Thursday Night at The Backyard Comedy Club

A Night of Fresh Laughter at The Backyard Comedy Club in London

Imagine settling into a cozy, welcoming room in Greater London, ready for an evening of genuine comedy. The Backyard Comedy Club offers just that — a place where both seasoned comedians and rising stars bring their newest material to eager audiences. For around $11.11 per ticket, you get three hours of pre-show socializing, a chance to hear comedians try out new jokes, and a warm, community vibe. It’s a perfect way to enjoy London’s ever-growing comedy scene in an intimate setting.

What I love about this experience is how close-up the comedy feels—you’re right there with the performers, not just a faceless audience in a massive theater. Plus, the mix of established TV names like Stephen Merchant and Harry Hill, warming up for their tours, alongside promising newcomers, makes each night unpredictable and exciting. The relaxed atmosphere means you can truly enjoy the spontaneous humor and see new material before it hits the mainstream.

One thing to consider? The ticket price only covers the performance. While the show itself is a steal, you’ll want to budget extra for food and drinks from the bar, which can be purchased separately. Also, timing is key — arrive early enough to exchange your ticket for a wristband by 7:15 pm, or risk a late fee. But overall, the extra effort pays off with a lively, authentic comedy experience that’s well worth it for comedy lovers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Intimate setting: You get a close-up view of comedians, making the humor feel more personal.
• Fresh material: Be among the first to hear jokes from comedians testing new routines.
• Mix of talent: From TV stars to rising comedians, the lineup stays fresh and diverse.
• Excellent guides: Hosts David Whitney and Dave Ward keep the night flowing smoothly.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
• Community vibe: Shared laughter with fellow comedy fans creates a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

Exploring The Backyard Comedy Club Experience

Location and Atmosphere: London’s Cozy Comedy Niche

Located in Greater London, the Backyard Comedy Club offers a relaxed alternative to larger comedy venues. Its intimate space fosters a genuine connection between comedians and the audience, which is rare in the world of televised or large-scale stand-up. As soon as you step in, the friendly, laid-back vibe invites you to unwind, grab a drink, and settle in for a night of light-hearted fun. This is not a slick corporate gig but a place where performers try out new material, often with a bit of nervous energy that makes the humor even more authentic.

The Schedule and Arrival Tips

The evening begins with the bar and kitchen opening at 6:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax before the show. The box office opens at 6:30 pm, and it’s advisable to arrive early enough to collect your tickets and exchange them for a wristband by 7:15 pm. Missing this window could mean a £3 late arrival fee, which is a small price for ensuring you don’t miss the start.

The show typically kicks off around 8:00 pm and lasts until about 10:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to chat with fellow comedy enthusiasts afterward. The bar stays open late — perfect if you want to continue your night with a drink, discuss your favorite jokes, or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

The Comedy Lineup: From TV Stars to Rising Stars

What makes Thursdays at Backyard stand out is its breathtaking lineup. Recent performances have featured Stephen Merchant, co-creator of “The Office,” trying out new material in a relaxed setting. Harry Hill, with his signature quirky style, has also graced the stage. These are seasoned comedians warming up for their tours, giving you a rare chance to see them in a more personal, casual environment.

Alongside these TV names, you’ll find talented newcomers eager to showcase their fresh jokes. This blend of big names and promising newcomers makes each night unpredictable and lively. It’s the kind of show where you’re almost as excited to see who’s next as you are to hear what they’ll say.

Guides Who Keep the Night Rolling

Two hosts help keep the energy high: David Whitney, praised for his “Huge Laughs” by The Spectator, and Dave Ward, described as “Entertaining” by Time Out. Their sharp wit and natural charm create a smooth flow, gently guiding the audience through the evening. They’re not just MCs; they’re part of the fun, making sure the night feels genuine and inclusive.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers just the performance, so when you buy in, know that food and drinks are extra. The bar offers a variety of snacks and beverages, with a menu accessible online. The value here is in the experience of hearing new jokes in an up-close setting—a rare treat for comedy fans.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Arrive early to avoid late fees.
• Book in advance to lock in the low price.
• Think about grabbing a bite from the bar before the show — the kitchen opens early.
• Be aware that the venue is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch.
• No cameras, filming, or large bags allowed — a good reminder to keep your belongings light.
• The show isn’t suitable for children under 18, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re a comedy enthusiast looking for something authentic and spontaneous, this is a perfect choice. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy seeing comedians try out new material — for many performers, this is where they test jokes before hitting the bigger stages or TV screens. The affordable price makes it accessible, and the intimate setting offers a more genuine, personal comedy experience than bigger, commercial venues.

