London Comedy Festivals

While the Edinburgh Festival Fringe is still undoubtably the biggest comedy festival in Britain, there are now quite a few London festivals that are well worth a look. If you love comedy, it might be an idea to arrange your London visit to coincide with what Londons comedy festivals have to offer.


Greenwich Comedy Festival


Set on the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, this week long comedy feast is one of the best around. The main event is the big top, where a number of big name comedians are performing, which is one of the best ways to your favourite comedians. Around the big top you will find some smaller marquees and venues hosting cabaret, live music, and free comedy performances. The festival itself is free to go to, although performances in the big top are priced separately. Stars of the 2011 festival include Phill Jupitus, Stephen K Amos, and Tim Minchin.


The Camden Fringe


In the same month that the Edinburgh festival takes place is the annual Camden Fringe, billing itself as a more daring and less expensive rival. In just a few years, it has evolved from humble beginnings into a major festival with a growing international following. While it cannot boast the big names that Edinburgh can attract, it more than makes up for it in terms of the sheer variety and unpredictability of the performances on offer. Some top comedians have launched their career here, so if you want to see the stars of the future before they hit the big time, then you would do well to check out this diverse festival.


Ealing Comedy In The Park


Taking place over five days in a park in Ealing, this annual shindig has evolved into one of a fairly large scale affair over the past few years. The 2011 festival saw performances by the likes of Terry Alderton and Sean Lock. As well as the big name crowd pullers, the festival also gives some great exposure to some of Britains brightest new comedians. Tickets are very reasonably priced as well, so if you want to enjoy great comedy on a tight budget, then you might want to check this festival out.

This London events guide was brought to you Karen Ferillo, who is a holiday guru from Bermondsey. For great deals on hotels in London, visit the LondonTown website