliant, and always hilarious” nature of the comedians, which creates an authentic London comedy scene experience.
The venues are not just performance spaces but part of London’s entertainment fabric, adding an extra layer of excitement. The central locations mean you can easily turn your comedy night into a full evening of fun—dinner, drinks, and perhaps a walk through lively neighborhoods afterward.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Book early to secure the best seats and dates, especially for weekend shows.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in and grab a drink.
- Bring ID, as it’s required for entry.
- Remember, no smoking, photography, or alcohol/drugs inside the venue.
- If you want a full night out, plan to visit nearby restaurants or bars before or after the show.
- Consider the age restriction—this is adult humor, not suitable for minors.
- Because drinks aren’t included, budget for drinks at the bar if you want to sip on something during the show.
- The venue’s wheelchair accessibility ensures everyone can enjoy the show comfortably.
Who Will Love This Experience?
Travelers who appreciate live comedy with a touch of edginess will find this experience invigorating. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy London’s vibrant entertainment scene. If you’re seeking a relaxed, fun-filled evening that features international talent and a central London setting, this is a smart choice.
It’s also great for those who want to combine comedy with sightseeing—since both venues are conveniently located near other attractions, you can easily turn this into part of a broader London adventure.
The Sum Up
The London International Stand Up Comedy Show offers a lively, high-quality night out in the heart of the city. It delivers professional, bold humor from some of the best comedians the international scene has to offer, within two iconic venues. The combination of prime location, talented performers, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a fantastic pick for anyone wanting to experience London’s comedy pulse.
Whether you’re a comedy lover or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening, this show provides authentic entertainment in a vibrant setting. The fact that you can reserve and pay later adds flexibility, and the free cancellation up to 24 hours before the show offers peace of mind.
Overall, if adult humor, talented comedians, and a night in central London appeal to you, this experience is well worth considering for your trip.
FAQ
Is there an age restriction for the show?
Yes, the show is 18+, and you’ll need ID to gain entry. The humor can be quite adult and unfiltered.
Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages at the bar before, during, and after the show.
Where are the venues located?
The Covent Garden venue is at 42 Earlham St, and the Leicester Square venue is at 61-63 Shaftesbury Avenue. Both are centrally located in London.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.
Is the show accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, both venues are wheelchair accessible.
When do shows take place?
In Covent Garden, shows are on Friday and Saturday nights; Leicester Square hosts shows on Saturday nights.
How long does the show last?
The performance runs for approximately two hours.
Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving before the scheduled start time is recommended to secure good seats and settle in.
Is this experience suitable for groups?
Absolutely; the lively atmosphere makes it great for groups of friends or couples wanting a memorable night out.
This comedy show in London combines top-notch talent, prime locations, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a worthwhile addition to your city stay. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a longer trip, it promises an evening filled with laughter and a true taste of London’s dynamic entertainment scene.
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