Travelers interested in local London culture will appreciate the chance to mingle with fellow fans and see top-tier comedians in a relaxed context. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a casual night out rather than a formal dinner or large event, with the added bonus of staying late at the bar afterward.

However, if you value a more polished, highly produced comedy show, or have young children, this might not be the right fit. The focus is on spontaneous, new material, which can sometimes mean a less predictable experience, but one full of surprises.

Detailed Breakdown of The Night

Early Evening: Setting the Stage

Arrive around 6:00 pm to enjoy the bar and kitchen, then get your tickets from the box office opening at 6:30 pm. Remember, you need to exchange your pre-bought ticket for a wristband by 7:15 pm. This process ensures the show runs smoothly, though it might seem a minor hassle, it’s worth arriving early to avoid the £3 late fee.

The Show Itself: Comedy in Close Quarters

The stage setup at the Backyard is designed for intimacy. With a small audience, you’ll find yourself close enough to see comedians’ expressions and even catch their nervous glances when trying out a new joke. The lineup usually includes TV personalities testing material, which adds excitement because you’re witnessing a work-in-progress rather than polished routines.

The performances are roughly 1.5 hours long, with a break in the middle, giving you time to stretch and chat. The hosts, David Whitney and Dave Ward, keep the vibe lively, often throwing in their own quick-witted remarks.

Post-Show: Continuing the Night

After the curtain falls around 10:30 pm, the bar remains open, so you can mingle or unwind with a drink. Many audience members stay late, sharing favorite moments and hearing the comedians’ thoughts on how their new jokes went over.

Why This Is a Good Investment

Considering the ticket price, you’re getting access to high-quality comedy in a setting that encourages interaction and spontaneity. The chance to be among the first to hear jokes before they hit mainstream comedy shows or TV is a real bonus for fans.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love It?

This experience is ideal for local Londoners and visitors who want an authentic, unfiltered comedy night. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something affordable and different from the usual tourist spots. Comedy lovers will especially appreciate the diverse lineup and the opportunity to see big names warming up.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly environment where you can laugh freely and comfortably, Thursdays at Backyard definitely deliver. It’s also suited for those who value community experiences and enjoy discovering fresh talent.

While it’s not the place for a fancy dinner or large group, it’s a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends seeking an entertaining night out in London.

FAQ

Is the ticket price really just $11.11?
Yes, the listed price for the performance is $11.11 per person, making it an affordable night out.

What time does the show start?
The show begins around 8:00 pm, but arriving early to exchange your ticket by 7:15 pm is recommended.

Are food and drinks included?
No, tickets cover only the performance. Food and drinks are available for purchase at the bar from their menu.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Backyard Comedy Club is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the entire experience?
The performance lasts about 2.5 hours, from around 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm, with early evening social time.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are children allowed?
No, the event is intended for guests 18 and older.

What happens if I arrive late?
Arriving after 7:15 pm incurs a £3 late fee, and you may miss part of the show.

Is it suitable for first-time comedy fans?
Absolutely. The relaxed atmosphere is welcoming for newcomers.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the event?
It’s best to book in advance to secure the low price and guarantee entry.

To sum it up, Thursday nights at Backyard Comedy Club offer a genuinely enjoyable, affordable, and authentic comedy experience. With skilled guides, a friendly atmosphere, and a lineup that blends TV stars with emerging talent, it’s a wonderful way to spend an evening in London. Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, this event promises plenty of laughs and memorable moments.